PES Solar 1 2022 new

THINK TANK Many different materials and parts make up a A failure may be regarded as a loss of material functions. Even a failure in a small part can solar PV farm, including PV modules, integrity, resulting in the inability of the have serious consequences. mounting parts, solar trackers, inverters, component or system to perform its normal power cables, substations and, increasingly, The typically high capital and low operating batteries. They are exposed to varying A typical 100 MWac solar project costs of utility scale solar assets require long degrees of solar irradiation, wind, rain, hail, comprises: 300,000+ PV modules; 3,500+ operational lifetimes of typically 30-plus snow, ice, salt and moisture, as well as tracker rows with motors, bearings and years to justify both initial investment and mechanical factors such as friction, all dampers; 45,000+ piles; 100+ km of later capital expenditure to restore potentially leading to integrity threats like cabling; and 40+ inverters. performance, which degrades over time. metal fatigue, corrosion, and cracking. Understanding why solar systems and solar power plants fail is therefore vital in delivering a secure supply of affordable renewable solar power to help decarbonize the global energy system. The failures challenge will become even greater; our Energy Transition Outlook forecasts a 20-fold expansion in solar generating capacity between 2019 and 2050. So, if a failure does occur, a thorough investigation and analysis of failures can help pinpoint causes to prevent further incidents, helping to reduce further technical and economic risk in utility-scale solar projects during operations. Learnings can also boost selection of more reliable materials, parts, and systems, to save cost and time on inspection, maintenance, repair and replacement, and avoid underperformance on future projects. The potential benefits are greatest when such knowledge is applied from early on in designing and constructing utility-scale solar projects. Operators can support this virtuous circle of learning and improvement by being prepared to undertake a thorough investigation, whether it is a formal root cause analysis (RCA) involving all stakeholders, or a more targeted apparent cause analysis (ACA). What is a root cause? There are broadly four types of failure and these may be interdependent or occur coincidentally: physical, or technical, human, organisational, or environmental, or external. Therefore, pinning down the cause of a failure in a complex interdependent system like a solar project can therefore be a major challenge likely to require input from multiple specialists. However, many failure analyses, often through laboratory investigation or engineering analysis, stop after establishing the physical roots within four fundamental categories: design deficiencies, materials defects, manufacturing/installation defects, and/or service life anomalies. For example, corrosion, cracking, and delamination are potential failure risks to the reliability of PV module components. Human root causes contributing to failure can be obvious but investigating human error can also identify latent causes that are organisational or procedural. Maybe solar PV modules or their components were damaged in shipping, handling, installation, or mounting on a tracker, for example. WWW.PESSOLAR.COM 101

THINK TANK Causes may also be environmental and wind loads. An example of this is the of collecting and analysing data to therefore beyond operator control. Solar development of advanced non-linear finite determine the immediate, basic, and root trackers can be subject to extreme wind element (FE) models for realistic simulation causes. The process aims to identify ways to loads, for instance, which can be amplified by of these structures. Properly implemented, prevent similar failures (or failure events) dynamic amplification. these models can provide better reoccurring. Figure 1 illustrates a typical understanding of structural behaviour given five-step approach to RCA, though we tailor What are the benefits of root product-specific characteristics. it to the failure event and a customer’s cause analysis? objectives. As shown, some steps are What does RCA involve? iterative as they may need repeating as new With sufficient time and investment to evidence emerges. undertake a comprehensive RCA the findings RCAs generally involve a detailed, systematic can help to design and implement effective process to identify the cause contributing to To determine the most probable root cause, mitigation strategies for the remaining plant a failure event. Drawing on our own the ideal RCA, unlike an ACA, incorporates operating life and to select and/or develop experience for illustrative purposes, the validation testing of the hypothesis of failure, materials and parts more fit for purpose. It OEM/manufacturer ideally is part of the RCA which takes time and likely involves support can also help in designing improved or new team coordinated by a specialist like DNV. from the original equipment manufacturer. parts requiring less maintenance and to The RCA’s advantage is that it provides the improve procedures and practices, such as After the customer or operator takes steps most comprehensive possible approach to better packaging and handling. Additionally, to preserve the evidence, failure determining root cause. improvements can also be made to design investigation follows a structured process quality assurance and quality control protocols and testing regimes. The benefits can therefore be realised across the whole lifecycle, from design, through to product selection and procurement, delivery, construction, commissioning. Also during operations and maintenance (O&M), when operators may need to understand underperformance to decide if further capex is needed and justified. Knowing root causes of common failures helps to develop and improve recommended practices for solar plant design and installation. Aggregating performance and failure data from operating utility-scale solar PV farms is also vital to validating computer models on which the industry will progressively depend for safe, cost-efficient, profitable operation as it embraces digitalisation and connectivity. Illustrating how Root Cause Analyses can be extended to provide insight and support both the operating project and the broader solar industry when issues arise, DNV uses advanced analysis tools simulating solar trackers to investigate how a tracker subject to a failure, flexes in reaction to Figure 1: DNV typical RCA failure investigation process (Adapted from IEC 62740:2015 Root Cause Analysis) 102 PES SOLAR

THINK TANK However, in practice a full formal Root necessary mitigation strategy. In other more targeted ACA, it is important that they Cause Analysis is often complicated to words, an Apparent Cause Analysis is a are, and can be seen to be, fully impartial. implement and undertake given the number pragmatic approach to failure investigation Because such independence is often of stakeholders who need to be involved, that arguably provides better value whilst essential to finding the actual root cause of a contractual complexities and the economic not diminishing the owner’s option for failure, we always treat all failure-related or imperative to return to full operation as contractual remedies through the EPC or incident-related information with the utmost soon as possible. O&M agreements or product warranties. confidentiality. That way, customers can be assured that their information is safe. Therefore, a more pragmatic approach is The importance of impartiality Independence and confidentiality help to often required. and expertise surmount limitations that proprietary models and design codes can impose on Apparent cause analysis a pragmatic Root cause analysis and apparent cause sharing know-how across the industry. It also approach to failure investigations analysis are among a range of DNV services means other parties are confident revealing that can support owners, operators, and to us essential information that would In practice, a full formal root cause analysis is investors through failure investigations in otherwise never be released. often complicated to implement and the utility-scale solar PV industry. Our Be prepared, just in case undertake. The RCA process sits within a experts also draw on deep and long With lifecycle cost growing in importance range of failure investigation services that experience globally in other types of to investors in utility-scale solar PV, it is customers can select from. Others include renewable energy projects and technology. essential in equipment selection, design apparent cause analysis (ACA), and more Other relevant services include site, plant, and construction phases to choose limited scope options such as independent and factory inspections; field testing and solutions that will perform optimally and inspections, and laboratory testing. measurement services; comprehensive data profitably for decades. analysis; laboratory testing, in some global However, when a failure does arise it is The main difference between RCA and ACA is locations; and computer-aided design / important to have adequate contractual that an ACA aims to establish why the problem computer-aided engineering simulation provisions that allow for owner-led failure happened in so far as reasonably practicable (CAD/CAE) simulation. investigation and warranties that adequately based on available information, reasonable cover the risks of underperformance and the effort, and the analyst’s experience and Our investment in accumulating these costs of remediation. Contractual aspects specialist engineering judgement. competences and capacity underlines the are often overlooked during the contract fact that properly performing failure negotiation phase. In contrast, a formal RCA would typically investigation and analysis requires an include all site-specific or equipment- unbiased perspective of the failure from w ww.dnv.com/power-renewables/ specific design, manufacturing, and multi-disciplinary experts, who have index.html operational subject-matter experts. It would experience in a range of failure analysis tools also involve a much deeper and more granular and access to well-established and Biography investigation. RCA requires a level of experienced laboratories. Richard Gledhill joined DNV in 2010 and cooperation from the OEM and third parties is currently Head of Section, Project that they may be, and are typically, unwilling Whether the approach involves a full RCA, or Engineering and Due Diligence, to provide. Such unwillingness realistically Australia, in the company’s Energy limits a RCA’s achievability and, therefore, Ways to be ready for a failure investigation Systems business. His primary role is the degree of success it might achieve above should the need arise include: supporting customers to develop, and beyond an ACA. finance, and construct utility-scale • E nsure access to product and renewable energy projects. An ACA extends the more basic failure construction documentation Richard has over 20 years’ professional investigation approach by including a review experience working in multiple countries, of potential causal factors by specialists and Do you have access to detailed including Australia, the UK and USA, and developing hypotheses of what caused the equipment and plant drawings and has expertise in team leadership, business failure. The ACA approach typically relies design documentation? development, renewable energy, product more on support from the solar farm owner design and project management. and readily available information obtained Are there installation and during construction and operation of the commissioning records? project, and less on the OEM. • H ave relevant Engineering In an ACA, subject matter experts review Procurement and Construction (EPC) potential causal factors and develop and Operations and O&M contract hypotheses of what caused the failure. This clauses usually generates recommended corrective actions that the customer or owner can take Can you undertake an independent to limit their exposure to certain causes of analysis and review? the failure mechanisms discovered. For operating assets, corrective actions typically Can you direct the operator to provide require further discussions with the O&M necessary support? contractors, and maybe the OEM. • Have access to your SCADA data The advantages of an ACA are reduced cost and time compared with a full RCA. But due Can you access all the SCADA data? to the reduced involvement of other stakeholders, the ACA may not address the What data is it collecting? root cause of the failure mechanism. Though for the owner of a solar project Is it online and working? determining the root cause in extreme detail may not be as critical having sufficient • Have good product warranties understanding in order to implement the Are you undertaking comprehensive inspections at the end-of-warranty? WWW.PESSOLAR.COM 103

