Global Solar Technology - May 2011 (#4.5)

www.globalsolartechnology.com

Volume 4 Number 5 May 2011


The Global Journal for Solar and PV Manufacturing Professionals

CaNada’S larGeST Solar roof iNSTallaTioNMiCroiNVerTer SySTeMS wiTh iNTeGraTed benefits • ReactoR meltdown to boost global solaR demand • Recent initiatives making solaR Pv moRe useR-fRiendly • fuTure PhoToVolTaiC ModuleS require iNNoVaTiVely deSiGNed JuNCTioN boxeS

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2 – Global Solar Technology – May 2011 www.globalsolartechnology.com

SOLAR POWER IS HERE TO STAY

“Across the region encompassing Africa, southern Europe and Asia, there is potential to generate 7,350 TWh/y while the Pacifi c region could provide a further 2,300 TWh/y.”

—Dr Paul Breeze, Senior Business Insights Analyst

‘The Future of Concentrating Solar Power Technologies’NOW AVAILABLE

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Global Solar Technology – May 2011 – 1www.globalsolartechnology.com

Contents

Global Solar Technology is distributed by controlled circulation to qualified personnel. For all others, subscriptions are available at a cost of £110/US $220/€165 for the current volume (6 issues).

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, transmitted in any form or by any means —electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise—without the prior written consent of the publisher. No responsibility is accepted for the accuracy of information contained in the text, illustrations or advertisements. The opinions expressed in the articles are not necessarily those of the editors or publisher.

© Trafalgar Publications Ltd.

Designed and Published by Trafalgar Publications, Bournemouth, United Kingdom

ContentsVolume 4, No. 5

May 2011

Kitchener, Ontario’s300,000 ft2, 500 kW/h system—p. 8

EDITORIAL2 Are we at the apex of solar development? Alan Rae

THIS MONTH’S FEATuRES8 Canada’s largest solar roof installation10 Company profile: OSP—Ontario Solar Provider12 Microinverter systems with integrated benefits for panel manufacturers, installers and users20 Two recent initiatives making solar PV more user-friendly22 Tech focus: Future photovoltaic modules require innovatively designed junction boxes24 Filling a vacuum in Welland, Ontario25 1st SEMA Technical Conference & Exhibition26 Lamination—no problem for Bürkle!30 The fabrication of large ceramic sheet stock

REGuLAR COLuMNS6 Shifting landscape for regional PV manufacturing Chris O’Brien

14 Japan needs solar systems—Reactor meltdown to boost global demand Jon Custer-Topai

6 Industry News27 Technological Developments

31 Analyst Buzz35 New products40 International diary

OTHER REGuLAR FEATuRES

Visit www.globalsolartechnology.com for the latest news and more, every day.

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Power outages

ShortagesBT ResinGlass fabricMCUs (automotive)Blank silicon wafersLi Ion battery polymer

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editorial officesEuropeGlobal Solar TechnologyTrafalgar Publications LtdUnit 18, 2 Lansdowne CrescentBournemouthDorset BH1 1SAUnited KingdomTel: +44 7766 [email protected]

United StatesGlobal Solar TechnologyPO Box 7579Naples, FL 34102, USATel: +1 (239) 245-9264Fax: (239) [email protected]

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Editor-in-ChiefTrevor GalbraithTel: +44 7924 581 523 (Europe)Tel: +1 (239) 245-9264 x101 (US)[email protected]

Managing EditorHeather LackeyTel: +1 (239) 245-9264 [email protected]

Technical Editor Dr. Alan [email protected]

Assistant EditorHeidi [email protected]

Circulation & SubscriptionsKelly Grimm Tel: +1 (239) 245-9264 x106subscriptions@ globalsolartechnology.com

advertisingSee page 40.

Alan RaeTechnical Editor

Editorial

are we at the apex of solar development?

Well, maybe not, but many of us were at the APEX Electronics meeting in Las Vegas last month

(www.ipcapexexpo.org). There is increas-ing interest from the EMS community and the electronics business in general as they realize that solar uses more silicon than ICs, the area of solar panels produced now outstrips the area of circuit boards pro-duced, and many members of the electron-ics supply chain are now heavily involved in this very materials-intensive business.

I had the privilege of presenting the iNEMI solar PV roadmap and being interviewed online (http://realtimewith.com/pages/videos.cgi?&rtwsid=44). I also had a chance to see great presentations by Phil Plonski of Prismark and Dongkai Shangguan of Flextronics and talk to sev-eral experts in the field, including John Custer-Topai, as well as meeting with the companies at the solar pavilion including Celestica, Burkle and Bombard (who had a trailer-mounted, four-panel array pow-ering the solar pavilion). Unfortunately the NREL solar team was a no-show due to travel restrictions brought on by the Federal continuing resolution. Expect a

number of follow-up articles!There was a lot of discussion and con-

cern about the potential for a growth slow-down in 2011-12. Many of the forecasts were published earlier this year before the Fukushima tragedy, and the new consensus is we may not see a significant drop even with the predicted overcapacity being put in place right now as more governments, companies and individuals vote for solar PV with their wallets.

The electronics industry supply chain has certainly caught on to the potential of the solar industry. For the iNEMI roadmap presentation I prepared the slide below to outline the links to the solar supply chain—and they are comprehensive!

The solar PV industry is becoming a very significant consumer of materials of all types and we can expect to see increas-ing competition from suppliers intent on increasing output and reliability while reducing cost. We’ll keep track of these sup-pliers from diverse industrial backgrounds and make sure Global Solar Technology readers are aware of the latest opportuni-ties!

Electronics Supply Chain Involvement

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Thin Film Materials

Silicon Ingot

Cell

Manufacture

Module

Manufacture

Balance of System

Materials Makerse.g. Indium, Ferro, Heraeus…

EMS

e.g. Flextronics,Celestica, Jabil…

Equipment Makerse.g. Speedline, BTU, DEK…

Oerlikon Solar proudly announces the new THINFAB which reduces the manufacturing cost of thin film silicon modules

to a record breaking 0.50/Wp, with 10 percent stabilized efficiency and 143 Wp module performance. Beyond that we

introduce our new world record breaking cell efficiency of stabilized 11,9 percent on Micromorph® technology. Find out

more about our non-toxic, environmentally friendly solar technology at www.oerlikon.com/solar/thinfab.

THINFABEconomically Viable Solar Power with Thin Film Silicon – NOW!

Lowest Module Production Costs of 0.50/Wp with Module Efficiency of 10% Stabilized at 143 Wp

…and a New Champion Cell with 11,9% Stabilized Efficiency


Shifting landscape for regional PV manufacturing

Continued on page 8

The global PV industry has grown at an extraordinary pace, with volume of shipments increasing by an

average of 47% p.a. since 1997 (Navigant Consulting). That period of growth has also seen some dynamic changes in the regional patterns of manufacturing, as shown in Chart 1.

The U.S. was the world’s leading PV manufacturing market through the mid-1990s, representing 47% of global PV shipments in 1997, at a point in time when the total world market was only 114 MW. Key policies that led to U.S. early leadership in PV manufacturing included support from DOE for basic and applied PV technology research as well as state-level economic development incentives, some of which were specifically tailored to attract PV manufacturing. A key shortcoming of the U.S. policies was the inconsistency of incentives for end-users. Many of the utility-sponsored PV rebate programs were pared back in the early 1990’s as a part of the transition to deregulated energy markets in many states, and the rebate programs that remained had limited funding and significant risk of funding cuts from year to year. The result of these “stop and start” funding cycles for PV was that PV manufacturing investments in the U.S. were subject to significant policy risk, hindering investment.

Beginning in the mid-1990’s Japan began to increase its market share, largely as a result of a “demand-pull” PV policy introduced by the Japan government that established an ambitious long-term target for PV installations in the country, 5 GW cumulative installations by 2010. At the

same time, the government, through METI’s New Energy Foundation, introduced an ambitious rebate program for residential PV investors. This up-front rebate was set at a level that paid for approximately 50% of the then-current cost of residential PV systems, and significantly, the government signaled to Japanese industry that the funding for the incentive program would be maintained and expanded in following years, with a reduction in the rebate level each year. The results were remarkable, and illustrated the positive impact of policy stability in spurring market expansion and cost reduction, as shown below. At the same time, this market growth and stability coincided with a surge in investment in PV manufacturing capacity by Japanese suppliers. By 2004, 10 years after the PV incentive program had been launched, Japanese manufacturers

represented well over 50% of total PV shipments. Over the past five years, Japan has lost its manufacturing market share leadership for several reasons, including a shortage of polysilicon, and the growth of manufacturing bases first in Europe and then in Asia, serving explosively-growing markets in Europe.

Building upon the momentum of the successful Japanese rooftop PV incentive program in the late 1990’s, policy-makers in Germany introduced a restructured feed-in-tariff program in 2000, with solar-specific tariff rates, 20-year tariff contracts and a structure of annual digressions intended to provide a “glide path” to grid parity. The result of this policy was an unprecedented growth in investment and market expansion, accelerated further as other countries in Europe, Asia and even

Chris O’Brien

Chart 1. Regional manufacturing market share.

Shifting landscape for

regional PV manufacturing

Regional Manufacturing Market Share

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Shifting landscape for regional PV manufacturing

North America adopted similar feed-in-tariff programs to meet renewable and solar energy policy goals. The feed-in-tariff policies have been the foundation for the majority of the global market growth over the past decade. The impact of these policies on regional manufacturing investments is less clear, as shown in Chart 2. Market share for European PV cell manufacturers increased from under 20% to over 30% in the first five years following the introduction of feed-in-tariff policies in Germany; however manufacturing market share for Europe remained static for the following several years, and beginning in 2009 declined rapidly as a result of new competition from low-cost high-volume cell and module manufacturers based in China and other Asian countries.

The past five years have seen a very changed landscape form for global PV manufacturing. Notwithstanding the continuing demand pull in a growing number of markets in Europe, the majority of new manufacturing capacity expansion has been in China and Asia. Some of the

factors driving this shift are economic, e.g. lower cost of capital, lower tax rates and lower cost of materials, labor and equipment. Other factors are policy-related, as regional and national governments have offered generous tax and grant concessions to help new and expanding PV manufacturers. The results have been dramatic. For example, the regional share of cell manufacturing for China/Taiwan has grown from less than 10% in 2005 to over 50% in 2010; shipments grew from less than 100 MW in 2005 to over 9,000 MW in 2010 (cf. Navigant Consulting). Over the same time period the market share for “Rest of World” (chiefly Asia) has tripled.

What will be the key trends in the future, and what are the key factors for determining regional investment in PV manufacturing? For crystalline PV, new cell manufacturing demand will likely be met by further scale-up of existing cell manufacturing facilities, a trend that will also be reinforced by favorable availability and cost of capital in China and Asia.

Module manufacturing investments are likely to be more regionally dispersed and located in proximity to leading long term markets, e.g. U.S.

Thin film technologies may follow a different pattern. Recent announcements by First Solar and GE exemplify a potential counter-trend, with thin film manufacturing being located in or near to key end markets. The U.S. is a particularly interesting case because in recent years the market share for thin film has been much higher than the global average. For example 44% of total U.S. PV installations in 2010 used thin film technologies. Furthermore, thin film manufacturing is highly automated, so that the cost of labor is a relatively minor factor, while the cost of materials (primarily gases and glass) is a more critical factor. To illustrate this, Chart 3 shows the estimated cost of production for a Micromorph® thin film silicon module produced on an Oerlikon Solar ThinFab line (120 MW capacity). Note that the figures shown do not include the cost of financing, so there may still be significant variations between regions if there are significant disparities in the cost of financing.

There have been a number of policy initiatives introduced in recent years designed to stem the shift of manufacturing to Asia, including new domestic content requirements (e.g. Ontario) and new grant initiatives to support emerging technologies through the “valley of death” of early commercial ramp-up (e.g. U.S. DOE). While market protection policies are understandable in a subsidized solar energy market, policymakers also need to bear in mind the demonstrated efficiencies and cost savings that have resulted through global competition in the PV industry over the past five years, and ensure that supported domestic manufacturing is competitive and providing end customers with the most affordable solar energy costs.

Chris O’Brien is head of market development for Oerlikon Solar, and is based in Washington, DC. He has held senior management positions with leading solar PV companies including Sharp Solar and BP Solar since 1995. Chris has previous career experience in the energy efficiency and independent power industries. He holds an engineering degree from Dartmouth College and an MBA from Stanford University.

METI/NEF Subsidy Program Spurs Residential Market Growth in Japan

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Chart 2. METI/NEF subsidy program spurs residential market growth in Japan.

Chart 3. Estimated cost of production for a Micromorph® thin film silicon module.

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AEG Power Solutions acquires OpciónDos, Spanish solar engineering companyAEG Power Solutions, wholly-owned by 3W Power Holdings S.A. has acquired PV technology integrator OpciónDos.

In the acquisition process, Eclareon acted as strategic and financial advisor to AEG Power Solutions.

OpciónDos will be a dedicated unit within the Solar SBU (Strategic Business Unit) of AEG Power Solutions. www.aegps.com, www.opciondos.com

centrotherm sells 50 MW turnkey module line to Austrian companyAustrian-based Kioto Photovoltaics GmbH recently purchased a turnkey module line from centrotherm photovoltaics AG for the manufacture of crystalline solar modules. A prepayment for the 50-megawatt system has already been made.

The turnkey system will be delivered to Kioto Photovoltaics in Q2’11. Kioto expects to begin producing its first mod-ules with the new system beginning in the third quarter.

Reis GmbH & Co KG Maschinenfabrik in Obemburg am Main will supply the automation technology and linking system for centrotherm’s turnkey module line as part of a partnership agreement between the companies formed in April 2010. www.centrotherm.de

Pasan delivers sun simulator equipment to three European PV organizationsPasan SA recently delivered sun simula-tors to Italy’s ESTI, the European Solar Test Installation, Fraunhofer ISE in Freiburg, Germany, and TÜV Rheinland in Köln, Germany.

ESTI, ISE and TÜV Rheinland sup-port manufacturers worldwide by cali-brating and certifying reference mod-ules. These companies were also involved in the European Round Robin project “Performance,” a main goal of which is to find ways to correctly measure PV modules by setting the standards for the PV indus-try. www.pasan.ch

IPVEA begins collecting data for PV equipment reportThe IPVEA (International PV Equipment Association) is contacting PV manufac-

turers worldwide in order to garner key information for a monthly book-to-bill ratio report. The program, which has been developed by VLSI Research on behalf of IPVEA, will collect monthly sales and bill-ings data on PV manufacturing equipment worldwide.

Surveys will be sent out to all suppliers of PV manufacturing equipment at the end of each month. The results of each survey will be published at the end of each follow-ing month. The information will be col-lected by an independent third party in a confidential manner and prepared in such a way that it cannot be attributed to indi-vidual companies. www.ipvea.org

Sovello enters into manufacturing agreement for solar modules in CanadaSovello Canada Inc., a subsidiary of the solar module manufacturer Sovello Germany, signed a multi-year contract with Celestica to manufacture solar mod-ules with a total volume of 167 MWp.

This agreement provides Sovello Canada with the ability to supply high-quality solar modules that meet the Province of Ontario’s domestic content requirements. The first shipments are expected to commence in Q1 2011.

Soitec to build new 200 MW CPV manufacturing facility in San DiegoTo support a new project in Southern California’s western Imperial County, Soitec is building a new factory in the San Diego region to manufacture its proprie-tary Concentrix concentrated photovoltaic (CPV) modules. The company was recently selected by Tenaska Solar Ventures to supply a new CPV solar power plant--the Imperial Solar Energy Center (ISEC) West--which will produce 150 MW of clean energy for San Diego Gas & Electric. The plant is expected to be completed in 2015.

The new CPV manufacturing facil-ity, which will have an annual production capacity of 200 MW, will supply CPV mod-ules to other utility-scale solar projects through the U.S. southwest as well. www.soitec.com

AstroWatt appoints CEO, demonstrates 13% efficiency on their thin silicon solar cellsAstroWatt had two major announcements

to make today. First off, they appointed a new CEO: Curt Vass, who brings in-depth product and market development experi-ence from the semiconductor and solar industries.

The company also announced that it has achieved 13% efficience on the pat-ented SOMÒ (Semiconductor-On-Metal) technology used to create litho-less local back contact (LBC) hetero-junction solar cells. www.astrowatt.com

Despatch receives orders for over fifty firing furnaces at SNECDespatch Industries secured orders and letters of intent for more than fifty firing furnaces at last month’s SNEC PV Power Exhibition in Shanghai, China. The orders were for Despatch’s best-selling CF Series firing furnace. www.despatch.com

Indium Corporation named Engineering Company of the YearIndium Corporation was recently named 2010 Engineering Company of the Year by the Mohawk Valley Engineers’ Executive Council.

This award honors companies for “sig-nificant contributions in new and/or inno-vative products, processing technologies, or productivity leading to enhanced business.” www.mveec.org, www.indium.com

Wacker expands polysilicon productionWacker Chemie AG has expanded its capacity for the production of hyperpure polysilicon at its facility in Burghausen, Germany, and its under-contruction facil-ity in Nünchritz. These measures are expected to increase annual quantities at each site by 5,000 metric tons, from 32,000 to 37,000 metric tons in Burghausen and 10,000 to 15,000 metric tons in Nünchritz.

The first volumes from the expansion measure are expected to be available in 2012. www.wacker.com

SolarWorld adds polycrystalline panel production to Calif., Ore. facilitiesSolarWorld’s facilities in Oregon and California have begun producing polycrys-talline “Sunmodule™ Plus” solar panels fea-turing power densities of 230 and 240 watts peak. SolarWorld’s Sunmodule™ Plus poly panels come with the same high quality,

industry newsIndustry news


Industry news

performance and reliability as the compa-ny’s monocrystalline Sunmodule™ panels, as well as a 25-year linear performance guarantee. www.solarworld.com

First Solar to build solar module factory in Mesa, ArizonaFirst Solar, Inc. announced plans to build its new U.S. manufacturing center in Mesa, Ariz. The company will invest about $300 million in the factory, which will increase First Solar’s U.S. production capacity to more than 500 MW per year.

