PES Solar 2 2021

SOLAR/PV IBC Solar Wesii Helioconsult Conference call Discussing the future Does airplane surveillance Small scale renewable Real life events are back as potential of the hold the key to easy PV energy systems for a we look at what to expect photovoltaics market plant inspections? post-pandemic world as two of the industry’s biggest shows return All of the latest news, views and pioneering innovations from across the Solar/PV industry. Including show previews, product updates, expert analysis, insights and opinions from many of the sector’s leading names, plus so much more. POWER AND ENERGY SOLUTIONS • ISSUE 39, 2021 A CHANGING CLIMATE In the ever changing landscape of the solar/ PV Sector, even more attention is turning toward the role of solar power in the ongoing quest for a greener future Photo by David Moum on Unsplash

RENEWABLE ENERGY Looking for a partner with outstanding experience in the industry? For real added value At Stäubli Renewable Energy, we take care to develop our products and services not just for today, but for the future. Our many years of experience in implementing complex solutions around the world help us add long-term value. As a company with Swiss roots, you can rely on us. Stäubli – Connections for sustainable change www.staubli-renewable-energy.com

EDITOR’S NOTE Editor’s note POWER & ENERGY SOLUTIONS Over the last 18 months or so, news channels around the world have been dominated by the latest developments in the global fight against the pandemic. This is, of course, while Directors the battle against the effects of climate change have also been presenting their own Stuart Gillies challenges. 2021 even so far has seen its fair share of unpredictable weather patterns Mark Wilson causing mayhem to the environment, and the recently published UN report from the Stefann Perrigot Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) was a further, much-needed, Client Liaison Manager wake-up call. Vikki Birch Editor Described by the UN chief as a ‘code red for humanity’, the report’s findings, while Elaine Perrigot unquestionably concerning, also serve to highlight the importance of the work already [email protected] being taken within the solar/PV industry to enable the right action to be taken. A red flag for Associate Editors many, maybe, but also a clear sign that as an industry, we are potentially ahead of the curve. Stephen Pearson Zachary George Technology and innovation in this market is advancing at an incredible rate and, as with all Design challenges, these are exciting times too. A browse through this issue of PES Solar/PV is Andrew Jenkins testament to this. It paints a rich picture of forward thinking, new possibilities and [email protected] solutions that put this market at the front of the game. Production Paul Lawson Many of these will be shown at the forthcoming Solar Power International in New Orleans [email protected] this month. Perhaps it’s ironic that this is a region that has itself been traumatised by Sales Enquiries adverse weather conditions very recently, with global warming meaning this is now [email protected] becoming a regular part of life in this part of the world. And as we arise from the General Enquiries pandemic, this is a show season that will be like no other too, with proof of negative Covid [email protected] tests and vaccine cards at the ready, but we are certain much excitement to have in real Media Partnership Enquiries life meet-ups and events back on the cards. [email protected] Advertising Opportunities Whether you are conference-bound to the US, heading to Europe for Intersolar in [email protected] October, or staying grounded for now, PES Solar/PV will help keep you abreast of the PES is published by P&G Media Ltd evolution. We have exclusive interviews with some of the industry’s top thinkers that provide food for thought and more than a little fresh thinking. As the drive towards P&G Media Ltd carbon neutrality speeds up, what are the systems and solutions that are most likely to PO Box 310, Bristol, BS10 5WT, help us all arrive there? United Kingdom We take a look, for example, at the growing focus on digital, as companies increasingly explore the possibilities of this smart technology to help the solar market operate more This publication is copyright © 2017 P&G Media Ltd and efficiently, safely and cost effectively. When we’ve all been reaping the benefits that such may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form in whole technology can bring to our daily lives, these advancements seem quite timely. or in part without the prior permission of P&G Media Ltd. While every care has been taken during the preparation of As the battle for positive climate change continues, we hope you will agree that this issue this publication, P&G Media cannot be held responsible for is a comforting read, that gives us lots of cause to be confident that strides are being the accuracy of the information published herein or any made in solar towards a brighter future. consequence arising from it. Elaine Perrigot From sustainably managed forests. Editor For more information visit: www.pefc.org www.pessolar.com WWW.PESSOLAR.COM 3

CONTENTS 154 The photovoltaics market 120 PES asked Wesii CEO Mauro Migliazzi helioconsult explains how the continues to grow and its potential why he believes the advantages of 140 pandemic and its aftermath has for residential and commercial airplane surveillance will forever impacted the market for small scale renewable energy systems. applications is still huge. PES asked change the way the solar industry IBC SOLAR about current trends inspects PV plants. and why size certainly matters. In person exhibitions are back in business, with New 6 Orleans the destination for Solar Power International this September. Find out what to expect from the show. Intersolar Europe Restart 2021 looks set to be full of energy in October, as we preview some of the innovations, products and solutions being showcased. Ask the experts 100 As the world steers its way towards 132 As residential PV systems are becoming 34 G ameChange explains how EPCs and carbon neutrality and the immediate increasingly complex and new effects of climate change are brought technologies come to market, GoodWe’s developers can keep track of balancing into ever sharper focus, Solis casts a installer program offers a one-stop-shop the books, weighing up the ever-rising crystal ball over what the future may for complete storage systems cost of raw materials against the rate of have in store and how solar technology return for the best results looks set to play its part 144 Could big brother-style technology hold 88 Dr. Joop Mes, Senior Scientist at 116 R enu Robotics is developing new the key to solar park security? The team from LivEye explains why video could be OTT HydroMet, was part of the innovations in autonomous technology the future committee that updated the ISO 9060 for the renewable energy industry. PES standard three years ago. He spoke to spoke to CEO Tim Matus to learn more Corporate focus PES to explain the differences and the 130 Video surveillance provides an excellent benefits of making the change 124 Alessandro Anderlini from Coveme and deterrent against intruders on solar 96 A s grid-forming becomes a popular way Steve Davies of DuPont Teijin Films farms, according to the team at Kooi team up once again and discuss the of allowing solar and inverter-based important role that collaboration plays energy sources to power up the grid in mapping out a sustainable future independently, PES spoke to SMA America to get their perspective on this emerging technology 4 PES SOLAR

CONTENTS 40 104 Talking point 62 PES asks Norwegian Crystals, is 136 As the demand for renewable energy 14 Digital oilfield technology is expanding climate neutrality by 2050 a realistic increases and solar energy production goal for Europe? rapidly grows and planting solar panels rapidly into all facets of on-shore in deserts becomes viable, how do you operations, but what exactly is it? 72 With PV projects divided into specific keep things clean? Solarcleano has a Morningstar Corporation sheds light solution on this growing trend phases before the plant is finally connected to the grid, 148 Atonometrics was founded in Texas, 22 Solar-Log explains why the path to HIS CONNECT® explains why an all- round approach may be best in 2007, with the mission to provide achieving climate neutrality won’t high-quality test and measurement always be smooth and looks at some of 78 Take a trip to the German countryside equipment to the small but growing the challenges and possible solutions as photovoltaics industry. PES looks at nations press ahead with their goals with us, as we discover Mounting how it’s going Systems GmbH and all they have to offer 40 If you don’t know your AC coupled Think tank 92 3D-Micromac AG explains the connections from your DCs then read 28 As bifacial modules enter the large- on, as Soltaro gives PES a well-rounded benefits of cutting solar cells in half- explanation that is really switched on cells and why this trend has grown to scale solar installation market, become a mainstream strategy in PV MBJ Solutions explores the technology 44 With the market for sustainable energy manufacturing behind them and the benefits they have the potential to bring growing, eturnity explains why moving 104 Offering tailored services along the PV beyond the online calculator tool may be 68 C ampbell Scientific looks into the crucial for snapping up new customers project lifecycles for electrical Balance of System applications, science behind accurate measurements 46 How can an app enable quick and Stäubli Renewable Energy is investing of broadband solar irradiance in product innovation, resources and precise measurements of buildings expertise. Two new members of the 82 P feiffer Vacuum explores the digitally to provide initial estimates global team give an insight while still on site? ETU Software gives possibilities for concentrated solar us the lowdown on this latest piece of 108 FIMER looks at how the deployment power systems, as a viable alternative to software technology photovoltaic systems in solar energy for of solar PV across the world is on an electricity generation 50 EKO Instruments tell us why they are upward trajectory, with recent reports highlighting the growing popularity betting big on bifacial PV, delivering of both commercial and utility-scale industry-leading accuracy with a projects comprehensive package of bifacial and albedo measurement solutions 112 T CT-Europe is a UK based, European 56 A PSystems explain what PV module/ company focused on the design, engineering, prototyping and volume inverter DC-AC over ratio is and why it manufacturing, using compression could be an important tool in increasing moulding, of products made from efficiency and reducing costs recycled rubber crumb. PES got to know more about them WWW.PESSOLAR.COM 5

CONFERENCE CALL Best in show State-side As exhibition season dawns in a new post-pandemic era with all that it may still entail, there’s a packed programme of events to look forward to. Our first show preview comes from New Orleans, where plans for Solar Power International, Energy Storage International and Smart Energy Week 2021 are in full swing. 6 PES SOLAR

