Technology

Features

A practical approach to large scale generation

Our design philosophy is to build on a proven foundation, minimize the use of silicon, and focus on driving down cost through simplified system design, use of a readily available supply of components, standard manufacturing methods, and economies of scale.

The high cost of silicon makes traditional photovoltaic technology expensive. It also requires a large amount of space. Competitive concentrated photovoltaic technology requires large areas of silicon with optics, which can be too expensive for utility-scale applications. The MegaWatt Solar concentrated photovoltaic system has taken a practical approach, combining low-cost mirrors with the lowest-cost photovoltaic technology available, and scaling them for utility-sized power plants.

The MegaWatt Solar system features include:

  • Concentration factor of 20x — uses 95% less silicon
  • Receivers upgradeable to leverage advances in silicon cell technology and optics, for increased power output
  • 30+ year infrastructure life
  • System based on readily available materials, components, and subsystems
  • Simplified, robust, gear-free tracking system
  • Low-cost, field-proven, composite aluminum mirrors
  • Standards-compliant, SCADA-ready control system
  • Deployable in three months

MegaWatt Power System

20x less photovoltaic cells with the same output

Each solar generating unit (referred to as a BPU) is made up of multiple solar collectors driven by a dual-axis tracking system. The solar collectors use flexed composite mirror reflectors to concentrate solar radiation onto solar cells configured into receiver modules. A dual-axis tracking system provides maximum energy yield.

The system infrastructure (foundation, frame, tracking system, and communications and control devices) is designed for long life with simple repair and replacement processes. The modular design allows for the easy installation of enhanced photovoltaic receivers that take advantage of advances in solar technology. When new technologies become commercially viable, for example, a customer will be able to increase power output at a nominal incremental cost.