In this paper a spectrum-splitting photovoltaic system is proposed that uses bifacial silicon solar cells tomaximize total energy yield. The system is unique in its ability to convert direct sunlight with high-efficiency(>30%) while simultaneously converting diffuse and rear-side irradiance. A volume holographic lens array isused to divide the solar spectrum into spectral bands optimized for conversion by wide-bandgap and bifacialsilicon solar cells. An approach for simulating the energy yield, optimizing the holographic lens array, andanalyzing the effect of concentration ratio, aspect ratio, and illumination characteristics is described. Designexamples for two different solar cell combinations are provided. A GaAs and bifacial silicon combinationachieves an energy conversion efficiency of 32.0% and a MgCdTe and bifacial silicon combination achieves a31.0% energy conversion efficiency. Additional solutions are provided when constraints on concentration ratioand aspect ratio are applied, allowing the designer to balance energy yield with cost and size considerations.The performance of the proposed system is compared to conventional monofacial silicon, bifacial silicon, andmonofacial spectrum-splitting modules, and show that improvements in energy yield of over 45%, 25%, and10% can be achieved, respectively.
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