CONFERENCE CALL Solar Power International (SPI), Energy proceeds from the event go directly back to Distribution & Interconnection Planning, Storage International (ESI), and Smart these organizations, supporting research Equity in Financing Structures; Climate Energy Week 2021 returns September 20 and education for the clean energy industry, Change, Weather and Force Majeure Events: through 23 with an in-person program, as as well as SEIA’s advocacy work. This year, Designing Solar Plants for Extreme Weather; well as a virtual program on September 28 proof of vaccination or a negative PCR Covid and DER Aggregation Implementation. and 29. The in-person event will be held at test result will be required for the event, as the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial well as bars and restaurants around the city Energy Storage International (ESI) Convention Center in New Orleans, of New Orleans. Louisiana, USA with hundreds of exhibitors As a dominant part of the event, and a and thousands of attendees. In addition to Solar Power International, the growing industry, energy storage was a anchor event of Smart Energy Week, the primary interest for a majority of attendees Powered by North America’s leading clean show has evolved with the expansion and at the 2019 Smart Energy Week conference energy industry associations, Solar Energy diversification of the industry to bring and made up over 30% of the show floor. By Industries Association (SEIA) and Smart together leaders from across the spectrum capturing power and releasing it on-demand Electric Power Alliance (SEPA), this portfolio of the clean energy landscape – this year’s where it is needed, whether on the grid or of expo, education, and networking events in New Orleans include the solar, behind the meter, both utilities and project opportunities will be the first major storage, wind, EVs and EV infrastructure, developers can take advantage of declining in-person industry event of the year. All microgrids, and hydrogen and fuel cell energy costs. segments of the industry. ESI recognizes energy storage’s place as a The 2021 convention will include the major key component of the clean energy puzzle hallmarks that past attendees have come to with an engaging show floor, dedicated expect a full expo hall, multiple rooms for education programming, and thousands of conference education sessions, networking attendees focused on the applications of events such as the welcome reception, energy storage technologies. Some of the opportunities for new companies to gain featured education opportunities at ESI visibility at Startup Alley, the Technical include the following sessions: Energy Symposium, and more. Storage Safety: Protecting Personnel and Property as Storage Scales Up; The True Participants can engage with hundreds of Cost of Solar O&M; Opportunities for Long exhibitors on the show floor for extensive Duration Storage; Securing the Grid: networking opportunities and live Protecting our Energy Access, and Domestic demonstration sessions of new Clean Energy Manufacturing for a Circular technologies. This is the place to share Economy. This is North America’s must- critical information with hundreds of attend energy storage event. education sessions led by the industry’s leading minds – attendees will hear the latest The Smart Energy Week umbrella also trends, forecasts, and deep dives into covers Smart Energy Marketplace + specific interests they can get nowhere else. Microgrid, Hydrogen + Fuel Cells International, Wind Energy International, Solar Power International (SPI) and Electric Vehicle International. The Smart Energy Marketplace + Microgrid Smart Energy Week’s flagship event, is the demonstrates how multiple facets of the premier solar industry gathering in North industry all tie together, from storage to America, attracting thousands of attendees distributed resources to energy security. annually. In 2020, SPI was once again honored as a Trade Show Executive ’Gold 100’ event, The marketplace features a fully-functioning the only solar industry trade show to be ‘live’ microgrid, power conversion recognized, and a distinction it has garnered equipment, energy management systems, for the past ten years running. building and home smart energy products, electric vehicle charging stations, energy This year, solar professionals will gather in storage systems, and solar energy New Orleans to discuss the latest trends, products—ultimately making the connection showcase new product innovations and between solar, energy storage, hydrogen fuel technologies, and network with attendees cells, distributed wind, and smart energy. across the clean energy spectrum. Solar Power International affords attendees the Hydrogen + Fuel Cells International is the opportunity to connect with exhibiting premier gathering for green hydrogen and companies from the entire solar supply chain, fuel cells technology professionals in North including investors, installers, developers, America, showcasing the versatility of contractors, utility companies, renewable hydrogen and fuel cell manufacturers, software, operations and applications for utilities, microgrids, maintenance, and others. vehicles, and more. This event offers exclusive show floor education from leading In addition to show floor networking and companies in the space. demonstrations, SPI presents thought- leading education sessions guided by SEIA, Electric Vehicle International (EVI) is the SEPA, and this year’s diverse and forward- newest addition to the Smart Energy Week thinking education committee. This year’s portfolio. EVI explores the future of electric education offerings feature discussions on vehicles and the integration of charging topics such as Diversity and Equity in the solutions and other EV technologies into the Clean Energy Workforce; Aligning Clean modern energy grid. Research compiled by Energy Goals with Effective Transmission; the Smart Electric Power Alliance (SEPA) WWW.PESSOLAR.COM 7

CONFERENCE CALL shows that EVs will be a critical part of the young start-ups to present their products, the industry’s highest standards of carbon-free conversation. DERs, vehicle-to- technologies, and services to a large, cleanliness. For more information about the grid integration, and managed charging will established audience of attendees, media Safely Connecting Initiative, current all be important technologies supporting the outlets, and other key players. regulations put in place by the city of New sustainable growth of EVs as a part of the Orleans, and updates about travel and clean energy future. The city of New Orleans is ready to welcome in-person events, please visit attendees with some precautions. The city has www.solarpowerinternational.com/ Wind Energy International (WEI) is an instituted a vaccine mandate, which requires safely-connecting-initiative. important part of Smart Energy Week, people attending restaurants, bars, gyms, and especially as the cost of wind and energy entertainment venues to provide proof of For would-be attendees who are not yet storage technologies continues to fall and inoculation or a negative Covid-19 test. able to travel to New Orleans, there will more companies are adding these be a supplementary Digital Education technologies to their portfolio to meet For attendees eager to get back to business offering after the in-person event with customer demand for clean energy. in person, SPI, ESI, and Smart Energy Week both live sessions and on-demand Education sessions focused on wind energy offers multiple networking events, including content, on September 28th and 29th. include: Climate Change, Weather, and Force a welcome reception. And attendees both in-person and Majeure Events, The Evolving Needs for Bulk virtual can access a Digital Expo Hall to Connected DER, Ensuring Grid Reliability, The entire week of events is bolstered by connect, chat with exhibitors, and view The Value of Certification, and Raising the Solar Power Events’ Safely Connecting demonstrations at any time. Bar for Responsible Land Use and Justice- Initiative, crafted with guidance from local Centered Siting Decisions. health authorities and recommendations The clean energy industry is stronger from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and more effective when it works The Technical Symposium at Smart Energy and Prevention (CDC) for large group together for an integrated and Week offers academic, R&D, technical, and meetings and events. This includes a modernized grid. SPI, ESI, and Smart scientific communities the opportunity to requirement that all attendees show proof of Energy Week is the only event where come together and present innovative vaccination or a negative PCR Covid-19 test, attendees can see each of the research in photovoltaics, energy storage, in line with city requirements. Masks must be technologies comprising the clean and other smart energy technologies to worn during the event as well. energy industry working together to business and policy leaders in the energy create a sustainable future. This space. This is the best place for collaboration Additional pillars of this initiative include integration is what makes Smart Energy to move the industry forward by sharing the touchless registration, more space and fewer Week a pivotal event. SPI, ESI, and latest scientific research with the biggest touchpoints at exhibitor booths, and an Smart Energy Week 2021 takes place at business decision-makers in North America. emphasis on clean air and surfaces the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial The symposium features two days of throughout the facilities. Additionally, the Convention Center from September scientific content including poster and Global Biorisk Advisory Council (GBAC), 20th through 23rd. For registration and keynote presentations. which helps organizations and businesses housing information, a list of exhibitors, prepare for, respond to, and recover from education session information, a full Smart Energy Week’s Startup Alley on the biological threats and biohazard situations conference schedule, and more, visit expo floor is an exciting opportunity for has designated both the Ernest N. Morial www.smartenergyweek.com emerging companies in the clean energy Convention Center and the Louis Armstrong space. This program offers a chance for New Orleans International Airport as accredited GBAC STAR Facilities, keeping to 8 PES SOLAR

This year, we’re ready to host the renewable energy community safely and in-person. SPI, ESI, and Smart Energy Week in-person & online 20-23 September | New Orleans, LA, USA (with virtual session & exhibition options) Registration now open www.smartenergyweek.com

CONFERENCE CALL © Solar Promotion GmbH Renewed energy for the world of solar Intersolar Europe Restart 2021 looks set to be full of energy from October 6th to 8th. PES takes a look at what innovations, products and solutions you can expect to see. 10 PES SOLAR

CONFERENCE CALL If social life has been largely at a standstill is also a special reason to celebrate: Intersolar photovoltaics as well as technological since the beginning of the corona pandemic, turns 30 this year. innovations and falling costs make the this does not apply to the new energy world. manufacture of photovoltaic products in This continued its rapid pace. The Hardly any other industry has changed as Europe attractive - as does the existing photovoltaic and storage markets are much in the last 30 years as the solar know-how in research and mechanical booming, electromobility and charging industry. Intersolar, which is celebrating its engineering. Even if the corona pandemic has infrastructure are on the advance. From 30th anniversary this year, has always been not left the industry without leaving a mark, October 6th to 8th, the Intersolar Europe the generator and catalyst for the industry. European companies such as Meyer Burger Restart 2021 will serve the solar industry’s According to the German Solar Industry are rebuilding productions in Europe. At the need for orientation and exchange. Numerous Association, domestic demand for same time, countless new products and exhibitors will present their innovative photovoltaics in Germany has grown by services are coming onto the market, many projects and products. The exhibition takes around 50 percent since the last Intersolar of which will be presented in Munich. place as part of the smarter E Europe Restart Europe in May 2019, and that of small-scale at Messe München, the focus is on cross- PV systems and battery storage systems has Finally experience innovative products live sector and intelligently integrated concepts even more than doubled, despite Corona. on site again and solutions for the efficient generation, storage, distribution and use of energy. There After more than two years of abstinence due This year’s winners of the Intersolar AWARD to corona, Intersolar Europe invites you to will be presenting their innovative products Munich again this year, together with the on site in Munich: DuPont Teijin Films from three parallel exhibitions, it will take place Luxembourg will be showing the PV under the umbrella of the smarter E Europe backsheets made from recycled material. from October 6th to 8th, 2021 at Messe Goldbeck Solar presents the PV construction München. The smarter E Europe comprises system MarcS for the agricultural industry the four parallel energy exhibitions and is among others. LONGi Solar Technology, the therefore the innovation platform for the world’s largest manufacturer of new energy world: Intersolar Europe focuses monocrystalline silicon wafers and modules on photovoltaics (PV) and solutions for the from China, is representing among other integration of renewable energy. ees Europe things the new Hi-MO5, a powerful bifacial is the industry platform for batteries and module for large solar parks. The ees AWARD energy storage solutions. The focus of winners, SAX Power, Commeo and Enphase Power2Drive Europe is on the intelligent Energy will also present their future-oriented charging infrastructure for electromobility. solutions and products for the storage EM-Power Europe focuses on the industry on site. corresponding energy management and integrated energy solutions. The development in the module and cell area is also dynamic: Photovoltaic modules are The current figures for the solar industry becoming more and more powerful, while PV show the upswing system costs continue to fall. The driver is the learning curve due to the expansion of In 2020, despite the impact of the COVID-19 production as well as technical optimizations pandemic around the world, 138.2 gigawatts such as the use of larger wafers, half-cell (GW) of PV capacity were newly installed, an modules and the further development of increase of 18 percent compared to 2019. PERC cell technology (Passivated Emitter This marks another global annual record for Rear Cell). High-efficiency technologies such the solar sector: The worldwide installed PV as silicon heterojunction technology (HTJ), capacity is 773.2 GW. With this 22 percent integrated rear contacts or tandem increase, the PV sector exceeds the technology will continue to gain importance milestone of three quarters of a terawatt in the coming years. When it comes to cell (TW) of installed capacity. formats, there is a trend towards larger, but also thinner wafers, and thus larger and more This growth is contributing to the fact that PV powerful modules. is expanding its status: 39 percent of the newly installed capacity of all power generation Pole position for electromobility technologies last year came from PV. More than every third power plant unit installed in Photovoltaics is only one aspect of the 2020 can be attributed to PV. At the same time, energy transition and should not be viewed in the share of solar energy in total electricity isolation. Rather, it is about cross-sector, generation rose to around 3.1 percent. integrated and intelligently integrated However, almost 70 percent still comes from solutions for the efficient generation, fossil and nuclear fuels. It is time to further storage, distribution and use of energy. advance and accelerate the use of solar energy. Electromobility and the interaction between e-cars and a sustainable and environmentally Despite various price increases along the friendly energy supply play a decisive role solar value chain, SolarPower Europe is here. For example, e-cars can serve as mobile forecasting another excellent year of growth storage for environmentally friendly energy for 2021. The middle scenario assumes an e.g. generated by the solar carport, and thus increase in newly installed capacity of 18 make another important contribution to the percent to 163.2 GW. For 2025, SolarPower energy transition. And e-mobility has proven Europe is assuming almost 1.9 TW of globally that it is making the breakthrough: Both installed capacity. leading automobile manufacturers and users have been placing their trust in electric And the developments remain extremely vehicles since 2020. dynamic. The increasing demand for WWW.PESSOLAR.COM 11

