Jan Grimberg Bernd Hinzer & Tobias Gehlhaar Greg Smith Conference Call Read our exclusive PES discusses DER We hear from sonnen Taking a look ahead to theSOLAR/PV interview with DSM’s Solar Certification issues with Inc.’s Senior Technical key upcoming exhibitions Business Director DNV GL Trainer on both sides of the globe Who will stand up and be counted in the bid for standardisation in our industry? Cheaper, inferior products and non-monitored installations lead to future problems and expense. Some of the earlier players in solar/PV have already found this out to their cost and suffered the consequences… Plus in our lead feature, Ecoppia leads the way in autonomous cleaning in India.POWER & ENERGY SOLUTIONS • ISSUE 29, 2016TIME TOCLEAN UPThe smart way forward for a green, innovative,cost conscious, long-lasting industry.
EDITOR’S NOTEEditor’s note POWER & ENERGY SOLUTIONS Energy storage is becoming more and more flexible and the result is radically changing people’s lives. The decrease in price of solar panels and the possibility of storing the Directors energy, for optimal use, means that in many parts of the globe home owners and Stuart Gillies businesses are switching to solar power. In the most remote, four corners of the world, Mark Wilson outmoded diesel generators are being replaced with solar energy. By combining PV modules with battery storage, energy is safer, cleaner and cheaper. Micro grids are here Client Liaison Manager to stay and I’m sure, this is just the beginning of their rise in demand. Vikki Birch Cost reduction remains a constant topic and at the same time, a challenge to both Editor the manufacturing sector of our industry and the energy producers. In this issue we Elaine Perrigot read how sometimes, with a small initial increase in outlay, costs can be reduced. [email protected] Some minimal changes can save energy, optimise its use and decrease the price for the end user. Associate Editors Pete Martin The word clean appears in many articles – referring to both clean energy and to the Zachary George importance of clean solar equipment. Different contributors provide their solutions: the cleaning methods, modifications in production.. One thing for sure, dirty solar panels, Design connectors or other components all have a negative impact on output. Sarah Wilmott [email protected] Certification is playing a big role in standardising the industry. We hear from several companies about the positive effect of this. Something which could be considered costly Production or a nuisance, in fact, means producers and customers have a reference point which in Wei Kee the long run can improve product quality and save money.. [email protected] In this edition we preview Solar Power International: September 12th to 15th 2016 Las Sales Enquiries Vegas and Intersolar India October 19th to 21st 2016 – two big exhibitions in the solar/ [email protected] PV industry’s calendar. The participants are lining up to show their latest innovations, products and technology. Have your got your tickets booked? General Enquiries [email protected] Read on to be inspired, informed and hopefully, as excited as we are… Media Partnership Enquiries Enjoy the issue. [email protected] Elaine Perrigot Advertising Opportunities Editor [email protected] PES is published by P&G Media Ltd P&G Media Ltd PO Box 310, Bristol, BS10 5WT, United Kingdom This publication is copyright © 2016 P&G Media Ltd and may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form in whole or in part without the prior permission of P&G Media Ltd. While every care has been taken during the preparation of this publication, P&G Media cannot be held responsible for the accuracy of the information published herein or any consequence arising from it. From sustainably managed forests. For more information visit: www.pefc.org www.pessolar.com www.pessolar.com 3
CONTENTS56 We welcome Solar Business 20 Bernd Hinzer 16 We hear the views 12 We look ahead and Director, Jan Grimberg & Tobias Gehlhaar of Greg Smith, sonnen’s preview the Annual Solar back to PES Solar of DNV GL discuss DER Senior Technical Trainer Power International in Certification issues in depth Las Vegas along with Intersolar India 2016 8 Our lead story in this issue features Ecoppia, as we learn in more depth about the importance of utility-scale cleaning solutionsCOMMENT6 Looking at green economy & solutions 42 We hear from Erik Taberlet, President 92 A PES welcome to Kees van den for meeting EU targets of the Business Unit Semiconductor & Bos, Director, Huskeflux Thermal Coating at Pfeiffer Vacuum about the SolutionsPES ESSENTIAL latest vacuum advances and solutions 96 We put our key questions to Eleonora100 A look into how Micro grids are 46 Dr. Frank Schlichting, CEO, Solare Denna, Product Marketing Manager changing lives – with Trojan Datensysteme GmbH , tells PES for Environmental Solutions Business more about the importance of PV EMEA, OMRONASK THE EXPERTS monitoring 108 We catch up with Matthias Mack,26 The first company under our spotlight 60 PES is pleased to speak exclusively head of Photovoltaics at Multi- in this issue is DMEGC Solar, meet to Dr. Daniel Faltermeier, Managing Contact, as he talks ‘Top of the class Iain Garner & Ismael Bena Director at Meteocontrol North connections’ America30 PES talks to Michael van der Gugten, 120 Simon Schandert , Director of 64 PES met up with Ruud Ringoir, Sales & Marketing executive, SMIT Production Technology Development Thermal Solutions, about the current product manager at Kipp & Zonen, & Technical Support at TESVOLT, thin-film PV revival we asked him about the current solar answers our questions energy market 124 We are pleased to welcome back 76 We are happy to be joined by Anders Michael Jurchen, CEO, Jurchen Rand Andersen & Arne Pedersen, of Technology GmbH EmaZys Technologies4 PES Solar
