Transparent PV (TPV) aims to optimize both the transmission of visible light while maximizing power conversion. Edgar A. Gunther explores some of the companies making major headway towards mainstreaming see-through solar.
United Renewable Energy Co., Ltd. (URE), the planned name for three of Taiwan’s merchant solar cell and module producers, Gintech Energy Corp, Neo Solar Power (NSP) and Solartech Energy are still evaluating the commercial rationale of establishing a US-based PV manufacturing plant, post the merger, which is being targeted for October 1, 2018.
‘Silicon Module Super League’ (SMSL) member Canadian Solar reported first quarter 2018 financial results that were better than expected as revenue and shipments were higher than guided with further PV power plant sales completed in the quarter.
Bidding in the Indian solar industry has been deemed irrationally aggressive by 70% of CEOs responding to a survey from consultancy firm Bridge to India, however, sentiment remains upbeat about growth prospects and the overall industry.
Specialist PV manufacturing equipment supplier Amtech Systems is looking to expand its component outsourcing to include solar equipment production in China to remain competitive.
‘Silicon Module Super League’ (SMSL) member Hanwha Q CELLS has lowered full-year shipment guidance to 5,600MW to 5,800MW, compared to its initial guidance of 6,000MW to 6,200MW, which could be attributed to the impact of the US Section 201 trade case duties and the company’s refocus on the European market.
India’s Directorate General of Anti-Dumping and Allied Duties (DGAD) will hold an oral hearing for its anti-dumping investigation into imports of textured, tempered glass from Malaysia, on 11 June in New Delhi.
Bischof + Klein has introduced a new generation of PV module backsheets, designed to provide greater stability when exposed to UV radiation and increased protection against moisture ingress. The new B+K ‘BackFlex’ PP backsheet is based on polypropylene and is therefore naturally resistant to hydrolysis. It can withstand more than 5,000 hours of damp heat testing (85°C / 85% r.h.).
Leading ‘Silicon Module Super League’ (SMSL) member JinkoSolar has reset the P-type monocrystalline cell conversion efficiency record at 23.95%, through a range of wafer to cell optimisation, notably its selective emitter (SE) formation.
China-based polysilicon producer Daqo New Energy is accelerating the pace of its Phase 3B capacity expansion project as well as starting Phase 4A that will increase annual polysilicon capacity by 35,000MT.