CONFERENCE CALL The development of charging technology is © Solar Promotion GmbH virtual power plants. following this boom: the public charging infrastructure in Europe alone grew by 35 preferably renewable, over the next three Experience the new energy world together percent in 2020, and there is huge interest in decades, 340 billion euros of which in PV and private wallboxes in Germany. The number of wind power plants. Green hydrogen is a huge The signs in the entire new energy world are providers and the variety of products are opportunity for an industry and society that clearly pointing to growth. The weather increasing accordingly. The new is oriented towards climate protection, extremes of the last few weeks have shown us manufacturer-independent ‘Market innovation and sustainability. The hydrogen once again: Consistent climate protection Overview Charging Systems’ with around 110 generated with renewable energy is the focus requires significantly accelerated solarization products from Power2Drive Europe, the of the innovation platform The smarter E and the mobilization of all forces. The international exhibition for charging Europe Restart 2021 and the ees Europe exhibitions, which take place together on the infrastructure and electromobility, in Restart 2021. innovation platform The smarter E Europe, cooperation with cosmix: Europe’s largest The innovation platform and the exhibition see themselves as door openers to the new platform for charging infrastructure. also dedicate a separate exhibition area to energy world. They are important drivers, green hydrogen: in the ‘Green Hydrogen indispensable trading platforms and an On the way to becoming a climate-neutral Forum & Expo’ in Hall B6 there are impressive reflection of this success story. company technologies, services and infrastructure solutions on the subjects of hydrogen, fuel There are only a few weeks left until the From IKEA to BMW and Google to medium- cells and power-to-gas. The ‘The smarter E smarter E Europe Restart 2021 opens in sized companies: more and more companies - Green Hydrogen Forum’ taking place during Munich. Come to Munich and take the are realizing that by using efficient and the exhibition is a showcase for industry opportunity to find out about attractive new renewable energy technologies, they can not representatives from the entire value chain. business opportunities, the latest trends and only meet legal requirements and reduce In addition to the advantages and products and meet experts from all areas of energy costs. In this way, they also protect the disadvantages of the options for the the industry. You can find out which climate and benefit from competitive transport and storage of hydrogen, experts exhibitors are presenting their innovations in advantages and the image boost in the eyes of shed light on the question of how hydrogen Munich and are looking forward to your visit the customers and investors. If companies are production can be promoted through the in the exhibitor list: moving towards climate neutrality, there is no expansion of solar and wind energy, through way around EM-Power Europe Restart 2021. It network flexibility, sector coupling and h ttps://www.thesmartere.de/ is the international exhibition for energy exhibitorlist?lang=en management and integrated energy solutions. © Solar Promotion GmbH Interested parties can already organize their However, many companies do not know their visit to the exhibition: you can conveniently CO2 emissions. Knowing about emissions is book your ticket in the online ticket shop: the first fundamental step in a climate https://www.intersolar.de/tickets?lang=en . strategy and a prerequisite for calculating a Secure the early bird price by October 5, carbon footprint. But which emissions are 2021. The trade fair ticket is valid for all trade relevant for this? Only those of your own fairs as part of the smarter E Europe Restart company or also those of the suppliers? How 2021 (Intersolar Europe, ees Europe, can they be calculated? The leading forum of Power2Drive Europe, EM-Power Europe). EM-Power Europe Restart 2021 answers these and other questions in daily sessions You can find more information here: on the topic of climate-neutral companies. https://www.thesmartere.de/home Green hydrogen: key element and driving force behind the energy transition https://www.intersolar.de/home?lang=en Green hydrogen is also driving the expansion https://www.powertodrive.de/publications/ of photovoltaics. According to the hydrogen market-overview-charging- strategy, the EU wants to invest at least 470 systems?lang=en billion euros in hydrogen production, https://www.thesmartere.de/for-exhibitors/ green-hydrogen/info 12 PES SOLAR

The Innovation Hub for New Energy Solutions MESSE MÜNCHEN, GERMANY RESTART 2021 For a renewable, decentralized and digital energy industry Cross-sector solutions for electricity, heat and mobility From the latest insights to current best practice examples Meet 20,000+ energy experts and 800 exhibitors at four parallel exhibitions Be Part of the Leading Energy Exhibitions and Conferences at The smarter E Europe

TALKING POINT Solar powering the digital oilfield Words: Mark Cerasuolo, Morningstar Corporation Solar-powered Remote Terminal Unit (RTU) at a pumping site using a Morningstar HazLoc-rated SunKeeper controller. Courtesy of SunWize What exactly is meant by the digital oilfield? From its origins in the early 1970s when the first pressure/temperature gauges were fitted into subsea wells and data logging via satellite began, the digital oilfield concept has evolved from simple data gathering activity to the automation, control, and optimization of nearly every process involved upstream (exploration, development, and production) and midstream (transport and storage). Initially adopted for offshore, deep-water facilities where the extremely remote and hazardous nature of operations made automation an asset, digital oilfield technology is expanding rapidly into all facets of on-shore operations. 14 PES SOLAR

TALKING POINT New technologies have transformed the Mark Cerasuolo concept from simple data acquisition and monitoring to a fully-digitized management was reducing the time it took to check system, one that frees-up valuable pipeline integrity from seven days manually engineering resources for analysis, planning to just 30 minutes using digital oilfield and implementation activities rather than automation technology. reading screens and watching gauges. Key elements of a digital oilfield today include As operators make up for lost time in the (but are not limited to): post-pandemic environment, they are discovering that the digitization of the oilfield • Data management is essential to unleashing productivity by freeing up resources for more productive • Process automation purposes. as a result, the modern digital oilfield represents a direct response to • Drilling and production optimization industry demand for increased production and decreased down-time, through process • Control and monitoring optimization and remote management. All this is why the digital oilfield market is • Sensors and instrumentation expected to reach an estimated $28.5 billion USD over the next five years. • P ipeline integrity, including cathodic protection Solar electricity in the digital oilfield • Robotic drilling and smart wells Globally there are well over 2 million miles/3.2 million kilometers of oil & gas • Security pipelines, the longest of which stretches over 5,400 miles/8,700 kilometers. The oil & gas • Lighting (fields and platforms) • Safety management Of the many definitions of what exactly constitutes a digital oilfield, one of the simplest is the sensors, telecommunications networks, simulation and optimization, and robotics, coupled with advanced condition monitoring and computational power, which enable major changes to working methods. What are its advantages for oil & gas operations? Those working method changes drive real-world results. Recent industry reports indicate that digital oilfield implementation can deliver on the average an 11% bottom line improvement and 7% increase in productivity. One report highlighting a major oil producer as a case study credits digital oilfield adoption with saving the company some $200 million in capital operating expense (CAPEX); one example mentioned Operational areas where solar electricity is most applicable to digital oilfield processes WWW.PESSOLAR.COM 15

TALKING POINT extraction sites they support total over 65,000 worldwide, with some 9,000 off-shore. The sheer size and scope of this network means that many operations occur in locations far removed from any electrical grid, yet on-site electricity is needed for every mile of pipeline and at every wellhead and terminal, to provide critical power for the monitoring, control, process automation and production optimization functions that comprise the digital oilfield. Diesel and gas generators initially provided a Solar electric system implementation on the digital oilfield solution at extraction sites, but as digital oilfield technology expanded across pipeline phosphate (LiFePo) types which are both safe tracking), which effectively extracts every networks installing, running, and supporting and, because they can last 10x longer than possible Watt from a system for running a more and more generators became less conventional batteries in off-grid solar load for storage for later. Equipped with the practical due to two reasons: they require systems, can ‘pencil out’ more economically right batteries for the application, solar can regular maintenance and periodic teardowns than other battery types over the long term. function equally well under harsh conditions which are expensive, and they must be at sea, in deserts, on mountaintops, and even refueled which further increases operating Also, unlike generators and wind turbines, at the poles. costs (OPEX). A third liability with generators solar is unaffected by environmental is that, as a source of noise and emissions extremes. In fact, solar panels or modules Using solar electricity to power the digital pollution, their very use compromises any actually become more efficient and work oilfield oilfield greening initiatives important to better the colder it gets. This can be operators today. For these reasons maximized to great effect in a field Nearly any off-grid powering scheme can be operators with remote powering needs have installation through advanced charge upgraded to solar electricity. Because the embraced renewable energy for on-site controlling technology such as Morningstar’s many different digital oilfield applications electricity generation, and solar in particular. TrakStar MPPT (maximum power point and environments out there mean that there are hundreds of possible system Solar’s value proposition for the digital configurations and specifications, the detail, oilfield stems from the fact that, unlike design, and components needed are best generators, solar requires no fueling. Equally discussed with a professional system important, unlike both generators and wind integrator with solar expertise. The following turbines, solar electric systems have no are a few general guidelines applicable to any moving parts and therefore no need for industrial off-grid solar electric system costly regular maintenance or ‘teardowns.’ equipped with energy storage. Along with solar’s inherently higher reliability and significantly lower OPEX, the CAPEX side can be offset by new, advanced technology batteries for energy storage for 24/7 operation, particularly lithium-iron/ Solar electric system types, like electricity itself, comes in two ‘flavors:’ AC (alternating current) and DC (direct current). Since solar electricity produced by modules or panels is DC, these systems are usually simpler and can be used to power and control DC loads and also charge batteries without the need for any power conversion. If the system to be powered had AC components, an inverter is added to provide DC-AC conversion. Solar electric array with Morningstar controllers powering oilfield lighting in the desert, for Kuwait Petroleum Because the module-produced solar Corporation. Courtesy EcoSol Energy Systems electricity must be controlled and regulated to charge batteries and power loads safely and effectively, the ‘heart and brain’ of an off-grid solar electric powering system is the solar charge controller. Depending on the system design and capacity, solar charge controllers can vary in battery bank voltage from 6V to 48V (depending on the type of batteries) and with solar input power 16 PES SOLAR

TALKING POINT North Sea platform using solar electricity with Morningstar controllers to power telecom, navigation aid, bird deterrence, foghorn, and other critical systems. Courtesy JCE Energy Morningstar’s line of ProStar™ (upper) and SunSaver™ (lower) solar charge controllers with UL/CSA and IECEx/ capacities typically ranging from 200W to ATEX Hazardous Location certifications, widely-used in on and off-shore oil & gas operations around the globe. over 3,000W; for larger systems multiple charge controllers are usually specified. For all the brand and model diversity, charge controllers come in essentially two types: • P WM (pulse-width modulation): simple and cost-effective, PWM controllers are basically a switch that ‘throttles back’ solar electricity to prevent battery overcharging. They are ideal for locations with very consistent sunlight, minimal shading, and no physical space limitations. Typical uses are with pole-mounted 36 or 72-cell solar panels which are typical in smaller industrial systems. • M PPT (maximum power-point tracking): while more costly and complex, they have the advantage of maximizing solar array output in areas where it can widely ‘swing:’ in cold climates where solar modules are actually more efficient, or where shading or inconsistent sunlight affects solar harvesting. They work by balancing voltage and amperage to find the optimum blend for the panel’s output. MPPT controllers are better suited for larger arrays as well as the new PERC (passive emitter) technology WWW.PESSOLAR.COM 17