CONTENTS124THINK TANK CORPORATE FOCUS TALKING POINT36 We are delighted to welcome back 70 We hear about the power of 66 Franz Breitwieszer, product manager, André Richter from Meyer Burger energy storage, courtesy of Exide Fronius International, talks Multi Flow Technology Ltd. to the magazine technologies Technology – regarding the latest measurement technology 80 Looking at the next generation of 88 Energy storage is attracting a lot50 We hear from Frank Juergens Pyranometers, along with EKO attention currently, and rightly so, we Instruments hear again from Younicos at INDEOtec S.A, regarding their intriguingly named OCTOPUS system 84 We focus on the latest in recycling112 MORNSUN give us their take on technology & solutions for the photovoltaic industry – Loser Chemie the current situation regarding PV Generation 104 We hear again from Breyer, informing us of the importance of high quality encapsulation film www.pessolar.com 5
COMMENT: TECHNOLOGYGreen economyAre there cheaper renewable energies out there? Doessaving the planet mean we, the consumer has to pay more?The EU has set targets and the UK is offering incentives tocompanies who meet these targets. Find out what savingsyou can make whilst doing your bit to save the planet…Saving Money Whilst Saving the Planet: Nevertheless, incentives such asSolar Investment Renewable Obligation Certificates have become a far more attractive propositionIf you have been interested in saving money for energy suppliers to make more moneyon your energy bills lately, both in the from generating energy by renewabledomestic and commercial environment, you processes. Other nations have similarhave likely already looked at all of the incentives in place, but the UK offers aoptions available to you on the switching significant investment for companies willingcompany side of things. While this can help to meet the specified annual obligationyou in the long run, there’s one thing it levels. On the domestic side, too, there hasdoesn’t achieve: helping to save the planet been a growth in incentives due to thein the process. Energy companies that rely Feed-In Tariff scheme, which seesmostly on fossil fuel energy are often the property-owners receive a monetarycheapest providers, and opting to turn to incentive for every kwH produced and therenewables could alleviate some of the ability to sell back their excess energy todamage your property could do to the the national grid.environment. It is no surprise, then, that the UK hasThe EU has been aiming for a target of 20% become as much of a hub for solar energyof its energy to come from renewables as it has. Go through any township andacross all member states, including a further you will see a number of properties with20% of cuts to greenhouse gases and solar panels on the roofs, with a forecastcarbon production. States are required to be by The Imperial College that 10millioncollectively meeting these targets by 2020. homes will have photovoltaics installed by2014 saw a huge 15.3% of all energy coming 2020. This has been a significantfrom renewables across the EU, meaning investment and push for cleaner energy,that there could very realistically be targets and with around 4% of carbon emissionsmet across the board if further attention is falling in 2014 from the previous year.paid to renewables. This includes our own Could the EU continue to follow in similarinvestments into the potential of solar. footsteps? Quite possibly.A Look inside Solar Investments Why Go Solar?Looking at the UK in particular for solar There is little reason not to choose solar aspotential, you may be wondering how such your renewable of choice. Even witha gloomy island holds such high stakes in clouds overshadowing your home, thethe solar energy market. It remains the solar rays that will continue to reach yourmost popular form of renewable energy panels will still save you energy in the longgeneration in the nation, and as such it run. There are two types of solar panelscreates proportionately the largest amount that you can invest in, too, withof solar energy in Europe. It is surprising, photovoltaic being the most popular forthen, that the UK government has made electricity conversion and solar thermal forsurprising cuts to the solar industry. cutting your water heating bills.6 PES Solar