Construction will begin in the second quarter of 2011 and is expected to last a year, creating an average of 400-500 con-struction jobs. Module shipments are scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2012. www.firstsolar.com

Solectria Renewables expands Massachusetts facility to 800 MW capacitySolectria Renewables, LLC hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony and factory tour to cel-ebrate its 800 MW manufacturing capacity expansion at its facility in Lawrence, Mass.

The celebration was attended by distin-guished Commonwealth of Massachusetts officials including Niki Tsongas, Congresswoman, 5th District; Phil Giudice, Energy Undersecretary, Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs; Mark Silvia, Commissioner, DOER; and Barry Finegold, State Senator. www.solren.com

SolFocus names Bob Legendre presidentSolFocus recently promoted chief operat-ing officer Bob Legendre to the position of President and COO, reporting to CEO

Mark Crowley. In his new, expanded posi-tion, Legendre will oversee a broad range of activities including manufacturing, supply chain, engineering, deployment, field sup-port, and product quality.

As the COO, Legendre led SolFocus’ engineering organization to drive cost out of the product and improve product qual-ity. Legendre also finalized SolFocus prod-uct realization and product certification for deployment in EMEA, Australia and North America. www.solfocus.com

Schiller Automation reorganizes

Schiller Automation has reorganized. The company created two business units, one targeting the photovoltaics market and one for automotive and electronics. Supporting these business units will be the interdisci-plinary divisions, Operations and Internal Services.

The new Business Unit Photovoltaics will be headed by Karl-Heinz Bahnmüller. Business Unit Automotive & Electronics will be headed by Martin Speidel. Torsten Eymer will head Operations, and Hans-Peter Hennig will be in charge of Internal Services. www.schiller-automation.com

SCHOTT Solar CEO elected as new EPIA directorGathered in Paris, France, on the occa-sion of EPIA’s annual general meeting, the members elected Dr. Martin Heming as new director to the board of the associa-tion. Heming, born in Germany in 1956, is CEO of SCHOTT Solar AG and responsi-ble for strategy and business development, research & development, public relations, human resources, auditing, sales and mar-keting.

EPIA also presented the first results of a study on the competitiveness of PV in the energy sector. The compelling downward trend of the PV installation cost translates into ever more competitive PV generated electricity, and this was shown for different market segments in major European coun-tries. www.eipa.org

Mark Widmar named First Solar CFOEffective April 4, 2011, Mark Widmar will join First Solar as chief financial officer responsible for the company’s global finan-cial operations. Widmar will succeed James Zhu, who has been interim CFO since Jan. 1, 2011. Zhu will retain his role as First Solar’s chief accounting officer.

Widmar joins First Solar from Graftech International Ltd., a leading global manu-facturer of advanced carbon and graphite materials, where he was CFO and President of the Engineered Solutions segment. Prior to joining Graftech in 2006, Widmar worked at NCR Corporation from 2003 as corporate controller and a business unit CFO. Before that he was a division control-ler for Dell, Inc. and a business unit CFO for Lucent Technologies. www.firstsolar.com

Bürkle ships its 100th PV lamination systemThree years ago, Bürkle introduced its single- and multi-opening PV lamination systems. Now the company celebrates a milestone as they ship their 100th unit.

Customers such as Bosch, Day4 Energy, Scheuten Solar, Jabil and many other well known firms are now using the laminators for the manufacture of solar modules in the crystalline and thin film sector. Their latest order—for 18 single-opening laminators of the e.a.s.y-Lam brand—was received from a Chinese module producer. www.buerkle-gmbh.de

Continued on page 36


Canada’s largest solar roof installation

In June 2009, Kitchener City Council approved the installation of a 500-kW/h solar energy system on a portion

of the 300,000 square-foot roof of the city’s future consolidated maintenance facility—a project that has put Kitchener on the map as the home to the largest solar-panel instal-lation in Canada. Now fully installed and with the official launch planned for later this spring, the city will own, operate and maintain the solar-energy system—con-sisting of 2,660 photovoltaic solar panels, with each producing 200 W of power—and sell all generated power to the Ontario Power Authority under a 20-year contract. Design was done by Arise Technologies of Waterloo. Permits were obtained by the City of Kitchener and the solar panels

have been manufactured and installed by Photowatt Ontario of Cambridge, Ontario. City of Kitchener Facilities Management Staff will carry out ongoing maintenance.

In addition to the environmental bene-fits of owning and operating its own power provider would bring, this project will also diversify the city’s future electricity supply through the application of a leading-edge energy-generation technology in a cost-effective manner. The total cost of the intended solar-energy system installation is approximately $4.1 million, which has been funded through a three-way partner-ship between the Government of Canada, the Province of Ontario and the City of Kitchener, as part of a national infrastruc-ture stimulus program, as well as the city’s

Local Environmental Action Fund (LEAF), a $5-million program aimed at reduc-ing or repairing our city’s impact on the environment. The Federation of Canadian Municipalities also contributed more than $4,500 from its Green Municipal Fund, which helped cover project-related con-sulting fees. The solar roof is expected to generate more than $363,900 in net rev-enue for the city each year - and more than $3.5 million over the course of the 20-year contract with the OPA.

“The city can make a meaningful con-tribution to fighting climate change by reducing our future greenhouse-gas emis-sions through a community-scaled renew-able roof-top solar energy Project which replaces fossil fuel combustion,” said Terry




Boutilier, a senior business development officer with the city. “This investment is a clear demonstration of the city’s com-mitment to its environmental goals; and it reflects the wishes of the citizens of Kitchener, as expressed through the several community consultations which have been conducted.”

Kitchener is one apex of Canada’s Technology Triangle (www.techtriangle.com) in the Waterloo Region of Ontario. With homegrown global leaders like Research In Motion, Toyota, Christie Digital Systems, and Enermodal it is no wonder that global solar companies such as Photowatt Ontario, Arise Technologies, and Canadian Solar, choose to locate in this Region. No other community in Canada

has a solar cluster quite like the Waterloo Region.

Ideally located for business set up and expansion, Waterloo Region is situated on Canada’s superhighway 401, and close to major population centers. In addition there is a substantial home market in Ontario for CleanTech driven initiatives.

• The Ontario government plans to retire 7,000 MW of coal-fired generation by 2014.

• The Green Energy and Green Economy Act, passed in 2009, makes Ontario a global renewable energy leader with an attractive Feed-in Tariff Program.

• The solar FIT rates are competi-

tively priced between 44.3 ¢/kWh and 80.2 ¢/kWh.

The system has been turned on as of March 25, 2011. The official ribbon cutting will take place in the last week of May.

What advice would Terry Boutilier give to other municipalities looking to install a project of this type?

“Complete a comprehensive business case prior to ‘jumping in’ to a project of this nature. Retain experienced design and construction people.”

Kitchener, Ontario’s300,000 ft2, 500 kW/h system


Company profile: OSP—Ontario Solar Provider

www.globalsmt.net

In our series of articles and interviews with leaders of the Canadian solar business throughout the supply chain,

I have been really impressed by the spirit, enthusiasm and creativity of the companies and people I have met. OSP is a shining example of a company that saw a need and “went for it!”

I talked to Christian Wentzel and Thomas Kreutzer about the company and its formation.

OSP’s roots are in Germany, like a few of the new solar companies in Ontario. Christian is a financial expert with expe-rience in renewable and traditional energy investments. His business partner, Sebastian Seyfarth, has experience in large-scale ground mount solar development. Both partners have extensive global busi-ness experience. Together they identified an opportunity in Ontario in September 2009, seeing an opportunity to transform the existing solar business—cottages and lake houses with no grid connection—to a significant business due to the attrac-tive feed in tariffs and domestic content requirements then being proposed in Ontario. They moved to Ontario and met Thomas—with over 350 solar PV installa-tions under his belt—through a craigslist posting(!). The rest is history.

When they arrived, the Canadian busi-ness was in a really early stage compared to the more mature market in Germany. There was difficulty sourcing local content, and a major shortage of skilled installers and project managers. With two module makers up, two more on the way and five more potential suppliers, OSP is comfort-able that the local supply shortage will ease. There is still a real shortage of skilled per-sonnel, though, and OSP continues to bring in resources from Germany.

There have been a number of other challenges in the start-up period. The slow approval process is quite different than the mature German system. The OPA (Ontario Power Authority) adds another layer of reg-ulation to the process, and the sheer level of applications—over 20,000, apparently being processed by only a few people—is choking the system. The Ontario Provincial Government is aware of this and is working to streamline the process.

The lack of skilled installers and proj-ect managers—with virtually no barriers to entry, no certification or qualifications required—makes it tough to sort out the good installers from the “cowboys.”

OSP is an integrator concentrating on large-scale turnkey installations—com-mercial rooftops from 100 KW to 5 MW, and the development of utility ground

mount farms from 5 MW to 10 MW. Roof strength in general has been a

vexing issue—design strength capabilities of 2-3 lb/square foot did not fit well with bal-lasted systems at 5-10 lb per square foot. OSP encouraged KB Racking, a company with a novel lightweight racking system, to set up in Canada to supply the roof mount market

Company profile: oSP— ontario Solar Provider

Alan Rae recently spoke with OPS’s Thomas Kreutzer and Christian Wentzel.

Left to right: Sebastian Seyfarth, Christian Wentzel and Thomas Kreutzer.



Organic photovoltaics—closing in on commercial requirements with tandem cells

1st Annual SEMA Technical Conference & ExhibitionConnecting to the Solar Manufacturing IndustryDo you know how reliable your solar module is? Come to the SEMA Technical Conference and Exhibition to learn about the issues and industry programs related to determining PV module reliability together with PV module lifetime prediction models from industry experts.

May 24-26, 2011 Wyndham Hotel in San Jose, CAFor further information or to sign up for the event, visit www.solar-ema.org/2011-conference.html.

MW/CA/6/SEMA_ad.indd 1 3/17/11 9:59 PM


Microinverter systems with integrated benefits for panel manufacturers, installers and users

Microinverter systems coming on the market offer a number of advantages over string and

centralized inverter systems, as we have discussed in previous articles. We recently talked to Ron Van Dell, president and CEO of SolarBridge, who explained how inte-grating their microinverters in module manufacturing and combining them with matched power and data management solutions could give higher reliability, lower cost and better data management for residential and light commercial installa-tions.

SolarBridge was founded in 2004 to commercialize power electronics technol-ogies created at the University of Illinois. Recognizing the need for more efficient and reliable inverter technologies in the solar industry, company founders began developing an innovative microinverter system for residential and commercial photovoltaic (PV) systems in 2008. In 2009, the company moved its headquarters to Austin, Texas, retaining a research and development site in Champaign, Illinois. Led by a seasoned management team, SolarBridge is enabling its partners to offer complete AC modules to the market with its fully integrated microinverter solution.

The SolarBridge Pantheon microin-verter has been designed from the ground up without failure-prone components such as electro-lytic capacitors and opto-iso-lators, which are notorious in power electronics for failure under difficult operating con-ditions. This is not a scaled-down inverter; it is a completely new design. It requires a tiny fraction of the bulk capaci-tance of traditional inverter architectures, enabling the use of long-life film capaci-

tors, which, combined with the Pantheon’s advanced thermal management and other reliability advances, yields a microinverter with the same lifetime as the module to which it is attached.

The SolarBridge design enables AC modules with the industry’s first 25 year, end-to-end warranty on both the PV module and the integrated microinverter. This directly reduces operating costs and system downtime by eliminating the need to replace inverters during the life of the system. SolarBridge is working with top tier module manufacturers to develop inte-grated AC modules. This B2B OEM busi-ness model leverages the module manu-facturers’ existing manufacturing processes and well-established sales and distribution channels.

SolarBridge-enabled AC modules max-imize energy harvest through distributed MPPT. As a result, solar installers can now qualify many sites that would otherwise be ineligible for solar due to shading and/or roof orientation issues. Additionally, installation of rooftop PV systems is simplified because the micro-inverter is factory-installed on the module, eliminating the

need for a separate installation process for central inverter or detached microinvert-ers. This means that installers can turn more installation jobs with a smaller crew, reducing costs significantly.

The SolarBridge system comprises four elements:

• SolarBridge Pantheon™ Microinverter is a low-profile, DC to AC power conversion device mounted on the back of the PV module. Backed by a 25-year warranty, this microinverter is integrated during module manufacturing. Its module-level maximum power point tracking (MPPT) improves energy harvest up to 25 percent with 95.5 percent efficiency. First Generation 235 W products will ship mid-

year with 2nd Generation

products capable of

250W and beyond

avail-


The SolarBridge Pantheon microinverter (left) and Power Manager (right).



able in 2012.• SolarBridge PV-Dock is a plug-and-play docking

station for the Pantheon microinverter that enables drop-in integration of the Pantheon by the module manufacturer. It also allows easy field serviceability. With no exposed DC wiring, it offers the lowest DC resistance and highest efficiency.

• SolarBridge Power Manager is the on-site commu-nications gateway. It continuously monitors the PV system and manages communications with the Power Portal and third-party systems through powerline communications. This smart-grid ready component features an outdoor-rated enclosure for flexible instal-lation.

• SolarBridge Power Portal is a web-based manage-ment system for installers, module manufacturers and system owners that provides detailed visibility into every site’s performance. Its non-proprietary archi-tecture supports extensibility and integration, and it’s easy to customize and install.

Expect to see the SolarBridge system shipping on leading manu-facturers’ modules this fall.

Connection issues also exist, and these are being addressed by The Canadian Solar Industries Association, www.cansia.ca, where OSP is one of the two industry representatives on the working group. The impact of solar feed-in on the grid is being calculated very conservatively (for example, not assuming power generated in an industrial park may well be consumed 100% in that park), which is restricting grid capacity. Other countries use a less conservative model that works well in practice, and the group is working towards finding a workable solution that will maintain grid integrity and strong growth of the solar sector. The restrictions also assume older inverter technology which is now outdated.

Financing is another area where Christian’s skills have come to bear, in developing a number of financing options backed by German banks.

Recently, OSP announced a project with Dymon Power Corporation of Ottawa for eight rooftop installations totaling 2.7 MW with construction starting in April.

OSP has enthusiasm, experience and creativity—a great combi-nation for a growing market!

Company profile: oSPContinued from page 10

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Changing the game of silicon efficiency

Japan is changing everything2011 year over year growth is slowing as the worldwide “great recession” recovery gains traction. A composite of 55 publically traded solar/photovoltaic companies shows a 3/12 growth slowdown beginning in 2Q10 (Chart 1). A timelier monthly composite of Taiwan’s solar supply-chain manufacturers demonstrates a steep trajectory with a slight revenue slowdown in January 2011 (Chart 2).

The global “Purchasing Manager’s” index (Chart 3) is a leading indicator for the electronics manufacturing industry by 3-6 months. Electronics’ demand is a leading indicator of electricity usage and although solar energy represents a small

percentage of electricity produced, Japan’s devastating earthquake has regenerated public awareness to the risks of nuclear power plants and the benefits of alternative energy, especially in highly populated regions, which are susceptible to natural disasters.

Worldwide solar photovoltaic installations have grown at an average of 65% y/y between 2004 and 2010 to a cumulative of 37,654 MW according to Needham & Company and photovoltaic revenues grew on a quarterly average of 66.9% in 2010 compared to electronic equipment revenues, which chugged along at an average of 12.9% during the same period (Chart 4). Needham’s forecast

expected Japan to install 1.2 GW in 2011, up from 890 MW in 2010. Germany is expected to contract by 1.4 GW y/y and the U.S. and Italy are projected to grow from 950 MW and 1.2 GW respectively to 1.8 GW and 3 GW in 2011 (Chart 5). The forecast was based on anticipated FiT incentive changes but did not take into consideration a life-changing situation, such as an earthquake or a tsunami.

Japan’s “Purchasing Manager’s” (diffusion) index fell to under 50 in March, showing an unsurprising demand contraction (Chart 6).

The future for 2011 has become very unclear as a result of unexpected geo-political turmoil, Japan’s earthquake/

Jon Custer-Topai

Japan needs solar systems

Reactor meltdown to boost global demand

Global Solar/Photovoltaic GrowthTotal Industry based upon 55 Company broad sample

3/12 & 12/12 Rate of Change

1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 107 08 09 10 11

CALENDAR YEAR

0

0.5

1

1.5

2

2.5Rate of Growth (1.0=no growth)

12/12 3/12Series 3

20101227 Taiwan Solar/Photovoltaic Panel CompaniesComposite of 17 Manufacturers

13579111357911135791113579111357911135791113579111357911135791113579111357911100 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11

CALENDAR YEAR

0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

18

20NT$ billions

20110213

Big Sun Energy Technology, Daxon, DelSolar, e_TON Solar Tec, Eversol, Gintech, Green Energy Technology (GET), Ligitek, Motech, Neo Solar Power, Phoenixtec Power Co (PPC), Precision Silicon, Sino-American Silicon Products, Sonartech, Sysgration, Tyntek, Wafer Works

2010/2009 RevenueUp 80%

Chart 1. Chart 2.


Advanced wire sawing technology for solar photovoltaic cells

tsunami (Chart 7) and a steep increase in energy (Chart 8) and commodity prices (Chart 9). Although the earthquakes and tsunami caused minimal damage to the solar/photovoltaic supply chain, radiation leaks from the nuclear reactors are increasing demand for safer, more readily available energy sources. In addition, the disaster is showing chinks in globalized JIT supply chain manufacturing which is testing contingency plans and creating a reallocation of suppliers (Charts 10 & 11). Opportunities will arise from the disaster as companies replace equipment or expand capacity, but the most disruptive part of the situation is an inadequate electricity infrastructure that will take years to rebuild. Rolling blackouts have shut down plants, and radiation has rendered parts of the region a ghost town.

