Page 82 - Alternative Energy Systems in Building Design

58 SOLAR POWER SYSTEM PHYSICS AND TECHNOLOGIES

Figure 3.21 A 54-kW MegaConcentrator two-axis hydraulic tracking system.
Photo courtesy of Amonix.

MegaConcentrator platform to optimize the insolation angle that results in additional
annual energy generation. The average annual energy for 19 different fixed flat-plate
installations under test conditions in Phoenix, Arizona, ranged from 1000 to 1500 kWh
per rated kilowatt. An equivalent power-rated MegaConcentrator manufactured by
Amonix generated in excess of 1900–2000 kWh per rated kilowatt. Figure 3.21 shows
an Amonix 54-kW MegaConcentrator module two-axis solar tracking system.

System description The solar PV concentrator technology described here is a
proprietary product of the Amonix Corporation, located in Torrance, California. In essence,
the solar power system referred to as a MegaConcentrator consists of six specific com-
ponents that have resulted in a reduction in product cost. Figure 3.22 shows the Amonix
MegaConcentrator hydraulic arm assembly.

MegaModule subsystem The MegaModule concentrates the sun’s energy on a
solar cell that converts it into electric energy. It consists of Fresnel lenses, solar cells,
and a support structure. Each system consists of five to seven MegaModules.
The drive subsystem rotates the MegaModules in azimuth and elevation to track the
sun. The drive system consists of a foundation, pedestal, rotating bearing head, hydraulic
actuators, and a torque tube.