PES Solar 1 18 Magazine

SOLAR/PV Studer Innotec Huawei ABB Solar IMT Pablo Muñoz, Technical Support PES takes a look at Huawei’s Leonardo Botti talks to PES Photovoltaic in the fast lane from Manager at Studer Innotec talks new, flexible PV systems for about ABB Solar's solid technical Dirk Tegtmeyer IMT Mini-grid solutions home owners expertise and knowledge It’s that time of year again! We look ahead and preview two of the biggest and most important events on the global solar calendar in 2018. The Intersolar Europe in Munich & the Intersolar North America in San Francisco 2018 Plus, enjoy our frequent offering of opinion, product advances and industry insight.POWER & ENERGY SOLUTIONS • ISSUE 32, 2018 BREAKING NEW GROUND As the industry continues its rapid evolution, there are continuing technological advances and breakthrough developments that look set to shape the future of our industry

Intersolar Europe:Hall A2, Stand 260June 20 – 22, 2018 Customize your own PERx platform Discover Meyer Burger’s modular cell coating equipment with the smallest manufacturing footprint and lowest cost of production in the PV industry today. Our flexible PERx platform integrates multiple process steps into single modular equipment to significantly reduce your CAPEX and achieve highest manufacturing yield. Design a cell coating platform tailor made to meet your PERx cell manufacturing requirements. Meyer Burger delivers the power of passivation. meyerburger.com

EDITOR’S NOTE SOLAR/PV Studer Innotec Huawei ABB Solar IMT Pablo Muñoz, Technical Support PES takes a look at Huawei’s Leonardo Botti talks to PES Photovoltaic in the fast lane from Manager at Studer Innotec talks new, flexible PV systems for about ABB Solar's solid technical Dirk Tegtmeyer IMT Mini-grid solutions home owners expertise and knowledge It’s that time of year again! We look ahead and preview two of the biggest and most important events on the global solar calendar in 2018. The Intersolar Europe in Munich & the Intersolar North America in San Francisco 2018 Plus, enjoy our frequent offering of opinion, product advances and industry insight. POWER & ENERGY SOLUTIONS • ISSUE 32, 2018 BREAKING NEW GROUND As the industry continues its rapid evolution, there are continuing technological advances and breakthrough developments that look set to shape the future of our industryEditor’s note POWER & ENERGY SOLUTIONS Well here at last is our long awaited first international edition of 2018, and what a brilliant start to the year it has been. The mood on our industry is still buoyant and full Directors of optimism and this is underlined by the International Renewable Energy Agency Stuart Gillies (IRENA) forecast which says that by 2020 electricity production costs in PV power Mark Wilson plants will drop a further 50%, and costs for all renewable energies will draw level with Stefann Perrigot those of conventional power plants. This issue is jam packed with innovation, optimisation and cost savings. Client Liaison Manager Vikki Birch Have you booked your tickets yet for Intersolar EU and Intersolar US? It’s not too late. These shows are a highlight in the year. We know we will be wowed and energised by Editor both the exhibitors and speakers at both locations. Hopefully we will see you there. Elaine Perrigot Come a long and see all the latest offerings and at the same time expand your [email protected] network and renew old acquaintances. Associate Editors Mini-grid solutions continue making electricity available to even the most remote Stephen Pearson areas of the world, including Europe, making people’s lives so much easier. New data Zachary George from IRENA shows that about 115 million people worldwide currently rely on the basic energy services provided by solar lights, while another 25 million obtain a Design higher level of renewable energy services through solar home systems or connection Andrew Jenkins to a solar mini-grid. [email protected] As always, in this issue the hot topics include recycling – are you doing as much as Production you could in this area? Efficiency continues to increase and just how much lower can Paul Lawson costs go? Levelised Cost Of Electricity (LCOE) is a preoccupation, which interests [email protected] everyone and keeps R&D as always, at the forefront. Sales Enquiries We are at a stage in the development of our industry where degradation of [email protected] installations is becoming a real factor. There are a number of initiatives underway already, investigating the link between climate and more importantly what type of General Enquiries materials may decrease climate dependent degradation. [email protected] As ever. we have some inspiring exclusive interviews, with some of the top players in Media Partnership Enquiries the market. I’m sure you will enjoy reading them. Who knows, their solution may just [email protected] be what you’re looking for. Advertising Opportunities Sit back, relax and enjoy the read. [email protected] PES is published by P&G Media LtdElaine Perrigot P&G Media LtdEditor PO Box 310, Bristol, BS10 5WT, United Kingdom This publication is copyright © 2017 P&G Media Ltd and may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form in whole or in part without the prior permission of P&G Media Ltd. While every care has been taken during the preparation of this publication, P&G Media cannot be held responsible for the accuracy of the information published herein or any consequence arising from it. From sustainably managed forests. For more information visit: www.pefc.org www.pessolar.com www.pessolar.com 3

CONTENTS96 Pablo Muñoz, Technical 66 More and more home 92 Leonardo Botti, 28 Photovoltaic in the Support Manager at owners are installing PV Global Head of Product fast lane from Dirk Studer Innotec talks systems. How efficient are Management, ABB Solar, Tegtmeyer IMT Mini-grid solutions these systems? What does talks to PES about their the industry need solid technical expertise to do to support this and knowledge growth area? PES takes a look at Huawei’s new, flexible solution.SOLAR/PV Studer Innotec Huawei ABB Solar IMT Pablo Muñoz, Technical Support PES takes a look at Huawei’s Leonardo Botti talks to PES Photovoltaic in the fast lane from Manager at Studer Innotec talks new, flexible PV systems for about ABB Solar's solid technical Dirk Tegtmeyer IMT Mini-grid solutions home owners expertise and knowledge It’s that time of year again! We look ahead and preview two of the biggest and most important events on the global solar calendar in 2018. The Intersolar Europe in Munich & the Intersolar North America in San Francisco 2018 Plus, enjoy our frequent offering of opinion, product advances and industry insight.POWER & ENERGY SOLUTIONS • ISSUE 32, 2018 BREAKING NEW 8 This issue’s lead feature looks further into GROUND the life time of a modern PV system. We hear from Tyler Ogden of Lux Research Inc. As the industry continues its rapid evolution, there are continuing technological advances and breakthrough developments that look set to shape the future of our industryComment 42 We were delighted to sit down with 84 Olivier Haldi, Global Business6 We are delighted to welcome Rachel Juan Ramirez, Vice President, A.S. Development Photovoltaics and Plastics Technology, Inc. and learn Alternative Energies, met up with PES Goult, Director, S & P Global about their innovative QC-SYSTEM to share the reason behind the recent Ratings, to the magazine as she and what it offers to the solar/PV rebranding from Multi-Contact to brings us up to speed on the solar industry. Stäubli Electrical Connectors and power industry and the GCC the importance of using high-quality 46 Gordon Clements, General Manager components.Conference call Residential Power & Energy VARTA 104 PES has an exclusive interview14 It’s that time of year again! We look Storage GmbH, caught up with PES, during his very busy schedule, with Jörg Scholz, CEO, Gantner ahead and preview two of the biggest to bring us up to date with the latest Instruments Environment and most important events on the global news from this innovative company Solutions GmbH solar calendar in 2018. The Intersolar Europe in Munich & the Intersolar 54 Dr.-Ing. Stefan Rinck, CEO Singulus Think tank North America in San Francisco 2018 Technologies AG, caught up with 24 As a leading manufacturer of IVAsk the experts PES to tell us about the latest business activities and technology measurement equipment, h.a.l.m.20 The first company under our spotlight elektronik GmbH help us to 74 PES met up with Frederick Bamberg, understand how Electroluminescence in this issue is INDEOtec SA. Frank (EL) imaging provides a Jürgens, Sales & Marketing Director, Product Manager at 3D-Micromac versatile, complementary tool for joins us to explain more about AG in Chemnitz, Germany, to discover characterisation of Si solar cells and OCTOPUS - their innovative new the advances in laser machines and has been used for many years deposition platform for HJT and High- processes in relation to the efficiency cells. PV industry. 32 PES investigates the importance of monitoring with a little help from Solare Datensysteme GmbH4 PES Solar

CONTENTS9660 Dr. Mario Po, EKO Instruments 51 Ground mounted PV systems in 88 The future of solar farm security lies Europe B.V., talks advanced weather open spaces are increasingly being in communications technology. And monitoring solutions for irradiance built on hilly terrain and not only in an optimised cooperation between monitoring and forecasting on flat surfaces such as farmlands security service providers and or conversion areas. An essential authorities. PES wanted to find outCorporate focus uncertainty is to accurately calculate what advancements had been made the correct position and length of the at viamon since last hearing from36 Messersì give us the lowdown on posts. PES was keen to hear about managing director, Oliver Strecke Levasoft’s solution to this problem. exactly why on large scale PV farms PES Essential clean panels are essential in order to 70 PES invited Kipp & Zonen, to look produce peak yields. 100 Dr. Palitzsch from Loser Chemie at monitoring the effects of soiling onTalking point photovoltaic cells GmbH reminds PES readers about the latest update to the EU waste39 Industrial exhaust gas purification 78 We are delighted to hear from Lawrie legislation. is a vast area. There are many Wilson, Area Manager UK & Ireland different technologies and facilities at Tesvolt, as he brings us up to for the effective treatment of pollutant speed on the battery storage market emissions. This is primarily due to the situation in the UK high heterogeneity of exhaust gases from different industrial processes. 80 Pfeiffer Vacuum are specialists in PES delves deeper, aided by Thomas Kraus of centrotherm clean vacuum technology. They provide solutions GmbH & Co. KG the highest quality testing in order to provide top class products. Here we learn about the importance of the pump down curves and the different materials that can affect them www.pessolar.com 5

COMMENT: INVESTMENTEnergy in the GCC:sunny side upWords: Rachel Goult, Director, S&P Global Ratings With ample desert space and swathes of sunshine all year round, the solar power industry is starting to heat up in the countries of the Gulf Coorporation Council (GCC). Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates are all well placed to benefit from technology advancements and lowering costs.Rachel Goult such, we expect that most GCC countries (PV) modules has decreased at an average will continue to invest in solar efforts in the annual rate of about 10% since 1980,Over the past few years, the UAE has years to come. according to an Oxford University paper onlaunched some major solar projects, while technological progress. Meanwhile, theSaudi Arabia announced the largest-ever Lower costs, higher investment International Renewable Energy Agencyproject in March this year. The GCC’s (IRENA) states that the modules were moreincrease of solar generation capacity is well Renewable power installation costs have than 80% cheaper in 2017 than their 2009timed. The global renewable energy been declining sharply over the past counterparts. This steady decline in costsindustry is experiencing considerable decade, driven by technological continues to support industrial growth.growth, supported by governments and improvements and the associated According to IRENA data, total solar PVpolicymakers’ efforts to combat climate increased efficiencies. In turn, these capacity grew at a compound average ratechange, a steady decline in renewable developments are making renewable of 48% between 2006 and 2016, reachinggeneration costs over the past decade, and energy a viable alternative to traditional about 303 GW by the end of 2016.continued technological developments. As carbon-based electricity generation. A shining opportunity The considerable growth in the global renewables sector as a result is The GCC’s energy consumption has encouraging. According to the International increased substantially in the past two Energy Agency (IEA), renewables decades – in line with fast-paced represented two-thirds of new generation population growth and investments in added to the global grid last year. energy-intensive industries. In turn, this Furthermore, the IEA states that in the next provides a huge opportunity, as the GCC five years, renewable generation will grow ramps up efforts to become one of the at twice the rate of gas and coal combined. world’s large producers of solar energy. The decline in the price of solar is GCC countries enjoy two key prerequisites pronounced. The cost of solar photovoltaic for renewables, specifically solar. First, they6 PES Solar

