Emcore Corp is a well-known supplier of space based solar power and communication systems and has formed a solar power division so that it can apply this advanced technology for the benefits of the territories. It has now signed a contract with Pod Generating Group in Ontario, Canada where it has to supply 60MW of solar power systems.
Multi-junction solar cells provided by Emcore are then combined into concentric photovoltaic (CPV) array. The solar power gets concentrated onto the multi junction cells with the help of lenses and mirrors through CPV technology. With the help of concentrator 1 cm square generates the same amount of power as will be the output by 500 sq, cm, without the concentrator. The cost part is taken care of by using low cost materials in the manufacturing unit and is cost effective too as compared to the typical silicon modules.
The first generation of CPV technology was developed by Emcore in 2006 and is currently working on the second generation. The first application of this technology at such a large scale is going to be with the Pod Generating Group. By this success and the different approaches towards solar power generation, Emcore is definitely going to make a special position.
Along with this Emcore is involved in the production of several other products like broadband, fiber optic, space and terrestrial solar power.
Via: Ecotality