COMMENT: TECHNOLOGY “It is no surprise, then, that the UK has become as much of a hub for solar energy as it has”If you are in the UK, you will be pleased to economies. Export tariffs in particular are those who do not monitor their energyknow that going solar does not mean that often subject to a higher rate of inflation, usage closely a secondary measure worthyou have to remain with the same energy which is currently projected at around 2% installing after solar panels is a smart meter.supplier throughout your use of solar in the UK, which is yet another factor to be In Britain, we love technology with twopanels. In fact, with multiple energy aware of when investing. thirds of Brits owning a smartphone, andcompanies complying with the Feed-In now our homes can be connected to ourTariff scheme, you can continue to supply Nevertheless, you could actually see far devices too. Using a smart meter in tandemthe national grid and save money without more benefits from using solar panels. with your solar panels will allow you tostressing about being unable to switch to a Studies have shown that solar panels can reduce your electricity consumption andcheaper energy bill. Saving money – and actually increase the value of your home if further reduce the carbon emissionscontinuing to save the environment. you are considering selling your property harming the planet by controlling your on. Not only this, but depending on your energy consumption remotely. An in-homeChoosing a 4kW system could, on average, location, you could see more savings. display (IHD) provides up-to-date real-timesave the average household up to £8,000 Those using solar PV in the South of information on gas and electricityover 20 years of use with the Feed-In Tariff. England can see more profit than those in consumption in pounds and pence, as wellThat is only on the monetary side of things, the North, and in the EU more sun-blessed as units of energy, encouraging users tohowever. You could potentially see your nations could benefit even further from reduce their usage.property being able to cut back on up to extensive solar use nationwide.1,900kg of carbon dioxide every single year. Certain models are so technologicallyEvery solar system that is added to Extra Incentives after Installation advanced that they can learn theproperties across Europe is helping to put household’s behaviour and will implementpennies back in pockets and protect the Not only will users gain a monetary income energy saving reductions on the owner’sfragile environment we have created. It is from the installation of solar panels through behalf. The UK Government plans for everynot necessary to invest in solar, but having the Feed-In Tariff Scheme and the home and business in the UK to have arenewables be part of your energy scheme electricity savings made, but households smart meter for electricity and gas by thecould, potentially, save more than just your can stand to reduce their carbon emissions end of 2020 as part of the EU’s targets towallet’s linings. even further by continuing to invest in reduce greenhouse gases, and with each energy saving products throughout the smart device user’s energy usage beingThings to Consider before Purchasing home once their photovoltaic panels are reduces by between 5 and 15% in the first installed. By using less energy, households year of using an energy monitor it’s noOf course, every renewable form of energy will be able to reap the rewards of the wonder this is a popular choice with– including solar PV – has to have its more panels and reduce the need to pull government and households alike.wary factors for buyers. The economy is electricity from the national grid. Byever-changing, and as such, there could be installing low cost, low maintenance LED Carbon Reductionshighs and lows to the money spent and bulbs in your home your energy and Monetary Incentivessaved on your systems over time. consumption will reduce drastically. LED typically use 90% less energy than their Having attractive incentives for buyers asAs electricity prices rise, you may find more filament predecessors. When you consider both supplier and national government canof your money made from tariffs and solar that typical light bulbs account for 10-20% be what makes all of the difference in theenergy production going towards the of an electricity bill, replacing these seems game of renewables. Energy and carbonfunding of the rest of your home’s energy. like the obvious choice. neutral targets must be met, and solar PVWith a forecast 2.6% increase each year, appears to be the way to go for manythis could end up being far higher than first Gone are the days of the dull glow of low people, most notably in the UK. If trendsanticipated. The initial investment in solar energy bulbs, struggling to light a room for continue, how much more carbon could wepanels, too, can seem a steep hill to climb. minutes at a time until they’re warm. Today see being reduced, and how much moneyA new solar panel system could cost you modern LED bulbs can save you £7.50 per could potentially be saved by the typicalbetween £5,000 - £8,000 but, in hindsight, bulb and lasts up to 50,000 hours, over 10 homeowner? It is all up in the air withthis figure used to be far higher, so you are years of low energy light. That’s fifty times fluctuating rates – but one thing is forultimately saving more money than those longer than filament bulbs, and 20 times certain. Solar PV and government incentiveswho purchased in the last decade. longer than Halogen. to reduce carbon are here to stay.EU member states are all subject to their Of course, those who have solar panels www.glasgowboilerservice.comown rates of inflation. Currencies are installed will possibly already have anconstantly fluctuating, as are national interest in their energy consumption, but for www.pessolar.com 7