COMMENT: INVESTMENT ‘...it is clear that the GCC will see massive investments and exciting growth in the renewable space in the coming years – with the solar PV sector in particular harnessing huge potential.’enjoy very high solar radiation levels and a Of course, solar development is not The Emirate of Abu Dhabi has similarlarge number of sunlight hours throughout without its challenges. One key hurdle in ambitions – with the Sweihan solar plantthe year – both crucial factors for efficient building solar – particularly in the GCC predicted to have a total productionand economically viable solar electricity region – is dust. Dust particles capacity of 1,177MW once complete, andgeneration. According to IRENA, close to accumulate on the surface of panels and with the potential for substantial expansion60% of the GCC’s land surface area has reduce their performance. In turn, this in the future. Particularly notable is that,excellent suitability for solar PV inflates cleaning costs and generally during the competitive bidding process fordeployment. Even developing only 1% of creates challenges for the operation and this project, the lowest bid came in at athis area could create almost 470 GW of maintenance of solar plants. weighted 2.42 U.S. cents/kWh – setting aadditional power generation capacity, in world record low in terms of pricing.comparison; the region’s current power However, solutions – such as self-cleaninggeneration capacity is 151GW, as estimated nanotechnology panels – are on the Elsewhere in the region, Kuwait announcedby the Arab Petroleum Investments Corp. horizon. These are forecast to further plans to produce 15% of its power from increase the efficiency of solar PV, and the renewable energy by 2030, and Qatar alsoSecond, GCC countries are able to development of solar power in the region. has ambitious plans to increase the role ofaccommodate the significant land required Land ownership issues can also pose a solar. For example, Siraj Power, a jointby solar power farms. For many countries, problem. Negotiations between developers venture between Qatar Electricity andusing land for solar installation typically and the owners of suitable sites – in order Water Co. and Qatar Petroleum, isrepresents a big opportunity cost in terms to arrive at a palatable deal – can currently building a 200 MW plant, with anof economically valuable land that sometimes be lengthy. expansion plan of up to 500 MW, forotherwise could be used for farming, completion in 2020. Similarly in March,industry, and cities. However, given the Policy is heating up Bahrain’s Electricity and Water Authorityextent of available, barren land in most issued a request for concept to selectedGCC countries, particularly in Saudi Arabia Renewables are, without doubt, an developers for an IPP solar power projectand the UAE, the opportunity costs are low, important strategic area for investment. in the country.and therefore solar farm installation is not Signalling this, GCC member nations andonly feasible but also economically sound. policy leaders have announced major Certainly, the list of projects to be built is initiatives and large-scale projects over the ambitious and, for this reason, it is hard toWhat’s more, if GCC nations meet their past few years. For example, under the tell how many will actually come to fruition.solar energy targets, they could save huge Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050, the Regardless, it is clear that the GCC will seeamounts of oil and gas. IRENA has Emirate plans to gradually increase the massive investments and exciting growth inestimated that achieving those reported relative weight of clean energy sources to the renewable space in the coming yearstargets could result in cumulative savings of 75% by 2050, and has begun building the – with the solar PV sector in particular2.5 billion barrels of oil equivalent between Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar harnessing huge potential.2015 and 2030. These resources could be Park. Once complete in 2030, the parkused instead for local consumption or targeted to have a huge generation www.spglobal.comdomestic petrochemical industries. capacity of 5,000MW. www.pessolar.com 7

PES ESSENTIAL The life of a PV system: thinking on a 20 year timeline PES asked Tyler Ogden, Lux Research Inc. to give us his expert viewpoint on the longevity of PV systems. Lux Research is a leading provider of research and advisory services, helping clients drive growth through technology innovation.8 PES Solar

PES ESSENTIALUtility-scale systems are now a competitive of annual deployments. Indeed, the vast significantly what type of materials maychoice for electricity supply, with bids amount of photovoltaic capacity is only a decrease climate-dependent degradation.undercutting conventional sources of few years old, providing a limited datageneration in some regions, while other source to begin investigating how Led by NREL, the Durable Module Materialsregions see competitive subsidy-free performance can be improved and costs (DuraMat) Consortium will pool togetherdeployments. This has largely been the can drop over the full operational life of a resources across four national labs for theresult of declining module costs. PV system. However, multiple initiatives are development of materials that can improveManufacturers have obtained significant underway to address the long-term the durability and lifetime of photovoltaics.economies of scale and have continued to variables of degradation and maintenance. The consortium will receive $30 millionadopt higher efficiency cell technologies. across five years to support U.S.-based Under these market conditions, the U.S.’s projects in academia and industry. DuraMatMeanwhile other players across the supply Department of Energy declared its cost falls under the Energy Materials Networkchain that offer balance of system target of less-than $1.00/W utility-scale solar with the aim to accelerate the development,components and developed projects have achieved three years early in 2017, while characterization, testing, and deploymentreached maturity, contributing to lowering utility-scale costs in India, Mexico, China, of novel materials to reduce the LCOE ofthe capital expense of new installations to a and Egypt have likely been below $1.00/W photovoltaic systems. The support from thepoint where sub dollar-per-watt systems for longer. Given this early achievement, the Department of Energy (DoE) for theare now feasible. However, the rate of cost Sunshot Initiative has set new goals focused DuraMat consortium highlights the potentialdeclines has begun to taper off. If solar on the cost of generated electricity over the high payoff of materials to reach the costcosts are to continue to drop and maintain lifetime of a PV system, aiming for $0.03/ goal of $0.03/kWh.the precedent of low-cost renewables, the kWh by 2030. To achieve this, two key areasindustry must look elsewhere – must look need to be tackled at once. Moreover, the IEA PVPS’s Task 13, Koentgesforward in time. et al. surveyed PV systems across the globe, Degradation is considered as a constant, a attempting to determine how degradationThe standard lifetime for a photovoltaic number included in a manufacturer’s linear varies across different climate regions. Whileinstallation is 20 to 25 years, nearly double power warranty that is accepted as is and conclusions are currently limited due to poorthe time from when the global solar industry passed on to cost of electricity calculation. representation of extreme climates, the tasksbegan to mature in early 2010s. The focus However, the reality is unlikely to be so ongoing research will provide guidance onhas primarily been in reducing dollar-per- simple. A number of initiatives are which climates degradation can be reduced.watt costs to drive installations to where we underway to investigate how degradation Another initiative at Case Western Reserveare now, what will likely be above 100 GW may be climate dependent, and more University’s Solar Durability and Lifetime www.pessolar.com 9

PES ESSENTIALExtension Center is seeking to develop lab players have begun to utilize the data to evolving software capability from simplytests that can predict in-field lifetime through demonstrate how value can be extracted monitoring a system or portfolio toan epidemiological study. The university has from improved analytics. providing predictive maintenancealready achieved some results, showing how recommendations to reduce O&M costsdifferent weather conditions can affect High-efficiency PV manufacturer SunPower and improve performance.backsheet degradation. partnered with KryptonCloud to deploy its data aggregation, processing engine, One of the first developers to offer anDuPont recently joined the field of those monitoring application across a 2.5 GW AI-enhanced software-as-a-service productinvestigating climate-based degradation in portfolio. This resulted in a 50% decrease in for predictive maintenance, Raycatch, is inPV systems, the first major corporation to false performance alarms, improving O&M the early stages of introducing software forpilot its own effort. Pairing with Envision’s response time to actual faults. The utility-scale system. The software applies itsEnOS internet of things (IoT) platform, companies are now working to integrate algorithms to data currently available fromDuPont is likely exploring the potential for predictive maintenance capabilities into the system operators, and does not require anydeploying an IoT solution for performance platform. Additionally, renewable developers additional hardware. The data primarilyimprovements in addition to exploring how Invenergy partnered with General Electric to comes from various balance-of-systemits backsheets degrade. The integration of deploy its Predix platform on a 20 MW PV components in the PV system, including:technologies typically seen in industrial system. The deployment aims to create a inverters, combiner boxes, and radiation &digital transformations can have broader digital-twin of the system and improve temperature sensors. The software is thenbenefits to PV systems as well. revenue by $200,000. Beyond adding able to make maintenance analytics to existing systems, a number of recommendations on the string-level, whichThe PV industry has been gradually building other solutions from the digital world can are passed on O&M providers.a foundation of data that can be used to reduce operation and maintenance costs.better understand the performance and Quadcopter drones are being increasinglypit-falls of plant operation over the 25 years By applying machine learning algorithms to adopted by operation and maintenancefor which a system is contracted. Several existing performance data, developers are providers to reduce labor costs for10 PES Solar

Know exactly when and Optimize The only maintenance free Integrated in the leading where to clean yield solution to measure soiling monitoring software systems www.kippzonen.com/DustIQ

PES ESSENTIALMethodology : The Lux Innovation Grid (LIG) below evaluates companies based on primary research done by Lux Research analysts.These interviews allow Lux to conduct in-depth evaluations, resulting in the LIG chart’s x-axis scores for business execution (focusing onfactors like partnerships, momentum, management team, and more). Meanwhile, the LIG chart’s y-axis scores each company’stechnology (focusing on the technology solution itself as well as IP position, key metrics, and more).inspections, while start-ups are driving Machine learning algorithms were Companies introducing digital technologiescoupling analytics with imaging to implemented to maximize production per to solar plant operations are just in earlyimprove fault identification. A case in row when weather fluctuations obscure stages, as is the research on reducingpoint: Cleandrone offers two drone- direct sunlight. While this currently offers a degradation through the adoption of newdelivered services: an inspection service 2% to 6% gain in electricity yield, the materials. However, both initiatives willdubbed Sherlock, and a cleaning service company is likely planning to expand this positively impact solar economics: reducingcalled Cleandrone. capability to offer predictive maintenance annual costs by optimizing operation and services for the entire system. maintenance procedures and increasingSherlock provides infrared imaging of energy generation by eliminating differentphotovoltaic plants for fault identification Another existing opportunity is via cleaning modes of degradation. Low systems costsand preventive maintenance. The surveys robots. Multiple companies are developing are here to stay, reducing the need forare conducted autonomously and image water-free robotic cleaning systems, subsidies; but the lifetime challenge remains.processing algorithms can identify reducing operation and maintenance costsdisconnected panels and hot spots, or compared to manual cleaning in desert www.luxresearchinc.com/bypass diode failures. Cleandrone is environments. Ecoppia is an early mover inequipped with a squeegee and cleaning the space, having now reached over 300 Tyler Ogden is a Lead Analyst at Luxfluid to wash the surface of dirty modules. MW of deployments in India and the Middle Research, covering innovation andThe system has incorporated computer East. Standard operation consists of emerging technologies withinvision and artificial intelligence to detect sending out cleaning order to the robots at a electricity generation. He has years ofmodule surfaces and is able to recollect regular cadence or after a soiling event, such experience in tracking the evolution ofcleaning fluid. as a dust storm. However, there is the solar industry and how it is opportunity to make this autonomous converging with energy storage andIn addition to these start-ups, existing through a combination of weather forecasts utility transformations. He holds a B.A.suppliers of balance of system components and performance monitoring. Introducing in Physics from Hampshire Collegehave a natural avenue to introduce digital machine learning software here can optimizeservices. For instance, leading single-axis a system’s yield by how many cleaning runstracker supplier NEXTracker acquired is needed based on site-specific conditions.Bright Box to improve its tracking controls.12 PES Solar

THE INNOVATION HUBFOR EMPOWERING NEWENERGY SOLUTIONSMESSE MÜNCHEN, GERMANYIn today‘s energy industry, innovation and business opportunities drive the market from every angle. The innovativeenergy technologies and concepts at our exhibitions and conferences are a magnet for thousands of international energyexperts and leading entrepreneurs. There can be no better place to network with the guiding lights of the industry. Meetthe forward thinkers who anticipate the smart energy solutions and digital developments that are shaping the energytrends of tomorrow – from photovoltaics, energy storage and distribution, energy management, and e-mobility.Join forces at THE SMARTER E EUROPE, where 50,000 energy experts and enthusiasts from 165 nations meet 1,200exhibiting market leaders, global players, and energy pioneers.

