I read that new concentrating photovoltaic cells incorporate mirrors to focus intense sunlight on the cells to get close to 30% energy conversion - about double previous flat panel results. Is this technology for real? Is it heading to retail availability? Thanks.

Yes they're real and they use lenses to concentrate the sunlight. Efficiency up to 39%. Its not something you can go out and buy at home depot right now, but I if you have the money you can get them.