According to Goldman Sachs Group, replacing Japan’s proposed 108 GW of nuclear plants will provide opportunity for alternative energy sources (such as solar) that could equate to over US $150 billion

(based on $1.40/watt for a large utility solar installation) over the next 20 years with roughly 72 GW (US $100 billion) needed in the next nine years.

Germany, Italy, China and the United States are also rethinking their reliance on nuclear energy, which can and should propel the global solar industry to another record year that will exceed all expectations.

Japan’s disaster has shown us how vulnerable we are to the existing infrastructure. Prices of used power generators and storage batteries have risen to 1.5 to 3 times their pre-quake levels. Power shortage have affected component parts for electronic equipment including

aluminum electrolytic capacitors used for PV inverter applications.

PV module supplier rankings IMS Research released their 2010 PV module supplier rankings. The new rankings are:

1. Suntech2. First Solar

3. Sharp4. Yingli5. Trina Solar6. Canadian Solar7. Kyocera8. SunPower9. Hanwha SolarOne (formerly

Solarfun)10. Solarworld

Process equipment forecastsSolarbuzz research tallied solar equipment spending at US $3.7 billion in 1Q11 and believes that full year revenue will increase 41% y/y to $15.2 billion in 2011. Unanticipated equipment replacement and capacity expansions as a result of Japan’s earthquake damage and enhanced awareness of nuclear radiation risk may bump up demand substantially.

California passes stiffer renewable energy mandateCalifornia further solidified its position

Global "Purchasing Managers" Index

JPMorgan

1 3 5 7 9111 3 5 7 9111 3 5 7 9111 3 5 7 9111 3 5 7 9111 3 5 7 9111 3 5 7 9111 3 5 7 9111 303 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11

32

34

36

38

40

42

44

46

48

50

52

54

56

58

60DIFFUSION INDEX

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

EXPANSIONCONTRACTION

20110401

Global Solar PV Installations 2011F (MWp)

August 2010

Germany

Italy

FranceSpain

Czech RepBelgium

Rest of EuropeUSA Canada

ChinaS Korea

Japan

AustraliaIndia

ROW

6500

3000

500300250250315

1800 650600

2501200

200300585

20110220

Data Source: Needham 1/11

Electronic Equipment vs Photovoltaic RevenuesQuarterly Global Growth

1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 407 08 09 10

0.0

20.0

40.0

60.0

80.0

100.0

120.0

-20.0

-40.0

% $ Growth vs same quarter in prior year

Elec Equip Photovoltaic

Elec Equip 9.9 11.7 13.8 14.5 12.5 11.3 6.1 -7.5 -12.4 -12.5 -8.1 6.9 14.3 12.4 13.1 11.3Photovoltaic 48.5 47.7 81.7 61.6 67.7 98.5 55.8 10.1 -24.8 -35.7 -20.3 35.7 70.0 89.0 66.8 41.9

20100313

Custer Consulting Group 2/11

2011027

Japan "Purchasing Managers" Index

Nomura/JMMA

1 4 7 10 1 4 7 10 1 4 7 10 1 4 7 10 1 4 7 10 1 4 7 10 1 4 7 10 1 4 7 10 1 4 7 10 1 402 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11

28

30

32

34

36

38

40

42

44

46

48

50

52

54

56

58DIFFUSION INDEX

EXPANSIONCONTRACTION

20110401

Nomura/JMMA

Chart 3. Chart 4.

Chart 5. Chart 6.


Changing the game of silicon efficiency

as an alternative energy leader with the implementation of the California Renewable Energy Mandate SBX1-2, which requires that 33% of the state’s energy come from renewable sources by 2020.

biPVBIPV market is expected to grow from $744 million in 2010 to nearly $4 billion in 2016.—Pike Research

Cells modules panelsGlobal solar photovoltaic cell output increased 118% in 2010 to 27.2 GW, with a global production capacity of 36.6 GW at the end of 2010.—PHOTON International3Sun Srl received €49.06 million aid from European Commission for photovoltaic modules plant in Catania, Italy.Aleo Solar delivered more than 9,000 S_18 modules for 2 MW solar power plant in Theben, Greece.Alta Devices raised $72 million from a group of strategic and venture investors.ANTARIS SOLAR received British Microgeneration certificate for its PV modules.Arise Tech PV cell shipments rose nearly four-fold to 58.3 MW in 2010.Asola Advanced and Automotive Solar Systems celebrated 10th anniversary.ATERSA extended the warranty on its photovoltaic modules from three to 10 years.Centrosolar is expanding its manufacturing operations in Wismar to 350 MWp in 3Q11.centrotherm Photovoltaics set up a subsidiary in Bangalore.CFV Solar Test Laboratory opened a solar testing laboratory in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Evergreen Solar installed fourteen iCamFollowers manufactured by Intech in each of its >400 furnaces.GlobalWatt and Jiangsu PreferSolar Photovoltaic formed strategic technology partnership for manufacturing high efficiency panels in Saginaw.JinkoSolar • joined PV CYCLE to promote cleaner

energy through PV module recycling. • received 6 MW module supply con-

tract from Lumos Solar.KYOCERA • donated 100 million yen (US$1.22 mil-

lion) for Japan earthquake & tsunami relief efforts.

• supplied 1.4-MW solar modules for U.S. Marine Corps’ PV installation at Camp Pendleton, San Diego, Calif.

• is building 360 MW solar panel plant in Kadan, Bohemia.

LDK Solar added 570 MW cell manufacturing facility in Hefei City, China.Mitsubishi Chemical plans to commercialize solar cells that can be printed on auto bodies and building exteriors in summer 2012.Motech signed a seven-year poly-Si supply contract with OCI.Neo Solar is expanding capacity to 1.8 GW by end of 2011.Q-Cells Malaysia named Franz Vollmann managing director.QSolar • was listed on CNSX.• set to achieve grid parity by break-

ing the $1/W barrier using its fully automatic integrated Crucible Cell Spraytek79 manufacturing processes.

REIL is investing Rs 15 crore to set up automatic 12 MW solar photovoltaic module manufacturing plant at Jaipur.Sanyo • introduced new HIT photovoltaic

module in U.S. market. • opened 150 MW PV module produc-

tion facility in Dorog City, Hungary.SCHOTT Solar CEO Martin Heming was elected director of EPIA.Senersun appointed Walter Van Loon global sales director.Sharp began mass production of high conversion efficiency single crystalline solar cells in Green Front Sakai, Japan.SilexSolar will increase production by 300% in Sydney Olympic Park this year.Solartech, SAS formed strategic alliance through stock-swap mutual investment.SolarWorld • began producing 230- and 240-watt

polycrystalline solar panels in Oregon and California.

• had top score of 91 in Solar Scorecard, which measures extraction of the raw materials, toxic chemical use in pro-duction, worker safety issues, product disposal and recycling.—Silicon Valley Toxics Coalition

SOLON appointed David Goldman VP of Project finance and strategic planning and Jay Meridew VP of finance.Suntech named David King CFO.Tecnometal Equipamentos added Spire 20 MW solar PV module line in San Paulo, Brazil.Yingli Green Energy • began construction on RMB 10-bln/1

GW solar park in Tianjin, China.• plans to add three more GW of PV

modules within five years.Zytech Solar opened Italian headquarters in Milan, Italy.

eMS & assemblyJabil received 400 MW solar panel assembly contract from JA Solar.Soltility set up solar panel assembly

15-30,000 lives

$300 billion property damage

Power outages

ShortagesBT ResinGlass fabricMCUs (automotive)Blank silicon wafersLi Ion battery polymer

Spot Oil Prices - US$ & Euros

Spot Oil Prices - US$ & EurosW Texas Intermediate Crude

http://research.stlouisfed.org/fred2/data/OILPRICE.txt

1 7 1 7 1 7 1 7 1 7 1 7 1 7 1 7 1 7 1 7 1 7 1 7 1 7 1 7 1 7 1 7 1 7 1 7 1 7 1 7 1 7 1 7 189 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11

CALENDAR YEAR

0102030405060708090

100110120130140150

Price/Barrel

US$Euros

20110409

W Texas Intermediate Crude

US $ price driven by:- Exchange rates- Demand (economic activity)- Supply (shortages & political unrest in supply countries)- Policy

Chart 7. Chart 8.


Advanced wire sawing technology for solar photovoltaic cells

operations in Spring Hill, Tennessee.

finance & venture capitalChina’s clean energy investments jumped 39% in 2010 to $54.4 billion.Cleantech venture funding increased 13% y/y to $2.57 bln in 1Q11; solar capital was $641 million.—Cleantech Group LLCGlobal clean energy investment grew 30% y/y to record $243 billion in 2010; solar investments increased 53% to record $79 billion and more than 17 GW of new generating capacity.—The Pew Charitable Trusts.

fiT & policyFrench government changed under 100 kW photovoltaic project tariffs to 12 EUR cts/kWh.Japan increased non-residential solar PV FiT rates to USD 0.48/kWh.Spain suspended FiT subsidies for 350 installations for providing fraudulent electricity production figures.UK cut 71% tariffs for large photovoltaic farms.

integrationSolar project costs are expected to drop from $3.02/ watt in 2011 to $1.45/ watt in 2020.—BNEFACCIONA Energy North America appointed Daniel Foley CEO.Areva is building a 150-MW concentrated photovoltaic array near Fresno, California.AWS Truepower merged with Meteosim Truewind of Spain.Belectric Solarkraftwerke is installing a 2 MW photovoltaic plant at Saudi Arabian Oil office complex in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia.Big Solar installed more than 4 MW of

SolarEdge power harvesting systems in Greece.BlueChip Energy developed 40 MW solar farm in Lake County, Florida.BrightSource raised $125M for solar projects.Canadian Solar and SkyPower are building 10.5 MW solar energy park in Thunder Bay, Ontario.DEGERenergie received order from Construção e Manutenção Electromecânica to equip a 3.5 MW solar farm in Spain with TOPtraker 8.5 single-axis photovoltaic tracking systems.Electrotherm formed JV with Immodo Solar for solar farms and other grid and non-grid applications.Enel acquired 80% stake in 4.8 MW Agatos

Green Power San Gillio photovoltaic plant.Energy Holding invested 50 million euros to construct 15 MW solar plant near Devnya, Bulgaria.Essex Powerlines received EDA Environmental Excellence Award from Electricity Distributors Association for 500 MWh rooftop solar photovoltaic system in Tecumseh Arena, Canada.Fluor is building 20 MW Arizona solar power plant for SunPower.Fotowatio Renewable Ventures contracted with NV Energy for 25-year, 37.5 MW power purchase agreement for ‘Spectrum Solar’ power plant in Clark County, Nevada.Gehrlicher Solar • started new subsidiary in Birmingham,

Copper

1 4 7 10 1 4 7 10 1 4 7 10 1 4 7 10 1 4 7 10 1 4 7 10 1 4 7 10 1 4 7 10 1 4 7 10 1 4 7 10 1 4 7 10 1 400 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11

$0.50

$1.00

$1.50

$2.00

$2.50

$3.00

$3.50

$4.00

$4.50

$5.00Tin

1 4 7 10 1 4 7 10 1 4 7 10 1 4 7 10 1 4 7 10 1 4 7 10 1 4 7 10 1 4 7 10 1 4 7 10 1 4 7 10 1 4 7 10 1 400 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11

$0.00$1.00$2.00$3.00$4.00$5.00$6.00$7.00$8.00$9.00

$10.00$11.00$12.00$13.00$14.00$15.00

Price US$/pound (monthly close)

Silver

121 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 91011121 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 91011121 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 91011121 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 91011121 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 91011121 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 91011121 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 91011121 2 3 4 503 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11

$4$6$8

$10$12$14$16$18$20$22$24$26$28$30$32$34$36$38$40$42

Price US$/troy ounce (monthly close) Gold

121 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 91011121 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 91011121 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 91011121 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 91011121 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 91011121 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 91011121 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 91011121 2 3 4 503 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11

$300

$400

$500

$600

$700

$800

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$1000

$1100

$1200

$1300

$1400

$1500Price US$/troy ounce (monthly close)

Chart 9.

ResultsIntense review:- nuclear power- JIT supply chain strategies

Global manufacturing delays due parts outages

Revenue shifts:Declines - Japan-based suppliers; global manufacturers dependent upon unique Japanese partsIncreases - replacement suppliers; process equipment to replace/supplement lost capacity

Expect pockets of severe disruptions but also rapid qualification of alternative parts & suppliers

Japan is resilient and focused on recovery but the challenges are large and persistent

2005011820110320 ResultsHuman tragedy & plant/property destruction

Extended Japanese power shortages & nuclear radiation issues

Supply disruptions:- material & parts outages of unique & scarce items- panic & double ordering- hoarding & inventory building- price increases- accelerated search & qualification for alternatives- shifts in materials, suppliers & production sites

Focus on alternative energy sources - solar, wind, etc

2005011820110320

Chart 10. Chart 11.


Maximizing energy harvest with micro inverters

England.• built 1.9 MW solar park in Baden-

Wuerttemberg’s Main-Tauber-Kreis.GEMCO received over 8 MW contract for Ontario microFIT installations.Innergex purchased 27 MW solar project in Ontario for C$11.1 million ($11.6 million) from Enfinity NV.ITS Power built 4.3 MWp photovoltaic park on greenhouses near Granada, Spain.JA Solar began building 3 GW PV plant in Hefei.Lakeland Electric is building a 5.5 MW solar photovoltaic farm at Lakeland Linder Regional airport in Florida.Lodi Unified School District installed 2 MW solar PV system spanning four sites.Nexamp acquired SolVera Energy.OPDE opened PV monitoring control center in Fustinana, Spain.Phoenix Solar is building 1.7 MW solar power plant for LHI Leasing in Haute-Loire, France.Positive Energy designed and built Capital Renewables’ 4.13 MW solar park in Argolida, Greece.Samsung unveiled 46-inch, 1920 x 1080 resolution LCD TV transparent solar-powered TV.Sandland Real Estate is developing 25 MW solar project in Gujarat, India.Seale Solar developed world’s first solar powered, rain harvesting, waste processing micro-franchise facility.Sempra Energy is building a 200 MW solar plant outside of Las Vegas.Sempra Generation dedicated 48 MW Copper Mountain Solar.Silfab and Espe formed Italian installation solar company, Espe Sunparc Srl. Solaire Generation commissioned 3.6 MW solar parking system in New Jersey.Solairedirect Energy is building 20 MW plant in Kutch, India.Solar Universe named Steven Yeffa, CFO.SolFocus Partners and Bechtel completed 1 MW CPV power plant for Nichols Farms in Hanford, Calif.SPG Solar and SunEdison completed 2 MW solar power system for Irvine, California, Unified School District.SunEdison completed 2.2 MW solar farm in Princess Anne, Maryland.SunPower • and Hawaiian Electric are building 5

MW solar farm in West Oahu. • awarded Fluor construction contract

for 20 MW Copper Crossing solar pho-tovoltaic power plant in Arizona.

Suntech Power developed 10 MW solar installation in Tibetan Plateau.Terra Firma Capital purchased Rete

Rinnovabile Srl for 641 million euros ($909.8 million).Tigo Energy named John Niedermaier CFO.Toshiba acquired 67% equity stake in Ansaldo Trasmissione & Distribuzione.U.S. Marine Corps installed 1.4 MW solar system at San Diego, Calif., landfill.Ubbink launched integrated energy roof with thermal and PV.UGI Energy Services completed 1 MW system in Ontelaunee Township, PA.Unirac and Wise Power Systems completed 1.1 MW solar installation in Vineland, New Jersey.University of Maryland Eastern Shore added 2.2 MW solar power generation system.Woodward acquired Integral Drive Systems.Wysips developed prototype of a smartphone thin film display that doubles as solar charger.Xcel Energy and SunPower completed 19 MW photovoltaic solar power plant in Alamosa County, Colorado, with additional 30 MW plant underway.

inverters & power suppliesGlobal PV inverter revenues fell 24% q/q and grew 30% y/y to $1.6 billion in Q4’10.—IMS ResearchEnecsys Micro Inverters named Allied Building its first North American distributor.Magna-Power Electronics broke ground on 29,000 SF expansion in Flemington, New Jersey.National Semiconductor introduced SolarMagic ICs for microinverter, power optimizer and charge controller systems.Power-One plans to expand Shenzhen, China, inverter manufacturing and design facility to 1 GW by the end of 2011.SolarBridge’s Pantheon™ microinverter received UL 1741 certification.Solectria Renewables expanded Lawrence, Mass, facility capacity to 800 MW.Sungrow Canada opened 25,000 SF/200 MW year North American headquarters.Teco Electric & Machinery is adding photovoltaic solar inverter production capacity, plans to have new products ready by end of 2011.Tigo Energy named John Niedermaier CFO.

Market & business conditionsAmerican Solar Energy Society named Shaun McGrath executive director.EPIA elected Dr Martin Heming director to the board.

German • PV Installations are expected to

increase 28% y/y to 9.5 GW in 2011 reaching a total of 28.9 GW installed capacity in 2011.—IDC

• solar industry installed 7.25 GW in 2010.—German Federal Network Agency

International Energy Agency Solar Heating and Cooling Program and major solar thermal industry associations agreed on common annual solar collector energy output calculation of kWh.Ontario solar photovoltaic market is expected to grow to 455 MW in 2011.—ClearSky AdvisorsGlobal PV installations grew 139% y/y to 18.2 GW in 2010.—SolarbuzzSEMI PV Group formed European crystalline solar cell technology and manufacturing group (CTM).U.S. solar market grew 67% y/y from $3.6 billion in 2009 to $6 billion in 2010.—SEIA and GTM ResearchU.S. Solar PV industry shipments grew 30% y/y to 1.3 peak GW in 2009.—EIA

Materials & componentsSolar cell silver usage is expected to grow at 15% CAGR from 64 million ounces in 2010 to 84.5 million ounces in 2019.—CPM Group3M • is building a photovoltaic solar materi-

als and renewable energy products fac-tory in Hefei High-tech Park, China.