TALKING POINT The SunKeeper™ is a small UL/CSA-rated controller used with single-panel systems technology. It’s simply a matter of which is the right tool for the job. higher-output solar cells. Morningstar MPPT controllers can convert all available MPPT controllers have the added solar energy into electricity, while PWM With the solar charge controller doing the advantage of proprietary TrakStar™ controllers typically throw away some of it, heavy electronic lifting, the rest of the technology, based on patented algorithms but in areas of strong, consistent sunlight off-grid industrial solar powering system is that enable them to harvest solar energy that is less of a concern. The point being is comprised of usually three elements: even more effectively. that there is no inherent quality difference between PWM and MPPT controller • S olar panels or modules and racking/ masting to support them • B atteries for energy storage. Most commonly used are advanced lead acid (sealed gel or valve-regulated AGM), with both lithium iron-phosphate and nickel-cadmium becoming increasingly popular depending on the application • A n enclosure with suitable breakers, connectors, and possibly additional load-management or communications electronics on board Solar in hazardous location (HazLoc) applications For oil & gas and other uses where hazardous gasses and liquids might be present (such as mines), having the proper certifications for use in hazardous locations is critical. A The Morningstar SunSaver solar charge controller used in oil & gas production around the globe. Known as the most successful solar controller in the industry, the Sun- Saver is in its third decade of production and has earned the highest reputation for reliability through the industry’s lowest failure rate. SunSavers now meet both UL/CSA North Americas and IECEx/ATEX HazLoc International/European certification standards 18 PES SOLAR

TALKING POINT ‘...Morningstar has a distribution network spanning over 100 countries, with access to the leading solar professionals around the globe.’ hazardous area is defined as one where three Morningstar models have internal various agencies). Their Zone system is fundamental components are in place: components sealed in superior-grade roughly comparable to the Class/Division epoxy plastic, to further insulate them from scheme in North America, with Zone 2 1. A flammable substance: hazardous and extreme environments. approval applicable to areas where an explosive atmosphere is unlikely to occur a. Gas, vapor, or liquid • Designing to HazLoc standards: all under normal conditions except for short internal circuitry and external periods, from propane, ethylene, or b. Dust connections are designed for intrinsic gasses and vapors of equivalent hazard. safety, to eliminate sparks or overheating c. Fibers that could cause ignition of hazardous Morningstar ProStar and SunSaver controllers gases. Besides the superior control of meet both UL/CSA and IECEx/ATEX 2. An ignition source: spark, open flame, energy, the integrated design and standards, and the Morningstar SunKeeper excessive heat, etc. construction of Morningstar products controller (used in small, single panel reflects enhanced safety in all aspects, to systems). meets U/CSA. In addition, both 3. A n oxidizer: oxygen present in the prevent risk factors accumulating standards also have operating temperature open air requirements and the devices are rated for • Comprehensive and ongoing testing and safe operation to the maximum ambient With that, there are three primary ways to evaluation to rigorous HazLoc standards, temperature marked while not exceeding the prevent an electronic device from causing to ensure safety and compliancy and surface temperature limit designated, i.e., an explosion achieve the necessary Quality Assurance 212° F/100° C, which is boiling water, for T5. Notifications and Registrations required 1. Explosion-proof: isolate or protect from for HazLoc certification. To learn more an explosion through an explosion proof device or enclosure When it comes to charge controllers and Morningstar Corporation’s free guide to other critical components, it’s vital for Solar Powered Industrial Systems profiles 2. Intrinsic safety: design and build to system planners to be aware of the agencies over 30 successful projects including oil & remove the possibility of a spark or other and certifications behind a fully-compliant, gas, and provides product information and source of ignition (i.e., by keeping safe solar electric powering scheme: specifications. Download it here: operating temperature low) https://www.morningstarcorp.com/ • North America: UL (Underwriters landing_page/download-guide-solar- 3. Isolate the explosive substance from Laboratories) and CSA (Canadian powered-industrial-systems/?utm_ anything that could possibly ignite that Standards Association). Compliant source=pes&utm_medium=text&utm_ material (not always possible) devices will have an ETL label, which campaign=hazloc2021 (summarized) means that they meet the Morningstar ProStar and SunSaver charge UL/CSA standards for Class 1/Division 2 For those interested in solar-powered controllers are designed around intrinsic safety (areas where explosive concentrations of solutions for the digital oilfield and other principles, to meet HazLoc certifications. In gasses, vapors and liquids are not normally industrial applications, Morningstar has a selected models that includes: present but may accidentally exist) and distribution network spanning over 100 Groups A-D substances (which include countries, with access to the leading solar • F anless design: many charge controllers, Acetylene, Hydrogen, Propane, Gasoline professionals around the globe. To access and nearly all higher-powered ones, use and Methane among others). them, contact Morningstar Corporation cooling fans to get rid of excess heat directly at [email protected] during operation. But in addition to their • Rest-of-World: IECEx (International, inherent reliability and efficiency issues, various agencies) and ATEX (Europe, also www.morningstarcorp.com cooling fans require air-flow around hot internal components to work and exposing the controller’s innards to potentially hazardous vapors. Removing the fan removes the hazard—which Morningstar does across its entire product line. That’s accomplished through advanced electronic and mechanical design for superior thermal management, and a hallmark of Morningstar engineering. • Encapsulated components: selected WWW.PESSOLAR.COM 19



THE FUTURE OF VEGETATION MANAGEMENT • PUT INNOVATION TO WORK FOR YOU • • OUR TECHNOLOGY IS A CUT ABOVE • • CUTS COSTS, TIME & CARBON EMISSIONS • WEBSITE: WWW.RENUBOT.COM EMAIL: [email protected] PHONE: 833-566-8268

TALKING POINT The path to climate neutrality Words: V ivian Bullinger, Marketing and Public Relations Solar-Log Being ‘climate neutral’ means only releasing as much greenhouse gas as can be recaptured or absorbed. Many nations have set themselves this goal, however the path to doing so is lengthy and exacting on all involved. Germany, for instance, has declared its intention to be climate neutral by 2045. To do this in the time available requires pressing ahead consistently with the expansion of renewable energies, amongst other measures, which itself brings new challenges. Feed-in management simply implemented The challenges of decentralised energy controllable and effective power feed generation restrictable. This is the only way to ensure The expansion of electricity generation from grid stability with the increasing number of wind and solar power necessitates a diverse Feed-in management is therefore about decentralised generating plants. range of action. This includes upgrading the intelligently controlling energy flows. Due to power grid and constructing energy storage the fluctuating availability of wind and solar Feed-in management was established in facilities, both of which to the required extent energy and because consumption doesn’t Germany in 2012 and has assumed this role are more likely in the medium term. One remain static, generating plants must be for many photovoltaic plants. The major approach that can be immediately pursued is intelligent management, also referred to as Figure 1: Grid stability: grid operators must balance the power grid: voltage and frequency. feed-in management, of decentralised energy Supply: production of electricity and demand: consumption of electricity, must be kept balanced producers and consumers. Feed-in management allows decentralised electricity producers to feed in their electricity and energy suppliers to ensure the necessary stability of the power grid. Figure 1 shows how grid operators ensure the balance of the power grid: voltage and frequency. The approach involves balancing supply: production of electricity and demand: consumption of electricity. 22 PES SOLAR

TALKING POINT objective then was to integrate decentralised Figure 2: The graphic shows which plants belong to the medium-voltage grid electricity producers into the power grid without having to expand it right away. Some 9 years on, new rules are needed for the controllability of photovoltaic plants. This is because it’s now about suitably equipping the increasing number of generating plants to cope with future requirements. Grid stability in this respect is tested in particular by new technologies such as e-mobility and heat pumps, i.e., continually increasing energy requirements, alongside sluggish grid expansion and lacking storage capacity. Feed-in management in medium-voltage grid Solar-Log GmbH was amongst the first manufacturers in 2012 to bring to market a solution for feed-in management for photovoltaic plants. The Solar-Log energy management system allows photovoltaic plants of any size to meet the corresponding requirements. A new regulation came in 2019, known as VDE-AR-N 4110 (VDE 4110). Faced with the rapidly increasing prevalence of photovoltaic plants amongst other factors, new connection rules became necessary in the medium-voltage grid intended to safeguard stability within the infrastructure. In many other countries too with increasing use of renewable energies, the same or similar regulations are now coming into effect. WWW.PESSOLAR.COM 23

TALKING POINT ‘The goal is to ensure a frictionless electricity market in the EU that is also capable of functioning cross-border.’ The new rules in Germany concern all Figure 3: Requirements for active power and reactive power control for grid operators governing photovoltaic plants that are grid-connected connected photovoltaic plants with intention to feed in photovoltaic power via a grid operator’s medium-voltage infrastructure. The VDE-4110 regulation also became necessary in light of the projected further development of the European domestic energy market. The new requirements have been set out in the European Domestic Electricity Market Directive and the Domestic Electricity Market Regulation. The goal is to ensure a frictionless electricity market in the EU that is also capable of functioning cross-border. The objective also includes to generate further competition and to establish a transparent wholesale market1. This makes the new VDE regulation a constituent part of European requirements, which will also affect, now or in future, many other countries in the EU. Solution for connecting photovoltaic plant to medium-voltage grid First of all, the question arises: what exactly do the new regulations require of the plant owner or operator? Examining the German market shows just how complex the requirements are: see Figure 3. Various characteristic curves for instance, such as Q(U) for stabilising voltage, are implicated. Moreover, it must be possible to retrieve different measurement values such as P, Q, U and I. Only when these and other requirements are satisfied can the photovoltaic plant feed into the German electricity grid. 1 S ource: Zentrale und dezentrale Elemente im Energiesystem, Nationale Akademie der Wissenschaften Leopoldina, acatech: Deutsche Akademie der Technikwissenschaften, Union der deutschen Akademien der Wissenschaften, 2020 Central and decentral elements in the energy system, German National Academy of Sciences Leopoldina, acatech: German National Academy of Science and Engineering, Union of German Academies of Sciences and Humanities, 2020. 24 PES SOLAR

