In early 2015, snow and ice in parts of North America created unexpected problems for solar plant operators. As winter approaches once again, Gwen Bender reflects on the challenges of keeping a project running profitably in harsh weather conditions.
According to PV Tech’s preliminary analysis of global PV manufacturing expansion plans for the month of October 2015, new announcements reached 1.1GW in relation to thin film, c-Si solar cell and module assembly.
Ampt said that its patented String Optimizers are being deployed in 600 volt photovoltaic (PV) solar systems at installed costs in cents per watt that rival that of 1000 volt systems. Ampt String Optimizers are designed to allow the use of 1000 volt inverters that are claimed to lower inverter cost by 40% and also reduce DC BOS costs by 50%.
Chile is forecast to install half of all new solar capacity in Latin America this year. But logistical operations for remote solar projects and the threat of natural disasters are both major considerations for the region. Tom Kenning spoke to Jatin Sharma of GCube Underwriting about the risks associated with the Chilean market.
Racking system specialist S:FLEX has launched its ‘LEICHTmount’ EU S for south-facing orientation and ‘LEICHTmount’ EU EW for east/west-facing orientation, versions of its flat roof mounting system
BIG SUN Group, a Taiwan-based PV manufacturer, has developed a commercial dual-axis tracker unit called ‘iPV Solar Tracker’ that is differentiated by using a steel cable drive mechanism.
Suntech has announced the introduction of a new smart solar module to its product portfolio. The new application will enhance Suntech’s smart DC module system’s performance through the accessibility of wireless communications, the optimisation of power output, and the availability of real-time monitoring, while ensuring a reduction in the overall maintenance costs.
SunPower has launched its ‘Helix’ platform that is claimed to be the world's first fully-integrated commercial solar solution combining PV power production and energy management. Every component is said to be precision-engineered for fast installation, long-term reliability and features snap-in panel installation, a plug-and-play electrical system, and a fully ballasted power station.
Despatch Industries has introduced its patent-pending in-line ‘PowerLock’ LID (Light Induced Degradation) prevention technology that eliminates the need for material handling that can retrofitted into existing Despatch tools and will be offered on all ‘Safire’ firing furnaces.