PES ESSENTIAL Time to clean up8 PES Solar
ASPKETSHEESESXEPNETRIATLSDriven by one of the globe’s fastest growing solar markets, Ecoppia is increasinglyfocussing on India. PES finds out why.Ecoppia’s new Vice President for Asia has every day, so the response from solar India’s New Solar Challengehad a very busy few weeks. Since joining IPPs has come as no surprise to us,” saysEcoppia, Nalin Sharma has been getting Sharma. He reports that a large swath of New solar PV capacity in India is boomingmany enquiries from the leading companies India’s – and the world’s – largest utility as capital floods into the country inin India’s utility solar space. As the PV companies have approached the response to Prime Minister Modi’s nationalcountry’s utility solar market becomes company to discuss site installations.” policy priority of installing 100 GW of solarincreasingly busy, companies are power by 2022. India, which is stilldemanding a 21st century solution to Ecoppia’s E4 cleaning technology keeps struggling to provide power to all itscleaning, one that is more cost effective, utility solar sites clean from dust and citizens, is quickly becoming a globalreliable and efficient when compared to soiling, the accumulation of which can leader in renewable energy.manual cleaning. reduce energy production by as much as 40%. As the world’s only such According to industry investment firm“For a country dealing with acute water autonomous solution, Ecoppia is quickly Mercom Capital, 2016 will probably seeshortage, dry cleaning is the only way we becoming the gold standard for utility over 4GW of newly installed capacitycan make the solar ecosystem module cleaning, and demand in India has come online in India. That’s a hugesustainable. With a payback of less than been especially high. While the technology number of panels that must be kept clean3 years, Ecoppia can help solar boasts a nightly cleaning regime and from dust and soiling and until now thecompanies, operating at wafer-thin keeps energy production near peak standard method for doing so has beenmargins, improve their bottom line production levels, Sharma says the manual cleaning crews. Crews can besignificantly. When the market is this biggest aspect of market interest may unreliable and inconsistent, and cancompetitive, companies need to ensure derived chiefly from one thing – “Water.” damage panels. Most importantly, inthat sites are operating at peak efficiency order to be effective they need to use water – a lot of it.An Ecoppia E4 robot begins a solar array cleaning cycle as the production day finishes Ecoppia estimates that 2-3 litres of water are needed to thoroughly clean each individual panel on a site. A utility PV site of 50 MW – increasingly considered a smaller site compared to some of the ultra-large projects of several hundred megawatts – with an average of 3100 panels per MW and manual cleaning required anywhere from 12 to 52 times a year would require anywhere from 4 to 24 million litres of water every year just to maintain production. Factor in the cost of purchase, transportation and any associated infrastructure, it can mean the difference between a site that is economic and one that is not. But the problem goes even further. As noted in a recent Bloomberg article, India has nearly 20% of the world’s population – but only 4% of the fresh water supply. As the infrastructure is still not adequate to meet the current needs, much of the country’s populace will remain under water stress for www.pessolar.com 9
PES ESSENTIALClose up of an E4 at work at a site in Tamil Nadu.years to come. By 2030, demand for fresh Ecoppia’s automated technology cleaning thin-film panels at a site in Rajasthan.water is expected to outstrip supply by 50%. The robot provides other valuable reliable and consistent and so avoids the“It’s a critical pain point for the industry,” advantages as well. The microfibers are problems associated with manual laboursays Sharma. “India is already seeing gentle, place no load on the panels and crews. Plus the whole solution can beprotests based around lack of access to have been certified as safe for both managed remotely via an internet uplink,drinking water and the industry is panels and their anti-reflective coatings, ensuring that the robots can be monitoredsensitive to the fact that it’s odious at doing no damage over time – in contrast and managed from anywhere in the world.best to pay to truck in water to arid to the harm inflicted by manual brushing.regions for cleaning solar panels when The fibres are gentle enough that Another advantage, particularly to sites inperhaps the village nearby has no water anti-reflective coatings are maintained, arid regions, is the autonomy of thefor drinking or cooking. When you again in contrast to brushing. Cleaning is solution – the cleaning technology canconsider that many of the large utility react in real-time to weather. When a dustsites are located in arid regions – forexample Rajasthan and Gujarat, wherewater may have to come from a longdistance away – the case for Ecoppia’swater-free cleaning technology becomespretty clear.”A Complete SolutionEcoppia’s cleaning technology is a uniquesolution in the utility PV market. The robotcleans PV panels using a microfiber cloththat wipes panels clean while generatingairflow over the panels, taking advantageof gravity to move soiling down and offthe array. Operated via a battery chargedby a dedicated solar module, the E4sprevent soiling and dust from building upon panels, ensuring site production staysnear peak efficiency. It does all thatwithout using a drop of water.10 PES Solar
