I'm running in Estonia (59 degrees North) a 9 kW max output PV microstation with microlense coated PV panels NAPS Saana. Just curious if anyone has tested in comparable conditions efficiency of micro lens coated PV panels and traditional flat surface panels. My production so far has been about 30% higher from the value calculated by EU PV GIS calculator, which is considered as official source for production estimation to get gov-t support for installation. I'd like to know for possible future projects if the higher cost of the micro lense panels is justified.

Hi Andres, seems an interesting experiment. The drawback could be that you could get some “hot spots” after a while. All the best and keep me updated, would like to know results.
solarshop@scarlet.be

Interesting. What is the estimate price difference with ordinary panels?

I'm not up to speed on the technology. Is this similar to Semprius?

Although the prices of PV panels are quite volatile, I'd say the microlense coated panels are about 30% higher priced than traditional flat surface panels.

The panels I mean are different idea and technology than Semprius. Both use optics in enhancing performance of panels, but different way - Semprius uses optics to concentrate sun light onto PV cells not covering whole size of panel, but on microlense coated panels the panel is covered with array of miniature lenses enhancing the active angle of the panels. This is especially benefitial in northern latitudes, where during wintertime the sunlight is very limited.

This type you mentioned need dual axis tracking system too?

The micorolens coated panels are basically "normal" PV panels, so with trackers you are able to even further enhance the angle. Just the lenses on the surface of panels do partly the job of tracking system. For instance this allows in wintertime also catch light reflected from snow, so clear cold and sunny winter day with ground covered with snow can give you also rather good production as the panels catch thank to lenses light reflection also from ground.