Analysis: Innovation is mounting
Cormac Gilligan from IHS examines pv magazine’s 50 array-changing technologies selection and finds that while innovation in mounting technologies remains slow-paced, the signs are positive that change is coming. In the area of power electronics, the usual suspects are leading the way for change.
CEO interview: Innovations in solar technology; PERC the new PV benchmark
Goetz Fischbeck, CEO of Smart Solar Consulting, casts his eye across the solar PV cell and module technologies featured in pv magazine’s 50 Array Changing Technologies free download, available now. In addition to the importance of cell-level innovations, he discusses production equipment upgrade investments and how PERC is set to become the new benchmark solar technology.
Solartech expands multi PERC to 240 MW
Taiwans Solartech Energy will expand its multicrystalline PERC production to 240 MW. The PERC expansion will add one PERC line per month July through September of this year, finishing up with four lines by the end of that month.
Soitec hits 38.9% with four-junction CPV cell
Frances Soitec has achieved 38.9% conversion efficiency with a four-junction cell, assembled into a CPV module. The cell set an efficiency world record in December last year, and has now been incorporated into a CPV application.
Solar Frontier sees first install of its flexible modules
Leading CIGS producer Solar Frontier has announced the first installation using its flexible modules. The modules have been install at Singapores newest port terminal, operated by PSA Singapore Terminals.
SoLayTec to deliver InPassion tooling to two Chinese manufacturers
Hollands SoLayTec will ship four of its InPassion PECVD tooling to two Chinese Tier 1 manufacturers. One tool is for a new customers R&D line, while three will go to an existing customer for volume production.
Fraunhofer launches company to transfer kerfless wafer technology into production
Germanys Fraunhofer has announced the launch of a spin-off company, NexWafe GmbH to transfer its kerfless wafer production technology into production. Fraunhofer Venture will supply seed funding.
First Solar full module efficiency of 18.2%
U.S. thin film manufacturer First Solar has achieved a major boost in module efficiency using its cadmium telluride technology. Today the company announced a full module efficiency of 18.2%, from an 18.6% aperture efficiency module.
PI Berlin to introduce new PV error analysis method at Intersolar Europe
The Photovoltaik-Institut Berlin has developed a new automated process whereby up to 1,000 solar modules daily can be examined using electroluminescence measurements.
Australia's CSIRO rolls out PV residential monitoring platform
Australian-made technology that will allow householders to remotely monitor and control their electricity usage, and utilities to coordinate demand management programs, is being trialed in the city of Perth and regional Queensland.