PES ESSENTIAL Side-by-side comparison of panels cleaned daily by Ecoppia’s robotic solution (left) and panels cleaned bi-weekly manually (right). “[India is] on track to become a global leader in utility PV. For Ecoppia,it’s clear: we need to be focused on this market; it needs to be front and center for the company’s strategic development”storm sweeps over a region it can company Sanmina to spearhead At a Glance:instantly threaten hundreds of thousands production of the company’s cleaningof dollars’ worth of energy production, robots at a new facility in Chennai, Tamil • Founded: 2013but the E4 can activate and recover a site Nadu. This massive new facility isto full production in less than two hours. scheduled to begin production at the end • Headquarters: IsraelThe same site might take a manual crew of the third quarter and will have thetwo weeks to bring back to full capacity to supply robots for up to 1,000 • CEO: Eran Mellerproduction. No other company can boast MW of solar capacity by 2017.such a robust solution – and India’s solar • C urrently Cleaning: 5 million panelsindustry has taken note. For Eran Meller, CEO of Ecoppia, a month the Sanmina deal is only the first moveMade In India for what has been a busy 2016 for the • Deployed Capacity: 100+ MW by company in India. “Right now, with end of yearEcoppia is responding to India’s market regards to the momentum, capitaldemand by pivoting towards the region. inflows and new projects, no nation can • Main Production Centre: Chennai,Bringing on Sharma is the first step. He’s compete with India,” says Meller. Indiabeen tasked with building Ecoppia’s “They’re on track to become a globalcapacity in the country, which means leader in utility PV. For Ecoppia, it’s clear: • Cleaning Methodology: Water free,finding the talent to fill required roles in we need to be focused on this market; it fully autonomous, electricityproject management, logistics, operations needs to be front and centre for the independentand more. company’s strategic development. For the utility PV market, Ecoppia’s • T arget Market: Medium to large scaleBut perhaps the biggest indication of definitely looking to the East.” utility sites (10 MW and larger) in theEcoppia’s growing presence in the Middle East and Indiacountry is the partnership deal it signed www.ecoppia.comlast spring with Global Fortune 500 OEM • Certifications: PI Berlin and Tier 1 module manufacturers www.pessolar.com 11
CONFERENCE CALLFrom the West to the EastCurrently there are two conferences for you to choose from one in the US and the other inIndia. Both are important markets in our industry. Solar power in the US is booming andIndia is set to follow suit. It’s a good time to be in solar, with new opportunities on thehorizon. There’s nothing like meeting people face to face to consolidate business plansand where other than a trade show can you meet so many potential contacts under oneroof? Here’s a PES taster of what’s to come…. Solar Power International: September home for three days to experience the 12th to 15th 2016 Las Vegas largest and fastest growing solar trade show in North America, Solar Power Innovation and collaboration at its core International (SPI). SPI is only solar trade show powered by leading industry groups, The U.S. solar market is soaring. By the end Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) of 2016, the U.S. solar industry is projected and Smart Electric Power Alliance (SEPA). to install 14.5 GW of capacity, which is nearly double the amount installed in There’s only one solar trade show that gives record-breaking 2015. In Nevada alone, 417 you the opportunity to collaborate with the MW of solar electric capacity was installed entire U.S. solar industry, discover last year, ranking it third nationally and innovations on the show floor from over 600 making it the perfect location for Solar exhibitors, and create strategies to propel Power International 2016. your business state-side. Over 15,000 solar professionals from more Visit the SPI website to view all exhibiting than 75 countries will make Las Vegas their companies.12 PES Solar
CONFERENCE CALL www.pessolar.com 13
CONFERENCE CALL2016: The year of solar electrical energy storage solutions, and developers. “This frenetic pace of activity is HUSUM Wind, closing the gap for many a big step-up in contrast to historic solarAs the U.S. solar industry continues to attendees who are interested in technology capacity addition of approximately 1 GWboom, so does the innovation and and know-how from the wind sector. per annum for three straight years untilcollaborate that occurs at SPI each year. 2014”, says Bridge to India.SPI is the only solar conference in the 230 international exhibitors and aroundUnited States to provide top-tier 11,000 visitors are expected at the Successful solar policies and positiveeducational programming, networking exhibition, over 100 distinguished speakers market prospectsopportunities with industry peers, and the and 500+ attendees at the accompanyingbest place to conduct business on the conference. The Solar Parks Policy and UDAY schemeexpansive, 230,000-plus square-foot have been considered largely as a success.exhibition floor. For more information visit India to become the fourth largest solar A broader sector policy reform throughwww.solarpowerinternational.com. market in 2016 amendments in the Electricity Act 2003 is still awaiting parliamentary approval.Intersolar India October 19th With 5.4 GW of expected PV capacity “Going forward, ensuring grid robustnessto 21st 2016 addition India is set to become the fourth and investment/lending appetite at largest solar market in 2016 behind China, aggressive tariff levels will be the two mainIntersolar India is the country’s largest the US and Japan. 