CONFERENCE CALLCome and join us at the shows!It’s that time of the year. Are you ready for Intersolar Europe Netherlands, 2018 will see deploymentand Intersolar North America? PES brings you previews of exceed one gigawatt for the first time.two of the biggest solar shows. Be sure to come along andmake the most of the opportunity to see the latest advance Larger PV plants with a capacity of justtechnology, the new players in the market, catch up with old under 4 GW, among other developments,favourites and network like crazy. are planned in Spain before the end of 2019. Behind these advances is the growingSmart, solar, sector coupling: Intersolar continent last year alone. According to the success of photovoltaics as an economicalEurope 2018 showcases the future of latest analysis by SolarPower Europe, this alternative to wind power in public tenders.modern energy supply. A sunny outlook for represents a 28 percent increase over 2016. Sunny days are also on the horizon forthe European and global photovoltaics (PV) Over 30 percent growth has been forecast France, where solar power plants with amarkets: Photovoltaics deployment of for 2018 – alongside Germany, most notably capacity of roughly 20 GW are to be set uparound 110 gigawatts is expected in France, Italy, the Netherlands and Spain. by the year 2023.worldwide for 2018 – a significant stepforward for PV. The European PV market The PV market in Europe is primarily being In other nations such as Germany, PV hastoo is sending out positive signals. New PV driven by public tenders and power withstood a slump and is currently boomingsystems with a total output of at least 8.61 purchase agreements. The advantages of once again. In addition, increasing potentialgigawatts were installed across the solar power self-consumption are also is visible in relatively young markets such bolstering growth. In Spain and the as China – where the PV industry is currently driven by innovations, growth and a spirit of optimism. For manufacturers, investors and distributors, the annual event Intersolar14 PES Solar

CONFERENCE CALLEurope, the world’s leading exhibition for Intersolar Europe 2018 explores The International Renewable Energythe solar industry, is thus the ideal place to industry trends Agency (IRENA) forecasts that by 2020learn about the latest developments. electricity production costs in PV powerIntersolar Europe 2018 will lead industry The energy world is changing. One significant plants will drop a further 50%, and costs forprofessionals into the energy world of driving force is the boom in renewable all renewable energies will draw level withtomorrow and highlight the opportunities energies. Costs for PV are falling thanks to those of conventional power plants.and challenges that lie along the way. innovative technologies, new business models and industrial production. As a result, Trade visitors can discuss the radicalAround 800 exhibitors will showcase their renewable energies are increasingly eclipsing changes facing PV power plants withsolutions for the production and distribution fossil fuels. Decentralised regenerative power exhibitors who are active in this field. Andof electrical energy from June 20–22, 2018 installations and storage resources are also experts will explore current approaches andin Munich. They will also focus on the developing, which turn consumers in their solutions at the Intersolar Forum (hall A2,coupling of the mobility, electricity and role as prosumers into active participants in booth 111) on all three days of the exhibition.heating sectors and explore the prospects the energy market. In the same place, industry heavyweightsthat this will create for the trading and will also address topics such as theselling of electricity. This unique and One effect is a fall in demand for large- efficiency of solar cells and modules as wellcomprehensive overview is made possible scale, centralised fossil fuel power stations. as the pioneering innovations and projectsby the premiere of ‘The smarter E’. Another is that decentralised electricity developed by the Intersolar AWARD finalists. generation, storage and use areThe new innovative platform brings the increasingly occupying the spotlight across The market for self-consumption concepts isrenowned exhibitions Intersolar Europe and every sector. In these fields, the main issue also enjoying a boom thanks to the fallingees Europe together under one roof with is the appropriate and efficient distribution price of solar installations. Planners,two new energy exhibitions, Power2Drive of power from fluctuating sources. Sector manufacturers and service providers will beEurope and EM-Power, which from 2018 will coupling and the growing demand for solar able to discuss this with experts at Thehighlight the topics of e-mobility and installations are shaping the key trends of smarter E Forum in hall B2, booth 570. Here,intelligent energy solutions. The new 2018: Efficiency in photovoltaics, PV power trade visitors can learn how digitalisationplatform thus covers all core areas, in terms plants, the optimsation of self-consumption and decentralisation are changing the faceof both location and subject matter – from and the combination of PV and e-mobility. of the energy world for good. This includesenergy generation to storage and e-mobility, one of the pillars of a new energydistribution to use. The cost factor is also fuelling these trends. world, which is gaining fresh momentum In many countries large-scale solar power thanks to the boom in PV. E-mobility and plants are now generating cheaper charging infrastructure are the focus of the electrical energy than conventional power new exhibition platform Power2Drive Europe plants. Design, technology, operation, in hall C1. maintenance and financing are becoming more professional. Power plants now have Intersolar Europe Conference and integrated battery storage systems or are Intersolar AWARD ceremony round off combined with wind power; robots clean the exhibition the installations; big data analyses increase efficiency and modern tracking systems In 2018, Intersolar Europe will once again ensure high yields. be complemented by a comprehensive accompanying program. The Intersolar www.pessolar.com 15

CONFERENCE CALLEurope Conference and the parallel alongside ground breaking technologies and Since 2014 the organisers have alsoconferences and side events will be running products and services. The presentation will addressed the topic of energy storage. Withfrom June 19–20, 2018 at ICM – take place on June 20, 2018 at The smarter ees Europe, Europe’s largest and most-Internationales Congress Center München, E Forum in hall B2, booth B2.570. visited exhibition for batteries and energyand their programs will explore the current storage systems, they now set the pace fortrends in depth. The smarter E: The perfect interface for the energy storage industry. the whole energy industryFrom utilities to component manufacturers, From 2018, the new exhibition1,700 international conference participants The new energy world is gearing up in Power2Drive Europe will put the spotlightand over 200 experts from around the world diverse and unmistakable ways. on traction batteries and chargingwill be in attendance to learn about Decentralisation, digitalisation and the infrastructure for e-mobility. Networkingdevelopments on the international markets. coupling of the electricity, heating and electric vehicles with a sustainable,For example, various sessions will allow mobility sectors are key elements of the renewable energy supply will be anotherconference participants to discuss the modern energy future. Intersolar Europe is central focus of the exhibition. And 2018market capacities of PV power plants and conscious of this transformation and will in will also see the debut of EM-Power inexplore photovoltaics as a partner for the future be making its mark as part of The Munich. EM-Power is the exhibition fore-mobility. And the Conference’s experts smarter E Europe. intelligent energy use in industry andwill look at the European PV market and buildings, focusing on professionaladdress new business models for the This new innovative platform interlinks the energy clients and their need for efficientenergy world of tomorrow. fields of power generation, distribution, energy technologies, smart control storage and intelligent use to keep pace systems and energy conservation.In this context, numerous sessions will with industry developments. From this yeardiscuss the influence of digitalisation. No onwards four energy exhibitions will be held The interlinking of all areas of the energylink in the photovoltaic supply chain can under one roof, thus representing the entire supply chain ultimately led to the creationnow survive without digitalisation – and this value chain of modern energy supply. The of ‘The smarter E AWARD’, which honorsholds true for internet-connected established exhibitions Intersolar Europe interconnected solutions and concepts forcomponent production, system operation and ees Europe will be joined by the energy supply of the future.and system integration alike. Power2Drive Europe and EM-Power, which will showcase developments in e-mobility At The smarter E Europe, 50,000 tradeThe Intersolar AWARD ceremony is a and intelligent energy use. visitors from 165 nations will get a firstparticular highlight of the accompanying hand look at new technologies andprogram. The prize is an indicator of the For the organisers of Intersolar Europe, solutions for the transformation that isinnovative strength of the industry. The smarter E is the logical next step for leading us to a new and modern energySince its introduction in 2008, companies their portfolio of events. Over 25 years world. As the foremost industry platform,from 46 countries have entered a total of ago, the exhibition Intersolar was launched The smarter E Europe does not just bring1,045 innovations. Each year’s winners to drive forward the development and together four energy exhibitions under oneand participants are a valuable source expansion of solar energy. Today, as the roof. At conferences, exhibition forumsof inspiration for the industry, and leading exhibition for the entire solar and award ceremonies, it showcases theset themselves apart from other industry, it is in no small way to thank for essential topics relating to a sustainablemarket participants with their forward- the fact that renewable energies are energy system.looking solutions. revolutionising our worldwide energy supply and leading it into an For more information, please visit: www.Outstanding solar projects are honored environmentally friendly future. intersolar.de/en and www.thesmartere.de/en16 PES Solar

North America’s Premier Exhibitionand Conference for the Solar IndustryMOSCONE CENTER, SAN FRANCISCOHear it here first – Be a part of the first major U.S. solar-plus-storage event of the yearMake business connections that matter – Meet 500 exhibitors & network with 16,000 professionals from across the worldBe in the center of three exciting industries – Learn what‘s next for solar, energy storage, & smart renewable energySpecial Exhibition co-located with

CONFERENCE CALLIntersolar North AmericaMake plans to attend Intersolar and ees North America, the This year, attendees will benefit fromfirst major solar and storage industry events of the year in special attention paid to the recent tariffsthe United States. The co-located exhibition and conference passed by the Trump Administration inseries will return to the heart of the largest solar and storage response to the Section 201 trademarket in the country, July 10th - 12th at the Moscone Center complaint, as well as conference sessionsin San Francisco. Together, these events sit at the cross- on smart renewable energy, the rise ofsection of solar technology, energy storage and smart project finance, applications for energytransportation, and connect industry professionals from storage and electric vehicles and both localacross the world. and national policy trends influencing the growth of the sector. The conferenceSince 2008, Intersolar North America has as well as a new special exhibition, program (https://www.intersolar.us/index.served as the industry’s go-to event for Power2Drive, focused on the electrification php?id=8244&tx_intersolarconference_invaluable information and premier of transportation. Conference sessions and pi1%5bshare%5d=G6VRMGGZ) featuresnetworking opportunities, and this year’s exhibition workshops will feature insightful 40 sessions and workshops that draw onevent is no different. Expect to see an commentary from leading executives, the expertise of Intersolar and ees Northexpanded focus on the technologies and policymakers, and industry experts designed America’s roster of partners to deliver themarket opportunities for solar and storage, to give attendees a critical business edge. information needed to navigate the solar and energy storage industries in the face of these new challenges and opportunities. Despite the tariffs, there are positive signs for solar and storage. GTM Research expects the solar industry to deploy more18 PES Solar

