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Further, these cells are DESIGNED to be concentrating. Meaning that if you have a 32sqft "solar panel" the cell material might only be a few dozen square inche
by msandford 12y ago
Further, these cells are DESIGNED to be concentrating. Meaning that if you have a 32sqft "solar panel" the cell material might only be a few dozen square inches; the concentration ratio is something like 1600:1.
The plastic and glass are indeed cheap and the solar cell material is also cheap due to the very small quantity needed per panel.
- jacquesm 12y agoVery high degrees of concentration tend to have negative effects on the longevity of the cell. So sure, you get a lot of power out of a smaller area (it will need good head dissipation but that's doable), but you may only get it for a shorter life-span. Solar is complex.