25 GW of projects are challenges. Policy interventions to addressexhibition and conference for the solar under different stages of development, and these challenges together with demandindustry. It takes place from October 19th 35 new tenders with a cumulative capacity growth measures will be key to sustainableto 21st 2016 at the Bombay Exhibition of 15.5 GW have been announced in the growth of the sector”, says Bridge to India.Centre (BEC) in Mumbai. last year. An additional 5 GW are awaiting release in the coming months. In the rooftop solar market the target forThe event focuses on the areas of 2022 is 40 GW. This market still needs morephotovoltaics, PV production technologies, The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy policy support to ensure effective net-energy storage systems and solar thermal (MNRE) has set a target of 12 GW of utility metering implementation and attraction oftechnologies. Since being founded, scale solar projects for FY 2016-17. As of financial investors.Intersolar has become the most important March 31, 2016, India has installed 6.6 GWindustry platform for manufacturers, of utility scale solar. The country is Overall, the growth prospects for the Indiasuppliers, distributors, service providers expected to add more than 5 GW of solar solar market are very bright and provide anand partners in the global solar industry. capacity in 2016. immense opportunity for investors, developers and equipment suppliers, saysIntersolar India features two special Burgeoning investment interest Bridge to India.exhibitions: ees India, the industry hotspotfor suppliers, manufacturers, distributors There is burgeoning investment interest Visit our website for more information:and users of stationary and mobile both from Indian and international wwww.intersolar.in14 PES Solar
CONFERENCE CALL www.pessolar.com 15
TALKING POINTFuture Energy– 3 lessons forsuccessWords: Greg Smith, Senior Technical Trainer, sonnen, Inc.The U.S. solar storage market is expected to see continuing rapid growth and marketexpansion and sonnen, a recognised global leader in energy storage technology, haseffectively positioned itself in the nascent U.S. market. In a U.S. industry marked by roughstarts, sonnen’s ability to innovate and adapt to industry needs has enabled the company tosuccessfully navigate uncertain markets by taking lessons from from others. First, evolutions in renewable + storage industry out of the dark ages and showed technology in Germany are indicative of the world that solar could be a viable what will happen in the U.S. Because renewable energy source. Heavily sonnen draws expertise from its roots in incentivised through feed-in tariffs (FIT), the German solar + storage market, it has German solar installations provided fast been able to gain a front running position ROI’s and attractive revenue streams for and has capitalised on lessons learned residential, commercial, and utility scale from this sector. customers. Even after declining yearly FIT modifications, by 2014 almost 30% of the Second, growth in energy storage is energy on Germany’s grid came from following a similar trajectory to the solar renewables, saving an estimated 90 billion market, though it should experience faster tons of carbon dioxide – the equivalent of diffusion. Solar storage, like PV, is going to offsetting 25 coal fired plants for one year. have to maximise system capacity, evolve beyond traditional uses and respond more Nevertheless, with the end of hefty flexibly to market demands. incentives for solar feed in, solar customers were presented with a challenge. Solar In the mid to late 2000’s, Germany took could be resold during the middle of the center stage when it propelled the solar15 PES Solar
TALKING POINT “Until now, complex designs, costly equipment, and piecemeal battery systems have plagued solar storage” Greg Smithday for drastically reduced prices. The innovative minds at sonnen created conduit, running electrical wire, adhering toCustomers found that maximising their intelligent systems that monitored and electrical Code standards, and familiaritycurrent solar consumption was more learned home owner consumption habits, with AC power, their expertise is key toeffective than sending excess solar into the adjusting battery charging and discharging implementing sonnen’s fully integrated,grid. Yet, energy production was behaviour to maximise battery capacity. intelligent storage system.unavailable after the sun set. Easy to install and easy to use, the sonnenBatterie eco product