2022OmUeTdiNa OdaWta YOUR SOLAR/PV EKO Stäubli Endeas Intersolar Europe 2022 SOLAR WORLD Balancing supply Raising standards for Ramping up What to expect at the COVERED and demand amidst safety and reliability production of PV world’s leading solar rapid growth exhibition A regular look at the latest innovations and technological advances from across the solar and PV sector. As growth continues, hear from several of the industry’s pioneers and leading names on what might come next. PLUS Our regular dose of opinion, insight, data and analysis POWER AND ENERGY SOLUTIONS • ISSUE 40, 2022 EVOLVING ENERGY LANDSCAPE SOLAR ENERGY’S ESSENTIAL CSP Services Howmet Fastening Systems Campbell Scientific Conference call Mounting Systems Silfab Solar Natural Power Conference call MEDIA DESTINATION We hear from Birk Kraas, An insight into installation and We are delighted to PES looks ahead to one Developing safe and Itai Suez, PhD, gives his PES Speaks with We look forward to Solar 24,000+ READERS Commercial Head of system deployment solutions hear from Derek Jones, of the Solar Industry’s reliable carport systems exclusive insight Hannah Staab and Power International Meteorological Services Renewable energy most anticipated Seán Manley (SPI), Energy Storage EXTENSIVE ONLINE AND MOBILE REACH Group Manager annual events International (ESI), and SOLAR/PV North America Smart BIG NAME INTERVIEWS SOLAR/PV Energy Week We are delighted to bring you the very latest product NEWS, VIEWS AND ANALYSIS innovation & developments from across the global As always, we are delighted to present you with the Solar/PV industry, along with looking into some of the latest product & technology innovations as well as UNMISSABLE FEATURES AND major policy developments across the sector. We are project developments and advances from a number AGENDA-SETTING COMMENT excited to bring you some of the thoughts & views from of key mover’s and shaker’s in the market. several of the industry’s key players & leading names. PLUS, our regular helping of opinion, industry PLUS, enjoy our latest helping of incisive insight, insight & analysis opinion & analysis POWER AND ENERGY SOLUTIONS • ISSUE 38, 2021 POWER AND ENERGY SOLUTIONS • IS SUE 37, 2020 SMART SOLAR We take a look at how an already smart industry just got smarter. Technology advances and service advancements help to optimize projects and continue to drive us toward a very bright future INDUSTRY OPTIMIZATION Latest streamlining technologies and services are equipping solar/PV professionals with improved systems and solutions for higher energy yield, greater efficiency and lifetime reliability. email [email protected] today www.pessolar.com



CORPORATE FOCUS Cleaning solutions 106 PES SOLAR

CORPORATE FOCUS Optimizing the performance of solar panels often comes down to ensuring their cleanliness. The level and type of soiling, the local weather and the surroundings of your plant can lead to soiling problems and the subsenquent energy output drop due to the reduced light transmission. So, ensuring your modules are clean while protecting them with the coating that fits into the local weather and environment conditions should be an important part of the maintenance cycle. ChemiTek is a Portuguese company panels, and that can even damage the dedicated to the development, production, system, is the appearance of lichens, and sale of efficient, easy to apply, innovative mosses and other fungi on their surface. and environmentally friendly chemical This is especially the case in very humid products for industrial maintenance. With an environments and with large amounts of already diversified portfolio, the company organic matter, near forests, agricultural presents solutions for sectors such as solar, plantations, etc. For this, ChemiTek glass and automotive. developed the Lichen Removal Agent (LRA). During last year, ChemiTek, in partnership For the removal of organic dirt such as pollen with O&M companies and PV Asset Managers, and bees’ wax, bird droppings, sand, dust, has developed a range of products to solve resin, etc. the cleaning and protection solution specific problems of the solar industry, Solar Wash Protect (SWP) is an innovative solution. As well as effectively removing the This new range of products will be presented dirt accumulated on the panels, it also gives at Intersolar Europe, in Munich, May 11th - 13th. the glass of the solar module an antistatic You will be able to learn more about their coating that repels dust and prevents the contaminants’ removal agents, as well as their adhesion of the soiling. This antistatic effect easy to apply coatings for soiling mitigation keeps the modules cleaner, as well as and efficiency enhancement. facilitating the subsequent cleaning, whilst reducing water consumption by up to 50%. In preparation for the presentation, the antistatic and hydrophobic coatings were Lastly, during the cleaning process of solar tested last year at the Green Park in Morocco, panels it is important to use the correct type with very significant results. of water, to prevent water stains on the module. For example, if the cleaning is done Having in mind the different problems and with hard water, with a high content of conditions of each plant, and that no two solar minerals and metal ions, it is likely that stains plants are alike, ChemiTek studies the and deposits of these minerals will appear. different conditions of each one, such as the amount and type of dirt, the surroundings and This will block light transmission and can the weather, as well as the cleaning method, to even lead to the creation of hotspots on the find the best solution for your solar asset. module. To solve this problem, ChemiTek has developed the Water Softening Agent (WSA), Different contaminants and harsh soiling a biodegradable agent that captures minerals can be removed by ChemiTek’s products, and metal ions, making the water completely such as lichens, cement dust, stone dust, safe to use for PV modules cleaning. gypsum, hard water, bird droppings, pollen, bees’ wax and others. ChemiTek coatings are certified and fully tested by international laboratory TÜV Sud To remove contaminants like cement dust, and PV manufacturers, to prevent problems stone dust, gypsum and other alkaline from reappearing. contaminants, the Cement Removal Agent (CRA) will react chemically, removing them in The product range includes protection for a highly effective way. This product should be dry and moderate climates and hydrophobic used in its diluted form and only as a solar protection for rainy environments. panel remediation agent. For antistatic protection there is the SWP Another problem that affects the and the Antistatic Solar Armor (ASA). SWP is production of energy from photovoltaic WWW.PESSOLAR.COM 107

CORPORATE FOCUS +2,6% for the hydrophobic coating! If you have soiling and contaminant problems, avoid desperate measures. Visit ChemiTek at Intersolar Europe in München from May 11th to 13th at stand A5.260! To demonstrate the effectiveness in problem solving and prevention that ChemiTek offers, its products were used for the remediation of a solar park in Chile, highly contaminated with cement dust, already solidified and cured on the surface of the solar modules. To solve the cement cured problem, the Cement Removal Agent (CRA) was used, in order to remove all the cement deposited on the panels, without damaging the panels. Then, to prevent the problem from reappearing, the modules were protected with the antistatic coating of the Solar Wash Protect. Green Energy Park Chart a cleaning and protection product that can be brush on tractors or robots. used by O&M teams and Asset Managers, or on a residential scale, for manual cleaning of The Industrial Glass Protect (IGP) is a modules in houses. As an antistatic long-lasting hydrophobic protection for protection for PV solar panels, it was professional use, very resistant to adverse developed to be applied by professionals on environmental conditions, such as acid rain, panels installed in dry climates, and to be high salinity and extreme temperatures, great applied during the cleaning with semi- to reduce the amount of cleaning required. automatic equipment such as a brush on a tractor and robot. Their soiling mitigation and efficiency enhancement products were put to the test For very humid and rainy climates, on the Institute ‘Green Energy Park’ between hydrophobic or water repellent coatings such August ‘21 and February ‘22. Modules coated as D-Solar Defendor (DSD) are with their antistatic and hydrophobic coatings recommended. These keep the modules were compared to modules cleaned with just cleaner and easier to clean. This is a product water and uncleaned modules. The results for professional use and is applied at high were as expected. With ChemiTek’s coatings, dilutions of 1 kg per 1000l of water with a the modules obtained an additional energy output of +3,6% for the antistatic coating and Case Study Chile: before Cleaning and Protecting Case Study Chile: after cleaning with CRA and protecting with SWP 108 PES SOLAR

CORPORATE FOCUS A few months later, it had noticeably reduced Scatec: Honduras Solar Park and an increase of 2,9% compared with the the amount of dust deposited on the panels, CH4 string. as well as it was easily removed with a simple controlled at the inverter level and compared wash, without the need to use the CRA again. between them. Importantly, according to Scatec, in this situation CH6 panels were subject to much To verify the operational and efficiency gains In this test, the temperature of the panels more dust, due to being nearer the road, than of ChemiTek’s Solar Wash Protect to improve had no bearing on the results, as all panels CH3 and CH4 and therefore the results may solar power generation and make soiling were subject to the same solar irradiation be under evaluated. removal easier, the product was tested. Solar and ambient temperature. Wash Protect by ChemiTek, regarding solar The test was considered a success and the power generation improvement and ease of After one month, the results from the CH6 O&M team decided to move forward with the soiling removal, followed by non-adherence string were compared with the results from use of Solar Wash Protect for all their of the soiling, it was tested at a utility scale the strings CH3 and CH4. The CH6 string, cleaning operations. plant of Scatec, in Honduras. cleaned and protected with Solar Wash Protect, showed an increased energy output www.chemitek.pt The plant had light soiling and dust, pollen of 1.8% when compared with the CH3 string and the occasional bird droppings. The plant was cleaned every two months during the dry season with manual brushes, with no cleaning during the rainy season. The comparison test was run over one month on three strings with the same number of solar panels. Two strings, CH3 & CH4, were cleaned with just water as a baseline and the other string, CH6, was cleaned and protected with Solar Wash Protect. The O&M team controlled the operational gains, water consumption and easiness of cleaning, and the energy output. First, the product was diluted in water at the correct dilution ratio and sprayed directly on the panels with a sprayer. Then, the product was applied manually with brushes and the panels were thoroughly brushed and finally rinsed to remove the dirt and any excess product. The O&M team found it easier to clean and remove the soil, when compared to cleaning the string with just water. The water consumption was largely reduced as it was only needed to dilute the product and to rinse the panels. The energy output of each string was Scatec, Honduras Solar Park: before cleaning with SWP Scatec, Honduras Solar Park: after cleaning with SWP WWW.PESSOLAR.COM 109