• won $4.4 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy to speed up development and commercialization of thin film ultra barrier solar film.

Adhesives Research launched multiple bonding technologies for bus bar, solar cell junction box and encapsulation barrier applications in crystalline silicon and thin film photovoltaic modules.Ames Goldsmith factory in Glens Falls had a fire as a result of an industrial oven explosion.Bridgestone began manufacturing photovoltaic cell EVA adhesion film in Poland.Celanese raised ethylene vinyl acetate and emulsion prices.DfR Solutions’ Greg Caswell was nominated to Advisory Board of Vertically Integrated Center for Transformative Energy Research.Dow Corning selected GA Lindberg to distribute its silicon-based products for solar applications in Sweden and Denmark.DuPont Microcircuit Materials introduced series of front-side silver photovoltaic metallization pastes.


Maximizing energy harvest with micro inverters

Ferro opened photovoltaic R&D laboratory in Taipei City, Taiwan.GrafTech named Joel Hawthorne president of engineered solutions.LMH Industries leased space for new cable assembly manufacturing facility in Redmond, Oregon.New Energy Technologies redesigned its organic solar cells on glass to enhance power output of its SolarWindow technology.Nippon Kasei restarted production of solar cell sealant additive in Iwaki, Japan.Scientex, Mitsui Chemicals are jointly constructing a 10,000 ton/year solar EVA manufacturing plant in Malaysia.Solutia acquired Flexvue™ film components assets of Aimcore Technology for approximately $7 million.Isovoltaic flexible film types AAA 3554, APA 3552, TPA 3570 and FPA 3572 passed TÜV Rheinland test procedures.Xinyi Glass commenced trial production of second PV glass production line with daily melting capacity of 500 tons in Wuhu, China.

Process equipmentPV equipment • spending is expected to grow at a 10%

CAGR over next five years.—VLSI Research

• market is expected to grow from US$10 billion mark (US$10.4 billion) in 2010 to US$12.4 billion in 2011.—VLSI Research

Beneq-Glaston received EUR 14 million order for TFC2000™ line for manufacturing TCO coatings on glass for photovoltaics.Bruker introduced DektakXT 10th generation stylus profiler.Burkle supplied lamination line to Willard & Kelsey Solar Group with multi daylight laminator.Jinggong Technology received 649M yuan photovoltaic equipment order from Jiangsu GCL Silicon Material.KimCo Design & Manufacturing expanded into solar equipment assembly market.LPKF is adding 32,000 SF in Garbsen, Germany.MEI named Brian Pierce engineering manager for automated wet bench production.Natcore Technology sold an intelligent antireflective coating processing station to Hunan TLNZ Solar Technology of Xiangtan, China.Newport’s Oriel introduced Sol3A Class AAA solar simulators.Nordson ASYMTEK added simplified

Chinese website at http://www.nordsonasymtek.com/cn.Picosun launched production of fully automated high volume throughput batch reactors for crystalline silicon solar cell surface passivation.Rite Track hired Hideo Sasaki as Asian business development director.Schmid Technology Center in Dunningen received module production quality certification from TÜV Süd.Spire • is providing a 20 MW solar PV module

line to Tecnometal Equipamentos of San Paulo, Brazil.

• supplied 50 MW solar module assem-bly line for MAGE SOLAR’s North American headquarters in Dublin, Georgia.

• provided Spi-Sun Simulator™ 4600SLP to European Commission’s Joint Research Center in Ispra, Italy.

Silicon ingot waferGlobal PV polysilicon supplies will total 160,000-170,000 tons in 2011.—Digitimes ResearchJapan’s PV polysilicon wafer capacity totaled 1,360MWp in 2010, accounting for just 5% of global capacity.—Digitimes ResearchChina’s polysilicon production capacity was 30,000 tons in 2010; output reached 12,000 tons and demand was 31,500 tons.—China Research and Intelligence1366 Technologies created new process for making silicone wafers that could reduce the production cost of photovoltaic cells by up to 65 %.AU Optronics shuttered its solar-wafer production plant in Sendai after eastern Japan was rocked by a massive earthquake.Danen signed seven-year, US $161 million polycrystalline silicon supply agreement with OCI.Daqo began construction on Phase II (3,000 MT initial capacity) polysilicon facility in Shihezi, Xinjiang, China.First Philec Solar subsidiary First PV Ventures signed JV with Nexolon for construction of 400 MW solar wafer-slicing facility in Batangas, Philippines.II-VI Incorporated is expanding capacity at both 20,000-SF locations in Starkville, Mississippi.LDK Solar • acquired 70% interest in SPI for

approximately $33 million. • named Goran Bye president and CEO

of Polysilicon Business Unit and Dr. Jiazhen Zheng senior vice president of integration.

• is expanding its wafer capacity to 4 GW

in 2011.Motech, Green Energy and Taiwan Polysilicon formed silicon ingot JV.OCI received 216 million polysilicon order from Comtec Solar.Powertec plans to start poly-Si production in January 2013.Sino-American acquired 10% stakes in Solar Energy while offering 5% of its stocks to Solar Energy.Wacker • began construction on 1.1 billion-euro

($1.6 billion) solar polysilicon plant in Tennessee.

• is expanding its hyperpure polysilicon production by 5,000 MT in Burghausen and 5,000 MT in Nünchritz, Germany.

Yingli Green Energy is constructing a 150 MW silicon plot plant in Hengshui Economic Development Zone, Israel.

Thin filmGlobal printed electronics market is expected to grow at 38.4% CAGR from $2.8 billion in 2008 to $24.25 billion in 2015.—Electronics.caAscent Solar • CEO Farhad Moghadam stepped down

and was replaced by board member Ron Eller.

• named Sunload Mobile Solutions its European distributor.

Auria Solar & Mitsubishi are jointly building a 65.3 MW micromorph thin-film PV module production line in Taiwan.Eight19 Ltd appointed Simon Bransfield-Garth CEO.First Solar • appointed Mark Widmar CFO.• bought five-acre parcel near its

Perrysburg Township plant.• broke ground on four-line photovoltaic

module manufacturing near Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

• is building 250 MW thin film solar module factory in Mesa, Arizona.

• received $20 million subsidy from Maricopa County Board of Supervisors for creating jobs in Mesa, Arizona.

GE • plans to build 400 MW thin-film solar-

panel factory. • completed acquisition of PrimeStar

Solar.Globe Future added XsunX initial baseline production system and additional 30 MW CIGSolar production system.Heliatek installed two Dr. Schenk GmbH Solar roll-to-roll metrology systems in Dresden, Germany.Inventux received RoHS certificate for thin-film panels from TÜV Rheinland.Nanosolar accomplished 11.6% efficiency



Two recent initiatives making solar PV more user-friendly

Centrosolar has been in the news recently because of two innova-tive programs, the CentroLease

leasing program and the CentroData data monitoring system. Centrosolar Group AG is one of the leading publicly traded solar companies in Europe, with revenues of EUR 403M ($540M) in 2010 and over 1000 employees in 21 locations. Centrosolar has production facilities in Germany for its PV modules and components includ-ing solar glass. Centrosolar America, Inc., offers complete PV packaged kits—CentroPack®—along with branded PV modules, PV rooftop racking solutions and other balance-of system components like switchgear and inverters with full-scale distribution facilities in Arizona, California and New Jersey serving a national value-added integrator network for the residen-tial and commercial channels.

Firstly, the CentroLease Program, aimed at lowering financial barriers for homeowners.

Available first to installers in select states including Arizona, California and New Jersey, CentroLease is a leasing pro-gram designed to support the installation of Centrosolar’s proprietary, German-engineered ‘solar-in-a-box’ system—the CentroPack, which comes standard with best-in-class components, an industry-leading warranty, and a national service and logistics support network maintained by Centrosolar across the United States.

With solar representing a major invest-ment for most homeowners, leasing options have traditionally been available only through private financing or from install-ing firms that are product-agnostic. With the CentroLease program, homeowners now have an OEM leasing option backed by a leading global solar manufacturer.

The CentroLease program is a multi-year lease-financing product that includes:

• Online tools that generate a customized lease proposal for homeowners

• Straightforward application and convenience associated with point-

of-sale financing • Training and support for installers

during the sales process• Standard CentroPack product

platform including long-term monitoring solution

• On-time delivery to installers from Centrosolar’s nationwide distribu-tion network

Secondly, the CentroData system offering high precision real time energy monitor-ing.

Centrosolar’s CentroData is a hardware and software application that generates real-time reporting on PV system perfor-mance. Installed near the PV system power inverter unit, and connected to a wall inside or outside of the home in a NEMA 3R enclosure, the system continuously moni-tors the solar system’s performance, while sending real-time data wirelessly using Ethernet over power line. This has gener-

ally proved much more reliable than using consumers’ WiFi or other wireless tech-nologies but for remote locations a cellular system is also available. Previously able to send data only to an internet-connected device, CentroData has now been updated to a commercial grade energy meter and web-enabled portal that is designed to collect, store, and upload a wide range of energy data.

With a standard monitoring system, an accuracy of +-5% means that the system will monitor with result in measurements between 95% and 105% of actual produc-tion. The revenue grade CentroData energy meter will monitor a PV system with mea-surements between 99.5% and 100.5% of actual production. This enables solar installers and homeowners to monitor their solar system much more accurately than before, enabling them to measure return on their solar investment and energy sav-


CentroData generates real-time reporting on PV system performance.



ings in new ways. CentroData is also capable of monitoring and recording energy usage at the home or business. This means that a user can see not only how much their PV system is generat-ing, but also how much electricity they are consuming.

This is critical for accurate revenue projections, especially when multiple installations are being monitored.

With CentroView™, CentroData’s web-based portal program, homeown-ers can access their individual system solar performance data from the conve-nience of any computer, anywhere and at any time. By going to CentroView.net and using their login and password, they can view their data on-line in a computer-friendly dashboard screen format. Users can also create custom-ized charts that track data ranging from the system’s daily output of solar gen-erated electricity to the amount pro-duced monthly, seasonally or over a full year. The equivalent dollar amounts of energy savings provided by the system as well as a measurement of the less-ened impact on the environment made possible over the lifetime of the installa-tion can also be tracked.

This summer, CentroData will offer homeowners the opportunity to view their solar system’s performance at their fingertips with a newly created mobile device App for iPhone and Android that, with a push of a button, allows the user to track real-time how many watts of energy the system is generating, that day’s output and usage, the annual sav-ings realized, and much more.

The CentroData system automati-cally provides the output data needed to simplify the task of reporting the data required for solar renewable energy tax credits and project financers. The system generates real-time system diag-nostics, as well, and sends alerts when the PV array performance drops below a target performance threshold, whether caused by excessive debris, unplanned shade, or adverse weather conditions. Benchmarking of performance against other CentroSolar locations in the same area is another powerful diagnostic tool that can be employed.

So these systems can help finance your system, monitor its health and manage the revenue generated!


Tech focus: Future photovoltaic modules require innovatively designed junction boxes

Two important factors will be driving the future of PV module intercon-nections—assembly cost and con-

nection reliability. The automated fabrica-tion of PV modules improves efficiencies, product integrity and reduces production overhead. By using automated production lines, assembly time of a junction box to a PV panel can be reduced considerably. The introduction of new automated systems inevitably results in changed requirements in design of a mounting mechanism for an

electrical junction box.In a PV module, the quality of the inter-

connections is often the most critical point for the performance and lifetime of the module. Many of the potential problems only show up after several years. If lower quality is employed, defective electrical connections may lead to a fire in the junc-tion box. The Molex SolarSpec PV junction boxes are soldered to the PV panel ribbons, as in this case soldered connections are the safest and most reliable connection, rather

Keywords: Ceramic sheets

Tremendous market growth within the solar power industry, together with the soaring pressure to increase manufacturing efficiency and reduce the associated production costs, are forcing producers of photovoltaic modules to automate their fabrication processes. In addition, these photovol-taic (PV) modules have to survive twenty-five year customer warranties and maintain high standards of per-formance throughout their lifetime.

future photovoltaic modules require innovatively designed junction boxes

Tech focus


Tech focus: Future photovoltaic modules require innovatively designed junction boxes

than relying on clamped joints as they are still used in many manually assembled junction boxes.

Uli Schoettle, European industry mar-keting manager for the industrial market at Molex, introduces the SolarSpec junc-tion box with an innovatively designed mounting mechanism. To address the issues relevant to the solar industry, Molex can call on a variety of well-established in-house technologies and solutions that have already met the challenging requirements in many other industries, such as telecom and data systems, the automobile and com-mercial vehicle sector as well as in the fac-tory and process automation segment.

Molex has already developed a range of interconnection products designed specifi-cally for the solar industry. The SolarSpec range of solar-rated, UV-protected con-nectors and cordsets offers complete solutions for solar applications like solar panels, tracking systems and inverter con-nection systems.

Working closely with leading photo-voltaic module manufacturers, Molex has added a PV junction box to its SolarSpec range developed specifically to ease assem-bly and to limit risks associated with pro-cess variation. This SolarSpec junction box is designed for fully automated module production. The primary goal is to offer a product that is universal, reliable and able to address a wide diversity of customer requirements while still allowing any cus-tomer-specific requirements to be imple-mented.

To achieve these objectives, Molex designed a completely new board ter-mination system for the base part of the two-piece junction box. In the socket of

the junction box there are solder termi-nals, which make direct contact with the exposed conductors of the PV panel. This enables the part to be easily positioned to the PV module by a pick and place machine or industrial robot. The contact springs are then soldered to the conductor by means of an automated solder process. The Molex patented Solder Charge™ SMT technology is an additional integrated fea-ture that allows simplification of the solder operation. Manual interventions such as up-righting, isolating and pre-positioning of the panel-side conductor strips are no longer required.

Molex Solder Charge™ SMT technol-ogy is tailored to connectors with contacts being in-line and gives much better reli-ability when it comes to solder joints and mechanical resistivity. The solder charge entails a flat, riveted terminal onto which a solder mass is stamped to provide a dense envelope for adhesion to a PCB or a conductor as used in a PV panel. During the soldering operation, the solder charge will melt completely around the terminal to create a conical joint. At the same time, solder adheres within the riveted hole in the contact for added retention forces.

The cover of the Molex SolarSpec junc-tion box, which contains the bypass diodes connections, can simply be placed on top of the base that has already been installed on to the PV module. This operation can likewise be automated as part of the pro-duction sequence.

The cover and the socket of the SolarSpec junction box interlock via a clip mechanism positioned on the left and right-hand side of the unit. This assembly can be opened simply with a flat bladed

tool, such as a screwdriver. The clip mecha-nism also serves as a pre-centring aid so that the upper and lower sections can be easily brought together and securely interlocked during automatic placement. Furthermore, the asymmetrical polarised arrangement of the locking clips prevents the upper section from being incorrectly fitted.

An optimised component layout within the Molex SolarSpec junction box ensures a smooth and uninterrupted component feed during the pick and place process, and the compact overall design guarantees pre-cise positioning of the junction box on to the PV module. Another important factor in the design of the SolarSpec junction box is the optimisation of its external dimen-sions. Furthermore, reduced weight and a minimised component count also provides for an elegant and cost-effective solution and help to avoid the associated heat dissi-pation problems often encountered in less efficient assemblies.

The adhesion and sealing of the junc-tion box on to the PV module is conven-tionally achieved by using silicone, which must be applied prior to mounting. In order to simplify the automated assembly of the box to the PV panel, Molex can pre-assemble a double-sided adhesive tape so that only the protective foil needs to be removed prior to mounting. This elimi-nates the time consuming application of silicone and, above all, the time required for the silicone to cure.

The Molex junction box complies with DIN EN 50521 for PV connectors and VVDE 0126-5 for PV junction boxes. The product has been approved by TUEV and UL. The ingress protection is IP65.


Filling a vacuum in Welland, Ontario

In the empty Fantom vacuum cleaner plant in Welland, Ontario, OSM has big plans to fill the needs of solar PV cus-

tomers in Ontario and beyond. In this clean and renovated plant, they already have a 15 MW semi-automated line in place, with automated 15 MW and 20 MW lines on the way. The other vacuum? Demand is very strong as lack of local supply content is just starting.

Units being shipped are premium polycrystalline 60 cell modules with a guaranteed output of 230 W under the “Symphony” brand.

How has OSM been able to get up and running so quickly? We talked to Al Wiley, the project manager, an experienced man-ufacturing engineer who has been instru-mental in this process.

How did you manage to get up and run-ning before other new panel manufactur-ers in Ontario?

Our partnership with Symphony Energy in Korea is critical. They have provided the technology and are training our people for production and quality assurance—we have two shifts fully trained, and the train-ing team is here as we are about to bring on a third. In addition, OSM is privately held and the investors are Symphony and local angels, so Symphony is committed to our success.

Module makers have to buy imported assembly units and these must be brought up to Canada’s very strict electrical code. Now we have been down this learning curve it is easy and fast for us to bring in additional lines.

How do you guarantee the performance of your modules?

We start by buying high output polycrys-talline cells from NSP in Indonesia. We check them carefully, assemble them and test the modules and we have a comfortable margin over the rated 230 W.

Do you plan to go to 72 cell modules?

We’d rather produce 60 cell modules with higher output—250 W and above. With an increasing emphasis on roof mount driven

by the FIT differential in Ontario, keeping module size and weight down is critical. We plan to use the best available technology to increase output and we will be opening our R&D labs, headed by Dr. Taesung Kim, from Symphony Energy, who is relocating here. Dr Kim is a well-respected expert in the field, having worked with several types of cells and has 27 patents to his name.