lines integrated Success in the U.S. MarketThe solution? Energy Storage. Store excess safe and reliable lithium ion batteries, asolar production in the batteries during the bidirectional battery inverter and a Storage has been described as the ‘holyday and then use that stored energy at proprietary software suite that manages grail of energy’ for decades - combinednight. Unfortunately, traditional storage when and how energy is produced and with solar, or other renewable energysystems at the time were unequipped to consumed in the home. Due to the sources, a properly sized storage system ishandle this sophisticated use case. There introduction of newer models, weather expected to solve the issues with supplywas one company, however, that saw how forecasting software now enables the eco and demand, enabling a homeowner to gothe future of solar dovetailed with an unit to connect to a weather site, look at the completely off the grid. But storage is in theintelligent energy management system – next 3 days of local weather and adjust its same place solar was 8 to 10 years ago -sonnen. charging and discharging behaviour to everyone knew it was a good idea; the maximise battery capacity. numbers just didn’t make sense. Solar wasA brief history of sonnen a luxury item until it was heavily incentivised Today, sonnen is now on its sixth product which drove demand up and prices down toIn 2010, sonnen was founded with the goal improvement in Germany and has a range that was within the grasp of mostof transforming the way energy could be expanded its reach to the United States, people and at parity with the cost ofstored and used. Building on a foundation Italy, the UK and Australia with over 12,000 electricity off the utility grid.of 60+ years of battery technology, sonnen systems installed around the world. Thedeveloped a sophisticated management U.S. headquarters for sonnen is Until now, complex designs, costlysoftware that allowed batteries to store and strategically located in Los Angeles, equipment, and piecemeal battery systemsuse solar energy in ways that they never California, only a few hours’ drive south of have plagued solar storage, preventing ithad before. The sonnenBatterie was not its production facility in San Jose. Further, from becoming a reality. To combat theseyour grandfather’s storage system. because research and development for the challenges, companies that offer storage U.S. products is based in Atlanta, Georgia, solutions need: sonnen is able to quickly adapt to local and national requirements and easily evolve its 1. A product that is easy to install. product lines to better meet the growing needs of U.S. customers. 2. A product that is cost competitive. Given the diversity of regional markets 3. A product that is flexible in application. across the U.S., sonnen’s business model is focussed on finding local partners to sell These three lessons are taken directly from and service its products throughout the successful solar PV Inverter companies U.S., Caribbean, and Canada, providing the who followed this recipe and remained company with a wider distribution network competitive. Years of installation trial and and access to key skill sets. Since solar error led to increased design installers have years of experience bending standardisation, a growing need for flexible inverter technologies (string inverters and micro inverters) and declining costs due to www.pessolar.com 16
TALKING POINT “The storage industry market adoption. Inverter manufacturers, energy, the DC to AC conversation is anhas currently adopted who offered a product that was easy effective way to directly feed the AC loads. enough for the DIY crew to install, found the $/kWh metric for greater success in the market. If there isn’t enough generated PV to supply pricing out systems; the loads, then the batteries will supply thehowever, this measure 1. Ease of Installation deficit; if there is excess PV energy, thecan be too simplistic” extra will back feed into the battery inverter Today all of the existing inverter topologies and then be converted to DC to charge the Greg Smith have their place and solar installers use the batteries. Since all PV inverters feed an AC inverter type that fits their business model breaker, the excess PV will always be and the project. Looking into solar storage, available for battery charging. one of the first considerations for ease of Consequently, not only does sonnen’s use installation is how the solar will integrate of AC coupling offer a more efficient use of with the storage system. PV, it also allows for virtually unlimited retrofits and new installs because AC DC vs. AC coupling coupling is PV inverter agnostic. There are two schools of thought for the Hardware solar + storage interface. The most familiar approach is to DC couple the solar directly To achieve an easy installation, it is to the batteries. The solar modules are important to consider the hardware involved. sized accordingly and feed a DC charge This may seem like a no-brainer, but controller that uses the solar to charge the considering a typical storage system batteries. There is either a DC to DC consists of many individual components, converter for DC loads or a DC to AC integrating them (and getting them to work converter that will allow the use of common seamlessly