ASK THE EXPERTS Supply and demand As solar develops, customer behaviour and demands are changing, so we thought it was timely to catch up with Eturnity’s CEO, Matthias Wiget, to get his take on things. What factors are driving the market and what tools and solutions can help, particularly in terms of technology? PES: Welcome back to PES Matthias. It’s MW: The last few years have definitely been targets in 2021. lovely to catch up with you for our first the most intensive years so far for us, in an issue of 2022. Just as a background for new exciting and positive sense. There was of In the last two years, we have greatly readers, could you give a brief introduction course the beginning of the pandemic, which optimised our software solutions and to Eturnity and what you do? meant uncertainty and also a small slump for launched new products. Last year, the launch the industry. of our Eturnity Configurator was one of the Matthias Wiget: Thank you very much, we are highlights for us. very happy to have another interview with you However, this was only brief and we quickly this year. Eturnity is a specialist in digital noticed that digitisation was becoming more This year, we have several new features consulting and sales solutions for decentralised and more of a priority in the industry, planned, which include dedicated products energy systems. We provide smart software precisely because of the pandemic. tailored to the needs of manufacturers and solutions to clients and installers. suppliers. For them we simplify the Since then, it has been intense for us. We information exchange and interaction with These automated solutions save time and have doubled our customer base and we are installers during the quotation process. Our address the customers’ needs, providing a now in 12 European countries. We have also more classic users, installers and energy fast and cost effective service. been selling our products in the UK since utilities, won’t be disappointed either, we also 2020 and adhere to the requirements of MCS have a lot of exciting improvements for them. PES: The last couple of years have been certification when designing our offers. memorable ones for lots of reasons of PES: Looking ahead to 2022 then, generally course, and for you all at Eturnity too? Our team has also doubled in one year, which for the solar energy sector, do you have any meant we were able to reach our business predictions of how things may progress? 110 PES SOLAR

ASK THE EXPERTS MW: It’s definitely going to be a very busy PES: What is the next big thing in solar do Matthias Wiget year. Demand is higher than supply. you think, in the UK and further afield? Especially in the UK, the rise in gas prices processes, it also takes care of the entire lead and the situation in Ukraine is a major reason MW: There are many exciting management and communication with other for the rocketing demand. However, we developments going on, for example in the parties, such as manufacturers and suppliers, should not forget that Russia is one of the field of agricultural PV, which allows plants virtually at the click of a button. We have most important producers of aluminium, a to grow and harvest solar energy at the worked hard on this at Eturnity and will launch core part of PV mounting systems, and this same time. The solar system even actively new supporting features in the first quarter could lead to a scarcity of resources for the helps to provide the optimal exposure time of 2022. solar sector. for the crops. PES: And when it comes to pricing a PV PES: And how do your plans at Eturnity But solar technology is relatively advanced. system and configuration, how are tools cater for this forecast? For it to have an effect on our energy system, and solutions developing there? we now need to see the technology rolled out MW: We can’t of course influence the number to a mass market. This requires efficient MW: Here, too, software is becoming more of resources that are required for a solar processes and a new level of customer and more intelligent and is taking off at a energy system. But apart from the resource friendliness, based on the customer journeys rapid rate. Material price inquiries can be scarcity we also see a shortage in well- we are used to in our everyday lives. made at the click of a button, with an offer qualified people that can dimension, sell and automatically generated with just a few build such systems. At Eturnity, it is clear what our next major clicks more. focus is: we want to achieve cost savings for Eturnity’s solutions can have a big impact on the solar sector of 10% through software 3D panel layouting solutions are also a big addressing a shortage of people. By using the alone. We are working on this every day and topic: they should be fast enough to be able Eturnity Solar Calculator the end customer we are getting closer by the day. to sell quickly, but at the same time accurate can work out their own needs. When the enough such that they can be reused after project then goes into the stage of an PES: What are the important factors that the process has been sold for the individual consultation with an estimate, the are driving the market, cost is obviously a implementation stage. We are also working Eturnity expert provides a super fast and big one and in terms of the technology itself at Eturnity to make this possible this year. guided way to a customer-friendly quote. For ease of use must be key too? installation companies and utilities that means they can have less experienced people MW: User-friendliness is now elementary. doing the individual consultations, while the It’s no longer only about providing the experienced team members can focus on the technical details in the first step, it’s about actual implementation of projects. comprehensible documents that have to deliver all of the important key figures, so The game-changing effect of our software that an end customer feels in good hands solution has also been recognized by Chris right from the start. Most customers are no Laughton, a well-known person around PV in longer purely concerned with price, it’s the UK. His ‘The Solar Design Company’ and about the quality of the advice and service Eturnity have entered a partnership for the as a whole. UK market. Automation and intelligent software are the We are very excited about this partnership key to the desired customer service. It saves and look forward to boosting efficiency and an enormous amount of time that can be customer-centricity in the solar sales used elsewhere. If you want to remain process in the UK together. competitive, you have to act quickly. PES: How are you seeing customer Intelligent software, however, is not only behaviour changing as solar develops? important for the consulting and quotation MW: Well, it is now essential for companies in the industry to adapt their digital strategy. This is mainly because the behaviour of end customers is changing. They no longer want pure craftsmanship; they want a total package that includes professional customer service. To ensure this, installation companies and utilities must leave manual paperwork behind and begin to automate their processes. As a result, there are ultimately fewer interfaces, lead management is centralized, information is not lost, and offers are sent to the end customer virtually with the click of a button. Those who still need up to two weeks to send an offer have lost the end customer. This change in customer behaviour is essential for a fast energy transition and energy independence and it is why we launched Eturnity, to be able to provide an end-to-end digitization solution for any company size in the solar business. WWW.PESSOLAR.COM 111

ASK THE EXPERTS PES: You recently launched a new when purchasing the solar system. We would and automated lead management. But we configurator, didn’t you? Can you tell limit our solutions too much if we did not also have something in the pipeline for the us a bit more about how that works and enable sector coupling. information and interaction process between its advantages? manufacturers/suppliers and installers/ We are the only software company in this utilities. This is something we are particularly MW: Yes, the launch of the Eturnity sector that enables such an extensive looking forward to this year. Configurator was one of our highlights last combination of multiple technologies. We are year and has already been in great demand. convinced that multi-technology renewable PES: And for Eturnity? How do you see the This is a highly flexible lead generation / CPQ energy systems are the future and a very company evolving this year and in the future? (Configure, Price, Quote) software that can important pillar of the energy transition. A generate a complex bill of materials by just holistic view of buildings, across all MW: Our ultimate goal is to make the asking end-users a few simple questions. technologies, is essential. energy transition more efficient, customer-friendly and cost-effective. That means the software makes it possible to The practical thing is that the company can To this end, we want to digitise more and sell e-mobility solutions or multi-tech make an offer for a PV system and if the more elaborate processes that are solutions of integrated energy systems that customer decides to buy an electric car a potential time wasters. This is especially include solar electricity, heat generation, year later, the same project can be true between different stakeholder groups, e-mobility and energy management. That all approached again and supplemented with where there is usually a break in the happens in an efficient and customer-friendly the new e-mobility variant. This makes process, e.g. wholesaler and installer. way by means of a short questionnaire. cross-selling a breeze. It’s our primary goal to offer a software for The tool is an important sales solution that PES: It sounds like this brings a lot of added renewables that will allow any size of company complements our portfolio. And as the use of value, particularly as the renewable energy to offer a very efficient and customer-friendly e-mobility is increasing more and more every industry as a whole develops? process when they sell, implement and year, energy companies can no longer avoid operate renewable energy systems. working with it. MW: The possibility of combining different technologies also creates enormous We take on the needs of our customers, PES: How does this encourage cross-selling, up-selling potential. For the first time, solar integrate their requirements, and, at the say from e-mobility through to PV systems? installers can generate returning customers. same time, try to anticipate where the An important step. industry is going and find out, by talking to MW: Sector coupling has always been an our customers, which requirements are important topic for us from the very PES: Are there any other developments you becoming important. In addition to the new beginning and has influenced the think we should be looking out for in 2022 products already mentioned, it is also development of all our products. There is no and beyond that, in general for the solar particularly important for us this year to longer really a request for the one PV system; industry as the PV market grows further? expand our international customer base storage, renewable heat, and even e-mobility outside the DACH region. are often requested as well or at least end MW: Yes, we have three big topics that are customers already think about combining it important this year. One is 3D visualization www.eturnity.com 112 PES SOLAR