How about the support resources in Welland?

We have two excellent facilities in Niagara College—which has a PV lab—and Brock University. They will be our partners in growth.

Concerns?

The barrier for entry for installers is very low. Currently a pickup truck and a ladder. PV installation is a skilled job, though with some challenges. Solar panels are live when sun is falling on them as you carry them up on to the roof for instance. Installers need to know this kind of information so they are safe. Another issue is connection stan-dards. If the unit is not properly connected at the meter then back-feeding to the line can occur with potentially fatal conse-

quences to linesman fixing a break. We’re working with Welland Hydro to ensure that safe connection standards are developed.

From the customer’s perspective how would you like OSP to be seen?

We already supply modules and partner with inverter makers to provide matched units. Our aim is to provide customers high output high reliability and yet cost-effec-tive systems going forward. This includes effective, efficient and matched balance of systems as well as strong links to research, education, and grid connection. We are already getting inquiries from the USA and Europe for our modules and plan to stay ahead of the curve as the business grows to supply Ontario’s needs and needs of cus-tomers in North America and beyond.

OSM has a compelling vision and a unique approach. Not content to use com-modity cells to build a vanilla product, they have set clear goals on the way to becoming a major module manufacturer.

filling a vacuum in welland, ontario


1st SEMA Technical Conference & Exhibition

SEMA (Solar Engineering & Manufacturing Association) is holding its 1st Annual Technical

Conference and Exhibition at the Wyndham Hotel in San Jose, California, May 24-26, 2011. The event promises to be a fantastic learning and networking oppor-tunity for hose involved in solar/PV manu-facturing.

The event kicks off on Tuesday, May 24th with a full day of SEMA educational training courses. May 25th and 26th are given over to the technical conference, which covers four tracks: module reliabil-ity, standards, reliability and manufactur-ing, and outlook/management. An exhibi-tion will be held alongside.

May 24—Training SessionsTraining Module I:Photovoltaic Manufacturing & Troubleshooting of Photovoltaic Manufacturing ProcessesThis is a full-day course on the photovol-taic manufacturing process, troubleshoot-ing, test, inspection and reliability. It is rec-ommended for both novice and advanced engineers, managers and other photovol-taic stakeholders. Topics include:

• Mono—Polycrystalline Cell Manufacturing

• Module manufacturing• Test & inspection• Module reliability Issues• Field failure mechanisms &

analysis• Supplier quality control

Instructor: Christine Bordonaro, PhD— Satcon Technology Corporation (Former Director of Applications Engineering & Product Development Engineering at Evergreen Solar)

Training Module IIPhotovoltaic Standards & SpecificationsThis is a full-day overview of techni-cal standards and specifications affecting photovoltaic products and installations. Photovoltaic performance, safety and reli-ability standards will be addressed as well as the role of organizations developing and implementing standards. This is rec-ommended for reliability, test, quality, and

manufacturing engineers, managers and industry stakeholders. The instructors have more than 50 years combined experience in technical standards development and weathering science. Topics include:

• Photovoltaic performance stan-dards

• Module/cell reliability & durability• Photovoltaic safety• Photovoltaic system reliability• Standards organizations, their

responsibilities and related deci-sion matrices

Instructors: Kurt Scott, Director of Renewable Energy Business Development (formerly Director of Research and Development, Instruments Group)—Atlas Material Testing Solutions, and Allen Zielnik, Senior Consultant, Weathering Science (for-merly Head of Polymer Evaluation Products Division)—Atlas Material Testing Solutions

May 25& 26—Technical ConferenceThe technical conference will provide a review of the reliability issues associated with PV modules as well as programs to address the long-term reliability implica-tions with a discussion on understanding and determining the reliability of PV mod-ules over their 25-year lifetime.

The standards session of the confer-ence will discuss existing and emerging standards and review gaps in standards and the challenges and development of international quality standards. Inverter and microinverter reliability issues will be presented during an analysis of PV module failure. Module and inverter manufactur-ing issues will also be presented. The out-look for the global solar industry will be discussed with a review of Americas and global solar policy. Finally a review of haz-ards for modules will be presented and reviewed including fire, warranty, theft and traceability. In addition to the training courses and technical conferences, there will be an exhibition from various compa-nies in the solar industry giving informa-tion on their products and services. More details of the conference are below together with registration details for the training

courses, technical conferences and exhibi-tions/exhibitors.

Wednesday May 25thSEMA Technical Conference (Reliability and Standards Tracks and Exhibition)

M1: Module Reliability track (AM):• Review of SEMA reliability report find-

ings on top level reliability issues for PV modules

• Review of specific module reliability programs in industry to address the PV module reliability concerns

S1: Standards track (PM):• Standards overview: Where are we

today and what will be the emerging solar standards

• Panel/ Forum Sessions: Challenges and Development of International Quality Control standards for solar including discussion of gaps in standards and next steps

Thursday May 26thSEMA Technical Conference(Reliability, Manufacturing, Global Outlook/Management Tracks and Exhibition)

RM1: Reliability and Manufacturing track(AM):• Inverter and Micro-inverter reliabil-

ity and PV Module Failure Analysis: Including general outlook on Inverters/Micro-inverters and potential future trends.

• Module manufacturing and gen-eral manufacturing issues: Including Inverter manufacturing

OMS1: Outlook, Management Track (PM)• Global Solar Outlook/ Management

Track: Including Global Government and Americas state policy on solar.

• General Module Hazardous issues (Electrical, Fire Hazards): Including warranty, repair and traceability issues for PV modules.

Register online at www.solar-ema.org/2011-conference.html.

1st SeMa Technical Conference & exhibition


Lamination—no problem for Bürkle!

It is always fascinating to see technology crossovers. It’s surprising how often another industry has solved the prob-

lems facing your industry. Here we have a classic case of a company founded on wood lamination applying its technology to solar modules

Bürkle North America, Inc., is a sub-sidiary company of Robert Bürkle GmbH, having its headquarters in Garden Grove, California. Bürkle is focused on two core technologies, coating and lamination, and serves the woodworking industry, the printed wiring board fabrication industry, the photovoltaic solar panel industry, and the plastic card fabrication industry. Bürkle is the pioneer in supplying multi-opening lamination lines into the PV Industry. More than 35 multi-opening lamination lines for the lamination of solar modules have been supplied since the market entry in 2008. Bürkle is a 90-year-old company with three manufacturing facilities in Germany and sales and service offices around the world. The group has a staff of 720 employees.

I talked to Dick Crowe, president and CEO of Bürkle North America, (who had interviewed me at APEX). I was fascinated by the way this company had carved out a really interesting niche in the market.

How did this business evolve?

Starting with wood lamination 91 years ago, we devised large-area, high-precision laminating processes that were later used in circuit board manufacture, credit card lamination and solar modules.

What is your technical emphasis?

Precise materials handling and thermal uniformity across the heated platen using oil heating.

How did you get into solar PV?

About 10 years ago we looked at the market, and at that time it was too small and not well enough developed for us. We revisited with an extensive market survey and decided that the time was now right to introduce lamination products that would yield statistically significant yield and throughput improvements.

How do you achieve these improvements?

It’s critical to manage pressure and heat uniformity over time. Our vacuum presses using membranes give uniform pressure without cracking the solar modules.

What types of presses do you sell?

“Single Daylight” (easy-Lam®) and “Multi Daylight” (Ypsator®). The single units have a cycle time of 17-20 minutes. Our multi units with four to 10 openings can increase throughput in proportion with the number of parallel stacked platens—up to 240 panels per hour depending on size.

How can you reduce cycle time?

We have a split cycle process that can fur-ther increase throughput by reducing the cycle time to 8-10 minutes, a reduction of 50%. The first part of the cycle applies

vacuum, heat and pressure to start polymerization, and the polymeriza-tion is finished under pressure and heat with no vacuum. This can give an output of up to

144 panels per hour.

You mentioned materials handling as a strength?

We manage this within the laminators to minimize productive time. One load is ready to move as soon as the earlier load exits the process.

What’s next for Bürkle?

We are driven by the industry roadmaps and the development of local module manufacturing across the world. Silicon based systems will dominate (although we see significant developments from our thin film customers, especially CIGS), and so we feel we are well positioned for the next five years’ growth. We have shipped over 150 machines, and demand is strong. We have worldwide manufacturing and distri-bution, with, for example, six service engi-neers in North America.

We have other product lines we will bring on as needed, for example our easy-Coater® novel glass coating system using a combination of grooved and solid pres-sure rollers to give an extremely uniform coating on glass across the entire width, something which is not possible to achieve with other technologies, such as spray. This technology is adaptable to a wide range of glass coatings for imaging, adhesion, opti-cal modification, etc., for both thin film and crystalline silicon modules.

Bürkle shows nicely how a best-of breed supplier can develop a strong business in the growing solar PV market by bringing in the right products at the right time.

—Alan Rae

lamination—no problem for bürkle!

The multi-daylight Ypsator®

Single-daylight easy-Lam®


Tohoku earthquake amplifies need for low risk energy

Technological developments

Natcore begins production of intelligent AR coating processing stationNatcore Technology Inc. began work today work on the first production model of its intelligent LPD processing station for growing an antireflective (AR) coating on silicon wafers in the process of becoming solar cells.

By using its exclusive technology,

licensed from Rice University, Natcore believes its device will revolutionize the way solar cells are manufactured. At present, solar cell manufacture involves an expensive chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method that requires a high-temperature vacuum furnace; highly toxic and flammable silane and other dangerous chemicals; and silicon disks of sufficient thickness to withstand the high-temperature firing.

Conversely, Natcore’s is a liquid phase deposition (LPD), or wet chemistry, process. It grows the AR coating in a warm chemical bath; eradicates the need for silane; dramatically reduces energy requirements; and significantly lowers silicon usage. The resulting solar cells will be less expensive and less environmentally harmful than conventional solar cells.

Natcore is producing its device at MicroTech Systems, Inc., a 15,000 sq.


Fraunhofer ISE produces world’s largest screen-printed dye solar cell moduleThe dye solar cell module is still a young photovoltaic technology. However, in the last few years, this technology has started to extend beyond the laboratory level. The ultimate aim is the successful integration of these solar modules into the building façade. A large challenge in the development of new photovoltaic technologies is the transfer from the laboratory to the industrial level. As a step in this direction, researchers at Fraunhofer ISE have succeeded in producing the worldwide first dye solar cell module on a continuous substrate material with dimensions of 60 x 100 cm². An important hurdle has been overcome.

In an extensive series of laboratory tests, the researchers at Fraunhofer ISE succeeded in manufacturing prototypes of large-area dye solar modules on glass. “For the first time, we were able to show that an integrated series connection of cells

is possible on a module area of 60 x 100 cm² using screen printing t e c h n o l o g y ,” explains a delighted Dr. Andreas Hinsch. “This avoids a complex external connection of the submodules. With this prototype, we have achieved a decisive step towards cost-

effective up-scaling and paved the way for the transfer to the industrial level.”

At Fraunhofer ISE, dye solar cell modules are manufactured with meander design. The glass frit sealing, stable over the long-term, is also applied by a screen-printing process. Dye modules open up new design possibilities for buildingintegrated façades and other decorative applications. A short time ago, efficiencies of 7.1 percent, with respect to the active area, were reached at Fraunhofer ISE for dye solar cell modules of dimensions of 10 x 10 cm². The same manufacturing procedure was used for the small modules

and the up-scaled modules.Dye solar cells are photoelectrochemical

solar cells. The conversion process is similar to photosynthesis. In principal, they are simple to manufacture and present a prime example for the research behind and the realization of functionalizing nanomaterials. Dye solar cells are based

on a nanocrystalline carrier layer made of titanium dioxide TiO2 whose surface is chemically bonded with dye molecules. A small amount of gel electrolyte is used for the transport of the carriers.

The manufacture of the 60 x 100 cm² modules was carried out using industry-relevant procedures and machines. For applying the dye and the electrolyte, a customized, in-house development was necessary. Therefore, in cooperation with the Fraunhofer IAO in Stuttgart, Fraunhofer ISE developed a station for automatically filling and sealing the large area dye solar cell modules. With this apparatus, the further manufacture of modules for future demonstration projects is guaranteed, and a decisive step towards a pilot processing line has been accomplished. Fraunhofer ISE is now considering plans for a spin-off company so that first demonstration systems can be realized.

The on-going work on dye solar cell modules at Fraunhofer ISE is carried out within joint projects sponsored by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF), the European Commission and the Ministry of the Environment, Baden-Wu?rttemberg.

Fraunhofer ISE is the largest European solar energy research institute. For the past thirty years, Fraunhofer ISE has been working closely with industry to develop new technologies in the area of solar cells. In addition to its focus on silicon solar cells, comprehensive research is being carried out on dye and organic solar cells as well as multi-junction and concentrator III-V semiconductor solar cells.

fraunhofer iSe produces world’s largest screen-printed dye solar cell module



ft. facility located in Fremont, CA. The 25-year-old Silicon Valley company designs and manufactures wet stations for solar, LED, semiconductor, biomedical, data storage and other high technology applications. MicroTech’s intelligent process control will be integrated with Natcore’s LPD technology into a wet process platform.

Natcore’s intelligent LPD process station will be a totally enclosed system that contains a pre-clean subsystem for wafer cleaning before introduction of wafers into the LPD process; an LPD process subsystem incorporating Natcore’s latest sizing and process control input; and MicroTech’s latest drying module specifically designed for low metallic contamination, which is important for optimal solar performance.

But perhaps the major feature of the Natcore device will be its ability to monitor the coating process throughout. Specifically, it will use MicroTech’s spectrometer-based technology to accurately measure the thickness of the AR coating on a wafer while it is submerged in a chemical bath, and can alter the composition and duration of the bath in order to produce cells with greater simplicity and a high degree of precision.

Production will be conducted in two phases. The first phase, estimated to take approximately 8–10 weeks, will result in a manual development system, measuring about 8 ft. x 6 ft. x 6 ft., that will allow Natcore scientists to refine the coating process. At that point, Natcore scientists and MicroTech engineers will determine what changes need to be made and how much automation they want to add in the second and final phase. The final production system will measure about 20 ft. x 6 ft. x 8 ft. high. It will be a self-contained modular system capable of recycling its own effluents and of producing 3,000 AR-coated wafers/hour.

“This device will be adapted from existing, proven equipment already in wide use in industry, but will incorporate Natcore’s LPD technology in exciting new ways,” says Brien Lundin, Natcore’s chairman. “The testing that we will do on the initial equipment will have a goal of rapidly introducing our intelligent device into an existing solar cell fabrication line. Dependent upon the results of that testing, we hope to have a product ready for sale in the near future.”

“We’re building our first production model in the U.S., rather than at our China joint venture, for reasons of time, quality, and logistics,” says Chuck Provini,

Natcore’s president and CEO. “We want to set the standard for quality and reliability. By building it in California, we can keep a close eye on the machine’s development without the disruption created by a 12-hour time difference and the need to travel halfway around the world. And by choosing MicroTech, we are assured of the highest quality.”

“We have been impressed with Natcore’s vision of bringing cost effective Liquid Phase Deposition into solar cell manufacturing and are excited with the working relationship already established between the companies” says Tom Halloran, Microtech’s director of business development and program manager of Microtech.

“We believe that Natcore’ LPD technology truly provides a paradigm shift in driving the cost of solar manufacturing and we wanted to be an integral part of that solution. We feel privileged to have been chosen as the equipment development partner,” says Tom Vukosav, president and CEO of MicroTech Systems Inc.

Renewable energy hybrid mini-grids to become mainstream solution for rural electrificationA new study demonstrates the market potential of mini-grids fed by hybridized renewable energies, especially when compared to diesel-based solutions in developing countries. This study, financed by USAID and developed by the Alliance for Rural Electrification (ARE), is one of the most comprehensive to date on this energy solution.

Conclusions show that such mini-grids are a cost-effective, reliable and sustainable means of supplying power to rural communities, especially in populated isolated areas where grid extension is too costly. When compared with 100% diesel-based systems—currently the most used solution for mini-grids – it offers lower operating costs, making electricity production more affordable. This is good news for rural communities, but it also opens new market perspectives for the private sector.

“What this study proves is that rural electrification with hybrid renewables mini-grids is not a vague, unrealistic option,” says Simon Rolland, secretary general of ARE. “The sector has matured to a point where it can easily attract investors and become self-reliable.”

This study presents a detailed overview of the technology and cost analysis from a life-cycle perspective, but most

importantly, it provides a complete socio-economical outline of the main existing business models for hybrid mini-grid. All this is supported by practical case studies and leads to key recommendations on how to foster project sustainability and private sector participation.

One of the main recommendations is the need for strong social work and capacity building at every point of the project chain, in order to ensure the sustainability of the investment. Local stakeholder involvement from the project’s inception is also fundamental since mini-grids have a major impact on a community’s self-governance, education and economic development.

“Even the International Energy Agency foresees that mini-grid will be a mainstream solution in the fight against energy poverty,” says Rolland. “The introduction of renewable energy sources makes it even cheaper and more sustainable.”

New Energy achieves three-fold increase in ‘active area’ of SolarWindow™Researchers developing the New Energy Technologies’ proprietary SolarWindow™, capable of generating electricity on see-thru glass, have achieved a three-fold increase in the number of solar cells layered onto glass surfaces--a significant step towards maximizing power output.

The accomplishment is made possible when researchers spray see-thru and semi-transparent electricity-generating coatings onto glass surfaces, in order to first create a working SolarWindow™ prototype. Working with this small lab-scale prototype, researchers have achieved three times more cell occupancy (active area per square inch) over predecessor prototypes. This increase in active area results from a new design.

“Generally speaking, the greater the number of see-thru solar cells we can arrange into contact on a given surface area, the greater the power output we can expect,” explains Mr. John A. Conklin, president and CEO of New Energy Technologies, Inc.

