A Hybrid CPV and SiPV System – Experimental Assessment of Systems Performance at a Subtropical Location

Data from two photovoltaic systems, a tracking concentrating photovoltaic (CPV) and a single-axis silicon photovoltaic (SiPV) installed at a sub-tropical location in Australia, were analysed to compare individual and combined power output performance. Metrics describing global power outputs as well as specific patterns of output are derived from the data gathered over a two-year period. At the site, CPV has the highest rate of conversion of sun energy into electrical output with a ratio of 1.9 compared to SiPV. However, the recorded annual energy per rated power for the CPV is only higher than the SiPV by a ratio of 1.07, highlighting how environmental and operational conditions influence power output. Yearly and daily data patterns for each photovoltaic system show complementarity in power output which can be exploited by optimisation of output proportions, so that the combined profile matches best use requirements. For this case study, the optimal ratio is 0.33CPV : 0.67SiPV, resulting in high annual yield and, importantly, a better match between supply and demand. Despite obvious simplicity, this approach is not commonly used when designing and deploying solar photovoltaic farms. Nevertheless, this approach could benefit investors, manufacturers and society at large through optimum use of natural resources.