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ASK THE EXPERTS Improved quality and efficiency for PV production As the market for PV grows and production ramps up with it, keeping productivity levels high is important, yet not without its challenges. PES discussed the common issues and how they can best be overcome, with Jyry Hyvärinen, Sales Manager at Endeas. PES: A very warm welcome to PES Jyry, it’s and in recent years the level of automation has The biggest changes in recent years have lovely to speak with you. Perhaps you could gone up. been the announced ambitious plans to begin with a little bit of background to ramp-up local production, for example in Endeas and what you do? Personally, I joined Endeas sales team Europe, US, and India, to become more roughly a year ago and since then I have been self-sufficient and have more control in the PV Jyry Hyvärinen: We are a Finland based taking on more and more responsibility in the manufacturing process. It is understandable company developing and delivering extensive discussions with our customers. that these plans and their success is essential photovoltaic module testing solutions for the to reach the goals in the reduction of CO2 needs of the PV industry. Our product line PES: The PV industry is evolving quickly as emission of energy production. extends from manually operated laboratory the demand for solar grows isn’t it? What are and R&D systems to highly automized solutions some of the biggest changes you have been It has also been good to notice how widely PV designed for mass production. Endeas Oy was witnessing over the last few years or so? has been adopted in different fields and founded some 20 years ago and we have used applications. Regarding BIPV products, we all that experience to design testing stations to JH: There is no denying that the solar have seen interesting solutions in how PV and meet the needs of the industry. industry is a fast growing and quickly evolving thermal solar power are combined in an industry and this development is only efficient and compact way. In the early years we provided only flash testers expected to speed up in the future. Besides to perform I-V measurements. Since then, the the fact that PV technology has been for But personally, I find a more fascinating requirements have changed a lot and our years a competitive way to produce energy, example in the automotive industry. Many products have undergone drastic changes. We the green transition and decarbonization vehicle manufacturers already have PV have learned to integrate the most important goals around the globe are accelerating integrated into their electric vehicles and it PV module backend tests in a single machine development even further. seems the rest are planning to follow this trend. Of course, this poses some Manually operated QuickSun 650Lab offers same extensive testing capabilities as QuickSun 650 for challenges, since these modules are curved laboratories and R&D and there are no standards yet to follow. Nevertheless, we have been able to provide customized high class solar simulators with integrated EL options for the testing of curved PV modules used in electric vehicles. PES: Cost is a big story, with many forecasts marking solar the cheapest of the technologies in the near future, what are your thoughts on this? JH: 15 years ago, photovoltaics was by far the most expensive technology for energy production. Since then, LCoE has decreased radically and in the last couple of years it has been the cheapest. This is of course great news since this development encourages major investments in PV development and manufacturing. Among PV manufacturers the competition for the lowest offered LCoE WWW.PESSOLAR.COM 115

ASK THE EXPERTS is also on-going, which I think will decrease production lines too? Jyry Hyvärinen the costs even further. JH: New systems with new features and ready when perovskite products show PES: With this no doubt resulting in even capabilities definitely help manufacturers to stronger signals of becoming the more demand, is the industry moving improve quality, as all of our standard mainstream, as manufacturers start to towards growing module sizes and new solutions comply with A+A+A+ requirements implement needed changes on their mass technologies as a way of keeping up? according to the latest IEC 60904-9 Ed.3 production lines and need perovskite standard. Besides meeting the renewed compatible testing equipment. JH: Over the last few years we have seen cell requirements of the updated standard, our and module sizes growing and new cell solutions are equipped with proprietary PES: And for Endeas, are there any new technologies such as HJT, IBC and TOPCon Capacitance Compensation (CAC) method, ideas in the pipeline? being more widely adopted, not forgetting which ensures accurate and reliable I-V the trend towards bifacial products. These measurement results for modern high JH: We aim to develop our testing solutions changes are the result of the pursuit towards efficiency modules with single optimized to be even more cost effective for our clients. even lower LCoE and enable higher power pulse length. This method has been A great example of this is our direct junction throughput the operation, while also confirmed by a published independent study box contacting without the use of contact decreasing production unit costs. to be the most accurate method for adapters. This solution eliminates one measuring high-efficiency modules. manual labour intensive step in the otherwise PES: Do these changes come at a cost to highly automated production. Besides the manufacturer, not to mention other In terms of efficiency and testing capacity, reducing the involved manual labour costs, challenges too? our latest All-in-One testing station for mass this solution increases safety, since there is production, the QuickSun 650, offers no need for operators to work in the JH: To keep up with the development, extensive backend testing capabilities for proximity of moving objects. manufacturers need to invest in costly module sizes up to 140 cm x 270 cm, with upgrades and accommodate their production throughput of 150 modules/hour. This means Our goal is also to further increase the lines to be able to stay in the competition. that QuickSun 650 performs I-V lifetime of our Endeas Xenon flash lamps in Cost is of course one aspect which needs to measurements, EL imaging and analysis, our module sized testing stations. Recently be considered, but when upgrading an electrical safety tests, bypass diode test and we increased the life to over one million existing plant one important factor to automatic visual analysis within 24 seconds. flashes, which is roughly the annual testing consider is how to fit production equipment Of course, if all tests are not required, the capacity of the QuickSun 650. The results of into current facilities. There is no doubt that overall throughput is even higher. For the verification tests were so encouraging floorspace is valuable and as module sizes example, with I-V measurement and EL that we expect to reach a lifetime of nearly grow, production lines get bigger as the image recording it is possible to reach a two million flashes in the future. equipment requires more space. testing rate of over 200 modules/h, including module movement and contacting. PES: How do you see your company evolving PES: So with the help of Endeas, are these this year and in the future? changes easier to accommodate? In regard to improving manual labour efficiency, the machine has inbuilt maintenance features JH: This year we have been focusing on JH: All our products are compatible with to reduce manual labour. These include improving our delivery and manufacturing space saving All-in-One technology. The automatic irradiance non-uniformity capabilities. Despite the challenging and main idea behind All-in-One is that it measurement and control, automatic camera volatile situation in the component market, our integrates all key backend tests in a single focus control and automated calibration supply chain and engineering teams have done machine. When tests such as I-V procedure with silver modules. a tremendous job and already we have been measurement, electroluminescence imaging able to ramp-up our capabilities to be ready to and analysis, electrical safety tests, bypass PES: Do you think there are more challenges participate in even bigger manufacturing plant diode test, automatic visual inspection are to come and new technologies possible to projects around the world. performed in a single station without deal with these? additional module movement, we are able to In the near future we aim to continue the offer compact and cost-efficient solutions to JH: Perovskite tandem PV products are previously mentioned strengthening without save floorspace in production facilities. surely an interesting upcoming technology compromising the high quality of co-operation on which research and development is and solutions we offer our customers. PES: Is there an opportunity here for ongoing and encouraging results are manufacturers to improve quality and published regularly. We are carefully www.endeas.fi perhaps overall efficiency of their following the development and plan to be Fully automated QuickSun 650 brings together I-V measurement, EL imaging, electrical safety tests, bypass diode test and visual inspection in single machine 116 PES SOLAR



ASK THE EXPERTS Customized automatic weather station Measuring the sun With solar measurement forming an important part of the data landscape, and particularly so as power plants increase in size and output, PES was keen to learn from Roman Affolter, Technical Head of Meteorological Services, CSP Services about the latest bankable solar resource assessments for high-quality regional irradiance mapping. PES: It’s lovely to welcome you to PES Roman Affolter: Thank you. Yes, CSP optimally integrate with our services, Roman and to learn more about your Services is a full-service provider offering ensuring smooth campaigns and the highest involvement in the solar industry. I see that solar ground measurement campaigns. In data quality. The hardware can then be you offer meteorological services in the contrast to many other service providers, we adapted according to the client’s needs. form of ground measurement of solar have developed our own automatic weather irradiance. What does that mean? stations. Those stations are designed to As a spin-off of the DLR we have a strong 118 PES SOLAR