CONFERENCE CALLthan 10 gigawatts of installations in the deployments making up half of the annual country. With significant deployments ofUnited States in 2018 and 11.9 gigawatts in energy storage market by 2022. solar, storage and decarbonized buildings,2019, with continuous growth through 2022. we’re putting our rules into practice andMany states are in the process of fulfilling ‘Solar-plus-storage certainly will play an making them work in the real world.’their renewables mandates -- California is important role for all the reasons that haveon track to meet its Renewables Portfolio long been identified,’ (https://www. The inaugural Power2Drive specialStandard (RPS) of reaching 50 percent of greentechmedia.com/research/subscription/ exhibition will showcase the global EVgeneration as specified by California u-s-energy-storage-monitor#gs.8NHjXK4) market as well as batteries, chargingEnergy Commissioner David Hochschild. added James Greenberger, executive technology and related business models director of the National Alliance for and costs. The new exhibition reflectsAdditionally, the maturation of the energy Advanced Technology Batteries (NAATBatt), Intersolar’s commitment to staying ahead ofstorage industry represents further a partner of ees North America. ‘Adoption market trends. With growing EV demand,opportunity for renewable energy growth. will be slower in areas where renewables are automakers and utilities are stepping up toEnergy storage boosts the power less prevalent but I think that the positive provide the necessary charginggeneration capacity of solar, and industry economics of solar-plus-storage are now infrastructure to support the electricexperts have identified energy storage catching the attention of the most skeptical transportation future.technologies as the driving force behind folks in the utility sector.’widespread renewables implementation. According to The Global EV OutlookMandates in California and a proposed Intersolar North America has become one published by Organisation for Economicprogram in Arizona (https://www.utilitydive. of the industry’s most trusted events due to Co-operation and Development (OECD)com/news/arizona-regulator-proposes-80- its ability to address industry issues and International Energy Agency (IEA), theclean-energy-mandate-3-gw-storage- head-on and turn onsite discussions into global electric car stock doubled in sizetarget/515872/) demonstrate the potential critical business connections. From the from 1 million in 2015 to 2 million in 2016.for solar-plus-storage and point to biggest names in solar to promising The United States holds a strong lead inadditional market opportunities on the start-ups, Intersolar and ees North America the space and witnessed a 21 percenthorizon. GTM Research reports that from are dedicated to providing a platform for all increase in electric vehicles sales from2017 to 2023, the U.S. storage market is contributors to the global energy economy. 2016 to 2017, according to GTM Research.expected to grow to nearly 15 times its Year after year, attendees meet face-to- At Intersolar and ees North America 2018,current size, with behind-the-meter face with the market leaders, founders, there will be a one-day Power2Drive policymakers, and downstream conference track with four sessions on the professionals that matter to their business. topic of electric transportation, as well as one full day of presentations on the ees ‘The wonderful thing about this highly North America stage. technical industry is that everyone has a dream and they want to make it come Networking events spotlight local true,’ said Paula Mints, founder and chief solar industry market research analyst at SPV Market Research. ‘I love the drive to innovate In partnership with ees North America, – innovation is built into the industry DNA Intersolar North America hosts off-site and, let’s face it, what better place to have special events that allow attendees to a conference about business and experience the beauty of the San Francisco technology than in San Francisco?’ Bay Area outside of the exhibition and conference halls. Special events on the This year’s event features three exhibition program for the 2018 event include the SF pavilions: the Powerhouse Pavilion, which Bay Sailing Tour, Solar Winery and returns for its third year to feature Microgrid Tour, Exploratorium Museum entrepreneurs and early-stage energy Tour and more. The proceeds from each of companies in partnership with Powerhouse, these events go to local solar advocacy the world’s only incubator and accelerator groups and longtime Intersolar partners, dedicated to solar; and two pavilions like the California Solar & Storage hosted in partnership with the California Association, NorCal Solar and others. Solar and Storage Association, the Intersolar is proud to support both the California Solar Pavilion and the brand-new California and U.S. solar industries. California Energy Storage Pavilion. Year after year, Intersolar North America returns For years, Intersolar has funded local to San Francisco, the epicenter of market development through policy- and technology innovation and cutting-edge industry-focused educational campaigns solar policy – these pavilions will provide a and fundraising activities with the California first look at the technologies that are poised Solar and Storage Association and other to disrupt the industry. regional organizations. Summerfest, hosted in conjunction with long-time event partner ‘California always plays a leading role,’ said California Solar & Storage Association, Bernadette del Chiaro, president of the formerly CALSEIA, is the largest networking California Solar & Storage Association. In event at Intersolar and ees North America. addition to sponsoring the California In addition to being the hotspot for solar pavilions, the organization has long been an pros to network and discuss the evolving Intersolar North America supporter, partner marketplace, all proceeds benefit the and speaker. ‘We’re more ambitious with California Solar & Storage Association. our renewable energy goals and can provide market know-how to the rest of the www.intersolar.us www.pessolar.com 19

ASK THE EXPERTSPECVD tool meets industryexpectations for HJTPES were eager to meet Frank Jürgens, Sales & Marketing technology, mainly PECVD and PVD.Director, INDEOtec SA, to learn more about their innovativedeposition platform for HJT and high-efficiency cells, The senior team has an impressive trackOCTOPUS, using the Mirror reactor concept. It is both record of PECVD reactor technology andrenowned and exclusive. He predicts higher and cleaner cluster tool development, for the display flatmanufacturing standards including high-end, high-purity panel and PV thin film industry, which datestool sets are on the near horizon and this dynamic back to 1980. For example, key PECVDcompany is ready to adopt them. reactor milestones such as the Plasmabox and more than 6 system generations of thePES: Welcome back to PES Solar/PV industry to you. famous KAI PECVD cluster tool, formagazine. Thanks for talking with us. substrate panel sizes of Gen 5 and aboveFor the benefit of our readers we Frank Jürgens: Founded in 2007, have been developed by Prof. Jacqueswould like you to begin by explaining INDEOtec is a relatively new, Swiss based Schmitt together with INDEOtec CEO Omidabout the background of INDEOtec and equipment manufacturing company, Shojaei (Ph.D.) and successfullythe importance of the Solar/PV headquartered in Neuchâtel (NE), which commercialised at Unaxis/Oerlikon, which specialises in high-end thin film deposition resulted in revenues of > 2.0 Bn USD. The next generations of PV cells will apply more and more sophisticated thin film manufacturing technologies in order to achieve efficiency levels up to 30% and even more.20 PES Solar

ASK THE EXPERTSINDEOtec’s deposition platform named advantages of the cluster tool, both in per chamber do processing alwaysOCTOPUS, with its proprietary Mirror terms of performance and cost savings? simultaneously. Also, the shared usage ofreactor technology, has been really tuned to components, i.e. pumps, gas feeding,the needs of novel cell concepts such as FJ: The PV industry is extremely cost heating etc. avoids spending onHJT and subsequent high-efficiency cell sensitive; i.e. everything which does not components and thus saves CAPEX.architectures. Also, our experience and add value has to be minimised or avoided.knowledge in designing high-throughput Handling and automation is one of the The combination of all these designsystems made OCTOPUS III the champion. non-value adding cost drivers. On the other features makes OCTOPUS III the tool with hand, the future cell architectures require the highest throughput in its category, withPES: We have heard a lot about your more sophisticated manufacturing > 3’400 wph the highest, the best footprint/reactor concept for PECVD deposition technologies. performance and price/performance ratio.applications; could you please explainthe various technologies and the For the HJT cell technology, and specifically The customer base of OCTOPUS II, our the case of PECVD deposition using the small scale system, is predominantly the PV parallel plate plasma generation method, research universe, namely labs and INDEOtec realised that state-of-the-art institutes. Apart from the Mirror reactor, the reactor technology always required a proof-of-concept was done with OCTOPUS permanent wafer flipping between the top II and the ACCT treatment, the system is and the bottom deposition cycle. This highly attractive due to the various creates unwanted handling, hence deposition chambers, which can be automation effort. connected to the system, even as an upgrade at a later stage. The INDEOtec team found a smart way to avoid exactly this unwanted wafer flipping It is possible to use RF PECVD chambers and vacuum breakage. We invented the for a wide range of silicon or Si-compound Mirror reactor concept, which is now both films, for example a-Si:H, SiO:H, SiC:H, renowned and exclusive. It is a rather easy but also crystalline structures like mc-Si, solution: for all depositions on the top wafer nc-Si or even epitaxial-Si or Si-compound surface the MirrorTOP reactor is used, vice layers. But also AR-coatings, such SiNx, versa the MirrorBOTTOM reactor is used for all SiONx or TCO layers (PVD chamber) can bottom layers. A simple transfer of the tray be deposited. from one reactor to the next is all that’s needed to change the deposition side. The For example, a complete heterojunction difference between this and the standard film stack can be done with OCTOPUS II method is the tray needs holes – the wafers without breaking the vacuum. You enter the are supported on their edges only. clean Si-wafer and can produce a complete device with all a-Si:H (intrinsic & Another striking advantage is the doped) layer stacks, including TCO layers implementation of a quick and extremely (ITO or similar) deposited on both sides by efficient reactor treatment method named a PVD module. INDEOtec’s process ‘ACCT’, which suppresses the cross know-how has been demonstrated to many contamination of the layers by dopants. For customers meanwhile. HJT specifically, this allows us to deposit all silicon thin film layers per wafer side in one PES: Has this led to a greater share of reactor. The effect: we can reduce the the market? number of PECVD reactors by half. FJ: The market recognition and demand for Last but not least, the cluster tool concept OCTOPUS II is clearly visible since we is well suited for the so-called parallel introduced it in 2015. The sales success is processing. In OCTOPUS III three reactors truly worldwide and we expect more business, with PV cell architecturesImage 1: illustration of OCTOPUS III PECVD system for HJT device processing entering higher efficiency levels and thus more sophisticated deposition technology. OCTOPUS III is in the prototyping stage and will be qualified both at INDEOtec and in the field by early next year. We face a clear and rising market demand for OCTOPUS III because of the benefits it offers to the PV cell manufacturing industry. PES: You have an approach looking at cell and manufacturing steps & cost reduction, what does this mean to the end user? FJ: The objective of the PV industry is pretty much straightforward: having manufacturing equipment and lines providing the highest available throughput, whilst consuming as low a footprint as possible. All this has to come at conversion costs as low as today’s levels or even lower. www.pessolar.com 21

