Abstract
Solar simulators for characterization of concentrator photovoltaic modules (CPV) are now commercially available, providing an alternative to outdoor performance characterization with clear advantages in terms of repeatability, availability, control of operating conditions, and cost. Nevertheless, optical concentration implies particular characteristics that introduce the need of new performance figures and characterization methods. CPV solar simulators have demonstrated characterization capabilities beyond simple current–voltage (I–V) curve acquisition. This paper summarizes other indoor performance tests developed at the Instituto de Energía Solar (IES-UPM) that have proven to be useful for the optical, mechanical, and spectral characterization and optimization of a CPV module.