ASK THE EXPERTS scientific background. This gives us the necessary. Procurement of measurement Roman Affolter motivation and skill to constantly improve our equipment, shipping, site selection and site methods, by participating in research activities. preparation, installation, operation and RA: We always use the most appropriate For example, we have been involved in large maintenance, data quality control and hardware for the project, since we are not solar resource mapping activities around the reporting are important factors. bound to one provider. For solar irradiance globe, such as the World Bank’s ESMAP sensors, we exclusively use ISO9060 Class A program and the DLR enerMENA network. Due to more than a decade of successful equipment, except when requirements projects around the globe, we not only have explicitly differ. In any case, quality, robustness, PES: How has your service been developed the experience, but also have created a and proven reliability in the field are decisive over time? strong and reliable network of regional factors for selecting our hardware. partners. That enables us to deliver and RA: We have our roots in the Concentrating commission our systems quickly, even at This is complemented by our own equipment, Solar Power (CSP) industry, where accurate remote and difficult to access places. Simply like the Rotating Shadowband Irradiometer information about solar irradiance is put, we are a one-stop shop when it comes to or custom-built PV module soiling required. Investments need to be backed by solar measurements. measurement systems. bankable solar resource data. The huge size of current PV power plant requires the same PES: At what stage of a solar project should PES: What is the benefit of your service for practice in the photovoltaics sector. ground measurements be taken and how solar project developers? long does the process usually take? PES: You mentioned that you offer a RA: There are several benefits. Foremost, we full-service, what does that mean? RA: There are three phases where solar deliver gap-free bankable data with low measurements matter. The first is during uncertainty and detailed documentation. RA: It is not enough to just deploy project development, usually in the feasibility This includes hardware specifications and measurement equipment to receive the study phase. Just like an oil company will not calibration certificates, installation and demanded high-quality data. Permanent just drill anywhere without profound analysis maintenance reports with a sensor cleaning attention and monitoring by experts are of the available resource, the solar resource log. We achieve this with customized must be quantified and uncertainty reduced high-quality equipment, short delivery times, to a minimum. During this phase, it is best installation and maintenance services, and practice to measure for a complete continuous data quality control. 12-month period to cover all seasons. We provide turn-key ground measurement Accurate measurements are important campaigns worldwide, relying on our strong during the commissioning phase, too. For the network of regional partners. This allows final acceptance of the plant, the owner the developer to focus on other urgent requires proof whether the plant performs tasks and studies. according to the contractual targets. It is of obvious advantage, if this is proven by an PES: You already mentioned that the independent third-party. measurements can be a great help during plant commissioning but what are the Thirdly, during plant operation. The plant´s benefits during plant operation? performance should be monitored to detect or prevent premature degradation or faults. RA: The quality of the data is suitable for The information helps to maintain the performance analysis. Operators can save performance at a high level and can also be time and rely on accurate solar irradiance used as a solid basis for warranty claims. data. They are relieved of the measurement Again, high-quality measurements prove documentation, worrying about sensor how much solar irradiance has actually been calibration schedules and other cumbersome received. A comparison with the modeled tasks, which are not their key activities. efficiency of the plant reveals whether the system is working as it is supposed to or not. Additionally, depending on the market the power plant operates in, our Q4cast PES: It’s useful that stations can be system can help to optimize intraday customized, but which are the main market participation or avoid penalties questions and aspects that you address with your measurements? RA: We quantify the exact solar irradiance, with its temporal variation which is diurnal and seasonal. Additionally, we can quantify other important effects relevant for utility-scale solar. Such as soiling of PV modules, atmospheric corrosivity, and with increasing significance, the ground albedo and its diurnal and seasonal variation. The measurements can be combined with our Q4cast nowcasting system. Q4cast provides information on the solar irradiance throughout the next 15 minutes, including its spatial distribution. PES: It all sounds very thorough. What type of hardware do you use to record the measurements? WWW.PESSOLAR.COM 119

ASK THE EXPERTS imposed for incorrect production Automatic weather station with integrated cloud camera for nowcasting schedules, e.g., by detecting production ramps caused by incoming clouds as soon In project development, ground measurement projects, even one percent uncertainty as they become visible. data serves as calibration for satellite data and reduction can result in millions of dollars of PES: And for power plant owners, are the reduces the model uncertainties. This is called reduced financing cost. The investment in a advantages of this measured data similar? site adaptation. It reduces the site-specific solar resource ground measurement RA: Basically, the same aspects apply. For satellite model bias and improves the fit of the campaign is more than justified in large-scale owners, it is an advantage that we can act as frequency distribution of values. In large-scale solar power projects. an independent third-party data provider. This can be of massive value during plant PES: When is a good moment to start with commissioning. Differences between owner ground measurements? How long does a and EPC over the power plant performance campaign usually take? are solved much easier if the reference data comes from a neutral side. RA: For feasibility studies, our clear For example, soiled sensors measure a lower recommendation is to start as early as solar irradiance and thus indicate a better possible. Best practice is to measure for 12 plant performance than there actually is. The months continuously, hence there is no way EPC might therefore be rather motivated to to recover from a late start. Any other reduce the cleaning intensity of the sensors. problems may be solved with the allocation PES: Why not just use cheaper and quicker of more resources or manpower, but the methods and perhaps just acquire passing of time cannot be recalled. satellite data? RA: It’s not one or the other. The magic is in For plant monitoring, this is more or less the right mix. Satellite data is used to calculate self-answering. When the plant is operative, long-term average values due to its long-time solar measurement should be in place. availability; ground data is much more precise and has a much higher time resolution. PES: Can you help retrospectively, if better data is needed but hasn’t been measured Solar resource project in West Africa according to best practice standards? RA: To a certain extent, yes. Our experts can do an in-depth data review and partial reconstruction. We determine which parts of the data are usable and which aren’t, and employ gap-filling techniques. There is the possibility of synthesizing time series from the useable parts of ground data and satellite data. However, it must be said that continuous high-quality data can only be obtained by applying best practices and quality control from the very beginning. Sadly, we have seen enough cases where it has been neglected. Usually, either as a result of underestimating the importance and complexity of solar irradiance measurement or of insufficient budget allocation. For me, this is hard to understand. Solar radiation is the resource of solar power 120 PES SOLAR

ASK THE EXPERTS Customized Neutral Weather 3rd Party Stations Expert All-in-one Reliable Customized Service Reference Hardware and Worldwide Data Data Service Experience Bankable Data Developer Operator & Owner Irradiance Forecast Detailed Detailed Documentation Documentation Continuous Input for Data Control Performance Analysis Full-scope services for best quality ground measurement data plants, just as coal is the resource of a infrastructure, availability of local maintenance developers, plant operators, and owners coal-fired power plant. No one would build staff, and representativeness of the appreciate the potential of having high- a coal mine without exploring the available measurement site for the future project site. quality data from the start and at all times resource in detail, monitoring its during operation, to maximize yield and avoid extraction, and examining the cost and PES: Are there any projects you are efficiency losses. efficiency of the process. currently working on you can tell me about? There will be more technological If we want to make a successful transition to RA: CSP Services is currently finalizing the developments to facilitate solar irradiance renewable energies, we need to optimize all implementation of a network of 33 automatic measurement and standardization will be aspects of solar energy projects. In my weather stations over continental ECOWAS improved. For example, in 2023 the IEA Best opinion, it is necessary to have exact states for the West African Power Pool Practices Handbook will be updated, knowledge of the solar resource and the (WAPP). This activity, financed by the World addressing current pressing needs of performance of the solar power plants. Bank, will improve the knowledge on solar the industry, such as general resources in the region. recommendations on how to measure PES: Does it always make sense to conduct and consider ground albedo. ground measurements though. Are there We are measuring solar resources in times when it’s not necessary? numerous large-scale PV projects in Asian, We believe that future solar power plants will European, and Middle Eastern countries. have to operate in the market like RA: It depends on project size, project type, Currently, we have around 50 automatic conventional power plants. This means that already available ground data from a reliable weather stations operative. By active they will have to know their power generation service provider, market environment, and participation in IEA PVPS Task 16 we try to as precisely as possible in advance. The other factors. For example, if there are improve industry best practice. markets will act more flexibly and with shorter existing solar plants just around the corner, time horizons. In this environment, our sufficient data may be available already. PES: It sounds like you have a lot going on, Q4cast nowcasting system will be of great Small scale projects like the typical rooftop what do you think the future will bring? value to power plant operators and owners. installation on private homes will not require such detailed information and can rely on RA: We hope that more solar project www.cspservices.de satellite data and simulations only. Operation and maintenance of automatic weather stations PES: What is the maximum distance the measurement system should be from the project site? Can ground measurement data be used even if the solar plant will not be built on the same site? RA: This depends on several factors, such as the topography, nearby water bodies, geography, and more. The answer will be individual for each project, but in flat areas without significant topographic features, a few kilometers to a few tens of kilometers can be acceptable. As a general rule I would say: the closer the measurement site is to the project site, the lower the uncertainty and the better fitting other parameters such as albedo, soiling, corrosion or wind. In practice, the measurement site selection often is a compromise between local site conditions such as site security, local WWW.PESSOLAR.COM 121

TALKING POINT The emergence of a circular PV economy Words: M onica Vandenberg and Blake Barthelmess The End-of-life (EOL) management of PV Panels has been discussed for over a decade, with many reports, strategies, policies, and industries created to minimise their waste impact. As the cohesiveness of the European and USA PV value chain evolves, so too does access to new thinking and ways of designing, manufacturing, and operating to move from recycling to circularity, where we stop waste being produced in the first place. This is potentially a big shift in thinking and redesign of componentry and manufacturing processes for solar PV. Since 2018, Circle Economy has been where we stand today in achieving these this in context, in 2019 global use of materials producing the Circularity Gap Report to help goals and helps clarify how material exceeded 100 billion tonnes with over 90% of understand how circular economy strategies extraction and GHG emissions are linked. all the materials extracted and used, wasted; can contribute to achieving the goals of the currently only 8.6% of the materials make it Paris Agreement. It also helps give clarity on The 2022 Circularity Gap Report highlights back into the economy.1 that our world is only 8.6% circular. To put 122 PES SOLAR