“This three-fold increase in the number of solar cells on our SolarWindow™ translates into a greater active area, and directly supports our capacity to increase power output. This achievement marks yet another milestone in advancing our technology from prototype to commercial product, and follows several significant technical improvements announced in recent weeks and months.”

Recently, the company has achieved



important technical advances, including last month’s debut of New Energy’s largest-ever working SolarWindow™, measuring one-foot by one-foot square. Earlier this year, researchers developed special materials for use in SolarWindow™, which could lead to improved efficiency, lower production costs and enhanced future commercial manufacturability.

New Energy’s latest accomplishment increases the cell count and active area of SolarWindow™, both necessary to increased power output and the development of an aesthetically appealing see-through glass window capable of generating electricity.

There are nearly 5 million commercial buildings in America, according to the Energy Information Administration, and more than 80 million single detached homes. New Energy’s SolarWindow™ technology is under development for commercial application in such buildings.

Q-Cells achieves with 13.4% new efficiency world record for CIGS thin film solar module out of mass productionQ-Cells SE, one of the world’s leading photovoltaics companies, achieved a world efficiency record for mass-produced CIGS thin-film solar modules manufactured via monolithic integration. The Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (ISE) has confirmed an efficiency of 14.7 per cent (aperture area) for a Q-Cells Q.SMART UF solar module manufactured by Q-Cells’ 100 percent subsidiary Solibro GmbH.

The record efficiency, measured in February 2011 by the renowned Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems in Freiburg, Germany confirmed a power output of 100.3 Watt peak (Wp) under standard test conditions. The Q-Cells Q.SMART UF solar module, with an area of 0,75 m², reaches a total area efficiency of 13.4 per cent. Moreover, with an aperture area of 0,684 m², the module’s aperture area efficiency is 14.7 per cent. Q-Cells CIGS thin-film technology now holds the world record for monolithically integrated photovoltaic modules based on the record efficiency table compiled by Progress in Photovoltaics.

‘In June 2010, Q-Cells achieved the previous efficiency world record of 13 per cent with the same type of CIGS solar module out of series production’, noted Gerhard Rauter, COO of Q-Cells. ‘With this new record—13.4 per cent—Q-Cells proves one more time its technological leadership in the photovoltaic sector.’ Q-Cells’ CIGS thin film modules are currently taking part

in a number of reference installations and are exhibiting stable and

outstanding energy yields (KWh/KWp). Even after one year of operation Q.SMART systems in different European regions of irradiation show improved performances. The Q.SMART UF achieved currently among the top performers in a benchmark at the test field of ‘Desert Knowledge Australia Solar centre’, a peak performance under extreme climate conditions. So far the Q.SMART UF is the highest-performing solar module in this international comparison.

The Q.SMART UF is the unframed CIGS solar module from Q-Cells. It stands out for its performance and high quality. Due to its homogenous black surface it is a perfect fit on visual aesthetics and building integrated installations and suitable for private and small to medium-sized commercial and industrial rooftop and in-roof installations. The unframed modules stand out for their efficient self-cleaning, making them perfect for flat roofs and façade solutions.

Produced in the German city of Bitterfeld-Wolfen, Q.SMART UF exemplifies ‘Made in Germany’ quality. The solar modules are designed for good response to temperature and low light, ensuring high energy yields. This is supported by the positive sorting +5/-0 watts, allowing deviations only to higher than expected levels. Advantageous cell geometry makes the modules especially efficient in the event of partial shading or a less-than-optimal positioning of the roof. The module features durable glass encapsulation with a proven edge seal for long-term stability, ensuring protection and resistance to environmental influences. Q-Cells currently offer two CIGS thin film formats: Q.SMART (framed), Q.SMART UF (unframed) and Q.SMART UF L (unframed large). The latter format is 25% wider than the former two so as to reduce the associated BOS costs on large rooftop and free-field installations.

for nanosolar utility panel and 13.9% efficiency for printed CIGS solar cell.Q-Cells CIGS modules achieved 13.4% efficiency world record.Russia Hevel is building 130 MW solar thin film module plant in Russia.Solar Frontier achieved 17.2% aperture area efficiency on a 30x30cm CIS-based photovoltaic submodule.Solarsis entered a cadmium telluride thin-film PV solar module manufacturing JV with Abound Solar in Sri City, India.University of Luxemburg set new European efficiency record of 6.1% for kesterite-based solar cells.Wysips developed inexpensive, transparent 100 micron photovoltaic film. Jon Custer-Topai is vice president of Custer Consulting Group and responsible for the corporation’s market research and news analysis activities. Jon is a member of the IPC and active in the Technology Marketing Research Council. [email protected]

Japan needs solar systemsContinued from page 19


The fabrication of large ceramic sheet stock

In the 1960s, semiconductors were fabbed on one-inch wafers and any need for ceramic sheets was easily

met. In 2011, we are contemplating 450 mm (17.7 inch) diameter wafers, which are larger than the readily available ceramic sheet often used by the industry. Herein lies the reason for the fabrication of large ceramic sheet stock.

The fabrication rules used for pro-duction of small sheets of ceramic do not extrapolate out for producing large sheets. It is the general conclusion of most play-ers in the industry that what was done for the fabrication of small ceramic sheet stock can be used to produce large thin sheet ceramic. Such is not the case from our find-ings. While sintering temperatures can be similar, the firing techniques are very dif-ferent.

Let us first define what is generally available and what we call standard small sheet stock. Ceramic sheet material up to 4" (101.6 mm) square and up to .040” (1 mm) thick is available from 90% of the ceramic suppliers. In sizes up to 8" x 8" (314.9 x 314.9 mm) and thickness up to .040" (1 mm) it can be purchased from only about 10% of the ceramic suppliers. This size range represents the upper limit of what we call small and medium size ceramic sheet stock. The size beyond 8" x 8" up, we call large ceramic sheet. The thickness of the large sheet stock can range from .020" thick to .50” thick and that thickness is related to size. The current maximum available size is 22" x 17" x .040" to .50" thick, with larger sizes contemplated.

Why larger sheet sizes? The need for tooling, rigid fixtures and handling equip-ment to service the semiconductor and photovoltaic industry has fostered the need. In the semiconductor industry we must handle, hold and process wafers that are currently 300 mm (11.881") in diameter; soon there will be 450 mm (17.717") diam-eter wafers. In the photovoltaic industry, we must process large numbers of photovol-taic cells (125 mm to 156 mm square) with gang tooling to meet production demands. In addition, the machine industry that

produces the tools to fabricate these parts needs to produce ever more precise equip-ment to meet fabrication requirements. The above needs can be filled by utilizing large ceramic sheet materials to produce the tools and fixtures required.

The use of structural ceramics tech-niques in conjunction with large pieces of thin ceramic sheets allows the designer a freedom that cannot be achieved using any other technique to produce the part. Fabrication processes such as dry pressing, isostatic pressing or HIP injection molding and SLIP or JELL casting will not produce the size or quality needed to produce thin sheets. In simple terms, it is now possible to produce almost any shape that can be made in wood, plastic or metals using a ceramic sheet material in conjunction with struc-tural ceramics assembly techniques. In many cases, the cost of the part will be less than conventional methods and the quality and performance will be superior.

Keywords: Ceramic sheets

The need for tooling, rigid fixtures and handling equipment to service the semiconductor and photovol-taic industry has fostered the need for large sheet sizes. In the photovol-taic industry, we must process large numbers of photovoltaic cells (125 mm to 156 mm square) with gang tooling to meet production demands. Large ceramic sheet materials can be used to produce the tools and fixtures required.

Frank J. Ardezzone, FJA Industries, Inc., Santa Clara, California, USA

The fabrication of large ceramic sheet stock

Very large thin tooling for fabricating photovoltaic cells.


Case study: Leveraging market and technology positions

analyst buzz

French solar funding in free-fallAs recently as December 2010, François Fillon, the French Prime Minister announced the introduction of a photovoltaic moratorium whereby no further PV systems were to be approved of. This did not affect small PV systems up to 3 kW in size. This moratorium was followed by the February announcement of a strict limitation on yearly installed capacity to 500 MW. Today saw agreement on further reductions to solar funding.

The French Minister for the Environment, Nathalie Kosciuso-Morizet has announced that photovoltaic systems with a capacity of over 100 kW are now to receive a reduced remuneration of 12 €-Cent per kWh. The tariffs which come into effect today apply to all systems regardless of whether they are installed on a roof or open-space. Open-space systems are now faced with severe cutbacks to the tune of at least 57 percent compared to remuneration in September 2010. Roof-top systems are also to incur reductions of a staggering 70 percent.

Feed-in-Tariffs for small PV systems are, momentarily, to be reduced by 20 percent. Over the course of the year, quarterly declines of 10 percentage points will come into force. “This step will see the comparably high PV tariffs in France adjusted in line with those of neighbouring countries,” says Markus Monssen-Wackerbeck, head of energy & utilities at EuPD Research. “Such adjustments

are ambitious but nonetheless necessary for the long term remedy of PV price divergences in various national markets,” says Monssen-Wackerbeck.

As a result of the aforementioned changes in French solar funding, market pundits estimate that parts of solar projects currently in the planning phase may not yet be executed. According to the solar initiative, « Toche Pas à Mon Panneau Solaire » there were projects in the pipeline of 5.3 GW at the start of the halt in construction ordered by the Government in December. Some had already received building as well as net connection approval. Other sources believe that the figure for projects in the planning phase is over three GW.

“There are difficult times ahead for these projects” says Markus A.W. Hoehner, CEO of the Bonn-based Market Research and Consulting firm EuPD Research, “these systems were planned using a completely different calculation model and some of them will partly be recalculated.”

Nevertheless, market researchers at EuPD Research are not about to play the swan song for the French market “The industry should use this pressure to bring high systems prices in the country down to a competitive, European level,” adds Markus A.W. Hoehner. Figures from the current European PriceMonitor published by EuPD Research show that, on average, the costs for a French PV system under 10 kW are about 4,400 Euro and peak at 6,000

Euro. Systems between 10 and 100 kW come with a price tag of 3,860 Euro.

However, market experts at EuPD Research see a downward trend in installed capacity as likely. “The market will consolidate in the next months, yet France still has considerable untapped potential in the private roof-top sector. Manufacturers that respond to this increased price pressure and, by highlighting their first rate quality and strong brand name, position themselves in the right segment will survive these tough changes,” Monssen-Wackerbeck says.

PV book-to-bill in Q4’10 remains above parityIn Q4’10 (ending December 31, 2010), the PV book-to-bill posted a three-month average of 1.10, according to the PV book-to-bill analysis featured in the Solarbuzz® PV Equipment Quarterly report. Across the entire year, the 12-month average in 2010 reached 1.27 compared to 0.97 for 2009.

According to Finlay Colville, senior analyst at Solarbuzz, “The latest PV book-to-bill figures reflect the ongoing investments across both c-Si and thin-film segments, which are driving strong capacity expansions planned for 2011. Tier 1 c-Si manufacturers are expanding to reach vertically-integrated GW+ status on the back of still strong order books. Conversely, investments into a-Si/uc-Si

Analyst Buzz

The Strategy Analytics GaAs and Compound Semiconductor Technologies (GaAs) service report, “CPV Technology Market Status Update and Future Prospects,” which was presented at Solartech World 2011, March 16-17, in Gwangju, Korea, predicted that CPV installed capacity will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 174% through 2015.

Solar energy installations have continued to grow strongly, with Strategy Analytics estimating that new global installations reached 16.3 GW in 2010. Approaches utilizing crystalline silicon continue to be the primary technology,

followed by strong momentum behind a host of thin film technologies including cadmium telluride (CdTe) and copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS). Concentrated PV (CPV) technology remains behind these other technologies.

Concentrated photovoltaic (CPV) technology, used for the production of solar energy, faces a number of challenges, not least because of potential limitations in deployable locations. Most effective in areas with direct sunlight, Strategy Analytics believes that CPV technology has the potential for strong growth.

“While potentially offering 100%

improvement in efficiencies compared to other solar technologies, CPV is only really effective where there is high direct normal solar irradiation,” says Asif Anwar at Strategy Analytics. “While this has limited early deployment, the benefits of CPV will translate into rapid growth in these locations.”

“In 2010, some significant projects came into play in the southwestern United States, the Middle-East, Africa and Australia,” says Eric Higham Director, GaAs service. “CPV installations will grow at a CAGR of 174% to account for just over 4% of global solar installations in 2015.”

Concentrated photovoltaics growing strongly through 2015


Analyst Buzz

and CIGS thin-film technologies represent the continued push by new entrants to find low-cost alternatives to First Solar’s exclusive challenge to c-Si dominance in the market today.”

Working closely with the PV equipment supply-chain, the Solarbuzz PV book-to-bill analysis maps out quarterly spending profiles by all PV manufacturers with the relevant bookings and revenues assigned to the appropriate process tool manufacturers.

The book-to-bill ratio compares the total amount of orders received to the total amount of product shipped and billed within a given period. It is the ratio of demand to supply in the equipment supply chain. A PV Book-to-Bill ratio of 1.10 for Q4’10 means that US$110 of orders was received by PV equipment suppliers for every US$100 of product shipped.

The consolidated PV book-to-bill analysis yields an averaged figure based on industry-wide equipment investments across established and emerging technologies. However, tier 1 cell manufacturer trends can be a more appropriate leading indicator to assess the impact of production equipment used to meet end-market PV demand.

Colville says, “Tier 1 designated c-Si cell and thin-film panel producers satisfied 75% of PV demand during 2010. Equipment supply to this crucial midstream solar cell manufacturing segment highlights the portion of overall PV capacity expansion that is most likely to drive the level and timing of any panel oversupply during 2H’11.”

For the tier 1 segment, the PV Book-to-Bill ratio was higher at 1.39 during Q4’10, with a 12-month average of 1.26. Early indications are that this segment’s Book-

to-Bill ratio will dip below parity during Q2’11. This would represent the first sign of capacity expansion slowdown by leading PV producers and the beginning of a downturn in revenues on offer to leading PV equipment suppliers through 2H’11 and 1H’12.

PV Book-to-Bill Updated QuarterlyPhotovoltaic capital equipment spending trends can now be tracked clearly by the PV book-to-bill, featured within the Solarbuzz PV Equipment Quarterly report. Added in November 2010, this analysis provides key performance indicators that track quarterly changes in the order books of the global equipment supply chain. The trends across the various Book-to-Bill metrics capture the overall health of PV manufacturing and offer a means of forecasting the size and timing of announced capacity expansion phases. The PV Book-to-Bill figures are updated quarterly, and include data relating to the preceding three-month period. In addition to releasing consolidated updates each quarter, detailed findings will be featured within forthcoming editions of the Solarbuzz PV Equipment Quarterly report, with the next release due out April 2011. Analysis will also be provided on an ad-hoc basis in support of Solarbuzz PV equipment reporting throughout the year, to better understand key developments and trends impacting strongly on the PV equipment supply chain.

US solar energy industry experiences record-breaking growth in 2010The U.S. solar energy industry had a banner year in 2010 with the industry’s total market value growing 67 percent from $3.6 billion in 2009 to $6.0 billion in 2010, according

to the U.S. Solar Market Insight™: Year-in-Review 2010 released today by the Solar Energy Industries Association® (SEIA®) and GTM Research. Solar was a bright spot in the U.S. economy last year as the fastest growing energy sector, contrasting overall U.S. GDP growth of less than 3 percent.

In total, 878 megawatts (MW) of photovoltaic (PV) capacity and 78 MW of concentrating solar power (CSP) were installed in the U.S. in 2010, enough to power roughly 200,000 homes. In addition, more than 65,000 homes and businesses added solar water heating (SWH) or solar pool heating (SPH) systems.

The U.S. PV market made the most significant strides in 2010, more than doubling installation totals from 2009 according to the latest U.S. Solar Market Insight™ report. This expansion was driven by the Federal section 1603 Treasury program, completion of significant utility-scale projects, expansion of new state markets and declining technology costs.

The section 1603 Treasury program helped fourth-quarter installations surge to a record 359 MW and was critical in allowing the solar industry to employ more than 93,000 Americans in 2010. Originally set to expire at the end of 2010, the 1603 Treasury program was ultimately extended through 2011.

In addition, market diversification was a distinguishing characteristic of U.S. solar energy development in 2010. Sixteen states each installed more than 10 MW of PV in 2010, up from only four in 2007. The top 10 states for PV installation in 2010 were California, New Jersey, Nevada, Arizona, Colorado, Pennsylvania, New Mexico, Florida, North Carolina and Texas.

Cost declines were also an important factor in the 2010 solar expansion, as technology costs fell and the industry matured further, capitalizing on greater economies of scale and improved installation practices. In the residential and commercial-property segments, installed annual PV system cost declines of 8 percent and 11 percent respectively spurred record build-out.

“The U.S. PV market saw a breakthrough in 2010 and is emerging as a global demand center for both suppliers and project developers,” says Shayle Kann, managing director of Solar at GTM Research. “The U.S. Solar Market InsightTM: Year-in-Review 2010 examines the conditions that led to the past year’s growth and pinpoints future demand, industry trends and market challenges for 2011 and beyond.”

“This report shows that solar energy is

Consolidated PV book-to-bill at the end of Q4’10. Source: Solarbuzz PV Equipment Quarterly.


Analyst Buzz

now one of the fastest growing industries in the United States, creating new opportunities for both large and small businesses. Every day, Americans across the country are going to work at well-paying, stable jobs at solar companies, from small installers all the way up to Fortune 500 companies,” says Rhone Resch, SEIA president and CEO. “This remarkable growth puts the solar industry’s goal of powering 2 million homes annually by 2015 within reach. Achieving such amazing growth during the economic downturn shows that smart polices combined with American ingenuity adds up to a great return on investment for the public. The bottom line is that the solar energy industry is creating tens of thousands of new American jobs each year.”