TALKING POINT Roland Löhr is Technical Manager for utility and other projects at Solar-Log GmbH, a world-leading photovoltaic monitoring, smart energy and feed-in management manufacturer. He and his team are responsible, amongst other things, for the implementation of the VDE-4110 standard at Solar-Log. In a short interview with me, he describes the nature of the challenges faced, past and present, and the benefits to the photovoltaics industry of the standard. Vivian Bullinger: What solutions does the Solar-Log system offer for implementing such complex requirements? Roland Löhr: One standard, many different Roland Löhr Vivian Bullinger demands. That could be the title of the VDE-AR-4110 standard. Not only the new It was therefore necessary to expand the Nearly every grid operator places different rules, but also requirements on the speed capabilities of the Solar-Log system in the requirements on photovoltaic plants and accuracy with which rules must be area of active and reactive power and also, feeding into ‘their’ grid. This is why we now implemented have been tightened. That for the respective grid operators, to fulfil offer a full range of regulation options. The presented one of the biggest challenges the requirements around plant regulation in positive side effect of this diversity is that for us. Since we were quite ahead of the the medium-voltage range. the Solar-Log system is now also prepared game at the time – when it came to and ready for photovoltaic plants, e.g. in introducing feed-in management, we Switzerland and Austria. welcomed this new project at Solar-Log despite the many hurdles. One of the most in-demand solutions of grid operators is shown in Figure 4. In order Figure 4: Various components are needed in order to satisfy the to satisfy the requirements and requirements of grid operators. An EZA controller with telecontrol regulations, a data logger for example technology and direct marketing and Q(U) or Q(P) characteristic curve are Solar-Log Base 2000, DIN rail power pack, used in this example Modbus TCP and direct marketing licences and a utility meter are needed. This makes it possible to implement the respective requirements with all components such as inverter, data logger, telecontrol technology and direct marketer. VB: Can you explain again in more detail how you implement a newly added requirement? RL: With pleasure. Relatively new for the connection rule VDE-4110 is the Q (P/Pn) regulation, or Q(U) with voltage deadband. In the example given in Figure 5a, we have four different levels for this regulation, whereas there are also grid operators requiring up to seven levels. In this case, we can, of course, adjust these on the data logger, too. Figure 5b further below shows where these values must be met, i.e. where they can be measured and how high they may correspondingly be. These points are, for instance, at the substation or at the generating plants. It is furthermore clearly regulated what needs to be fulfilled in the case of failure of telecontrol technology or measurement systems. In this example, operation would then continue, in fact with the last valid value received. All of these settings can then be made in the Solar-Log system. WWW.PESSOLAR.COM 25

TALKING POINT ‘... we work to ensure seamless commissioning and take care of the subsequent reporting.’ Figure 5: Questionnaire on which requirements the grid operator places on the respective PV system. VB: We’ve just seen the questionnaire that setting them up, we are there to would have been extremely difficult, since customers need to complete. Does support the customer. the company’s entire power supply would Solar-Log offer customers additional help need to have been shut off. and support around implementing the 4. And finally, we work to ensure seamless VDE regulation? commissioning and take care of the It was possible to find another way, subsequent reporting. however, together with the grid operator. RL: Yes. We are aware of the multitude of The grid operator already had a requirements and bureaucracy plant VB: Can you give us another practical corresponding measurement and agreed to operators have to contend with and example? supply to Solar-Log the necessary understand that they can’t be experts in measurement values via the Modbus TCP every area. This is why we offer an all-round RL: We had an industrial firm not long ago PM interface. This allowed the customer to service, if needed, or project support. Four that wanted to feed in power from a save a lot of time and money for the steps are involved: photovoltaic plant that had been additional installation. installed. This plant again shows that 1. W e inform the customer of possible often custom solutions are sought after We were able to complete the configuration solutions around implementing the when it comes to feeding in power in the and commissioning tests together with the required regulation. medium-voltage grid. installer and network operator, again in quick time. This ultimately meant timely 2. We plan and coordinate the solution For implementing the Q(U) characteristic feed-in for the photovoltaic plant and no with the customer and grid operator. curve, measurement is required at the grid additional outlay for the customer. The necessary components are connection point in the substation. For this, subsequently ordered. Solar-Log requires the measurement www.solar-log.com values of a compatible grid analyser. 3. W hen installing components and Retrofitting such an appliance, however, 26 PES SOLAR

Fleet Management Individual Views Task Management Remote Configuration User Rolls (Security) Real-Time- Browser-Update Anytime. Anywhere. Increase yields and minimize downtime! The user portal for photovoltaic plant monitoring from Solar-LogTM was developed in close cooperation with users from the photovoltaic industry to meet the needs of those who work with it every day. Test the new Solar-Log WEB EnerestTM 4 monitoring portal and secure your customers’ yields in the long term. www.solar-log.com

THINK TANK Bifacial solar modules: how to measure them in production Abstract Bifacial modules are entering the large-scale solar installation market. This article briefly describes the technology behind bifacial modules and focusses on what is needed to measure them with a sun simulator to show the extra power gain they provide. The procedures described here are based on the Technical Specification IEC 60904-1-2:2019, touching also on the procedure needed to create a bifacial reference module. 28 PES SOLAR

THINK TANK Figure 1: The market share of bifacial modules is expected to grow to 35% in 2020 (Source: ITRPV VDMA Market Maturity Report 2020) Bifacial modules have been available in the When bifacial modules entered the market, walkways or parking lots using the concrete market for quite a while. But since 2019 a they were found in very specific areas, underground as reflective source or the noticeable rise in market share can be seen. starting with space applications, smaller vertical installation e.g., along highways as solar farms and as BIPV (building integrated sound barriers to name only a few. PV). Having a transparent back side and generating power on both sides, providing Lately, also due to the fact that the cost for around 15% to 30% more power depending producing bifacial modules has decreased, on the installation, they were used for there is interest from a much wider market. example on satellites, to additionally Bifacial modules are entering the market for collect the light back reflected from earth, large scale solar farm installations. One or in the area of BIPV where they can be example is the large-scale tilted installation found on flat roof tops using bright of bifacial modules on sandy or snow- underground for back reflecting light. covered grounds in otherwise, e.g., Further examples are coverages on agricultural, unusable areas, benefitting from the light back reflected form the ground to Figure 2: Light collection of a bifacial module is dependent on the module orientation, the type of the generate extra power. Another interesting underlying ground and the resulting albedo value possibility is the large-scale vertical installation, using an east west orientation to capitalize on the sun’s daily movement, creating 2 energy peaks in one day. The vertical installation additionally prevents the deposition of snow or dirt on the modules and can provide possibilities for double use of the ground. In the general strive to get more power out of a module, while keeping cost and dimension in a manageable range, bifacial modules in combination with new solar park setups can provide significant boosts in the overall power output. The good thing is that existing cell technologies and module layouts can be used. The nevertheless needed changes in the modules BOM (bill of material) are manageable due to the gain in power achieved. The ITRPV roadmap expects the market share of bifacial modules to rise up to ~35% until 2030, see figure 1. How does a bifacial module work? A bifacial module is a module that can accept light from the front and rear side to generate energy. In contrast, the common monofacial WWW.PESSOLAR.COM 29

THINK TANK Figure 3: Example of different solar cell structures, monofacial and bifacial. The monofacial PERC cell has a full coverage aluminum back contact preventing light to enter the cell from the rear. Bifacial cells use grids on both sides instead. modules are only light sensitive on the front light is available for further energy creation according to the ITRPV/VDMA International side, the rear side is covered with a white or when the solar module is bifacial and can technology roadmap for Photovoltaic, 12th black opaque back sheet, sheltering the accept it. edition 2021. individual solar cells from oxidation and environmental influences like rain or dirt but Next to changing the back cover some more Additional changes have to be made on consequently also from light. changes need to be done to create a bifacial module level: the size and the placement of module. The solar cells themselves need to the junction box and the size of a frame, when In a bifacial solar module, the opaque back be able to collect light from the rear side. So one is used, has to be reconsidered to avoid sheet has to become transparent, either in far, the standard silicon solar cell had a full shadowing and collect as much of the form of a second glass layer or as a cover aluminum back layer through which no available additional light. transparent back sheet. This enables the light could pass. Some small modifications in sun light to additionally enter the solar the cell production process can change All advanced module layout technologies module from the rear side. Any light back former monofacial solar cells into bifacial can be used in the same way as they are reflected from the ground or the underlying cells. Some of the newer cell technologies used with mono facial cells: multi-busbar structure can enter the module to reach the are even bifacial by nature. layouts, half-cell designs and shingling are solar cells and can generate extra power. Or possible in just the same way. These allow to in a vertical east/west setup, can enter the Some of the following cell technologies are add some extra gain to the overall module rear side of the module directly in the used for bifacial modules: PERC (Passivated power while keeping production cost at a second half of the day when the sun has Emitter Rear Contact) cells, PERL manageable level. moved from east to west. (Passivated Emitter Rear Locally Diffused) cells, PERT (Passivated Emitter Rear Totally A how to measure a bifacial module in How much light will be back reflected from Diffused) cells, TopCon (tunnel oxide production. the ground is defined in the albedo value. The passivated) cells, IBC (Interdigital Back albedo value describes the diffuse reflection Contact) cells and HJT (Heterojunction with In theory a bifacial module can deliver a of sun light from the ground. It is the ratio of intrinsic thin layer) cells, see figure 3 for an significant power gain around 10% to 30% the light hitting the ground and the amount example of the cell structure. but how much is that exactly? And how can of light coming back from the ground by it be measured and made transparent to reflection, see figure 2. While PERx, IBC and TopCon cells are not the customer? intrinsically bifacial, a few changes in the cell The value zero would be total absorption, no process make them so. Heterojunction cells At the moment there is no worldwide light is back reflected and a value of one is are naturally bifacial due to the similar layer standard on how to measure the gain of total reflection: 100% of the incoming light design for front and rear side. The bifaciality power from a bifacial module. There is no is back reflected. The value varies of the different cell technologies, meaning common rule on how to label these modules depending on the material of the ground, the difference in power that can be to state the devices bifaciality and with it the e.g., green grass has an albedo of around generated when illuminating from the front expected gain in power. 23%, concrete around 16%, white paint on or the rear side, ranges from 65% up to 90%. concrete or a white shiny roofing membrane The PERx/TopCon cell technologies are at Since 2019 a technical specification from the can have around 70% to 80% and snow can the moment still named as the main cell IEC describes the technique to measure and provide up to 90% back reflection. technology used in the market, but other cell label bifacial modules. The technical Depending on the underlying surface a lot of technologies are gaining market share, specification is on its way to become the new standard in the next years and will be a large step forward towards more transparency in Figure 4: The recommendation for a bifacial module line is to use two sun simulators, one inline and one offline. The offline sun simulator verifies by sample testing >=1% of all produced modules that the bifaciality matches the bifaciality of the reference module 30 PES SOLAR

