Photovoltaic cell apparatus

Apparatus comprising:

• an array of photovoltaic cells and, for each of the cells in the array, an optical component of transparent material of cross-section having a first surface forming an entry aperture for solar radiation, opposite side surfaces, photovoltaic material mounted opposite to the first surface for receiving solar radiation from the entry aperture, the opposite side surfaces being shaped to provide total internal reflection of solar radiation passing from the entry aperture to the photovoltaic material, the apparatus being configured and arranged to pass ambient light through the apparatus, whereby in use, solar radiation provides for electricity from the photovoltaic material as ambient light passes through the apparatus, and further including a mirror surface being positioned to reflect ambient light away from one of said side surfaces to an adjacent photovoltaic cell, with reflected ambient light passing through the cells to pass through the array.

Apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the photovoltaic material has a first face generally facing the first curved side surface to receive radiation from said first curved surface and a second opposite face generally facing the second curved side surface to receive radiation from said second curved surface.