ASK THE EXPERTSImage 2: Principal illustration of the Mirror reactor conceptSpeaking numbers for HJT, the industry still which are the key markets for PES: Looking ahead into 2018 andlooks for PECVD equipment with a capacity INDEOtec? Are there any areas, beyond, which trends and/or changes areof > 3’000 wph and a design potential to geographically speaking, that you like to you anticipating in the market and why?increase the throughput even further. The break into?conversion cost benchmark of a PERC FJ: The current investment cycle for themanufacturing line needs to be within reach FJ: INDEOtec will apply a manufacturing PERC technology is still ongoing, but we seeor should come close for an HJT line. The model, which matches the cost down clear signs of a change towards the nextcost of ownership of the PECVD process is requirements of the industry. Critical generation cell technologies like HJT, HBC,critical, because it represents approx. 40 components, SW and system control will TopCon and similar, simply because of the- 50% of a heterojunction line CAPEX. always be manufactured in house, whereas higher efficiency potential of > 28% which the standard components we will source these new cell architectures provide.OCTOPUS III matches all these from third parties. We will have local Forecasts expect a technology shift towardsrequirements. The system is designed to assembly shops in key regional markets. HE (high efficiency) cell devices to go >35%provide a throughput of > 3’400 wph and of market share in the next eight years.can principally double the capacity, whilst In terms of market penetration, we expectgenerally keeping its footprint of 9.6 x 11 m. to have the major part of the PV equipment And, similar to the semicon industry, aThe conversion cost level is already close business in Asia, but we also see promising higher device performance will requireto the industry expectations. developments in North America and the improved and innovative deposition Middle East. technologies. All this is accompanied byPES: We would be interested in hearing higher and cleaner manufacturingabout the USP’s (Unit Selling Points). In general, the global PV market expects a standards including high-end, high-purityWhat is it and how does it work staggering growth in the next decade and tool sets. INDEOtec is already prepared forin practice? most likely we will see more regions this and can quickly adopt these standards, entering the PV value chain, simply due to based on our experiences in clean andFJ: Let me summarise this as follows: the rising demand of PV cells and modules. high-purity industries like flat panel display.• H ighest Throughput by the Mirror PES: What is the single biggest www.indeotec.com concept, (No wafer flipping), combined challenge facing the PV high-efficiency layer deposition in ONE reactor (ACCT), cell market today? Prof. Jacques Schmitt, a member of parallel processing, (reactor stacking) INDEOtec’s advisory board, developed FJ: Over one year the PV industry has added the Plasmabox reactor concept, at• V ery low footprint by parallel processing, roughly 40 GW of production capacity, now Unaxis in the early 80’s. The PECVD (reactor stacking), reduction of reactors reaching a total amount of > 130 GWp, box-in-a-box concept describes a (ACCT) according to the ITRPV report for 2017. 90% separate vacuum box, with its own of this capacity is state-of-the-art, such as gate valve and sealed entirely from the• Low CAPEX by Mirror concept, (less BSF and PERC and the PV industry is really surrounding, outer PECVD chamber automation), reduction of reactors (ACCT), conservative in changing the technology so wall. Today this concept is widely parallel processing, (shared usage of easily and quickly. The invested capital in acknowledged as a base design for components) this giant production capacity is simply too PECVD reactors among European big and has to pay off. equipment manufacturers.PES: Can you provide us your principalroadmap for the OCTOPUS mass The entry opportunity for high efficiency Omid Shojaei, CEO of INDEOtec,production equipment? cells, such as HJT, is given with a reasonable developed more than 6 generations of efficiency advantage of 1% to PERC along KAI PECVD reactors and clusterFJ: We are planning of having our with a competitive cost structure. This entry production systems for the displayOCTOPUS III Alpha tool fully qualified in the point is now there and the efficiency industry. Apart from very rigidfirst quarter of 2019. At this point in time the advantage has to be maintained. cleanliness conditions and excellentofficial product launch will be initiated. But film properties, the form factor (displaywe have also started with the next- However, an HJT cell manufacturing line size) was the key driver for high-generation development of OCTOPUS IV, differs significantly from the current line throughput and big size reactors.which addresses the higher throughput technology; therefore cell manufacturersdemands, as well as potential advances in are starting to make greenfield investmentsthe HJT-based cell architecture. in order to maintain the business edge over BSF/PERC.PES: From where do you operate and22 PES Solar

Octopus III PECVD Cluster Deposition System for Heterojunction Cell Devices MIRROR REACTOR TOP MIRROR REACTOR BOTTOM Anti Cross-Contamination Treatment NO wafer flipping LESS handling complexity 3300 cells/[email protected]: +41 32 545 30 24

THINK TANKIV tester integratedelectroluminescence imagingin industrial Si solar cellproductionWords: Dr. K. Ramspeck, Dr. S. Fischer, S. Schenk, S. Zimmermann, Dr. M. Alt h.a.l.m. elektronik GmbHElectroluminescence (EL) imaging, as a versatile tool for tool in end-of-line testing of solar cellsspatially resolved defect analysis on Si-solar cells, has and modules.recently gained a lot of traction in its industrial application.In this article we discuss quality control and process control Its main applications in solar cell productionabilities of this technology and how it is applied in solar cell are quality sorting and identification ofproduction. We demonstrate how an IV tester-integrated processes that cause defects. For qualitysolution is ideally suited to increase quality and yield and sorting, cells containing different defectscorrelate the EL-data easily with IV results. exceeding a certain severity shall be sorted into lower quality bins. For the detection ofQuality requirements for solar cells are quantitative maps of cell parameters like J01 deficient production steps, statistics onconstantly rising. Besides the current- or series resistance from EL images (e.g. different defect categories are required. Tovoltage (IV) measurement as sole end of [1-6]), image analysis approaches obtain the relevant numbers, typically an ELline quality control tool so far, it becomes implemented in solar cell production focus evaluation pipeline is implemented (figure 1).necessary to detect deficiencies which do on extracting position, size, shape and In the first step, the image is recorded usingnot significantly affect the IV severity of individual defects on solar cells. optimised hardware settings including gain,measurement, such as e.g. cracks. image acquisition time and bias applied to Setting up EL imaging is relatively simple. the cell under evaluation. Step 2 comprisesThe minority charge carrier concentration From a hardware point of view, it only image pre-processing such as rectification,can be converted into the junction voltage requires contacting the cell in a dark defect pixel removal or filtering. In step 3,[3], which is either governed by the above environment, a power supply to provide a segmentation of the pre-processed imagementioned recombination processes or by forward bias and detecting the emitted light and feature extraction provide a list of defectseries resistance between the current with a suitable camera with high sensitivity candidates and their features. Filtering ofterminals and the position at which in the near infrared. Due to recent defect candidates based on their featuresradiation is emitted. The spatially resolved improvements in cell efficiency and provides the defects of interest in step 4.intensity of light emission is captured by a cameras, short measurement times below Finally, the last step comprises an evaluationCCD or CMOS camera, resulting in images 120 ms already yield a low-noise high- of the EL information of the whole cell underin which defects appear as darker regions. resolution image. test in order to assign a BIN class. PleaseTherefore, EL imaging is capable of note that the image analysis techniquesvisualising all defects induced by Giving information on all relevant defects employed for the different steps might differrecombination as well as series or parallel and being relatively simple to implement, between implementations.resistance. Whereas, a lot of scientific work EL imaging recently evolved from ahas previously been dedicated to deriving laboratory diagnosis tool to a widely used As a leading manufacturer of IV measurement equipment, h.a.l.m. elektronik GmbH has integrated the EL imaging system with the IV tester into one end-of-line characterisation platform (figure 2). The EL camera is mounted at the flash box, and the24 PES Solar

THINK TANKFigure 1: Scheme of a typical EL evaluation process flow, showing the different steps in the process of The ability to measure any kind of defectobtaining statistics on individual defects and defining a quality BIN for a solar cell from an EL image. makes EL a mighty tool, but leads to challenges in rigorously defining qualityEL image is acquired in one measurement self-adjusting maintenance concepts for criteria and discriminating the different rootsequence together with the IV curves. The smart PV factories. causes of visible defects. The mainsystem is equipped with automatic defect challenge is an unambiguous formulation ofdetection algorithms in the image analysis PVControl-EL-eval 2.0 incorporates two the requirements for the different qualitysoftware package PVControl-El-eval 2.0 concepts that can be combined or applied grades, including definitions for allready for usage with all common cell types. separately for solar cell quality and process occurring defects in all their control. Individual defects of different representations. Since most defects occurAcquiring IV data and an EL image without classes are extracted, visualised in an with different severities as shown for onere-contacting the solar cell saves floor- overlay image and their features such as example in figure 3, the line betweenspace, contacting equipment and (most count, area and severity are measured and different quality grades is intrinsicallyimportantly) reduces breakage rates. stored. Application of thresholds to these difficult to define.Furthermore, the results from EL imaging features provides a basic sorting of cellsand IV testing are collected in one database. into quality bins. However, the requirements A close cooperation of EL system supplierThis enables combined analysis approaches for solar cell sorting are typically more and solar cell manufacturer is thereforeof EL and IV results and statistical data complex and they are individual for each required, as the quality BIN definitionanalysis to correlate EL defects and their factory or at least for each company. typically cannot be described in a clearseverity with IV data anomalies. We expect Furthermore, they evolve as the production written specification. For determining thesuch integrative data correlation approaches process changes. For this purpose, h.a.l.m. BIN definition, it is particularly difficult toto become more common in the PV industry offers a cell sorting configuration that is set the cell grade for cells with defects ofin future, particularly in the context of specific to each customer. intermediate severity. According to our experience, the decision for such cells is so difficult that it depends on the person taking it or even varies if the same person assesses the same cell twice. The most reliable way to achieve a well-defined boundary between the different quality grades is sorting a batch of representative images by at least three trained employees of the solar cell manufacturer. The batch has to contain a sufficient number of images of cells with all defects that occur in the factory as well as images of cells without defects. Combining the rating from three experts consolidates clear assignments to quality bins and demonstrates in which cases it is notFigure 2: Setup of the h.a.l.m. IV tester with integrated EL system. The electroluminescence camera is mounted at the flash box of the IV measurement system and thesoftware displays IV and EL results together. www.pessolar.com 25

THINK TANKpossible to agree on a cell grade. This Figure 3: EL images showing cells with contact formation defect with increasing severity level. At the top, theprocess allows deducing for which cells the defect is almost not visible, while the last cell at the bottom shows a clear, large, almost black region.decision is clear and unambiguous as wellas sorting cells into the correct quality BINif the decision is more complex. Based onthe specification, a customer specificrecipe for the automatic defect detectionwith PVControl-EL-eval is tuned.In addition to improving the cell quality bysorting out defective cells, processoptimisation and even concepts ofautomatic maintenance are supported by awell mastered automatic defect analysis.This is especially the case if defects arecorrelated with IV data cell wise, as given bythe cetisPV-EL-package. The combination ofquality sorting and the detection of individualdefects, which cause quality issues, allows afeedback to the processes that areresponsible for them (figure 4).Mapping of e.g. gripper marks to theposition of the responsible gripper in thesolar cell production line thus becomespossible using the entire information on thedefect, provided by the analysis software.In this way, processes can be optimisedand tuned to reach higher yields, manuallyin the present and automatically in thefuture after clear correlations with theprocess steps have been identified in theproduction facilities.In conclusion, electroluminescence imagingallows a decent increase in product qualityand yield in solar cell production, providingspatially resolved information on defectswhich affect initial efficiency or may lead todegradation or breakage at a later stage.Exploiting its capabilities in an integratedmeasurement station together with the IVtester and providing best-in-class automaticdefect detection, the cetisPV-EL-packagetogether with PVControl-EL-eval 2.0provides a smart solution to benefit from ELimaging in solar cell production and to makethe factory ready for the future. www.halm.deReferences: Figure 4: Examples of correlation between EL-visible defects and solar cell processing steps.[1] T. Fuyuki, H. Kondo, T. Yamazaki, Y. 10-19 (2010) The, S.W. Glunz, W. Warta, D. Macdonald,Takahashi and Y. Uraoka, Appl. Phys. Lett. J. Tan, A. Cuevas, J. Bauer, R. Gupta, O.86, 262108 (2005) [6] T. Trupke, R.A. Bardos, M.D. Abott, P. Breitenstein, T. Buonassisi, G. Tarnowski, Würfel, E. Pink, Y. Augarten, F.W. Chen, K. A. Lorenz, H.P. Hartmann, D.H. Neuhaus,[2] U. Rau, Phys. Rev. B 76, 085303 (2007) Fisher, J.E. Cotter, M. Kasemann, M. J.M. Fernandez, Proc. of the 22nd EU- Rüdiger, S. Kontermann, M.C. Schubert, M. PVSEC, p. 22 – 30 (2007), Milan, Italy[3] K. Bothe, P. Pohl, J. Schmidt, T. Weber,P. Altermatt, B. Fischer and R. Brendel,Proc. of the 21st EU-PVSEC, p 597 - 600(2006), Dresden, Germany[4] O. Breitenstein, A. Khanna, Y. Augarten,J. Bauer, J.-M. Wagner and K. Iwig, Phys.Status Solidi RRL, 4, 1, p. 7-9 (2010)[5] J. A. Giesecke, M. Kasemann, M.C.Schubert, P. Würfel and W. Warta, Prog.In Photovoltaics: Res. And Appl., 18, p.26 PES Solar