TALKING POINT The 2022 report states that ‘Between the in supporting the development of new the process will lead to reduced costs and COP25 in Paris in 2015, where the Paris industries and employment, while cutting positive environmental impact, whilst Agreement was formed, and COP26 in greenhouse gas emissions and making more unlocking new revenue streams. Glasgow in 2021, 70% more virgin materials efficient use of finite natural resources. were extracted than what the earth can Currently, Volvo Cars remanufactures parts safely replenish.’ There is a growing urgency The solar PV industry now has the such as gearboxes and engines to make to step away from the take, make, waste opportunity to learn what actions other better use of material and reduce emissions. linear, economic model. See Figure 1 on sectors are taking to embed circularity into In 2020, around 40,000 parts were following page. their organisations. remanufactured, saving nearly 3,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions.2 According to the Ellen MacArthur Volvo cars, with its long-term goal of Foundation, a circular economy is based on becoming a circular business by 2040, is New business models such as giving electric three principles, which is driven by design to aiming to save nearly €1B and reduce GHG vehicle batteries a second life are important eliminate waste and pollution, circulate 2.5 million tonnes annually. from a circular business perspective. By using products and materials at their highest value batteries in energy storage applications and regenerate nature. Using these To become a circular business in less than two outside of cars, new revenue streams and principles enables companies to identify decades, Volvo cars believes that every part in cost savings can be realised, while also additional, circular value from their products its cars should be designed, developed, and extending the batteries’ lifecycles. and materials, and mitigate risks from manufactured to be used and reused, either material price volatility and supply. by the company or its suppliers. We are seeing several collaborations across the globe, for such creative solutions as The circular economy has critical importance It anticipates that optimising its use of refrigeration, water purification and materials and eliminating waste throughout WWW.PESSOLAR.COM 123

TALKING POINT emergency response systems being built for Figure 1 panels and its physical distance from its EV batteries which have four life cycles suppliers, Australia is an example of how the in place.3 streams in the world. One scoping study lack of regulatory and producer and reseller looking at how to deal with this waste stream responsibility schemes drive action for Tesla’s EOL process saw the avoidance of found battery recycling is likely to be more disposal as until recently, this has been mining nearly 1,300 tons of nickel recycled, feasible in the short term as, they can be cheaper than any diversion strategies. 80 tons of cobalt and some 400 tons of processed in facilities with diverse copper due to a closed recycling process.4 capabilities and capacity to scale up rapidly. ARUP in their Circular Photovoltaics report6 suggest the circulatory in this sector will Material handling has a large impact on global With little to no manufacturing of its own PV involve rethinking the design to improve the greenhouse gas emissions of 70%. Therefore, maintenance, repair, upgrade, refurbishment to continue even further in making a and/or manufacturing process. meaningful contribution to emission reductions the solar PV sector has an One of the key recommendations in the ARUP important role in transforming and embedding report for the PV value chain, is the need for circularity across the value chain. According to standardisation, coordination, and Circle Economy, unless we transform ‘how we collaboration of business models. This includes use materials to satisfy our needs, we cannot establishing an extended producer meaningfully cut emissions.’ responsibility scheme and creating and expand partnerships between players along the value Circularity in the design process across the chain, especially public-private partnerships. It PV value chain is essential to reducing the also covers standardising panel design and data global footprint. So, what is the solar PV management processes, including labelling and industry doing to make this shift from linear materials passports. to circular manufacturing? Norwegian Crystals is a manufacturer of low According to the Circular PV Alliance, much carbon monocrystalline silicon ingots and is of the great work being undertaken is in working to advance the circularity agenda in isolation. They believe this work will benefit this sector. There is much to do, however we from a ‘central, coordinated platform to are excited to continue to execute our bring together all the pieces of the puzzle strategy to lower our manufacturing required to establish a thriving solar energy footprint even further. Here is an overview of circular economy’.5 At Norwegian Crystals, we agree that industry coordination to both revitalize the PV industry in Europe and execute the development of a circular manufacturing ecosystem is critical to achieving Scope 3 gHg ambitions and securing a better future. It appears that to date, much of the investment, expenditure and employment opportunities have focused on recycling and energy recovery in the form of processed engineered fuel. The International Energy Agency (IEA) forecast that Australia will have one of the most significant accumulated PV waste 124 PES SOLAR

TALKING POINT our circular manufacturing activities we are segregated from other materials and References: currently both undertaking and researching. contamination is not an issue. 1 c ircle-economy.com/resources/circularity- Reusing heated water Reducing resource extraction cuts can gap-report-2021 dramatically cut greenhouse gas emissions. The naturally cool cooling water from local Now more than ever, it is time to move away 2 media.volvocars.com/global/en-gb/media/ glacier Svartisen cools down the crystal- from the focus of end-of-life management to pressreleases/280872 growing furnace. The temperature of the beginning-of-life re-design for circularity. furnace’s exterior is controlled by closed 3 assets.sustainability.vic.gov.au/cebic- water-cooling loops which heat the water from At Norwegian Crystals we are at the microsite/Case-study-of-the-electric- 20C° to about 40C°. NCR directs the warm beginning of the circular economy journey, and-hybrid-vehicle-battery-within-the- water to a local salmon hatchery who, once the with much to discover, test and expand upon. Circular-Economy.pdf salmon are big enough, releases the fish into We continue to explore what other industries the ocean. This process lowers the hatchery’s are doing and look forward to working across 4 Tesla. (2020). 2020 Tesla Environmental energy demand for water tempering. the Solar PV value chain to incorporate Impact Report further opportunities to reduce our material Polysilicon reuse and recycle flows at the manufacturing level and reduce 5 circularpv.com.au our GHG emissions even further. The manufacturing of monocrystalline silicon 6 arup.com/-/media/arup/files/ ingots which are shaped into bricks, leads to www.crystals.no publications/c/circular-photovoltaics.pdf offcuts, which in the past was considered a waste stream. Today, 98% of the silicon material ‘waste’ that is generated as the process of ingot and brick production is reused as feedstock. Argon gas & CO2 emissions & recovery The liquification of air and separating out the 1% argon it contains is a very energy intensive process. NCR use Argon for as an essential part of the crystal growing process. If Argon gas is vented after use it has a negative environmental impact with an increase in CO2 emission. Recycling argon makes environmental and, with the growing demand and price for argon gas, economic sense. NCR is currently exploring a closed loop system for gas recovery, which allows for reuse and recycling. Hot zone waste Whilst heating our furnaces up to temperatures ranging around 1,450 degrees utilises hydro energy, the furnace uses graphite which is an important but non- renewable resource. NCR ensures that its graphite, is responsibly sourced and is looking at ways for the graphite materials to be successfully recycled if it can be WWW.PESSOLAR.COM 125

THINK TANK Shaping the future of residential energy production Amidst the renovation wave unrolling in the EU, smart and scalable local energy generation solutions are in high demand, with solar power being one of the major instruments. While many still believe that installing solar panels on top of an existing roof is a good solution, there are better alternatives. Solarstone, leading producer of building-integrated PV (BIPV) solutions in the Nordics, offers modern and affordable in-roof systems where solar panels serve a double function: roof covering and power production at the same time. 126 PES SOLAR

THINK TANK When Solarstone was founded, the solar The Estonian company launched its first method for renewable energy production. panel market was mature; innovation was product, tile interlocking solar modules, in In fact, about 98% of rooftop solar driven by materials science, but there were 2015. These are solar modules that can be installations are building-applied limited possibilities for the application of seamlessly integrated with regular roof tiles. photovoltaics (BAPV). Unfortunately, they solar panels. Existing solar solutions available Today it also offers a universal aluminum also result in wasteful use of materials. on the market were either too expensive or framing kit that renders any solar panel into Double layer roofs can hardly be sustainable. unfit for various reasons, mainly poor 2 in 1 weatherproof roofing material without The building sector is the single largest aesthetic appeal. For Solarstone’s founders it any additional sublayer. The patented energy consumer, accounting for made sense to cover new-build and retrofit framing kit is called Click-on and it’s approximately 40% of EU & US energy roofs with 2 in 1 solar. transforming the concept of BIPV for consumption, and 36% of CO2 emissions. new-builds and renovation projects. Installing solar on all new and renovated One key argument in favor of BIPVs is visual buildings in the EU can save up to 7 million appeal. Building-integrated solar makes an Currently, only 10% of the EU building stock, tonnes of CO2 each year. But that only works architectural whole, whereas regular PV 130 million units, has been upgraded to if we do it in a smart and effective way. looks like a foreign body on a roof. Regular meet climate change targets and efficiency solar panels can’t be installed in heritage standards. Significant opportunity exists Solutions exist: they just haven’t been properties and protected areas, whereas equally for retrofits and new-builds and on accessible BIPV may be an option. Producing solar both residential and non-residential energy and maximizing self-consumption buildings throughout the EU. Solarstone Building-integrated photovoltaics are protects homeowners from possible larger believes its solutions can play an important revolutionizing how homeowners and fluctuations in electricity prices for decades. role in shaping the future of residential businesses can incorporate solar energy Also, in the real estate market, energy- energy production. production into their premises. BIPVs are efficient buildings with building-integrated multifunctional, generating renewable solar panels are significantly more attractive Ineffective use of materials energy for the home while also being an to buyers. integral and essential part of a permanent On-roof solar systems are an affordable building structure. There are many building elements where BIPVs can be applied, such as roofs, facades, windows, skylights and balcony railings. The list doesn’t stop there. The housing industry is open to new technologies and solutions that incorporate renewable energy production into building structures, especially rooftops. Solar panels can blend into the building’s architecture. However, BIPVs are associated with three keywords: complexity, compatibility and price. And for a reason. These keywords illustrate quite comprehensively the disadvantages of building-integrated solar. Solar installers are not motivated to switch from regular solar to building-integrated solar, as it lacks economic advantages and similar functionality of a traditional roof. But that is changing. Solar roofs made of standard PV panels Solarstone’s Click-on Full Solar Roof concept tackles all three aforementioned issues. The framing kit does not require any screws or adhesive to combine with standard PV modules. The kit can also be easily added onsite and, combined with aluminum non-active dummy modules, the most complex rooftop configurations can be handled with ease. The innovative 2 in1 system has been successfully tested against fire, wind uplift and snow-load. The Click-on framing kit has visual appeal and is the most cost-effective BIPV solution on the market. BIPV is especially suitable for new builds, saving on traditional materials and reducing workload. The difference comes from saving up on traditional roofing materials and reduced labour. Costs are reduced because Solarstone does not produce the solar panels, but gives them new functionality by adding the Click-on WWW.PESSOLAR.COM 127

