Concentrating photovoltaics (CPV) technology includes a diverse array of module and system designs that vary according to the geometry, concentration ratio, and the types of cells and optics used. Research and development (R&D) in CPV is active and highly inventive, resulting in both the highest efficiency solar cells and modules currently available across the PV industry (Solar Junction’s triple junction GaAs-based cell: 43.5%; Semprius’ CPV module: 33.9%). Despite extremely challenging market conditions, CPV installations have recently flourished, and researchers are avidly pursuing new applications. This special section in the Journal of Photonics for Energy provides insight into some of the new and exciting areas of CPV R&D and conveys the extraordinary level of innovation underway in today’s CPV community.