THINK TANK labeling the bifacial effect in the market. later enable any sun simulator in production or considered to be non-irradiated when the in a lab to measure other modules of this type. irradiance does not exceed 3 W/m², at any The IEC Technical Specification 60904-1- point, on the non-exposed side of the bifacial 2:2019 recommends the addition of three To calculate PmaxBiFi100 and PmaxBiFi200 module under test. This is especially distinctive values to be added to the name an additional factor, the bifacial factor (BiFi important when using a sun simulator with plate of a bifacial module: The PmaxBiFi100 factor), has to be determined. To determine two light sources: the exact proportion of and PmaxBiFi200 and the bifaciality factor. the bifacial factor a measurement of the light from front and rear side needs to be The values represent the extra gain in power front side IV-curve has to be done separately known, ideally with no impact from front to through the bifaciality of a module as from a rear side IV-curve measurement, rear side. additional power to the standard front power while preventing any stray light or reflective measured at Pmax STC (standard test influence from the other side of the module. The key values to measure with an conditions). The additional power is expressed The bifaciality can then be calculated, irradiance of 1000W/m2 under STC on front as the plus at 100W/m2 and 200W/m2 eliminating any side influence. and rear side are: the bifaciality of the short irradiation received from the rear side. circuit current Isc [A], the bifaciality of the A sun simulator with adjustable irradiation open circuit voltage Voc [V], the bifaciality The process has three separate steps: levels and irradiance up to 1200W/m2 needs of the maximum power point Pmax [W] and to be used for the characterization. This can the fill factor. Step 1: The characterization of a reference also be a double side sun simulator when module in an authorized independent test lab both light sources have individual adjustable The bifaciality for the Isc is then the irradiation levels and the irradiation measured Isc rear value divided by the Step 2: The referencing of the sun simulator non-uniformity is below 5% for all irradiation measured Isc front value. Accordingly, for the with the bifacial reference module levels used in the measurement. bifaciality of Pmax, Pmax rear is divided by Pmax front and the same for calculating the Step 3: The process of measuring modules Additionally, the sun simulator has to have a bifaciality for the open circuit voltage. non-reflective background to get a valid Step 1: Characterization of a bifacial measurement for the BiFi factor. In the When measuring with a single sided sun reference module technical specification a background is simulator the equivalent front side irradiation The bifacial reference module is needed to Figure 5: LED Sun Simulator from MBJ Solutions, available with single- or double-sided light source and for large module sizes resulting from M6, M10 or M12(G12) size solar cells WWW.PESSOLAR.COM 31

THINK TANK The latest generation of MBJ sun simulators can support all challenges arising from a bifacial module production. for the measurements has to be calculated, once with one standard STC front side flash. the power measurement. The MBJ LED sun equivalent to the power measured in a front To the flash result the bifacial factor, specified simulator 4.0 uses step wise measurement to and rear side illuminated module in a by the independent test lab, will be added: precisely measure modules with capacitive double-sided sun simulator. The equivalent effect without the need of an extra-long front-side only irradiation Ge is calculated PmaxBiFi100 = PmaxSTC + BiFi x 100 pulse width. During the measurement the using the bifaciality, which is in this case the voltage is controlled in even steps while minimum value between the bifaciality value PmaxBiFi200 = PmaxSTC + BiFi x 200 measuring the current only at the end of each of Isc and Pmax. steps time, when the capacitive effect has Additionally, a sample of >=1% of the leveled out. Ge= 1000 W/m2 + bifaciality * Gr produced modules will be measured again with the second well referenced standard For measuring bifacial modules in With Gr being the additional rear side single side sun simulator. The modules production, we recommend to use a irradiance. Ge represents the additional have to be measured from both sides, standard single sided light source LED sun power to use when measuring with a single manually turning them between flashes, to simulator with high throughput and sided light source for any given additional present once the front side and secondly automatic contacting. A calibration with a rear side light Gr. The calculated equivalent the rear side to the light source. The bifacial reference module of the same BOM front side irradiation Ge is needed for second sun simulator has to have a (bill of material) as the modules in evaluating PmaxBiFi100 and PmaxBiFi200: non-reflective background to avoid any production will provide accurate results. No irradiation influence caused by internal special measures to avoid internal light Assuming a bifaciality of 0.8 and an additional reflection to the module side not measured reflection are necessary, as the same 100W/m2 rear irradiation the equivalent front at that time, see figure 4. reflections and stray light conditions have side irradiation to use for the measurement been present during the referencing of the is: 1000 W/m2 + 0.8 x 100W/m2 = 1080 W/m2. The deviation of the bifaciality of a production system. Important is, that the measurement module to the reference module should be conditions do not change between With this formula, the Pmax for a series of less than 5% to ensure that the bifaciality of all referencing and production. different rear irradiations Gr should be modules produced match the measured measured for the reference module creation. bifaciality of the reference module. To regularly and efficiently confirm that the The ‘Rear irradiance driven power gain yield bifaciality on >=1% of the modules is within value’ (BiFi value), is then the slope derived The latest generation of MBJ sun the allowed range of 5% versus the from the linear fit of the Pmax values as a simulators can support all challenges bifaciality of the reference module we function of the Gr data series. arising from a bifacial module production. recommend one additional sun simulator The LED light source is certified according next to the production line, featuring a Step 2: Referencing a sun simulator for to the new IEC 60904-9 Ed.3 standard as special non-reflective background. This bifacial modules in production triple A+ sun simulator. With 13 different setup is especially efficient when regarding LED types, a very close representation of the tact time impact the confirmation of With such a bifacial reference module, the solar spectrum is achieved. With the >=1% of the modules would have on the characterized from an independent test lab, a expansion of the spectrum into the ultra inline system. standard single sided sun simulator has to be violet and infrared spectrum the precise referenced to its 1000W/m2 STC front side measurement of a wide variety of module Although we advise to use a setup with two characteristics. types, including thin-film is possible. The sun simulators for a bifacial production, MBJ extended range is especially needed for can provide a bifacial sun simulator with two Step 3: The process of measuring modules PERC and HJT cell-based modules. These light sources for measuring front and rear in production cells show a stronger spectral response in side of bifacial module simultaneous. The the ultra violet and near infrared area which bifacial sun simulator provides freely The recommendation for a bifacial module has to be measured to translate the full adjustable relations between front and rear line is to use two sun simulators, one inline potential of these modules into the correct irradiance and is available in different sizes to and one offline. Inline 100% of the modules power class. support modules made from M6, M10 or M12 are measured while the offline sun simulator (G12) size cells. verifies a sample >=1% of all produced Some of the newer module types have modules for a match of their bifaciality to the capacitive effects when only shortly exposed www.mbj-solutions.com bifaciality of the reference module. to light. This effect has a direct influence on All modules in production will be measured 32 PES SOLAR

Reduce Costs Reduce CO2 Footprint Improve Sustainability

ASK THE EXPERTS Keeping clean solar on track Balancing the ever-rising cost of raw materials against the rate of return is always precarious and never more so since the pandemic and the resulting logistics issues. PES caught up with Arturo Herrero, Chief BD Officer at GameChange to see how he’s using his experience to good effect for EPCs and developers. PES: A very warm welcome back to PES and currently top #6 in the world. Our AH: I began my career as an engineer in BP Arturo. We have spoken in the past as many commitment is to expand internationally, to Solar over 20 years ago, moving from oil to of our readers will no doubt remember and position GameChange also in the top solar in 2001. Castrol was bought by BP Oil a it’s great to get your perspective on the worldwide. We have already passed the couple of years before and I was a young solar industry and where you see the threshold of 12 GW of sold and we’ve built sales and marketing manager for Castrol, and market heading. For anyone new to PES over 24 GW production capacity. later at BP Oil, switching to Global though, could you give us a brief overview Procurement Manager at BP Solar. of GameChange? PES: On a personal level, you have a great deal of experience in the renewable energy In solar, the early 2000s began with generous Arturo Herrero: Thanks again for your sector don’t you? So, you must have feed-in-tariff schemes in Germany that interest. GameChange Solar is the top #3 US witnessed quite a few changes and spread around Europe, following in Italy, company in the racking and tracker industry, developments in that time? Spain, Czech Republic, Bulgaria and the UK. 34 PES SOLAR

ASK THE EXPERTS Arturo Herrero PES: No doubt there have been lots of manufacturer called TrinaSolar that at that unknown company at that time, very local challenges to keep you on your toes during time was producing only 100 MW of from the Zheijang province, called Jinko. I your career so far, but what about the assembly modules. was Chief Strategy Officer to lead the triumphs? What would you class as your international growth. biggest challenge and then your biggest I decided then to leave BP Solar and take the success so far? risk to move to Changzhou, Yiansu in China. We were successfully listed on the New York That was in 2006 and we prepared the Stock Exchange in December 2010 and from AH: In my professional career I never shied company for IPO and we were successfully there we started a meteoric international away from taking on challenges and listed in Wall Street in May 2006, and from expansion grown market share, revenues and sometimes, high risks, which most of the there, we were exceeding quarter after profits to become the #1 module time have paid off. quarter the expectations of investors, manufacturer, overcoming TrinaSolar, who growing in market share, revenues and profit, became number 2. The first challenge was to leave BP Oil, where to become the #1 solar module I had a comfortable position located in my manufacturer globally. At that time my most important challenge hometown of Barcelona, to move to BP Solar was to define and implement the right Madrid. This was to a brand new structure With a lean structure we had presence in over strategy to increase margins, offering higher with lower budget and less resources while 50 countries, with main developers and EPC value added to clients and differentiate from also switching from sales and marketing to companies buying our products. At that time a very commoditized product in a fierce price procurement functions. prices were over 3 euro/watt, and modules competition, against most Chinese dominant were multi-crystalline dominant, with players. My main contribution was to instill After six years, I had the opportunity to be maximum 13% efficiency. trust in professional support to clients and to invited by Merrill Lynch and Good Energies, advance ourselves as first movers in many to join one of my wafer suppliers at BP In 2010 I was invited by Credit Suisse to do markets such as in USA, Mexico, Chile, Solar, an unknown small Chinese the same as in Trina, but for another Australia, South Korea or South Africa, where I had the challenge to arrange the setting up of our Jinko’s factory in Cape Town. In 2016, I left China, moving back to Europe with my new family, based in Zug, Switzerland. Here I established AlterPower AG, a consultancy agency for solar, and I had the chance to work in Los Angeles, for a few months on a project with HST Solar, a promising software start-up with a great product for development and PPA match, for solar utility projects. PES: How did your move into the tracker industry come about and how much does it differ from what you had done before? AH: In 2019 I was invited to New York to join GameChange Solar, thanks to the recommendation from Roth Capital professionals who helped me with Trina and Jinko to raise capital on several occasions. I became Chief Business Developer and since then it has been non-stop, intensive growth, starting with the setup of our production facility in Wuxi, China, to become more WWW.PESSOLAR.COM 35