THINK TANKPhotovoltaic in the fast lane:a short case for qualityDirk Tegtmeyer, CEO Ingenieurbüro Mencke & Tegtmeyer much more important to be within the limitGmbH, gives PES a short look into the near future and of planned yields. Every loss in energyexplains why quality is paramount as PV conquers the world output costs not only money, but stabilityand nobody can stop it. Even in Germany, where politicians for the grid. Therefore it is very important totried to shut down PV installations and industry, the news know the actual yield and performance ofgets better every year. the system throughout the whole of the day. Real time monitoring gives supply securityThe last tender for renewables saw a 32 to residential houses it will be cheaper to and helps the operator to run the system0 for PV to wind energy. This is good for PV, install a small battery system for use of PV within the planned range.but we should have wind in mind as well. energy instead of buying from the utilityThe actual news says that Intersolar companies. Using optimised control Many activities and solutions are wellGermany is already booked out. And systems the energy drawn from the grid can known and used for detecting defects andFraunhofer ISE announces that PV energy be minimised to less than 20 % of the specific problems like micro cracks in PVis already cheaper than fossil energy in overall consumption. Together with new modules due to problems duringsome installations in Germany. While concepts of electric vehicles, with production, transport or installation.Photovoltaic components become cheaper bidirectional charging, this step can get to Portable flash-light systems,and cheaper, one has to think about the more autonomy and the energy yield can be electroluminescence measurements,energy output. seen directly through the control systems. drones with infrared cameras or photoluminescence measurements areWhat will be main stream and what will For large-scale installations of grid- commonly used to detect failures within thebecome another part of PV industries? For connected systems the energy output is modules and strings. Experts for maintenance and service nowadays are able to find the most important failures in the electric installation28 PES Solar

THINK TANKand inverters within a short time. But all companies could afford these installations can start.these points are minor. The priority has to in more and more systems.be to set quality in production, transport, The time, when electro mobility willinstallation and monitoring, so that failures Over the the last years it has been possible increase the possibility of bidirectionalcan be minimised during the complete to improve the measurement uncertainty for charging and discharging and will providelifetime of a PV system. irradiance measurements significantly and real estate owners with PV systems to run also to optimise the mean-time between the combination of PV, battery and vehicleIngenieurbüro Mencke & Tegtmeyer GmbH failures. Si sensors have been available for in optimum mode.(M&T) not only equipped industry and PV system monitoring for 20 years andresearch institutes with tools for quality more. There M&T only wants to see their Building integrated PV was a nice and alsoassurance, but also provided experiences sensors back for recalibration. large part of installations during the 1990sto installers and consultants. in Germany, but was forgotten during the There are many solutions that upgrade PV large-scale PV installations in the newStarting with sun simulators and I-V curve installations to a new level. And there are century. But the know-how is still there andanalysers for research, development and solutions that have been great in the past, some production lines are producingPV module production, especially the large but have become almost invisible as well. modules for multifunctional facades again.range of silicon irradiance sensors made it Hopefully we will see more of these buildingeasy and cost-effective for monitoring Balcony modules with integrated inverters integrations within the near future.companies. The additional costs for for direct grid plug-in are within in sight inmonitoring went down, so that many Germany. All technical specifications have www.ib-mut.de been discussed and now the installationsFaçade of the ADAC building integrated PV system, built in 1998 takenby Dieter Osmer the installer of the system, which was designed by DetlefMencke, one of the founders of M&TIngenieurbüro Mencke & Tegtmeyer Feb 2005 IMT Solar becomes exclusive 2009 First steady-state sunGmbH: a brief history distributor for Northern America simulator upgrade with LEDJuly 1993 Founded by Detlef Mencke Nov 2005 N ew housing for silicon 2011 Planned 600 kWp PV project and Dirk Tegtmeyer as a irradiance sensor ‘Messehallen Bremen’ spin-off of Institut für Solarenergieforschung Jul 2006 Big measuring project with Aug 2011 M oved to new company Hameln / Emmerthal (ISFH) display tableau for FH Wels, building Austria 2011/2012 Planned 490 kWp PV projectNov 1993 F irst PV I-V curve analyser Aug 2006 F lyBy becomes exclusive at Hannover Airport sold distributor for ItalyMar 1994 First steady-state sun 2012 First LED flash-light sun simulator sold simulator sold 2007 P lanned 5 PV projects (overall 554 kWp) Sep 2015 First own analogue output1995 F irst silicon irradiance Nov 2007 F irst PV module multiplexing temperature sensors sold sensors sold unit, automatic measurement of I-V curvesJan 1999 F irst employee Nikolai Maris, May 2017 F irst own digital output one of three owners since Jan temperature sensors sold 2011 Jan 2008 Changed company into a GmbH Jul 2017 Optimised uncertainty of silicon irradiance sensorsSep 2003 First own PVK software for Feb 2008 F irst SolarFlare flash-light sun published MS Windows, for I-V curve simulator sold analyser Jun 2008 F irst digital port silicon Sep 2017 First UniformSun test module irradiance sensor sold for measuring localDec 2004 M oving to first own company homogeneity of sun building simulators sold www.pessolar.com 29

WORLDYOUR SOLAR 2018OmUeTdiNaOdaWtaCOVEREDSOLAR/PV Studer Innotec Huawei ABB Solar IMT Pablo Muñoz, Technical Support PES takes a look at Huawei’s Leonardo Botti talks to PES Photovoltaic in the fast lane from Manager at Studer Innotec talks new, flexible PV systems for about ABB Solar's solid technical Dirk Tegtmeyer IMT Mini-grid solutions home owners expertise and knowledge It’s that time of year again! We look ahead and preview two of the biggest and most important events on the global solar calendar in 2018. The Intersolar Europe in Munich & the Intersolar North America in San Francisco 2018 Plus, enjoy our frequent offering of opinion, product advances and industry insight.POWER & ENERGY SOLUTIONS • ISSUE 32, 2018 BREAKING NEW GROUND As the industry continues its rapid evolution, there are continuing technological advances and breakthrough developments that look set to shape the future of our industry SOLAR ENERGY’S ESSENTIAL MEDIA DESTINATION 24,000+ READERS EXTENSIVE ONLINE AND MOBILE REACH BIG NAME INTERVIEWS NEWS, VIEWS AND ANALYSISUNMISSABLE FEATURES AND AGENDA-SETTING COMMENT email [email protected] today www.pessolar.com

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THINK TANKDashboard LoggerDon’t play with PV powerPV energy has become indispensable for power companies. are taken care of as quickly as possible.About 390 GW are installed around the world and a growthof 113 GW is expected this year. PES investigates the Persistently exposed to wind andimportance of monitoring. weatherWhy PV monitoring is important technology for generating power from The basic components of a PV plant sunshine established itself. As it became generally include PV modules, solarThere are many reasons for the success of more popular, the technology was cables, inverters and feed-in meters. ThePV energy. It is decentralised, has a simple optimised and became more efficient and individual modules are connected togethertechnology and, above all, it is cost- durable. At the same time, the price for and produce direct current from solareffective to produce. In fact it’s the most modules decreased, accelerating the irradiation. The solar cables connect thecost-effective way of generating energy. spread of PV power. PV modules to the strings and, in turn, toMost PV plants even pay for themselves the inverter. The inverter converts thethanks to feed-in tariffs, direct marketing, However, a growing PV market also means direct current and makes the convertednet-metering, and self-consumption. Thus, rising investments. More and more money power usable.every hour of sunshine is worth hard cash, from companies or private entities goeswhich needs to be ensured. towards solar power generation and PV is In this system, the modules endure the becoming essential as a reliable power most wear and tear as they are constantlyPV energy is becoming more and supply. It is critical, regardless of whether exposed to the weather. Continuous UVmore relevant. or not it is a private residential roof system exposure, shadowing, and dirt can cause or a free-standing plant, that every plant performance losses. The wiring facesReal interest in solar PV power began about operates smoothly and that malfunctions similar problems since it is also exposed to20 years ago. Slowly but surely, the new the elements that can lead to damage such as cable breaks or short-circuits. It is rare that an inverter fails, but when it does, it has a great impact on the electricity32 PES Solar

THINK TANKproduction. Other problems can arise from from other plants. When deviations are no longer effective enough for many plantthe grid feed-in: disconnection or throttling. detected, the system reports an error via operators. Generally, the more measured email or text message (SMS) to the plant values that the monitoring device receives,All of these potential vulnerabilities have to owner and/or the installer. the more precise the analysis and errorbe kept in view to ensure trouble-free detection. Additional sensors for solarelectricity production. PV monitoring Precise measurements and error irradiation, wind, air, and modulesystems such as the Solar-Log™ from identification temperature are connected, for moreSolare Datensysteme GmbH – one of the accurate monitoring. For example, anleading monitoring system manufacturers A comparison of production values is the irradiation sensor allows the deviation– monitor the power yields from the plant simplest plant monitoring variant, but it is between the actual and potential yield to beand inverter status, triggering alarms when calculated. This ‘basic monitoring’ is oftendeviations are detected. used at smaller residential plants.A must have PV plant monitoring Solare Datensysteme GmbH offers three different monitoring systems for plants upThe fundamental principle of PV monitoring to 10 or 15 kWp. The Gateway Solar-Log 50is simple, but its role in ensuring maximum has the advantage that its functions can beyield is of great importance. The monitoring expanded at any time with additionaldevice is connected to an interface on the licenses. For example, when the plantinverter and continuously receives data, output increases, just purchase a newsuch as the amount of power fed into the license rather a new monitoring system.grid. This allows the monitoring system todetect errors and establish ‘normal’ Further models include the Solar-Log 250production values. and the Solar-Log 300. The latter one includes standard functions for theFor more accurate data, the following optimisation of the consumption ofinstallation details should be defined during self-produced power. For large plants, inthe set up: power, location, roof pitch of the the commercial and industrial segments,PV plant as well as the brand and type of monitoring for individual module groups ormodules and inverter. In order to configure strings is often needed. String Connectionthe expected yield values, the analysis Boxes (SCB), which allow several strings toprogram constantly compares the values be connected to an inverter, can be used.from the monitored PV plants with those The Solar-Log 1200, 1900 and 2000 are geared towards the monitoring and special requirements of these large plants. Detection, analysis, and optimisation The collection of multiple data points puts a higher importance on a clear presentation for analysis of the data. Reports and yield values can be viewed directly on the screen of the device, in a web browser, online portal, or with a mobile app. The online portal with detailed graphs and reports is the easiest method with the most functionality. The monitoring system is connected to the internet and transfers data to a portal such as the www.pessolar.com 33