THINK TANK frame. Panel production is left to those who do it best, Tier 1 manufacturers. Adding the frame does not void the original warranty but does make the panel sturdier. Tackling installation complexity, Solarstone solar roofs are mounted directly on the wooden battens without any expensive mounting systems. Standard 80m2 rooftop can be easily fitted with panels in just one day. Full solar roof with Click-on and dummy modules Non-active modules, or ‘dummies’, can be utilized in the roof perimeter, areas with permanent shading and positions with fixed obstacles, like chimneys, skylights, ventilation outlets, snow barriers, etc. Dummy modules are made from aluminum honeycomb panels and are framed with the same Click-on technology. Active and non-active modules blend naturally with the overall concept of a modern solar roof. Special transition flashings are available to accommodate regular roofing material if passive aluminum modules are not the first choice. 128 PES SOLAR

THINK TANK A universal solution Perfect for new-builds or renovation projects homeowners who need a new roof and want with tiled roofs. The elegant and sleek design to retain aesthetics and roof functionality. In Click-on technology allows solar roofs to be of the solar modules complements the natural many countries there are still subsidies for installed in residential and commercial sloped design of the house. local renewable energy production, which rooftops, carports, façades and PVC and makes solar even more attractive. A solar steel halls. It’s even possible to combine While solar modules combined with roof can potentially cut the electricity bill of colorful PV modules with Click-on framing kit Click-on are bought from Tier 1 an efficient home down to near zero. to deliver various combinations alongside the manufacturers, tiled roof modules are full black solar roof experience, providing made in Estonia by Solarstone. Bear in mind that a traditional roof does not architects and city planners with a viable bring your electricity costs down nor earn the alternative to conventional solutions. Is a solar roof worth the investment? investment back. Lack of tools for in-roof solar design Economically, solar roofs serve a double www.solarstone.ee/en function. They are especially beneficial for Planning and quoting a roofing project require various old school tools and data for validation, often onsite visits and labor intensive checks. This is why a digital toolset using smart algorithms, geolocation and satellite data for automated layout planning, quoting and production management is needed in parallel with scalable and affordable solar solutions. Solarstone customers and resellers can make use of an online calculator and layout planning to make a moderately complicated solar project less complex. For architects and planners, digital twins or 3D BIM models of the roofs exist, making solar roof designing convenient. Tiled solar roofs Besides full solar roofs, Solarstone also offers tile interlocking solar modules. One panel replaces exactly six roof tiles and interlocks with any concrete or clay tile. Two different size and output modules of 90W and 108W are available to match with a comprehensive selection of roof tiles available on the market. WWW.PESSOLAR.COM 129





ASK THE EXPERTS 132 PES SOLAR

ASK THE EXPERTS Sustainability on film Since speaking to Steve Davies, EMEA PV Market Manager at DuPont Teijin Films and Alessandro Anderlini, Business Manager responsible for the EMEA markets in Coveme’s PV Solar and Specialty Films Divisions last year, how are the issues around sustainability and reliability of products being addressed and what more can we expect in 2022 and beyond? PES caught up with them both for an update. PES: Thanks for taking the time to speak Steve Davies Alessandro Anderlini with us again Steve and Alessandro. In last year’s interview you both highlighted the developed for the module and installation challenge. What developments are there sustainability benefits that halogen free type it is destined for. in weathering testing? backsheets offer. Can you tell us some more about the track record of the use of your Finally, real life conditions are simulated in AA: The IEC test protocol of a backsheet is products and how that fits with your our in-house quality centre specifically definitely not enough to replicate more than sustainability strategy? dedicated to solar, where accelerated ageing 30 years in the field. That is why our tests are carried out on laminates and final backsheet has undergone extreme Steve Davies: I think it is critical that we application samples. Each of the mentioned accelerated sequential tests like MAST from focus on the performance of our products steps is subject to a highly stringent and DuPont showing no sign of mechanical when it comes to discussions around quality protocol, which is constantly degradation as well as negligible yellowing. sustainability, because there is no such thing monitored and optimized. as a sustainable backsheet if it cannot In addition, our customers performed IEC x 3 protect the module throughout its lifetime. SD: The performance of the Mylar® as well as MAST and PVEL sequential testing Working in partnership with Coveme, we first UVHPET™ range is underpinned by the right on PV modules where all critical parameters commercialised the Mylar® UVHPET™ range selection of raw materials, manufacturing like colour change and power loss were of products in 2008 and since that time our excellence with film lines uniquely suited to measured and remained within targets. products have protected well over 200 deliver the complex needs of films for million modules without a single reported backsheets, stringent quality assurance SD: We are very proud of our weathering in field failure. processes and finally internal and external protocols, which we believe exceed weathering testing. industry standards. In addition to the Alessandro Anderlini: Since the first various IEC tests we conduct, we also like introduction in 1988 and more recently when We would argue that not all PET films are to monitor the performance of our we developed a complete PET based version equal and it is the combination of scientific products in real life installations in a variety in 2008, our backsheet has been installed all and manufacturing expertise that make our of different climatic conditions. over the world, from cold, hot and high products a trusted solution in this market. humidity climates to extremely dry Probably the most demanding test we conditions such as deserts. PES: Replicating the effects of perform is where we assess the impact of weathering over many years in an direct exposure to sunlight, exposing the film As a matter of fact, we haven’t had any accelerated ageing test is clearly a to approximately 10 times more UV than it reported failures so far. That includes onsite inspections, including ground installations in the Czech Republic, operational for 8 years, 6 years in Australia , 7 years in USA and 14 years in Italy. None of these have shown any sign of backsheet failure like delamination, cracks, chalking, yellowing or hot spots. PES: How do Coveme and Dupont Teijin Films ensure the reliability of their products? AA: The development of our backsheet starts from a deep analysis of market needs, thanks to the collaboration with key TIER 1 PV module producers, followed by the selection and qualification of raw materials. The design of the backsheet’s structure is another fundamental step to ensure high performance and reliability, specifically WWW.PESSOLAR.COM 133

ASK THE EXPERTS would see as a backsheet. Here our data not SD: Over the time I have spent in the PV In addition to the impact of weathering, only correlates with the IEC test protocols industry I am still surprised at the focus on I think one area we need to explore more is but suggests a product lifetime far in excess cost over demonstrated performance from the physical protection provided by of 30 years. parts of the value chain. There are numerous backsheets. Increasingly we are seeing the examples arising now of field failures from use of relatively thin, soft coatings as the PES: Despite the critical role of a some PVDF based backsheets, which for me outer protective layer of backsheets and I backsheet, there have been a number of is a double negative, as not only are think there needs to be more focus on high profile failures of various structures halogenated materials being used, but they whether these coatings provide adequate over the years. What concerns do you have are not performing in their primary task of protection against the kind of damage which about the current performance of protecting the module. can occur in transportation, installation and backsheets in the market? maintenance of modules. AA: Unfortunately some of the wrong choice of material type is driven by the quest for low costs, resulting in major field failures. The additional cost for repairing or replacing PV modules in the field, not to mention the energy interruption of the solar installation, have impacted heavily on revenues in PV investments. For this reason, it should be clear that well established components with a long, successful history produced by experienced and quality driven converters should be priority when it comes to BOM selection. PES: What are the challenges and focus for the future for the backsheet industry? SD: Circularity is increasingly becoming an issue for the solar industry and I believe designing for recycling is something that will impact every part of the value chain. From our point of view, we will continue to explore the potential for a closed loop recycling process for backsheets, and also believe this will drive further adoption of non fluorinated backsheets. AA: We are experiencing an interesting trend in HJT cell technology that requires a higher degree of moisture protection from the backsheet. For this reason we developed several aluminium-based and aluminium-free solutions, with different degrees of WVTR level according to customer needs both in coloured and transparent versions. Also, clear backsheets for the bifacial market are finally experiencing a real volume demand competing directly with glass/glass with the advantage of an easier and faster module production process and lower cell breakage rate. Last but not least, Coveme is proud to be the first converter to introduce a full range of recycled backsheets made with DTF r-PET films with a minimum of 33% post consumer recycled content, content contributing to the ECO sustainability of PV modules and helping to reduce the carbon footprint. PES: Do you think this is where the future of sustainability in this market lies, in recycling materials? AA: Material recycling is surely an important element, especially when it comes to EoL, but to push forward sustainability as a whole the environmental impact of material sourcing, production 134 PES SOLAR