Along with analysis of the U.S. PV market, U.S. Solar Market Insight™: Year-in-Review 2010 provides visibility into the CSP and solar heating and cooling markets. The 75 MW Martin CSP plant installed in Florida is the largest to come online in nearly 20 years and foreshadows a pipeline of more than 9 GW of CSP projects under development. In addition, for the first time in 2010, the federal government approved permits for CSP plants on public land.

Meanwhile, the solar heating and cooling markets grew in 2010. The top five states for solar water heating installations in 2010 were California, Hawaii, Arizona, Florida and Puerto Rico, while the top five for solar pool heating were Florida, California, Arizona, New York, and Illinois. Fluctuating natural gas and heating oil prices will determine the future of these markets.

Opportunities for smart coatings in the solar panel industryIn a just-published report, industry analyst firm NanoMarkets claims that smart coatings offer solar panel makers ways to increase efficiency, lower costs and create higher value-added products. Since these are the three main factors determining success in the photovoltaics (PV) industry, NanoMarkets believes that sales of smart coatings to the PV sector, which are negligible now, will reach $504 million in 2016, growing to $847 million in 2018.

Self-cleaning coatings deposited on PV panels promise both higher panel performance and lower maintenance costs. Self-cleaning glass is already available from major glass manufacturers, so no great leaps in technology are required to deploy it in the PV space. By 2016, self-cleaning smart coatings sold into the PV sector will

reach more than $150 million in revenues.Electrochromic and similar

on-demand tinting smart coatings will generate $222 million from sales to the PV sector in 2016. NanoMarkets believes that by then lucrative opportunities will have arrived in this sector through the melding of BIPV glass panels with electrochromic smart windows. NanoMarkets also foresees electrochromic PV windows that incorporate OLED technology, so that they can serve as lights after dark.

Thermochromic smart coatings are also expected to play a role in PV. These can be used to turn panels “off” under extreme heat conditions that could permanently damage them. Some PV technologies— notably CdTe PV—are sensitive to heat and permanent degradation is possible if the panels are operated at too high a temperature.

“Smart Coatings in Photovoltaics” examines the role of self-cleaning, self-healing, electrochromic and thermochromic coatings in the photovoltaics space over the next eight years. It includes an assessment of where the main opportunities will appear and when and includes a detailed eight-year forecast of smart coating usage in the PV space, broken out by volume and value. This report will be essential reading to marketing and business development executives at all coatings and materials firms selling into the PV space as well as product managers in the PV industry.

2010 record year for PV installations in USThe US photovoltaic industry has experienced significant growth during the past few years, despite difficulties in the housing and construction sectors. Many factors, which contributed to this growth includes a drastic module prices decline in 2009, sustained federal support from the Section 1603 Treasury Cash Grant in Lieu of Investment Tax Credit program, and increasing state-level targets for solar power. The country experienced a record year for PV installations in 2010, with cumulative grid-tied capacity estimated to reach 2.2 GW mark by installing around 700 MW in 2010.

Photovoltaic is the most dominant segment in terms of budget allocation for FY 2011. This segment is followed by concentrated solar power plants. The photovoltaic industry has been allocated above 50% of the solar energy budget owing to its economic viability and potentials for being a replacement of conventional

energy sources. During FY 2001-FY 2011, 48% of the government’s solar energy technology budget was allocated for near term projects (7 years) and Mid-term (3-7 years) projects both accounted for 26% of the budget allocation.

According to a new research report available from Reasearch and Markets, the US federal government continued its support and substantially increased solar energy technology budget. To propel the growth rate of PV installations in all sectors (utility, non residential, and residential), the states have formulated various incentives and grants. Presently, some of the states and the Federal government are moving away from simple rebate program and performance based incentives (PBI’s) to effective cost based incentives schemes.

At the state level, California sustained its top position in annual PV capacity installations during 2009, with 7% year-on-year growth. Besides, California, New Jersey, Florida, Arizona, and Colorado were some prominent states, where grid-connected PV systems installations were concentrated. Around 80% of the grid-connected installed capacity was located in these five states and around 92% in the top ten states.

The report, “US Photovoltaic Market Analysis,” focuses on the growing marketplace for the PV industry at the national and state level and analyzes the current market trends along with future growth prospects. It evaluates all prominent market segments including residential, utilities, and non-residential. The report provides statistics information, state level analysis, PV cost benefit trends, module wise cost forecasts, and utility scale solar facilities to help clients identify the factors critical for their successful market penetration.

German PV Market: Federal Network Agency reports figures for PV installed capacity 2010The Federal Network Agency published the Decemeber figures for newly installed PV capacity today. Although there was no end of year rally, figures for Decemeber still amounted to 1,073 MWp. A comparison of the figures for the whole year shows that Decemeber was in fact the second stongest month. Thus, newly installed capacity for PV in Germany amounts to 7.25 GWp. This is equivalent to a year-on-year growth of 91 percent and making 2010 another recordbreaking year for the German PV industry.

Bonn. Germany remains the most


Analyst Buzz

important PV market. Newly installed capacity totalled 7.25 GW and an impresseive 242,893 systems were installed in 2010 reaffirming Germany as the key sales market worldwide. “These figures are not a surprise,” comments Markus A. W. Hoehner, CEO of the Bonn-based market research and consulting firm EuPD Research. “Newly installed capacity is for the most part in line with our forecast,” confirms Hoehner. The Bonn market researche institute revised its forecast in June from 5.5 GW to 7.2 GW.

Installed capacity according to system size: Small systems stabile, large system segment growsSystems between 10 and 30 kWp made up 26 percent of newly installed capacity making them the greatest contributor to growth in 2010. Particlular dynamic was observed in the mid to large system segment between 100 and 500 kWp. This segment has, in comparison to the previous year enjoyed growth of an impressive 174 percent.

Regional installed capacity: Bavaria remains number one nationwideBavaria once again spearheaded growth in 2010 with an installed capactity of 2,379 MWP (+33 percent) clearly placing them ahead of all other states. The state of Baden-Wuerttemberg came in second and North Rhine-Westphalia third.

Outlook for 2011: Germany will continue to enjoy growth although more moderate“The facts speak for continued growth in the German market,” says Markus Lohr, analyst at EuPD Research. „Growth in most regions is, compared to that of previous years, overproportional. “Only some regions are showing symptoms of saturation,“ comments Lohr. Although business was slow at the start of the year, the market is set to clearly pull forward in the coming months, as soon as prices have stabilized. Futhermore, the market researchers estimate that development in the German market is likely to be somewhat dependent on the poltical decisions pending in Italy. An additional effect is expected to stem from mid-year degression. As a peak in installed capacity expected in June will not be included in the calucaltions for the half-year degression, it is not to be assumed that this half-year degression will thwart the market significantly. Thus, EuPD Research anticaptes further but more moderate growth in the German market for the year 2011.

Europe continues to dominate solar market in 2011Despite brewing trouble for the solar industry in the region, Europe in 2011 will continue to account for the lion’s share of photovoltaic (PV) installations in the world, claiming 68.6 percent of the global total, according to the latest IHS iSuppli research.

Comprising nine of the world’s 15 major solar markets, European PV installations this year will amount to 14.3 gigawatts (GW), more than two-thirds of the global level of about 20.9 GW. Europe will be home to the world’s two largest solar markets—Germany, with an estimated 7.1 GW; and Italy, with 4.1 GW—as well as seven other important PV territories including, in descending order, France, Belgium, the United Kingdom, the Czech Republic, Spain, Greece and Bulgaria.

In comparison, the United States—the third largest solar market worldwide—is projected to see 2.1 GW of PV installations in 2011, IHS iSuppli research indicates.

Notwithstanding Europe’s majority hold on global solar installations, its 68.6 share of market in 2011 will be a step down from 80.0 percent last year, when European installations reached 13.8 GW. Growth for the region also will decelerate this year, declining to 4.3 percent, down from a notable 146 percent expansion in 2010. In particular, bad news and uncertainty from specific European markets will serve to dampen overall PV prospects in 2011 for the continent.

The good news vs. the badWhile Europe is continuing its dominance, the region faces challenges in one of its key countries: Italy.

“Italy had been expected to be the star performer of the European market in 2011,” said Henning Wicht, senior director and principal analyst for PV systems at IHS. “However, on March 3, the Italian government changed its solar policies, implementing changes in its tariffs that make the PV market in the country less attractive to investors starting in June. While the Italian government is expected to fundamentally continue to support PV, installations in the country will decelerate in 2011 compared to earlier expectations—although they won’t stall.”

Installations in Italy in 2011 will amount to 4.1 GW, up 14.6 percent from 3.6GW in 2010.

Compared to Italy, the PV market situation is weak in Germany. Investors are still hesitating and awaiting lower system

prices. System prices must reach 2.0 to 2.2 euros per watt to spur installations of large systems.

Slow demand in Germany already caused inventory at wholesalers to increase, a phenomenon that is now slowing down orders.

Although Germany is currently at the forefront of the global PV trade, the market here is expected to peak before four years are out, Wicht added. By 2015, German solar installations will stand at 5 GW, less than the country’s 2010 level.

In addition to the uncertainty facing the German PV sector, measures are under way to reduce the business proposition for solar investors in Spain, France and the Czech Republic, IHS iSuppli analysis shows.

In the case of Spain, the government is set to reduce the funding of existing solar power parks by approximately 30 percent. In early March, France implemented a new scheme supporting new installations of 500 megawatts (MW) per year. In addition, earlier accorded projects will be built. Estimates for France call for 1.3 GW to be installed in 2011. And in the Czech Republic, where state support for ground-mounted plants will end in March, PV installations for the year will contract severely, falling to 350 MW from 1.3 GW in 2010.

Looking ahead, the highest-growth PV markets in Europe will be Belgium, Bulgaria, Spain and the United Kingdom. By 2015, however, the United States will become the world’s single largest solar market, overtaking Germany, which will drop to second place after years of being at the pinnacle.

Learn more about the latest developments in the PV industry with the IHS report entitled: PV Installations, Systems, and Inverters: What is Ahead for 2011?

Reductions in O&M costs offer a large scope for CSP cost reductions The capital cost of parabolic trough plants is one of the most restrictive characteristics of parabolic trough technology, accounting for 40-45% of the total lifetime cost. This is one of the findings of the new report “Concentrated Solar Power Parabolic Trough: Cost & Performance” by CSP Today.

It is therefore essential to identify the main cost drivers and to identify how these could be reduced in order to make Parabolic Trough technology more



Solar power goes to school in Irvine CA!

PV Duo offers power and functionality of two micro-inverters in one packageThe new 360-watt Enecsys Duo micro-inverter from Enecsys Limited is designed to reduce system costs while supporting fully independent power point tracking of two connected PV modules. The DC power generated by the two modules is converted into a single, grid-compliant AC output.

By reducing the number of micro-inverters needed for each system, the Enecsys Duo simplifies system layout and planning and reduces installation costs and time. Systems using this new micro-inverter will have comparable capital costs to those using string inverters but are expected to deliver as much as 5 to 20 percent more energy, with the degree of improvement dependent on installation configuration and operating environment.

All Enecsys micro-inverters are designed for both North American (60 Hz) and European (50 Hz) electricity grid sys-tems. The relevant agency approvals for the Enecsys Duo micro-inverter are expected during March 2011, at which time the products will be available in Europe. www.enecsys.com

MACtac launches SOLARFAST UV cure adhesive systemWith continued investments and advance-ments in alternative energy sources, specif-ically solar energy, equipment manufactur-ers are looking for new assembly solutions that meet the efficiency and durability requirements of the final component’s end application. MACtac® Specialty Products has enhanced its line of solutions for solar cell assembly with the launch of its SOLARFAST™ UV cure adhesive system.

Designed for concentrating and flexible solar applications, the new SOLARFAST UV Cure Adhesive System high-strength solar bonding tapes (SF-1003 and SF-1005) are designed to withstand a range of envi-ronmental conditions where a high-tem-perature, high-strength bond is required.

MACtac’s SOLARFAST UV Cure Adhesive System includes SF-1003, a 75µ free film adhesive, and SF-1005, a 125µ free film adhesive. Both are protected by a two sided, 80# release coated, brown kraft liner. The free film adhesive initially bonds simi-lar to a typical pressure-sensitive adhesive, but the final bond is initiated through UV light. Once cured, the adhesive has extreme

heat resistance, low creep and excel-lent peel. www.mactac-europe.com

New SolarMagic ICs for microinverter, power optimizer and charge controller systemsNational Semiconductor Corp. introduced ten new SolarMagic™ integrated circuits (ICs), the first in a series developed to reduce cost, improve reliability and simplify design of photo-voltaic (PV) systems. Ranging from the industry’s first full-bridge gate driver to a micropower voltage regulator, the new ICs are well-suited for a variety of photovoltaic electronic applications, including those found in microinverters, power optimizers, charge controllers and panel safety systems.

The new SolarMagic ICs are the first developed to meet photovoltaic renew-able energy-grade qualification require-ments. Each IC is engineered specifically for demanding rooftop environments that range from extreme cold to severe heat, and each passes rigorous testing with enhanced reliability specific to solar requirements. In addition, the ICs ensure long-term opera-tion, developed to meet and exceed the 25-year life expectancy of photovoltaic modules. www.solarmagic.com

Vincotech introduces power module solution for three-phase solar invertersVincotech released a new low-inductive power module designed for power appli-cations up to 250 kW, such as three-phase solar inverters. The new 3xflowMNPC 4 w features a higher power rating in the new wide-body housing. Its Mixed voltage Neutral Point Clamped (MNPC) topology provides maximum efficiency for higher switching frequencies.

This remarkably efficient power module integrates all three phases of the MNPC inverter topology into a new low-inductive package with a high-power screw interface. The MNPC topology cuts output filter effort and filter losses by more than 50 percent, and switching losses by 50 percent.

Rated for 1200 V/600 A, the module is destined for solar and UPS applications. Its low-inductive design and onboard DC capacitors extend maximum PWM fre-quencies up to 20kHz, which is unique in this power range. www.vincotech.com

EMC filters for PV inverters up to 1500 ampsPREMO launches a new EMC filter for PV installations, FEDC series, which allows EMC standards compliancy for entire PV system, prevents pre-mature panel aging and reduces installation volume.

Installed between the PV inverter and the solar panel, DC filters helps to meet EMC directives in grip-connected installa-tions. FEDC Series have been designed to reduce conducted emissions towards the solar panel, to reduce EMI radiations from the solar panel, allowing a longer solar panel lifetime. All together, this scheme increases installation service life.

These DC filters in PV installations help increase solar panel reliability, increase immunity in the inverter control phase, avoiding any electromagnetic interference malfunction. www.grupopremo.com

Solar module manufacturers turn to innovative solutions to enhance production processes and meet growing market demandsFollowing a successful year in 2010, Saint-Gobain Solar is on track for an even brighter 2011. The group is bringing new levels of production efficiency and cost savings to photovoltaic module manu-facturing processes with its innovative SolarBond™ products.

As the solar market continues to grow, module manufacturers are increasingly aware of the importance of innovative production components to enhance their production processes. Saint-Gobain Solar’s SolarBond™ products—including the new SolarBond™ Frame Sealant and SolarBond™

New productsNew products



Industry news

centrotherm photovoltaics expands production area at Blaubeuren site by one thirdcentrotherm photovoltaics AG is on course for expansion, committing investments at its Blaubeuren headquarters in view of high order volumes. In the coming months the production area at the southern German site, currently 23,000 square meters, will be extended to comprise a total of 31,000 square meters. The investment volume is in the double-digit million euro range. At Blaubeuren, the world’s leading technology and equipment provider in the photovolta-ics sector manufactures key equipment for the production of solar cells. This includes tube furnaces for phosphorous diffu-sion (POCl3) and batch-type systems for anti-reflective coating (PECVD systems) of solar cells, as well as firing furnaces in which front and rear contacts are burnt onto the solar wafer at high temperatures. www.centrotherm.de

Spire to provide MAGE SOLAR with 50 MW PV module assembly lineSpire Corporation is providing Ravensburg, Germany-based MAGE SOLAR with a PV module assemblyline to be installed in Dublin, Georgia. This automated line will assemble laminates into completed mod-ules at the rate of 50 MW per year.

The first high-quality modules are expected to roll off the production line in late April and are part of MAGE SOLAR’s complete solar system product line. www.spirecorp.com

New module production line at STC Dunningen certifiedThe outstanding quality of production at the Schmid Technology Center in Dunningen was confirmed by technical inspectorate TÜV Süd. The newly awarded certification not only constitutes a quality feature of the new module production line but also, and above all, allows the company to assist its turnkey clients in achieving faster and more economic module certifi-cation.

One advantage made possible by the certification is the “Fast Track” procedure where certification modules are manu-factured on the certified STC production line according to parameters specified by the client. For quality assessment the new modules can subsequently be compared to the STC test modules. schmid-group.com

UNICOR awards solar module production contract to Saint-GobainSaint-Gobain Solar has been awarded a five-year contract to supply SolarBond™ Frame Tapes to UNICOR Federal Prison Industries, Inc., helping the government corporation increase the quality of its solar module manufacturing project while reducing costs. The tapes will be used for the framing of solar modules in two fed-eral correctional facilities in the United States where UNICOR operates industry programs. www.unicor.gov, www.pv.saint-gobain.com

Department of Energy awards 3M $4.4 m to reduce cost of PV energy systemsThe U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has awarded 3M $4.4 million as part of DOE’s SunShot Initiative. SunShot aims to reduce the total costs of photovoltaic solar energy systems by about 75 percent, so that they are cost-competitive with other forms of energy without subsidies. SunShot calls for achieving this goal by the end of the decade. The sum of the 3M award is esti-mated at $4.4 million over three years.