THINK TANKSolar-Log WEB Enerest™. In addition to appliances. A power meter is added to the my plant? How many inverters does itthe yield in kilowatt hours, the total amount monitoring system to calculate the power have? Is the PV power fed into the grid orof C02 emissions avoided, the current consumption. The power surplus is consumed locally and are there feed-inefficiency of the inverters and other calculated from the power production and management requirements? Plantrelevant data is displayed. consumption data. With this data, integrated operators like installers or O&M providers appliances such as water heaters, heat need this information to provide theThis also includes the module temperature pumps, and air-conditioning devices are appropriate advice and recommend thetimeline, one of the major factors in the turned on and off as needed. For example, best system.efficiency of the plant, and the individual when there is enough solar irradiation andtimelines of inverters when the plant has thus energy, the system detects this and can In this regard, it is also important to thinkseveral inverters. A good online portal activate the house’s internal heat pumps. If about who will take care of monitoring thealso has additional functions such as the the amount of surplus power increases plant in the future. Many plant owners wantrecording and comparison of historical during the day, other appliances can be to have their PV plant monitored by adata and comparison to other plants in the manually turned on. professional to save time and have thearea. The analysis of this data helps peace of mind that failures are detecteddetect the failure of individual components Whether small or large, old or new – it is immediately. At the end of the day, it isand the gradual processes such as dirt important to keep the following in mind about optimising the PV output withand degradation. minimal effort at low costs and ensure that When looking for the right monitoring you get the most from your solar energySelective grid feed-in of power yields system, it is important to analyse what the and PV investment. requirements for the system are and whichModern energy management systems not plant conditions are present. How large is www.solar-log.comonly monitor plants but also carry out otherimportant functions such as power gridfeed-in management. Grid feed-inregulations vary from country to countryand sometimes from plant to plant. Oftenthe amount of power fed into the grid has tobe reduced to a particular value (X%). Thatmeans only part of the installed PV power isallowed to be fed into the public power grid.Some power companies send commandsto control the feed-in power.The monitoring system has to register anddocument the grid operator’s reductionrules. The German-made Solar-Log™system covers the full range of powerreduction controls and requirements forgrid stability ranging from remote control tofixed percentage reductions (X%).Direct consumption of PV energyDirect consumption of PV energy has beena key issue during the 20-year PV historyand is in greater demand today than everbefore. In markets where grid parity hasbeen achieved, using self-produced poweris more valuable than feeding it into the gridand then purchasing power from the grid.The biggest obstacle for self-consumptionhad been the option to store power.Thanks to new heating systems,electromobility, and improved batterysystems, the consumption of self-producedpower is becoming more attractive foroperators. Modern monitoring systems fulfilimportant functions with the targetedconsumption of PV power by managing theenergy flows in the building and include thevisualisation of production andconsumption. There is also the possibilityof controlling the connected powerconsumers, appliances and storage.Smart energy managementMonitoring devices like Solar-Log™ areequipped with additional functions to control34 PES Solar

Shaping the Future TodayThrough InnovationSolar-Log™ - The Intelligent Energy Management SystemSolar-Log™ products are used all over the world in more than 114 countriesfor monitoring photovoltaic plants, optimizing consumption of self-producedpower, and managing energy fed into the power grid. As one of the leadingcompanies in the industry, Solar-Log™ offers a wide-range of solutions forsmall, medium, and large PV plants. Innovative Solar-Log™ products meet thedemands of the PV market, for today and the future. Exhibition Munich June 20 - 22, 2018 Hall B2 - Booth 260Solare Datensysteme GmbH • Germany • [email protected] • www.solar-log.com

CORPORATE FOCUSThe Roboklin 25 tracked vehicle achieves a maximum cleaning rate of 1MW in five hours. Photo: MessersiEfficient, automatedcleaning for large PV farmsIt is well known that on large scale PV farms clean panels are vehicle is in motion.essential in order to produce peak yields. The Italian companyMessersì has been offering PV cleaning solutions for 7 years. The hydraulically controlled telescopic armsTheir product, Roboklin 25, is a fully automated machine and are also cleverly designed. They can cleanit delivers efficient cleaning to large PV farm operators. from a distance of up to 9m between the vehicle and the module and an articulatedThe company’s main business is actually The telescopic arms have maximum lengths arm lets the cleaning systems move freelybuilding special vehicles for construction of 4 and 6.5m. Two washing systems can to the left or the right.and agriculture, the Roboklin 25 was be mounted on them. There is either adeveloped as a solution for cleaning solar sprinkler system with a maximum pressure The track undercarriage is suitable for allmodules. 40 units have been sold of 40bar or a rotating brush: 3 sizes of 2.2, ground conditions and drives at a maximumworldwide so far. 3.6 and 4.2m long. speed of 11km/h. The Roboklin 25 base comes from Messersì’s 60 years’During 7 years, working in many different Both systems are supplied from a tank with experience in construction equipment andconditions around the world Messersì a capacity of 2400l. Cleaning is controlled earthmoving machines. They are aacquired a lot PV cleaning experience. The through ultrasound sensors, which ensure worldwide leader in the compact trackedtracked vehicle is powered by a that the distance between the modules and dumper market. The tracks are designed toturbocharged diesel engine from Kubota the cleaning system is always the same, absorb all the roughness of the ground inand has a maximum cleaning capacity of automatically compensating for order to limit the vibrations, which could be1MW in five hours. irregularities on the ground whilst the dangerous for the oscillations of the brush on the panels during the cleaning operation. www.messersi.it www.roboklin.com36 PES Solar

S.p.A.MAXIMIZES THE PERFORMANCE AND THE EFFICIENCY OF YOUR PHOTOVOLTAIC PANELS!- \"ULTRASOFT\" WASHING BRUSH (LENGHT UP TO 4.200 mm) OR MULTI-SPRINKLER BAR AT LOW PRESSURE (40 bar)- AUTOMATIC ELECTRONIC CONTROL OF THE DISTANCE OF THE WASHING SYSTEM FROM THE PANELS BY ULTRASONIC SENSORS- THE TELESCOPIC BOOM CAN BE EXTENDED UP TO 9 m AND WASH IN BOTH SIDES- ALL TERRAIN MACHINE THANKS TO THE TRACKED UNDERCARRIAGE CAN FACE EVERY GROUND CONDITIONS- 2,4 lt TURBO DIESEL ENGINE 59 HP- 2.400 LITERS WATER TANKItaly Tel. +39 071.688771 r.a. - Fax +39 071.688586 Web: www.roboklin.com E-mail: [email protected]

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TALKING POINTA combination ofdifferent exhaust gaspurification processes Industrial exhaust gas purification is a vast area. There are many different technologies and facilities for the effective treatment of pollutant emissions. This is primarily due to the high heterogeneity of exhaust gases from different industrial processes. PES delves deeper. systems for thermal or wet-chemical ‘In order to find the best possible exhaust treatment as well as dry bed absorbers can gas purification solution for an industrial be combined with each other according to application, the various factors of an customer specifications. At the same time, application must be carefully considered,’ intelligent communication of the system explains Thomas Kraus, Sales Manager modules guarantees safe and cost- Europe at centrotherm clean solutions optimised operation at all times. GmbH & Co. KG. ‘In addition toThomas KrausDepending on the application, the This diagram shows a combined exhaust gas cleaning system with two absorber modules, a pumpcomposition of the exhaust gas can vary module and a thermal module (from left to right). Source: centrotherm clean solutions GmbH & Co. KGgreatly from process stage to processstage. The modular system allowsindividual adaptation to the specificprocess application.This poses a challenge for conventionalsystems for exhaust gas purification, asindividual exhaust gas purificationtechnologies are often pushed to their limitsfor variable gas compositions. centrothermclean solutions GmbH & Co. KG hastherefore developed a modular system forcleaning exhaust gas.The modular system combines differentcleaning technologies put togetherdepending on requirements. Cleaning www.pessolar.com 39

TALKING POINTenvironmental protection and minimisation reasons for this include the high complexity These include in particular the existingof health risks for employees, operational of such complete systems and the fact that building installations at the site, the specificand maintenance costs, running costs and most suppliers specialise in one technology. process application, as well as any localthe flexibility of the process to adapt to environmental regulations for industrialdifferent process conditions also play a Modular design for the best possible companies. Based on these basic conditions,central role.’ exhaust gas cleaning different technologies or individual modules can be combined individually in a modularWhile the various options for exhaust gas centrotherm clean solutions’ product system to form a complete system for thecleaning, such as exhaust gas combustion, portfolio covers the purification of exhaust respective application.the removal of pollutants using a dry bed gases in a variety of industrial applicationsabsorber or wet scrubbing, have been using various technologies. When designing The combination system assembled in thisestablished on the market as individual a system, consideration of customer- way is has a central control system withsystems for some time, combinations have specific system requirements plays a touch screen on which the entire systemso far not gained much acceptance. The central role. function is fully visualised. Connection to a central control room is also possible. In thiscentrotherm’s exhaust gas purification system is designed as a modular system. Depending on way, all important system parameters canrequirements, different cleaning technologies are combined modularly. Cleaning systems for thermal or be conveniently monitored and controlled.wet-chemical treatment as well as dry bed absorbers can be combined with each other according tocustomer specifications. Source: centrotherm clean solutions GmbH & Co. KG By closely coupling the signalling with the production plant, the exhaust gasDifferent modules can be flexibly combined to form a complete system: This combined exhaust gas purification system automatically regulatescleaning system has two thermal modules, four dry bed absorbers and two pump modules on the long the necessary output for disposal, as wellside. Source: centrotherm clean solutions GmbH & Co. KG as selection of the module that is suitable for the respective process step. ‘As the solution is not an out-of-the-box product but always custom tailored, we can be flexible in adapting the system to the requirements on site,’ says Kraus. Application example: Purification of a toxic, highly flammable gas mixture from a semiconductor process The waste gases to be disposed of are fed to the plant via a central raw gas inlet with the aid of an integrated pump. Depending on the composition of the exhaust gas flow, the appropriate cleaning technology is allocated via a 3-way valve. In this particular case, the exhaust gas is first passed through two dry-bed absorber modules connected in series, in which reactive exhaust gas components are bound to granules by chemical absorption. ‘For this type of cleaning, a range of different absorber materials is available that has been developed especially for this area of application,’ continues Kraus. This technology is particularly suitable for the removal of highly toxic exhaust gas components as these are irreversibly bound to absorber granules, thus enabling safe and easy handling. If the exhaust gas composition changes in a further process step, the system automatically switches to the other module - for example, to a burner scrubber. This is particularly suitable for demanding industrial applications and performs cleaning by means of a combination of thermal treatment (exhaust gas combustion) and subsequent washing out. This means that the harmful gases are thermally decomposed at very high temperatures and the combustion products are washed out in a subsequent wet processing section. Easily combustible or pyrophoric gas mixtures, etc. can be disposed of. Even gases that can only be decomposed at high temperatures, such as perfluorinated40 PES Solar

TALKING POINT‘As the solution is notan out-of-the-boxproduct but alwayscustom tailored, we canbe flexible in adaptingthe system to therequirements on site’hydrocarbons (PFCs), which are particularly This combined exhaust gas cleaning system is equipped with a thermal module, two dry bed absorbersharmful to the climate - can be disposed of and a pump module. Source: centrotherm clean solutions GmbH & Co. KGin this way in an environmentally friendlymanner. The combination of both systemtypes means the optimum exhaust gascleaning technology is available for eachprocess step, thus ensuring optimumcleaning efficiency at minimum operatingcosts at all times.‘In developing our modular system, we haveresponded to the growing demands placedon modern exhaust gas purificationsystems. Benefits for customers played acentral role in this. The combination systemallows us to adapt flexibly to individualneeds and challenges,’ Kraus concludes.The centrotherm clean solutions exhaustgas cleaning concept is designed forlow-maintenance and reliable operation,while also allowing uninterrupted operationduring maintenance work. Thus, in additionto the modules combining differenttechnologies, individual backupconfigurations are also possible. Forexample, if a module is serviced or fails, thesystem automatically switches to anothermodule. The central control for all modulesallows simple and practical operation of theentire system.Thomas Kraus In addition to the combination of different technologies, backup configurations are also possible, which, for example, ensure uninterrupted operation even during maintenance work. Source: centrotherm clean‘In order to find the best possible solutions GmbH & Co. KGexhaust gas purification solution for anindustrial application, the various More info for readers/viewers/interested More information is available to editorsfactors of an application must be parties: ABOPR Pressedienst B.V.carefully considered,” explains Leonrodstraße 68, 80636 MünchenThomas Kraus, Sales Manager Europe centrotherm clean solutions GmbH & Tel.: +49 (0)89 500315-20, Fax: +49 (0)89at centrotherm clean solutions GmbH Co. KG 500315-15& Co. KG. “In addition to Johannes-Schmid-Strasse 3, 89143 Email: [email protected] protection and Blaubeuren Internet: www.abopr.deminimization of health risks for Tel.: +49 (0)7344 92494-0,employees, operational and Fax: +49 (0)7344 92494-199 May be reprinted free of charge if sourcemaintenance costs, running costs and Email: [email protected] acknowledged, specimen copythe flexibility of the process to adapt to requesteddifferent process conditions play a www.centrotherm-cs.decentral role.’Source: centrotherm clean solutions www.pessolar.com 41

