CdS quantum dot (QD) solar concentrators were prepared by a sol–gel spin coating method. Thin films were prepared at different annealing temperatures and characterized by X-ray diffraction and spectroscopic techniques. The effect of temperature on the optical properties of CdS QDs embedded in silica matrix was assessed before and after exposure of the samples to sunlight for up to 4 weeks. The results show that as the annealing temperature increases, the fluorescent intensity and Stokes shift decrease. Therefore lower temperatures are preferable for the preparation of highly efficient QD solar concentrator systems.