ASK THE EXPERTS processes, transportation and installation AA: In a PV market scenario where continue and strengthen the cooperation must also be considered. geopolitical and technological factors to meet the new challenges in terms of continue to change and influence decisions product technology, reliability and high Coveme continues to invest in new worldwide, it is fundamental to maintain volume demand. technologies that guarantee not only the strategic collaborations with reliable quality and reliability of our products but partners that share the same approach and www.coveme.com are virtuous also from an environmental priorities. This is the reason why we’ll point of view. www.dupontteijinfilms.com Last but not least, we have commissioned an LCA study of our PV products which is undergoing, and plan to publish our first sustainability report by the end of the year. PES: Do you think this can be done while not compensating on quality? SD: Whether we are using recycled material from single use packaging waste or looking to implement a closed loop process for backsheets, the key point is to choose the right recycling technology. Mechanically recycled material will never be suitable for an application as demanding as backsheets, but using our LuxCR™ process we have proven that post consumer recycled content can be incorporated into backsheet films without any deterioration in material properties. With our initial trials into closed loop recycling of backsheets we have also proven that it is technically possible using monomer recycling processes to recover the PET component of a backsheet. We are confident that monomer recycling processes can generate new raw materials with properties that are indistinguishable from virgin material, and our focus now is on whether the logistics and economics are viable for the future. AA: With our dyMat® ECO range, made with DTF’s rPET, Coveme is the first PV supplier worldwide to offer to solar module manufacturers 1000VDC and 1500VDC backsheets made of recycled polyester (rPET). dyMat® ECO products are subject to the same thorough testing and certification protocol as Coveme’s standard products which means pv manufacturers can now offer the market a solar module of guaranteed performance combined with a recycled component and low carbon footprint. PES: And for you both, are there plans to continue what has been a successful partnership so far for DuPont Teijin Films and Coveme? SD: Absolutely, I am a great believer in open innovation across the value chain, particularly when it comes to some of the major sustainability challenges. I think DuPont Teijin Films and Coveme is extremely well placed to address some of the big themes in the solar industry such as the need for greater circularity, the increasing adoption of bi-facial technology and the onshoring of module manufacture in Europe and the US. WWW.PESSOLAR.COM 135

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ASK THE EXPERTS hero.flat: for all surfaces Real energy independence is possible The rising cost of energy has been making headlines throughout Europe and beyond in recent months. But is heating the forgotten element in the drive towards net zero and can solar help drive down costs and take us a step closer to a greener way of living? PES was keen to get the thoughts of Dr Heiko Schwertner, Vice President Logic Swiss, on the subject. 138 PES SOLAR

ASK THE EXPERTS PES: A warm welcome to PES Solar Heiko, Dr. Heiko Schwertner I’m looking forward to getting to know more about Logic Swiss today. It would be good to also thermal energy. This is why we developed begin with a short introduction to the our hero. modules, which combine both company if you wouldn’t mind? electrical and thermal energy. Dr. Heiko Schwertner: Thank you, we are PES: The combination of electricity and excited for this great opportunity. We are a heat is interesting. Can you explain how Swiss company driven by a common goal; to this works? make renewable energy available to everyone at an affordable price, which is why we invented HS: With our hero. modules we successfully our patented hero. products. Our main focus is combined multiple energy sources in one to develop and optimize these solutions, which compact module. Our hero.flat module is a PV we sell through subsidiaries in Europe. module, which produces electrical and thermal energy, thanks to the integrated cooling unit. In PES: Solar is of course an important part of addition, the cooling unit increases the the drive towards net zero, but how do you efficiency and life span of the solar cells. Along see the development in Europe? with hero.flat, we also developed the hero.wind module. It combines PV, heat and wind energy HS: Solar, and renewable energy in general, is and can produce electricity around the clock, a huge topic throughout Europe. Trends like even at night and during winter. So, we took digitalization and e-mobility require that win-win situation and further increased enormous amounts of energy. However, the the gain for both sides. current energy crisis has highlighted a significant lack of available renewables. PES: What type of savings can homeowners Renewable energy sources are the only expect to make by opting for hero. modules? sustainable way to cover these needs. Therefore, throughout Europe there are HS: In the short-term, a lot of countries are various regulations pushing solar. offering subsidies on a federal and local level, which already cover a good proportion of the Look at Switzerland, our home market, for initial installation costs. However, the real example. The government has realised that benefit comes in the long run, when the initial solar will play an important role in reaching investment generates a return on and the the net zero goal, and people have owners can actually earn money with our understood that they can save money and hero. solutions. This might sound too good to protect the planet by using solar. So, it is a be true, but thanks to reduced electricity and win-win situation. heating bills, and the steadily increasing energy prices, it is realistic. But what everybody forgets is heating, where, compared to electricity, only a fraction is PES: What about installation though? Does produced through renewable solutions. At the the cost of this negate the savings that can beginning of this year, we realized how be made by opting for hero.? dependent we are on imports of gas and other sources in order to be able to heat our HS: Installation is quick and simple. Thanks to buildings. To reduce this dependency, we have the easy mounting system anyone can install to produce not only our own electrical, but the hero. system, which makes the installation quick and less cost intensive. This is the good Installation of hero.wind news for the homeowner and the installation partner as only a little experience is required. We also have interesting business opportunities to make our partners even happier. WWW.PESSOLAR.COM 139

ASK THE EXPERTS PES: On domestic properties where roof hero.wind: the Swiss world novelty and up to 28 years of renewable energy. space is quite minimal compared to larger commercial situations, windows and heat production. If you compare that to PES: Who can install your modules? chimneys sometimes act as a barrier to current energy costs, this is a massive saving. panel installation, is this still the case? Take Germany for example, with electricity HS: We work with a variety of partners from prices of up to €0.48 per kWh. This doesn’t different trades, including architects, HS: For common solar panels this still is a huge include the heating bill. electricians, solar installers, carpenters, HVAC issue. And it is getting even more complex as installers, and others. Our system is easy to the units get even bigger. However, our PES: What about maintenance issues, how plan, install and maintain, which creates new module size is a lot smaller, thus we can cover straightforward is this? business opportunities for a lot of companies the whole roof with them and minimize the involved in the construction business. impact of windows and other obstacles. We HS: The maintenance is as simple as it can even cover roofs that cannot use comes. The basic maintenance is similar to PES: It does sound pretty straightforward. conventional PV at all. This doesn’t mean that conventional PV panels and thanks to the Is there special training you offer? we can only do small areas though. Due to the rail-system, even module replacements are large energy output, our hero. modules are completed within a short period. HS: We do offer extensive partner care, also a great fit for industrial, agricultural and starting with our online and offline training. commercial buildings. PES: Now, how is the ecological situation? We help our partners to fully understand the There are more components to your hero. product family and the incredible PES: Can you explain a bit about hero.wind. modules than to common solar panels. opportunities that come with it, and of It’s a compact module isn’t it, so how does it course also how to safely install and work and what are its advantages? HS: Our hero. modules are CO2 neutral in as implement the our modules. Even after the little as two years, which means that there is training, we still support our partners HS: hero.wind is unique. It is the world’s first up to 28 years of clean energy production. wherever they need it. A well trained and compact module, which produces electrical We also use recycled materials for the chassis happy partner leads to satisfied customers, and thermal energy through sun and wind. and avoid any use of copper or other metals so it’s advantageous for all those involved. Like hero.flat, the cooling unit absorbs the in our cooling unit. In fact, we go a step heat from the solar panel, increasing its further and use a special biodegradable www.logic.swiss efficiency and life span. The collected heat thermal transfer fluid. So no copper, no glycol energy can then be used as needed. hero. wind now combines the flat module with a chassis, which, thanks to its aerodynamic design, channels the wind towards the two wind generators. hero.wind generates sustainable energy 24/7, meaning a high energy independence can be achieved, with very low costs per kwh. PES: So it’s small in size, but what kind of cost per kWh is it possible to produce with such a system? HS: The exact costs per kwh really depend on the building and its surroundings. In the offers that we calculated we achieved costs per kwh at around €0.05 for electricity and hero.wind and hero.flat roof 140 PES SOLAR

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# WORD ON THE TWEET It’s great to see solar and renewable energy featuring so regularly as a topic for discussion on Twitter. We’ve handpicked a selection of tweets from those with an interest in the solar industry. SolarPower Europe @SolarPowerEU \"Solar is already deploying rapidly across the EU & last year we saw a record year: 26 GW were installed. It is clear that even with this impressive outcome we need to be even more ambitious for the future.\" @KadriSimson at #SolarPowerSummit #SolarWeek #EUSolarStrategy Mike Hudema@MikeHudema Why doesn't every parking lot get a #solarpower upgrade? We have so many solutions to this crisis. Stop the delays and implement them. #ActOnClimate #Climate #energy #GreenNewDeal #BuildBackBetter #RenewableEnergy Climate Action Now Sri Lanka @cansrilanka අරගලය is now powered with #renewableenergy A group of individuals has built a small solar power plant at #GotaGoGama to power the library, the Citizens' Council, the Ambulance Service, the Ayurveda Center, the Legal Aid Stall and the phone charging station. #GotaGoHome2022 @ErikSolheim India is lining canals with solarpower. It provides cleanenergy and stops water evaporation at the same time. From Gujarat. We have so many solutions. Implement them! 146 PES SOLAR

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