ASK THE EXPERTSIt’s all in the handling! At PES we were pleased to sit down with Juan Ramirez, Vice President, A.S. Plastics Technology, Inc. and learn about their innovative QC-SYSTEM and what it offers to the solar/PV industry. With over 30 years’ experience in Europe and Asia, AS is now in the process of conquering the US market. It’s an exciting time for them. Juan Ramirez PES: Welcome to PES Solar magazine. solar industry, electroplating industry, and Thanks for talking with us. Would you pharmaceutical industries to name a few.42 PES Solar like to begin by explaining a little about the background of A.S. Plastics Our key to success has been knowing the Technology, Inc. and the importance of requirements of each industry, providing the Solar/PV industry to you? our customers simple to use products, using high quality materials to manufacture Juan Ramirez: Thank you for having us. or products, and maintaining and A.S. has been providing customer based incorporating key safety factors that protect solutions since 1987. We have served many the handlers and facility. industries worldwide, such as the general chemical industry, semiconductor industry, The solar/PV industry is important to us

ASK THE EXPERTSbecause we are aware of the constant push These are major improvements over chemicals are subjected to the atmosphere.of newer and better technology. With this conventional dispensing methods that are It can provide an inert environment duringtype of growth, we always like to help improve still in use today. With tightening and after filling. Due to its design theclassical chemical handling to fit today’s government regulations, our QC-System handler contact with these chemicals isstandards and regulations. Our focus begins can help meet those requirements in an greatly reduced.from the initial stages of manufacturing. economical way and easily integrated in an existing system. PES: What are the main advantagesWe believe that handling chemicals, with of this type of system in comparisonour high purity plastics equipment and PES: Is this a system that you believe to others?safety technology, gives a cleaner and safer can help further strengthen A.S.use of specialty chemicals and hazardous Plastics Technology, Inc.’s position in JR: The main advantages that the QC-raw materials. the US PV market? System offers is safety, compatibility, andPES: Are you experiencing growth in JR: The QC-System can strengthen our • Patented key code system that preventsthis market? position in the US PV market. Not only do product mix ups. We keep a universal list we focus on key safety features for of chemical codes that are used globallyJR: Yes, with new industry demand and chemical handling but we also know the for easy reference. The system can begovernment regulations our products are stringent requirements for high purity. Also bought uncoded for stock keeping. It isbecoming a top solution for our existing improving our technologies and moving into simple enough that handlers can keycustomers, as well as a new solution for an era of reducing impurities in the wafers. code themselves.potential customers. Treating the silicon wafers has always been a key step in providing the best quality. The • Closed loop system: eliminates venting inPES: We have been hearing about your QC-System improves the way electronic to the atmosphere. Our dispense headsQC-SYSTEM, please can you tell us what chemicals are manufactured transported allow for venting and inerting during fillingthis is and what it offers the customer and dispensed, which in turn helps improve and emptying. This prevents overand why this is so important? the end product. pressure and vacuum scenerios.JR: The QC-System is our own patented PES: Please can you explain what • Material compatibility: the QC-System isname brand that is short for Quick- benefits this technology offers to the manufactured with high purity plasticsConnect System. The main advantages of end user? with no metal components. PE, PP, PFA,this are that it provides a closed loop PVDF, Electrically conductive version, andsystem that prevents venting into the JR: The QC-System enables the electronic other variationsatmosphere, a patented key code system chemical suppliers to better improve theirthat prevents chemical mix-ups, and a drip processes and packaging. Our system • Variety of dip tubes for all kinds offree disconnection. helps minimise the amount of time these containers and dispense heads for every application. www.pessolar.com 43

ASK THE EXPERTSPES: Which type of company or PES: Where do you operate, where are We are new to the US market and pleasedcustomer would typically benefit from the key markets for A.S. Plastics with the response we our receiving andusing your system? Technology, Inc.? already have some big orders on our books. With the QC-System how can we fail?JR: The manufacturers of electronic JR: All our products are currentlychemicals, as well as the end users of manufactured in Germany. Over our 30 www.as-plastech.comthese products. The QC-systems allows years of experience we have always beenfor a quick and clean way of handling able to meet our global demands while ASthese materials. maintaining short lead times. In the US, our office is located in the DFW area in Texas. • 3 1 years in business and experiencePES: How important is training to you as We are strategically situated so as to be in PV and Semiconductor Industrya company in view of the stringent able to serve the west coast and east coast.health and safety regulations? • 85 employees Our key market in the US has mostly beenJR: Training is very important to us here at high purity chemical handling. From the • 4500+ customers worldwideA.S. Plastics because we are well aware of beginning of March last year we changedthe hazards that can be arise when dealing our strategy, offering products suitable for • Strategic locations in USA, Europewith chemicals. Not only is our system the entire chemical industry. We provide a and in Asiafocussed on helping get a good end wide variety of options, as well as customproduct but it is focussed on the operators solutions that can help even the small, AS Products:and maintaining a safe facility. Health and niche chemical plants to the largersafety regulations drive the development of chemical manufacturers. • 100+ dispense head versionsthe QC-System by minimising the exposureto the operators with chemicals and PES: What does the rest of 2018 look like • 1000+ dip tube versionsallowing for a cleaner process, which help for A.S. Plastics Technology, Inc.?companies keep their facilities clean. • 100% customizable JR: The rest of the year looks promising. • Accessories for all products44 PES Solar

THE SMART HANDLINGOF LIQUID CHEMICALSQuickly Connected. Safely Dispensed.

ASK THE EXPERTSMade in Germany Gordon Clements, General Manager Residential Power & Energy VARTA Storage GmbH, caught up with PES, during his very busy schedule, to bring us up to date with the latest news from this innovative company. Gordon Clements PES: Welcome to PES Solar/PV and we see energy storage systems as key publication. Thanks for talking with us. to success in this.46 PES Solar Would you like to begin by explaining a little about the background of VARTA PES: Is this a growing market for you? storage and the importance of the Solar/PV industry to you? GC: Yes we are pleased to say the energy storage is a growing market for us. Our Gordon Clements: We are located in the success in Europe, as I have already Bavarian town of Nördlingen, Germany. We mentioned, shows we have the right have 130 years of experience in the battery products on the market. In future we aim to industry and have become a leading have a two digit market share number in all manufacturer of energy storage devices for of our markets. private households and tailor-made, large-scale storage applications. Plus, we PES: We see you have various storage provide powerful and reliable energy systems in a variety of industries; we solutions for the requirements of cordless would like to know more about these devices. So we are very experienced in solutions and the role they play. mastering the challenges of lithium-ion batteries efficiently and safely. GC: Energy storage systems are key to the energy revolution. For our customers we Our worldwide presence ensures fast and offer a wide range of flexible solutions. Our flexible solutions. The solar and PV industry solutions are reliable, safe and future proof. is really important for us. The global energy Most of our systems are expandable, so if storage is one of the vital challenges and the need for more kWh is needed you easily growth opportunities of the 21st Century have the possibility to upgrade it or cascade it. Flexibility is key for our systems.

ASK THE EXPERTSPES: We understand that ‘openness’ is PES: We see that your energy systems speaking, that you would like to breaksomething you feel strongly about, can are easy and fast to install, does this in to?you expand on this please? mean you do more work in your production plants? How much time is GC: We operate in DACH (Germany, Austria,GC: All VARTA energy storage systems are saved by the end user and is there a cost Switzerland), Italy, UK and Australia. In factable to communicate with measure and savings involved? since March 2018 households from Perth tocontrol devices, e.g. smart homes, smart Brisbane have been able to purchase energyload, e-mobility and data logging, and GC: We’re not doing this for cost savings storage systems ‘made in Germany’. Ourcontrol the load management of up to four from our side. We’re doing this because we VARTA pulse to be precise. The small,external circuits, e.g. E-Bikes or heat believe that all installers and customers compact wall-mounted storage system ispumps. For installers and end consumers benefit from fast installation times. Safety is available in two performance classes: pulseit’s important to have combinable and also a prime concern for us. Batteries are 3 with 3.3 kilowatt hours (kWh) and pulse 6expandable systems around the house. very complex and highly technical products. with 6.5 kWh. The storage systems areThey need to get along. The easier we make them to install the less compact and handy and yet of high quality. they are prone to failure. Perfect for anyone who not only wants toThat’s why we offer an open system, which generate energy for themselves, but alsois compatible with many applications and PES: What makes Varta storage wants to store it and consume it wheneverentrusts the decision to the installer and systems stand out from the competition they need it.end consumer. With a VARTA energy and why should customers choose you?storage system you don’t get stuck with In Feb 2018 a shuttle with equipment for aone provider. We remain open for a lot of GC: For the residential and industrial new mission in space was launched,application possibilities and extend our customer VARTA has a suitable energy heading to the International Space Stationproduct network continuously. storage system, the self-produced energy (ISS). On board was a lithium-ion polymer is available anytime as a proportion of the battery from VARTA Storage.PES: How does openness impact on consumption of your own power increasesyour clients? of up to 80%. This brings you energy- This is already the second time VARTA autonomy and can protect you from batteries have gone into space. It was aGC: Our openness gives our clients total increases in electricity costs. VARTA battery that provided the energy infreedom and flexibility. It doesn’t matter Neil Armstrong’s camera when hewhat components you’re having in your There is a dedicated VARTA technical became the first human to set foot on thesmart home, the VARTA energy storage service available and we are able to offer moon in 1969.systems will always fit in and work together help from planning to implementation.with existing products. One of the aims of this new mission, which We offer high quality products, made in involves several astronauts spending Germany and we have a big R&D section. around six months on board the ISS, is to These products are reliable, expandable, produce important findings by continuously safe and long lasting. monitoring the crew’s health. The customised energy solution was developed PES: How important is training to you as by VARTA Storage especially for the a company in view of the stringent mission. It supplies the energy needed for a health and safety regulations? device that measures the astronauts’ muscle tension. GC: Training is vital to us. Only qualified certificated installers are allowed to install As you can image the VARTA Easy Pack XL VARTA energy storage systems. We provide underwent a year of comprehensive testing training in house to both to our own for this mission. technicians and external companies. Who knows where our batteries will be PES: Where do you operate and where used next! are the key markets for Varta and are there are any areas, geographically www.varta-storage.com www.pessolar.com 47



VARTA Energy Storage SystemsBecome your own EnergySupplier now!The demand on energy storage systems may vary depending on the type of building,however the desire for reliability and safety applies for all technical solutions.ees Europe 2018 in MunichJune 20-22, 2018Visit us at booth B1.210 andfind out more about theconnectivity of our energystorage systems.130 Years of Battery Expertise in Your Energy Storage System. www.varta-storage.com

13th (2019) International Photovoltaic Power Generation and Smart Energy Exhibition & Conference See You in 2019Asian Photovoltaic Industry Association / Shanghai New Energy Industry AssociationShow Management: Follow Me Int'l Exhibition (Shanghai), Inc.Add：Room 902, Building No. 1, 2020 West Zhongshan Road, Shanghai 200235, ChinaTel：+86-21-33561099 / 33561095 / 33561096 Fax：+86-21-33561089For exhibition: [email protected] For conference: [email protected]