The laboratory’s main focus is testing two innovative high-efficiency solar technologies. The first is concentrator photovoltaics (CPV), which concentrates direct solar radiation onto small, highly efficient multi-junction photovoltaic cells. Three biaxial solar trackers are used to ensure proper operation of the CPV modules, keeping the modules perfectly aligned with the sun. 

The second technology is one of the most promising developed by RSE in recent years, known as “dynamic hybrid photovoltaic modules”. These modules use both CPV cells to convert direct solar radiation and conventional cells to convert diffuse and global radiation. Their dynamism comes from the integration of an innovative, reliable and low-cost solar tracking system based on shape memory spring actuators. Dynamic hybrid modules can generate over 70% more energy per year than conventional solar panels with the same installation area.