Abstract: A high-efficiency, small-scale, combined heat and power, concentrating solar energy system (200), designed specifically for residential and other relatively low-power applications, rendering it cost-effective and economically viable. Two-axis tracking of a dish-like reflector (10) of between 1 and 2 meters in aperture ensures very high concentrating ratios of between 200 and 8-suns or even higher. In consequence very high coolant outlet temperatures, of 120-180° C. may be reached at the outlet of the collector coolant, which may be oil, gas, or pressurized water. The high coolant temperatures are advantageous because they may be used for air-conditioning. The high concentration is advantageous because the efficiency of the photo_voltaic cells is improved with higher concentration. The overall efficiency is greater than 60%.

Abstract: A high-efficiency, small-scale, combined heat and power, concentrating solar energy system (200), designed specifically for residential and other relatively low-power applications, rendering it cost-effective and economically viable. Two-axis tracking of a dish-like reflector (10) of between 1 and 2 meters in aperture ensures very high concentrating ratios of between 200 and 8-suns or even higher. In consequence very high coolant outlet temperatures, of 120-180° C. may be reached at the outlet of the collector coolant, which may be oil, gas, or pressurized water. The high coolant temperatures are advantageous because they may be used for air-conditioning. The high concentration is advantageous because the efficiency of the photo_voltaic cells is improved with higher concentration. The overall efficiency is greater than 60%.