Suntech Power will introduce the STP250S-20/Wd+ ‘BlackPearl,’ a new generation high-efficiency module, at Intersolar Europe 2011 (Booth A2.380). Powered by a new generation of crystalline silicon cells, the BlackPearl modules achieve up to 15.2% conversion efficiency. This is approximately 10% more power than conventional polycrystalline products.
Schiller Automation has not only created a dedicated PV division that will be concentrating on customized fab automation solutions in the fields of thin-film solar modules and crystalline solar cells, it has also recently developed a module production concept called ‘Sunriser.’
Fujitsu has introduced new software for simulating the movements of production line workers, which is designed for customers in the manufacturing industry, such as automobile parts suppliers and precision electronics manufacturers. GP4 was developed by Lexer Research, which has extensive experience and expertise in the preparatory processes for manufacturing operations. A 40% reduction in production line assembly time was achieved in an early-release [beta-release] deployment of the software. The new software is available starting in May, 2011 in Japan.
Solar Gard Photovoltaics, part of Bekaert Specialty Films, has introduced the PV T10f to its line of high-quality backsheets for photovoltaic (PV) modules. Solar Gard is a global leader in the development and manufacturing of flexible films, and PV T10f leverages the company’s more than 30 years of expertise in coating and laminating to improve EVA adhesion and peel strength. Solar Gard PV T10f is UL recognized and performance tested at TUV, and outperforms third-party testing criteria.
Adhesives Research (AR) has launched new pressure-sensitive adhesive tapes (PSAs) for bus bar, solar cell junction box, and encapsulation barrier applications in crystalline and thin film PV module applications.
Advanced Energy Industries has improved the performance of its 500kW ‘Solaron’ PV inverters have achieved a 98% efficiency rating from the California Energy Commission (CEC). According to the company this is a record breaking efficiency rating for any inverter in this power class. Advanced Energy also held the previous industry benchmarks of 97% and then 97.5%. By achieving 98% average efficiency without carve-outs for auxiliary power or other adjustments, the ‘Solaron’ PV inverters are ideal for the commercial and utility-scale solar inverter market.
Edwards has introduced a patented hot trap designed to thermally decompose the liquid diethyl zinc (DEZ) used in depositing some transparent conductive oxide (TCO) films in thin film solar manufacturing.
In reporting Q1’11 results on May 13, 2011, Roth & Rau highlighted year-on-year revenue growth for group activities (including PV) of 69.1% - from €35.3 million in Q1’10 to €59.7 million in Q1’11. Indeed, analogous to other PV companies recently across the value and supply-chains, emphasis was placed on year-on-year comparisons, not on quarter-on-quarter changes from the preceding reporting period Q4’10...
Centrotherm Photovoltaics has released its Q1’11 results, highlighting strong year-on-year revenue and bookings performance compared to Q1’10. Revenues grew year on year by 64.2% to €189.3 million, while new orders increased by 187.8% to €224.3 million. However, a more appropriate comparison comes by looking at quarter-on-quarter trends - in particular how Centrotherm’s PV book-to-bill is tracking – and in understanding trends within the industry driving these metrics.
