this video shows how combining a small 'fresnel lens' with a solar panel increases the power output of the panel up to 300% or more. the experiments: to start, i took power readings (volts and amps) with the solar panel in regular or unamplified sunlight. then i simply aligned and focused the sunlight through the lens and onto the solar panel so the light passing thru the lens squarely landed on the face of the panel. then i took a second set of power readings. the voltage went up slightly but the amps or current output went up 3x or 300%. the combination works great to draw extra power out of solar panels. this video shows one way you can utilize the technology at home for extra power output without the extra expense of adding additional panels. add a mount and sun-tracker and you've got a completely automated unit. CSP or 'concentrated solar power' is often thought of as mirrors concentrating sunlight onto liquid filled pipes but ive seen some systems lately that are using fresnel lens with solar panels - these systems are starting to become more common.
*i know most of you are - but if you're not familiar with the term 'Fresnel Lens'... a fresnel lens is similar to a magnifying glass in that they both magnify, focus or concentrate sunlight into a smaller area. i mention in the video that they are 'basically' the same thing (meaning they both magnify things). the difference is how they are made or constructed. a magnifying glass is made using a single convex lens (bi-convex lens) - and usually made of glass but sometimes plastic - while a fresnel lens is made by cutting lots of concentric rings into a relatively flat shaped piece of usually plastic (in this case clear rigid PVC). all the rings act to form one 'lens'. note that these lenses look fragile but in many cases they are actually extremely tough and very durable. it actually says on the packaging (of mine) that it's 'unbreakable' ... (obviously it's possible but difficult). you might scratch it but probably won't break it. lastly, always take care when using, handling and storing fresnel lenses. the focal point is very hot. Never store them in an area where sunlight can strike them. the fresnel lens i used is roughly 8.5"x11" and is labeled rigid page size magnifier 2x power. by 'mighty bright'. cost about 10 bucks on amazon.
here's the link to the lens
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links to a couple of interesting articles...
this first one is about solar desalinization using fresnel lenses
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this one is about mirrors vs. fresnel lenses for concentrating solar power
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