ASK THE EXPERTS competitive than coming from the USA, and Reducing CAPEX is important, but more PES: Presumably the pandemic has also had signing contracts for projects for important is to reduce TCOO and LCOE, so an impact on prices, not to mention logistics? internationally recognized players such as OPEX is becoming relatively more critical Total, Acciona, Canadian Solar, Iberdrola, than in the past. Besides that, there are more AH: Regarding logistics, the price of Enel, Scatec, Ibexia, Sterling & Wilson, etc demanding contract guarantees and longer transportation of containers has more than and being successfully qualified by FRV, EDF, product warranties, an on-time local service tripled during the last few months for Engie, Masdar, SolarAccess, BP Lightsource, and an increasing design life of utility scale several reasons, including shortage of Shanghai Electric, JinkoPower, TrinaSolar, systems to 40 years. containers, several ports in the south of Celsia, Elecnor, Grupo Ortiz, SolarPack, China affected by Covid-19, and the sudden Negratin and so many more. Last but not least, focus should also be on increase of demand after finishing of reaching the goal of all developers in terms of lockdown in many countries. The most important difference from sales of optimizing production yield and ultimately modules, is that for trackers and fix tilt maximizing IRR for the solar PV projects. We are coping with the situation proactively, structure every project has to be customized by engaging with our logistics partners and and deeply reviewed, analyzing geotech, PES: What’s the situation like at the setting up a geographic diversified network topography, wind speed, load calculations, moment in terms of inflation and the of suppliers. Recently, we have reinforced our size of modules, so a lot of technical support increase in cost of raw materials? International Operations team and we are is required to prepare the offers, and also to seeing already savings and a better control of clarify and optimize the lay-outs and final AH: We are facing an unprecedented rise in the situation. design for each project. Engineering the cost of raw materials, especially from dedication is crucial. metal commodities that affects all solar PES: What technology is coming through industries besides other industries. For that is helping with relation to cost of PES: We’ve touched already on some of the structures the most important impact is production which must be one of the changes you’ve seen in the renewables coming from steel cost. biggest operating expenses in this field? industry, but what about in terms of the ever-growing need to focus on cost and rate Thanks to our long term suppliers and AH: In GameChange, from our R&D center in of return? geographically diversifying the sources of Massachusetts, our experts have been purchase we can cope with the situation. testing new improvements to facilitate EPC AH: I think everyone in our industry companies to reduce the time and cost of recognizes the good progress and technology With our clients, we’re committed, even if it execution of their projects, such as the improvements in reducing cost and market means absorbing part of the cost internally. SpeedClamps and TwistClamps, that prices for the last few years, to a point that increase substantially the speed of companies suffered from margin erosion, Business goes on as usual, in most cases, installation of the modules onto the tracker even losses, and quality was undermined. even if profits are reduced, but some or fix structure. projects have been put on hold or delayed Focus should be not only in keeping costs waiting for a relaxion of cost to make better We also count with our own 3D Software low, but providing a better value proposition. economics for projects. called TopoSmart to play with different 36 PES SOLAR



ASK THE EXPERTS lengths of posts, overcoming the slopes of a high level of preassemble from our PES: What’s your most attractive market at the terrain with the goal to reduce civil works. factories) and also to increase energy the moment and do you see this changing? output, for the benefit of the Developer, IPP Over the last few months, we have launched companies and Investors. AH: We have already been positioning our the Solar Reflector for bifacial modules to trackers and fix tilt structure in over 10 increased yield and next month we’re Differently from EPC companies, Developers countries including USA, Canada, Spain, launching our DaVinci 2P Tracker, a and IPP are looking at the long term, and Chile, Colombia, India, Mexico, Australia revolutionary innovation that allows much much more concerned about performance of Colombia, Pakistan and Togo. Besides these, more competitive tracker with same the project, warranties, production yield, other countries with attractive growth we aerodynamic and aeroelastic stability. availability, performance ratio, O&M costs are seeing are in South Africa, Middle East, and ultimately LCOE. Japan and Brazil. We have also established Finally, recently we have introduced our first three Centers of Technical Customer Service BOS product, dedicated to simplify PES: What are some of the trends you’re and Warehouse for spare parts, to provide management of cables. seeing coming through, what’s exciting you fast reaction to projects, one in Arizona at the moment? (USA), one in Santiago (Chile) and recently in We have also been busy in qualifying most of Madrid (Spain). the popular recent higher power solar AH: We have, in GameChange a lot of modules, larger in size, that implies higher interesting innovations of our algorithms for PES: And finally if I may, it would be lovely to loads for the tracker and modules with higher an optimal tracking, and maximizing power get your view on what you think the market current that helps to increase the number of production, such as SmartStow or for solar and renewable energy will look like modules per string, affecting also the need WeatherSmart, to ensure the maximum over the next few years or so? of reinforcement of the structure and precise tracking of the sun without compromising calculations, but implying interesting savings the stability of the tracker, avoiding AH: There is an exciting growing market for in BOS. catastrophic effects, as unfortunately seen our beloved solar PV industry and specially in last months in several projects. for our Tracker business as investment keeps PES: Do you take a different approach attracted to solar photovoltaics in more and depending on whether you are working with There is also the implementation of features more countries. an EPC or a developer? Can you explain why to optimize tracking, such as our Smartboost that might be necessary? to backtracking individually every single In many countries now trackers make much string, or fine-tuning improvements with the more economic sense, after the rise of AH: That’s definitely an important topic in alignment with the inverter, to get real time module prices in recent months. Trackers GameChange Solar, as we approach our inputs of current and tension to the tracker. have also been proven to provide higher developers and EPC clients differently. returns and have become much more As mentioned before, we are also entering reliable, thanks to continuous improvement As mentioned previously, in our product into the BOS offer to deliver solutions to our on technology and new innovations, such the design we are looking both to reduce costs clients jointly with our tracker and the ones led by GameChange Solar. of the product and installation process for exciting new launch of our innovative 2P the EPC companies (by for example reaching DaVinci Tracker. www.gamechangesolar.com 38 PES SOLAR



TALKING POINT Why AC coupled doesn’t hold up in a blackout 40 PES SOLAR

TALKING POINT Do you know the difference between AC and DC coupled connections? Is it even relevant to most people thinking of investing in energy storage? What does an AC battery do when compared with a DC version? Which is best for back-up power in a power outage? These are just some of the questions people regularly ask and why we’ve decided it’s a topic worth discussing. The main driver for DC over AC coupled is situations such as this but more importantly, efficiency. At up to 99% efficiency for DC choosing the right system is imperative, over an estimated 90% for AC Coupled, it’s should back-up be a consideration. the obvious choice. That coupled with a lower installation cost and the flexibility you have It raises interesting questions around with expandable modules. But that’s not all. batteries promoted as a backup battery The differences when dealing with back-up solution. This is where such a small thing as power supply are what the make DC coupled AC coupled vs DC coupled comes into play. batteries the real winners. With a DC coupled battery such as the Back-up power is a major decider in the Soltaro AIO2, there are no such issues as it energy storage arena. A must for anyone contains ‘Black Start’ functionality. As the living in an area with an unstable power system is a true ‘complete system’ there is supply. Countries, such as South Africa, have no necessary communication with the PV a notoriously unstable grid and their power and as such, the battery will continue to companies rely on regular rolling blackouts or charge and discharge as normal throughout a load shedding to keep the pressure off the blackout scenario. unstable power network. We’ve all read or seen the advertising for the Luckily, not everyone has to deal with that big hitters in the Solar Battery industry. level of instability. But the reality is, many Grabbing headlines and media space with a countries have outdated power grids that serious price tag to match. No doubt they’ve simply weren’t designed to deal with the created demand and are generally demands of modern-day energy use. championed by media outlets but are you Alongside ‘mother nature’ and weather paying for the expensive advertising phenomenon, it becomes a point to consider campaign over the small details that make a regardless of location. difference when it counts? Recently, there were severe storms in the Such a small point of difference can become a Dandenong Ranges area of Victoria, colossal one when your home relies on power Australia. This caused chaos for many to keep your freezer working or lights on. homes. Power went down for some weeks Luckily most homes don’t have power during a particularly powerful storm. Some outages that last weeks. If you’re going to families were lucky enough to have battery invest in a system, we suspect most people back-up supply and made good use of it. want to know how to maximise their energy They utilised their stored power during the storage system properly. Managing your power outage, often helping their neighbours power to maximise its longevity, ensuring the out too. system you have fully supports your needs, suddenly become a very interesting topic. One family admittedly made errors in judgement and overloaded their AC battery AC coupling simply isn’t designed to cope system. By using their energy storage with longer term back up. It can function well system to power the home as usual, they had as a temporary, but not a true solution. If no idea that once depleted it dropped into back up power is a concern, you’d best avoid ‘sleep’ setting. With the mains power down AC coupled systems and go with a DC there with no power to enable the solar PV to coupled system that contains black start communicate with the battery when fully functionality. depleted. Once sleep mode is activated, the battery couldn’t function until mains power is Tesla boast their back up can function for up resumed. So, after only a short time, the to 3 days. But once the battery is flat, that’s family were without power like the rest of the end of your back up power facility. As, their neighbours. Certainly, lessons can be once your PV stops generating and the learned about how much energy we use in battery completely depletes, it cannot repower and simply goes into sleep mode WWW.PESSOLAR.COM 41

TALKING POINT until mains power is once again available. electricity using devices, you’ll extend your families having zero power throughout. batteries power supply until your Solar PV Without lighting, telecommunications and With a DC system, you can use power and can re-charge it the following day (or next refrigeration, 3 weeks must seriously feel like deplete the battery completely. However, sunny period). To some of us, this advice is an eternity and has the potential to be once the sun starts shining and you’re obvious and would be followed without a stressful, dangerous, or frightening for the generating solar again, the battery remains second thought. However, for many home more vulnerable residents. active, storing energy and providing back up consumers, they don’t comprehend the power once more. heavy toll that some household devices take So, let’s talk about back up power and how it on energy consumption, and where to make relates to the future of renewables. Choose a system that doesn’t need to real savings when you need to. communicate from PV to inverter to battery. A fabulous example is Iceland, currently A well-designed DC coupled complete Despite numerous campaigns, incentives, running on 100% renewable energy, making system should have none of communication and grants to help the public lower their great use of hydropower and geothermal issues that can plague its fellow AC versions. energy use, many still adopt a relaxed power. Costa Rica hope to become 100% Overall DC coupled systems are a much approach toward energy. By relying on the reliable on renewable power this year. They stronger proposition for back-up power. simple fact of assuming that when they ‘flick are shining examples of timing, logistics Do your research and think about what you’ll a switch’, power will always be available. combined with a steady transition period need for the short and long term. utilising their renewable energy mix. Simple steps to conserve your energy will Energy management also plays a huge part in save you money on your bills, but in the case With such globally high demand for power, this scenario. If you want to really get the of blackouts and back-up power, can be a back-up power will be a major consideration as most from your back up power, then you real-life saver. the shift towards 100% renewable power must be sensible about how much power you comes into effect. Our grid reliance will use when the grid goes down. Continue as Many assume they’re only ever likely to suffer become less important and our own power usual with all your power-hungry devices and minor power fluctuations. Look at the generation more relevant than ever. Storage your back up battery won’t last as long as Dandenong Ranges area of Victoria. 3 weeks and energy management can and will make you’d like. without power after a series of storms. the difference with major investment needed Unprecedented weather with so many in the energy storage and battery sector from By turning off all the unnecessary or surplus 42 PES SOLAR

