Ampt has introduced a new string optimizer, a DC power converter with multiple maximum power point tracking (MPPT) and output voltage and current limits to optimize system design and maximize performance of large-scale PV systems.
Solvay Specialty Polymers has expanded its position in the PV market with the launch of two film grades of its ‘Halar’ ethylene chlorotrifluoroethylene (ECTFE) for photovoltaic (PV) modules. The two new high-performance products, Halar PV ECTFE and Halar ECTFE ultraviolet (UV) blocking technology have been specifically designed for frontsheet applications.
At any technology focused conference, especially in the PV industry the lack of a unified technology roadmap means that picking the winners from the losers is immensely problematic. From EU PVSEC this week, Mark Osborne reports on DuPont's attempts to do just that.
SolarCity has launched a flat roof solar mounting solution that is claimed to be twice as fast to install and can generate significantly more solar electricity from each rooftop than alternatives for the commercial market. The ZS Peak mounting system provides an innovative snap-together system to simplify and accelerate installation.
InnoLas Solutions is offering an automated laser cutting machine with an integrated soft wafer breaking process to produce half cells or quarter cells to reduce device-inherent resistivity, boosting overall module output by a claimed 10-15W.
A UK Energy Research Centre (UKERC) and Energy Research Partnership (ERP) report that looks at the materials availability for a low-carbon future analysed much of published data on rare-earth metals such as indium and tellurium but didn’t panic over material supply issues, something quite rare in itself.
Hitachi Chemical will begin sales of wavelength conversion particles (WCP) for solar encapsulant sheets that help increase the conversion efficiency of solar cell power generation. WCP series contains specialized phosphor within acrylic resin and converts short wavelength light (ultraviolet light) into long wavelength light (visible light).
Fujitsu Laboratories has announced the development of a technology for automatically generating image-recognition programs that accurately detect the positions of components as captured by cameras in automated assembly processes by utilizing images of electronic components and IT equipment.
Advanced Energy Industries (AE) has developed a new mounting accessory for its 'AE 3TL' PV inverter that enables installers, site designers and project developers to conserve space and increase project yield on commercial rooftop systems by placing string inverters in a horizontal (0°) orientation. Advanced Energy will showcase its AE3TL string inverter technology, including the horizontal mount accessory, at the upcoming Solar Power International conference and exhibition, October 21 to 23, at the Las Vegas Convention Center.
As the PV manufacturing industry emerges from a painful downturn, Mark Osborne assesses how leading companies have continued investing in R&D and how that will prepare them as the upturn gathers pace.