As part of the initiative, 3M will col-laborate with DOE’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory located near Denver, Colorado, to test the performance and durability of Ultra Barrier solar films. www.3M.com

Schiller awarded thin film fab automation contractsSchiller Automation GmbH & Co. KG announced today that it has been awarded contracts for a new factory automation

facility. Schiller has developed a unique set of capabilities providing complete fab solu-tions focusing on high throughput - high yield process, transfer and software prod-ucts which can be found in many leading solar companies.

Schiller combines the BackBone con-cept, in which full size glass substrates are handled in a central control region and can be handed off to multiple process step, with unique ProLoad stations that handle the substrates as they are being processed at any one step. The BackBone and ProLoad systems are tied together with Schiller’s proprietary Line Control software system. www.schiller-llc.com

Siliken modules generate 6.2% energy than competing modulesAccording to testing of 47 solar modules by 36 manufacturers, Siliken modules were shown to generate 6.2% more energy than the average level of all other mod-ules assessed. The study was conducted by Photon Laboratry from January through December 2010.

The lab, which has been conducting these studies this since 2005, randomly selects three modules from each company and installs them at an open-air site in Germany, in a south-facing position, 2.5 meters from the ground and at a 28° angle.

In addition to generating 6.2% more than the average level, the Siliken mod-ules produced 13.1% more energy than the lowest performing modules in the study. www.siliken.com

industry newsContinued from page 7


Industry news

TÜV Rheinland PTL receives OSHA approval for ANSI/UL 1703 certificationTÜV Rheinland PTL, LLC was approved by the U.S. Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) to provide cer-tification for ANSI/UL 1703, the required North American solar safety mark. The accreditation is the latest in TÜV Rheinland´s comprehensive portfolio of testing and photovoltaic certifications to help clients penetrate the global market-place.

Worldwide, photovoltaic solar module manufacturers and the suppliers of related components consider the U.S. a large target market according to industry analysts. ANSI/UL 1703 certification is currently one of the pivotal regulatory requirements to launch photovoltaic products in the U.S. Marketplace. www.tuvptl.com

Jeannine Sargent joins AstroWatt as executive chairmanThin-film crystalline solar cell technology developer AstroWatt expanded the com-pany’s board of directors and leadership team with the addition of Jeannine Sargent as executive chairman.

Ms. Sargent, who brings more than 20 years of international experience in both established and emerging technology mar-kets, will be responsible for providing stra-tegic direction and corporate development oversight to the company. www.astrowatt.com

FLEXcon backsheets used in newly certified Unconquered Sun panelsFLEXcon’s backsheets are being used by Unconquered Sun Solar Technologies as part of a newly certified solar module. Unconquered Sun Solar Technologies, an Ontario-based manufacturer of lightweight photovoltaic panels designed for perfor-mance in the rugged North American cli-mate, plans to incorporate FLEXcon mul-tiGUARD® KPE W12 backsheet into their 220, 230 and 240 watt Windsor Series™ of solar modules.

FLEXcon’s product allows Unconquered Sun Solar Technologies to comply with the Ontario FIT and microFIT programs. The introduction of Unconquered Sun’s newly certified Windsor Series™ product line is part of a multi-phased expansion designed to satisfy the increased demand for Ontario made solar panels, a key requirement for all FIT and microFIT contracts. www.FLEXcon.com, www.unconqueredsun.org

Advanced manufacturing processes of Aide Solar produce consistent volume of high efficient 195 W mono solar modules at 125 mm cell sizeAide Solar is now consistently producing a high volume of 195-Watt monocyrstalline solar modules with a 15.27% module effi-ciency rating at a 125 mm cell size. With more power per square meter, these com-pact and highly efficient solar modules provide Aide Solar customers with a cost-effective solution that is easier to handle and install in limited spaces. www.aideso-lar.com

EGPI Firecreek subsidiary to initiate sales and distribution through SolarUsEGPI Firecreek subsidiary Arctic Solar Engineering, LLC has formed a new entity, SolarUs, in order to establish a direct sales and distribution channel for their thermal energy solutions.

With the creation of this entity, Arctic Solar advances its strategic plans of focus-ing on the marketing and distribution of their solar thermal energy products, as well as other alternative energy products, which offer true energy benefits and measurable returns on investment to the consumer. www.solarustoday.com

FPL unveils world’s first Hybrid Solar Energy CenterFlorida Power & Light Company, along with Florida Gov. Rick Scott, Florida Senate President Mike Haridopolos, local public officials, construction workers, engineers, environmental experts and business lead-ers, celebrated the first hybrid solar power plant in the world—FPL’s Martin Next Generation Solar Energy Center.

Spanning approximately 500 acres in western Martin County, Fla., this hybrid facility connects a field of more than 190,000 solar thermal mirrors with an existing combined-cycle natural gas power plant. Innovative technology enables the mirrors to track the sun over the course of a day to harness free fuel from the sun’s rays to create electricity and directly offset the use of fossil fuels. www.FPL.com

Tioga Energy places Solar PPA in public domainTioga Energy, a provider of renewable energy services to commercial, government and non-profit institutions, announced that its SurePathSM Solar power purchase agreement (PPA) is now available to the

public through its company website.The contract can be viewed with

explanatory annotations online and down-loaded in editable form by any interested party, free of charge.

Tioga’s SurePathSM Solar power pur-chase agreement helps organizations to cost-effectively realize the benefits of clean, on-site solar power generation without the high upfront capital costs. Under the terms of the PPA, Tioga finances, builds and operates distributed solar electric proj-ects for 15 to 20 years, selling the electricity generated to its customers at low, predict-able rates. www.tiogaenergy.com

UK inflation increase to FIT expected to help fuel PV demandThe UK Government recently announced an increase in its feed-in-tariff (FIT) for solar installations to account for the increase in the consumer price index. Mitsubish Electric sees the move, which will lead to an average increase of 1.5 to 2 pence per kWh of electricity, as injecting another welcome boost for the burgeoning PV market in the country. The amount of increase is dependent on the type and size of the solar installation.

The UK PV market is expanding rap-idly as homeowners and businesses take advantage of the FIT programme. www.mitsubishielectric.co.uk/pv

Enecsys wins CleanEquity Monaco awardAt an invitation-only ceremony presided over by H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco, Enecsys was presented with a CleanEquity award for Excellence in the Field of Environmental Technology Development. Enecsys develop, manufacturing and market highly reliable grid-connected solar micro-inverters and monitoring systems.

The ceremony, was held during the CleanEquity Monaco forum earlier this month, in front of an audience of over 250 delegates, including financial and strategic investors, policy makers, end-users and international trade and technical media. www.cleanequitymonaco.com

Magnolia Solar appoints Dr. Thomas Surek to Technical Advisory BoardDr. Thomas Surek, a world-renowned PV solar cell expert, has joined Magnolia Solar Corpation’s Technical Advisory Board (TAB). Dr. Surek has been involved in photovoltaics for more than 37 years, to the formative stages of U.S. terrestrial PV


Industry news

programs. Dr. Surek has been active as a world

renowned consultant and continues his professional career to promote clean, renewable energy technologies. He expects to apply his more than 37-year experi-ence in PV technologies to help Magnolia advance the adoption of PV systems to produce clean, cost-effective electricity in residential, commercial, and utility-scale applications. www.magnoliasolar.com

Alta to focus on improving production economics of high efficiency solarAlta Devices Inc. has raised the funding necessary to allow the company to focus on improving the production economics of high efficiency solar PV applications, including manufacturing and form factor breakthroughs.

Total investment in this round to date is $72 million. The new funds are being used to continue moving toward commer-cialization. www.altadevices.com

Sempra generation plant named ‘Solar Project of the Year’Sempra Generation’s Copper Mountain Solar project, currently the largest pho-tovoltaic solar plant in the U.S., has been awarded “Solar Project of the Year” by Renewable Energy World as part of the 2011 Excellence in Renewable Energy Awards.

The award was announced at the Renewable Energy World Conference and Expo held last week in Tampa, Fla. Copper Mountain Solar was selected out of hun-dreds of nominations in the category.

The 48-megawatt (MW) solar instal-lation, located in Boulder City, Nev., about 40 miles southeast of Las Vegas, was com-pleted in late 2010 and now generates enough renewable electricity to power about 14,000 average homes. www.sempra.com

TITAN TRACKER grants Solaristech license for manufacturing and marketing of PV solar trackers in ItalyTITAN TRACKER, S.L. and Solaristech have signed a strategic agreement granting Solaristech a license to manufacture and commercialization of dual-axis solar track-ers for conventional PV throughout Italy.

The technology of TITAN TRACKER is characterized by the 3D structure, the independence between driving and struc-ture, its geometry with five support points

and the location of the motor-gears in the outer sides. With this design, TITAN TRACKER allows optimal energy yield 45% higher than conventional fixed sys-tems (30 degrees tilt to the South) at 40 degrees latitude and reliability similar to fixed installations. www.titantracker.com

OPDE sets up advanced control center to remotely monitor 100 MW of solar systemsOPDE installed a new control and remote monitoring center at its company head-quarters in Spain (Fustiñana, Navarre) for its solar photovoltaic farms. From the new “Control Centre,” the company can per-form operation and maintenance for over 100 MW of solar systems, with another 60 MW currently under construction.

The system centralizes the monitoring and storage of all data in real time, includ-ing both installation parameters (trackers, meters and inverters) and meteorological parameters (temperature, radiation, wind speed), receiving, storing and controlling information from more than 10,000 track-ers and 30,000 inverters. It is expected to handle more than 16,000 trackers and 48,000 inverters by the end of the year. www.opde.net

Fabrico converts materials for solar powered ventilation

Fabrico recently worked with Solaro to convert adhesive materials used in their application. The adhesives needed to offer strong bonding and protection against water and contaminants.

The acrylic adhesive provides low out-gassing and good ionic characteristics. It also delivers the excellent shear strength required in an outdoor environment. Additionally, Fabrico has selected a 3M caulk product to provide a watertight seal for the edge of the unit that will stand up

to harsh exposure to sun, rain, snow, and ice. The silicone edge seal protects against moisture and contaminants while elimi-nating the need for metal fasteners. www.fabrico.com

Thermal storage innovations instrumental in increasing performance, reducing CSP costsThermal storage will affect the levelized energy cost (LCOE) of parabolic troughs. This is one of the findings of a new report from CSP Today: “Concentrated Solar Power Parabolic Trough: Cost & Performance”.

Finding how to achieve the most energy at the lowest cost from parabolic trough CSP is vital as parabolic trough accounts for more than 98% of total oper-ating CSP plants and 70% of plants under construction.

The Concentrated Solar Power Parabolic Trough: Cost & Performance Report examines the technological, finan-cial and commercial factors that shape the costs of Parabolic Trough CSP. www.csp-today.com

NTE Energy adds new members to its teamNTE Energy is continuing to grow with the addition of four new members to its pro-fessional team.

Mike Bradley will serve as vice presi-dent of power marketing and will be responsible for NTE Energy’s origination and power contracting activities in the East and Midwest.

Mark Mirabito has been named vice president of project development after a five year career in developing renewable energy projects.

Michael Schuster joins NTE Energy as a project development associate. Michael earned his BS in marketing from Florida State University.

Mackenzie Miller will serve as a project development engineer, bringing strengths in process design from her experience as a contract engineer at AMEC. www.nteen-ergy.com

Former Governor of New Mexico joins Abengoa’s international advisory boardFormer Governor of New Mexico Bill Richardson has joined Abengoa’s International Advisory Board, which is chaired by the lecturer Jose Borrel, former President of the European Parliament, and currently comprises six other members


Industry news

with recognized experience and knowl-edge in the fields of both economics and sustainability.

Richardson is a supporter of clean and renewable energy, and energy efficiency, and during his time as Secretary of Energy, he implemented tough efficiency stan-dards to save this resource. When he was Governor, he worked to make New Mexico a clean energy state by requiring electricity companies to generate energy from renew-able sources and to reduce their carbon emissions. www.abengoa.com

Ascent Solar signs distributor agreement with Sunload Mobile Solutions GmbHAscent Solar Technologies, Inc. announced that Sunload Mobile Solutions will act as an authorized distributor of Ascent Solar’s lightweight, flexible, high-power thin-film CIGS modules for electronic integrated (EIPV) applications in Europe. This agree-ment with Sunload will give Ascent Solar access to multiple opportunities within Europe’s rapidly expanding off-grid bat-tery charging and portable power markets. www.sunload.com, www.ascentsolar.com

ZYTECH Solar opens a new affiliate in ItalySpanish solar module manufacturer Zytech Solar recently opened its Italian headquar-ters in Milan. The new offices, located at Piazza de Repubblica, 19 in Milan, offer sales and technical consulting services. In Italy, Zytech offers all of its solar photo-voltaic energy solutions for ground (solar farms), industrial roof, agricultural and residential installations, as well as special modules for building integration (BIPV). www.zytechsolar.com

competitive. The report found that the components

with the most significant impact on Lower Levelized Energy Cost (LCOE) were the Solar Field, followed by Operations & Maintenance. From this, the report can conclude that LCOE reduction of 5% is possible if O&M costs are reduced by 20%.

Similarly, the same reduction in the power block, TES, or indirect cost will only reduce LCOE by 2% according to the new research report from CSP Today.

The industry should therefore focus on reducing solar field costs, i.e. collectors, mirrors, absorbers, hydraulic actuators, and HTF piping. The report finds that the same holds for O&M costs, which can significantly reduce the running cost per kWh produced.

Knowing how to achieve the most energy at the lowest cost from parabolic trough CSP is vital as parabolic trough accounts for more than 98% of total operating CSP plants and 70% of plants under construction.

The data for the “Concentrated Solar Power Parabolic Trough: Cost & Performance” was collected from more

than 45 exclusive interviews with CSP developers, component manufacturers and leading scientists in the field in order to deliver 100% impartial and scientific assessment of the current cost of parabolic trough.

Frame Tapes—are enabling manufacturers to innovate their production processes and achieve great efficiencies and cost savings. www.pv.saint-gobain.com

Despatch Industries makes advancements to CF Series firing furnaceDespatch Industries recently completed rigorous testing on advancements to the company’s CF Series firing furnace plat-form. The most notable advancements are to the product’s maximum belt speed and heating and cooling rates. Belt speed, a variable that can be instrumental in shap-ing thermal profiles, is increased up to 300 inches per minute while maintaining its market leading accuracy, stability and uni-formity. Significant advancements in ther-

mal transfer methods, particularly cooling, allows for increased maximum ramp rates. The CF Series is now capable of maximum ramp rates up to 200˚C for heating and cooling. www.despatch.com

analyst buzzContinued from page 34

New productsContinued from page 35

EuropeAdela Ploner+49 08131/[email protected]

North AmericaRon Friedman (print & video products)Tel:+1 (239) 245-9264 [email protected]

Sandy Daneau (digital products)Tel: +1 (239) 245-9264 [email protected]

North IndiaJaideep Sinha+91 [email protected]

South IndiaAmitava [email protected]

Singapore, Malaysia & Hong Kong Philip Lim+65 [email protected]

ChinaChristine Zhang+86 [email protected]

KoreaY.J. Park+82 (0)2 3789 [email protected]

Title

40 – Global Solar Technology – April 2011 www.globalsolartechnology.com

K SubramanyaColumn InsideK SubramanyaColumn Inside


NEW PRODUCTS

INDUSTRY NEWS

INTERNATIONAL DIARY

Transfer prinTing: an emerging Technology for massively parallel assembly

converTing consideraTions for flexible maTerials

maTerials and The growTh of pv Technology

Gloabl Solar Technology Southeast Asia Volume 1 Num

ber 1Spring 2010

News for the Solar Manufacturing Industry

Transfer prinTing: an emerging Technology for massively parallel assembly

converTing consideraTions for flexible maTerials

maTerials and The growTh of pv Technology

NEW PRODUCTS

INDUSTRY NEWS

INTERNATIONAL DIARY

Volume 1 Number 1 Spring 2010

News for the Solar Manufacturing IndustrySoutheast Asia

Covering India, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, The Philippines and Hong Kong

Southeast Asia

NEW PRODUCTS

INDUSTRY NEWS

INTERNATIONAL DIARY

A prActicAl guide for improving crystAlline solAr cell efficiencies through firing process optimizAtion

smArt pAckAges for cpv cell devices

Achieving thermAl uniformity in photovoltAic ApplicAtions

increAsing solAr pAnel production efficiencies with Acrylic foAm tApe


Gloabl Solar Technology Volume 3 Num

ber 5M

ay 2070

Volume 3 Number 5 May 2010

News for the Solar Manufacturing Industry

Matt Holzmann Interview inside

We’re growing ChinaSouth East AsiaThe World

Global Solar Technology magazine

international diary4-6 May 201111th SolarexpoVerona, Italysolarexpo.com

5-7 May 20116th AsiaSolar Shanghai Chinaasiasolar.cc

17-21 May 2011National Solar ConferenceRaleigh, North Carolina, USAnationalsolarconference.org

8-10 June 2011Intersolar EuropeMunich, Germanyintersolar.de

14-16 June 2011Solar TaiwanTaipei, Taiwanoptotaiwan.com

28-30 June 2011LOPE-CFrankfurt, Germanylope-c.com

27-29 July 2011PV Japan 2011Chiba, Japanpvjapan.org/en/

5-9 September 201126th EU PVSECHamburg, Germanyphotovoltaic-conference.com

26-28 October 2011Solar Power UK Conference and Exhibition 2011Birmingham, UKsolarpowerukevents.org

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June 8–10, 2011

The World’s Largest

Exhibition for the Solar Industry

New Munich Trade Fair Centre, Germany

www.intersolar.de

2,000 Exhibitors

165,000 sqm Exhibition Space

75,000+ Visitors

AZIS2011_Global Solar Technology 203x275:Layout 1 25.03.11 07:47 Seite 1

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Global Solar Technology - May 2011 (#4.5)

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