TALKING POINT the power companies to help level and smooth demands of the California residents. Heavy players in the route to self-sufficiency and a out demand and supply for the masses. air conditioning use in addition to limited truly renewable future. We look forward to importation from other states and being part of that transition and contributing Some countries have noticed more blackouts availability, or lack of, from power plants has something that we can all take credit for in as a result of such a transition. The US states given them and the rest of us food for the quest for 100% renewable energy. of California and Texas were plagued with thought about getting the balance right and blackouts when they relied too heavily on considering the implications of going 100% Visit www.soltaro.com for more information. solar. Despite warnings from the state’s grid renewable too quickly. operator. The Nuclear plant was shut down Sources too quickly, leaning on the solar, which once Understanding the supply/demand and past its peak struggled to cope with the subsequent management issues isn’t just a https://worldsmartcities.org/5-places- demand. There simply wasn’t enough problem for the power companies to running-on-100-renewable-energy/ electricity to sustain the population. consider. The transition to fully renewable and the switch off from more traditional https://www.forbes.com/sites/ There are certainly lessons to be learned energy sources needs careful planning or michaelshellenberger/2021/04/20/ from California. They pushed for the change consumers will find the need for a solid why-renewables-cause-blackouts-and- to renewable too quickly and have admitted back-up solution ever more compelling. increase-vulnerability-to-extreme- mistakes were made. There simply wasn’t weather/?sh=17c0fe014e75 enough electricity to meet the extreme Self-awareness and knowledge are key https://amp-abc-net-au.cdn.ampproject. org/c/s/amp.abc.net.au/article/100264988 WWW.PESSOLAR.COM 43

TALKING POINT Living in a digital world The market for sustainable energy is growing and in today’s fast-paced, always-on world giving potential new customers the information they need, when they want it is a challenge for installers and suppliers. The answer lies beyond the online calculator tool. Things are looking good for the PV industry too must the customer service behind the Subsequently, an online solar calculator tool, as more and more homeowners are sale. Of course, customer service as a which once would have been a good starting considering sustainable energy solutions. whole has also witnessed its own revolution point to then be followed up with a telephone The trend in new installations is rising. If 2020 since the pandemic began, with a major consultation, will now not suffice. Those highlighted anything, it was the sheer impact shift towards online and virtual handling. interested in solar energy systems are that our fast-paced way of life in the While this aids the speed of the process looking for a complete digital assistant and modernised world is having on the this trend brings with it its own challenges, suppliers need online tools that enable new environment. When we were all forced to not least because consumers have now customer acquisition and lead management slow down for a while the climate had a come to expect instant answers as a result in the photovoltaic sector, working for them glimmer of time to fight back. That in turn has of an always-on culture. 24 hours a day. led to a surging growth for renewable energy, as countries commit to targets for reaching On demand service with no compromises Communication is adapting to the digital carbon neutrality and an upwards turn for on quality transformation, and, with this, the residential installations too. customer expectations are more With customer behaviour shifting and advice demanding. Fast turnaround of quotes is Additionally, increasing in parallel with this and sales increasingly taking place online, one thing, but these must also be tailor is the expectation of personal innovative installers and energy suppliers face new made and easily understood, without and predominantly digital customer difficulties in offering online customer compromising on quality of advice due to service. As the pace of installation of these acquisition, initial consultation and the the speed. Anything less and that potential sustainable energy solutions speeds up, so preparation of offers. custom may well be lost to the competition. 44 PES SOLAR

TALKING POINT Initially, the first contact of potential developed for the solar industry, and then for Environmentally good customers is decisive, they want their the heating industry. Such software offers enquiries to be picked up directly and the following advantages: Automated processes such as these can save experience how economical and sustainable up to 80% of the time previously spent on their investment will be. As a result, many More time for the customer: With an acquisition, consulting, and sales. What used energy companies and installation automated solar solution, customer service to take 12 to 20 hours per sold PV system, companies are now automating their lead representatives and sales staff declare war can easily now be reduced to a few minutes. management, adding tools such as the on hours of paperwork, leaving more valuable This is a big step forward for the targeted Eturnity Solar Calculator to their website. time for the important things, such as expansion of renewable energies. customer service. This means that the The benefits of digitised consulting in the customer experience is never compromised, Sector coupling covered PV sector despite a fast turnaround being achieved. It streamlines the processes behind the Eturnity’s solutions are a B2B SaaS software Smart energy, smart buildings and big data: scenes, leaving the important task of and combine two digital tools that focus on these are the topics of today that energy customer interaction intact. an automated, precise, and customer- companies need to deal with. However, it is oriented process: the Eturnity Calculator important that modern concepts are also More deals: Optimal time management and Expert, both of which are for PV and reflected, both in their external and means new customer acquisition, and heating sectors. This covers acquisition, internal processes. ultimately can result in more deals. And good consulting, planning, and sales of renewable customer service is an important sales tool in energy systems. From his own experience, Eturnity founder its own right as word of mouth will bring more Matthias Wiget knew the time required from customers to the door. The information for every project is put into the sales pitch to the consultation process to the digital system, where simulations of the installation of a solar system was far too Better overview: Software for the entire different technologies are directly high. Therefore, he looked for a solution to team centralises project and customer converted into a customer proposal. In this problem. management, giving a much clearer picture doing so, a software solution is created that for all. You manage the entire sales pipeline enables a combination of different Together with a new team he developed a and project management with one software technologies, such as PV and battery software solution to improve the marketing and your team can find all project data in one systems, heat pumps, and e-mobility. of renewable energies. It should not only help place, where offers can be directly the distributors to minimise their efforts, but generated. This is excellent for the customer Since their market launch in 2015, sector also offer the end customer a simple experience too, as regardless of who they coupling and cross selling have played an understanding of the costs, benefits and speak to, the client will always get the important role at Eturnity and with holistic implementation of the projects. answers they are looking for, in a timely and energy concepts in growing demand, it is all professional manner. set for the future and the energy revolution. This is how the software tools were first www.eturnity.co.uk WWW.PESSOLAR.COM 45

TALKING POINT Calibrate, document, design and simulate A newly developed app from ETU Software enables quick and precise measurements of a building, by taking digital measurements based on a photo and target-oriented inputs to simulate the photovoltaic system. This allows the user to document and provide initial estimates while still on site. SimpleMeasure saves time in the bidding phase and enables the workflow to be documented precisely in advance. Subsequent processing time in the office is also remarkably reduced. Taking individual images from different without many instructions. An assistant The selected area can now be measured. In appropriate perspectives to access difficult guides you through the individual steps. addition to rectangles, polygons are also areas such as roof surfaces is possible as available for selection, which can be used for well. This makes it easy to take The captured or selected photo can be cut out areas. Furthermore, areas can be measurements for roofing work and PV rectified and edited in different resolutions. provided with lines, dimension chains and planning. As an advantage, a tabular list is This ensures a more accurate method of labelling fields. This facilitates the bid automatically output, which contains all working. The photographed area is selected preparation and structures the recorded areas, extraction areas and PV and calibrated with the help of a grid to documentation process. modules. This documentation can be determine the layer. For more precise exported in various formats for further use. positioning of the corner points, the zoom In order to cover the roof with the The approach: the app can be purchased function displays the selected corners. One appropriate PV modules, the corresponding directly via the Play store/App Store. After or two known reference dimensions can be widths and heights as well as the distances registration, the first project is created easily entered for calibration. The more precise the between the modules are entered. This input work, the more accurate the result. enables a manufacturer-neutral working © ETU Software GmbH method and reduces the selection from catalogues. The final selection of suitable modules and inverters is made using the catalogue from the PV simulation. Once the areas and dimensions have been determined and the PV modules are placed, a corresponding tabular listing is output. Several formats are available for export: Area lists in CSV format, a project report as PDF or the image file as a screenshot. In addition to the area and building survey with SimpleMeasure, the dimensions and the occupancy can be entered into PV Simulation 3D and used to simulate the photovoltaic system. The intuitive user interface including a complete CAD (HottCAD) leads step by step through the program. The system is designed based on a few relevant characteristic values by simplified 46 PES SOLAR

TALKING POINT © ETU Software GmbH consideration. Alternatively, a complete roof © ETU Software GmbH design can be carried out in 3D based on a © ETU Software GmbH digital model. Shading calculations of the building and Meteonorm climate data are already included. Besides an extensive and monthly updated manufacturer database, own inputs can also be added and thus enable a multitude of interconnections. For each selected combination of module and inverter, the program determines the interconnection options and lists the variants in comparison. Battery storage can optionally be considered and simulated in the same system model. The display of the state of charge for each day enables to draw conclusions about the selection of the right size of storage. The cost-effectiveness of a system is determined with the integrated profitability calculation. In addition to the profitability calculation with payback period, risk analysis with various financing and loan options can be taken into account as well. The transfer of parts lists in common formats is implemented for the preparation of offers. Descriptive diagrams and detailed tables enable complete documentation, which can be output in a comprehensive report. The approach: After creating a new project, the simple building entry is selected. The relevant dimensions for the occupied roof area can be entered from the app. Inverters and modules are selected from the manufacturer catalogue and interconnected. The optimal connection is evaluated based on various performance data and the smiley on the right. The output includes the annual WWW.PESSOLAR.COM 47

TALKING POINT © ETU Software GmbH corresponding radiation data, the electricity distribution and the state of charge of the generation (DC, AC yields), the electricity battery (if a battery storage was selected). yield and self-consumption, detailed diagrams of the climate data such as The ‘SimpleMeasure’ is available for €99 (2-year license) or for €3.99/per month in the © ETU Software GmbH App or Google Play Store. In addition, the PV Simulation 3D can be purchased for €399 as a 48 PES SOLAR yearly license. For further information, the team of the ETU Software will be happy to assist you. Contact us via email or phone: ETU Software GmbH Von-Hünefeld-Strasse 3 50829 Cologne Phone: +49(0)221.70 99 34 40 Fax: +49(0)221.70 99 33 44 E-Mail: [email protected] www.etu-software.com Website Campaign: http://www.etu-software.com/ SimpleMeasure

Have you discovered the solution that outperforms traditional optimizers? Systems with SMA ShadeFix optimization deliver: • Greater annual energy production • Higher reliability with fewer component failures • Reduced service risk with paramount service support Watch the video at SMA-America.com/ShadeFix “We recommend SMA to homeowners because SMA’s ShadeFix optimization technology produces more energy on an annual basis than module level optimizers.” Michael Brown, President/CEO Solar-Ray, Inc. www.solar-ray.net

TALKING POINT EKO Instruments, Inashiki Solar Park, Japan Bigger, better, bifacial Words: Will Beuttell, Application Engineer, EKO USA EKO Instruments are betting big on bifacial PV, delivering industry-leading accuracy with the most comprehensive package of bifacial and albedo measurement solutions available. Bifacial photovoltaic (BPV) technology has victory over traditional technologies. account for 80% of production by 2031. been around for a long time, but only since 2012, when the first cost-effective bifacial A 2019 market research report published by However, despite such progress, many panels entered the market, has it started to Wood Mackenzie Power & Renewables organisations and individuals across the solar attract serious market consideration. It has (WoodMac) predicts that annual global energy industry are still unsure, often lacking been accelerating rapidly since 2019. Though bifacial module capacity will exceed 21 confidence in the viability of the technology there’s a long way to go before BPV can claim gigawatts by 2024 while the International itself or the potential return on investment. to challenge the ubiquity of mono-facial PV, Technology Roadmap for Photovoltaics Many across the solar industry also find it the key characteristics of BPV make a (ITRPV), published by the German strange how fast bifacial swept the market. compelling case for its not-too-distant engineering association VDMA, forecasts that the growth in bifacial technologies will So, what are the key characteristics of BPV? 50 PES SOLAR