together) has been a challenge appliances. DC coupling is very popular for for many decades. Adding to this challenge off-grid applications like fishing lodges and is the negative visual appeal – hardware small cabins because it offers an effective hanging on walls, bulky battery cabinets and way to store solar without the need for a wires and/or conduit runs connecting dedicated PV inverter. However, retrofits everything together. sonnen has eliminated with existing grid tied PV inverters might be this concern by offering a fully integrated, a challenge and would require a PV inverter all-in-one solution where everything is compatibility check. housed in an attractive cabinet about the size of a refrigerator. Our newest eco The sonnenBatterie system uses AC compact product is small enough to hang on coupling to power household loads and the wall in the 4kWh version. There is very provides backup power to keep the solar little external wiring required. A fully working even when the grid goes down. integrated solution also reduces installation Specifically, to integrate solar to the storage time and lowers shipping costs. system, sonnen uses a grid-tied PV inverter output to the same AC panel that the storage 2. Cost Competition - Price vs Cost system feeds. Since most grid-tied PV inverters offer a very high efficiency (> 98% There are several different methods of for a good one) and there is only one analysing energy storage costs. The storage conversion before the loads consume the PV industry has currently adopted the $/kWh metric for pricing out systems; however, this measure can be too simplistic and may not provide the best means of comparing competing storage products. For example, a system that is comprised of separate components might list a lower-cost battery price, but neglect to include the price of the remaining components, such as additional inverters, etc. The sonnenBatterie eco16, sonnen’s largest residential storage solution, retails for about $24,000 and offers 16kWh of storage, which works out to $1500/kWh for a fully integrated solution with few external components needed. Further, the standard $/kWh metric does not include battery lifecycles. The eco products offer a minimum battery warranty of 10 years/10,000 cycles - the highest cycle count in its class. Considering one cycle per day, the cost of the eco16 system is $2.40 per cycle.17 PES Solar
TALKING POINTProtected Load Panel Diagram for sonnenBatterie Installation“there are a few pioneering states that solution - store the excess solar during the encourage the use of storage…” day and then use it at night when inside the TOU window.Finally, when comparing the sonnenBatterie the lights on when the grid goes down -eco’s lithium iron phosphate batteries to there are a few pioneering states that To be successful, storage systems musttheir lead acid cousins, not only does cycle encourage the use of storage because the be able to meet customer demands for ascount matter, but also the battery depth of utilities in those areas have adopted many uses as possible. sonnen’sdischarge. Most lead acid batteries are regulations that are unfriendly towards residential product line provides grid-tiedcapable of 50% depth of discharge while the solar. Policies favouring residential time of backup, stand-alone (off grid), time of usesonnenBatterie cells can charge and use rates, declining net metering incentives and self-consumption all in one box.discharge at 100%. This means that a lithium and zero solar backfeed regulations have Additionally, companies to meet growingion battery bank can be half the size of a made storage very attractive - particularly offer a variety of products to meet growinglead acid battery bank, yet provide twice the for Arizona, Nevada and Hawaii. markets are better able to diversify theircapacity. The 10 to 20-year life cycle of the revenue streams and meet future customersonnenBatterie also means fewer battery For instance, time of use (TOU) rate needs. For sonnen this means anreplacements over the life time of the system structures encourage energy storage by expansion into the growing commercialwhen compared to lead acid. increasing rates during a specific period of and industrial energy storage market with time, usually during the late afternoon and the sonnenBatterie pro product, whereOne thing to note is that the cost of battery early evening when people are coming peak shaving and demand managementstorage is declining and will continue to do home from work and school. Rates during provide a faster route to price parity andso over the coming years as adoption this window can be almost double the financial returns in certain markets.increases and component pricing comes normal rates or even higher. As andown. Recently sonnen announced its illustration, Pacific Gas and Electric Looking to the solar industry as a casenewest U.S. product line – the eco (PG&E) is the largest energy provider in the study, companies in energy storage needcompact, which sells at a 40% cost United States and has a time of use to ensure their products are easy to install,reduction over other sonnenBatterie eco window from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. where the cost competitive, and flexible inproducts, thanks to a software rates are 10 to 30 cents higher than the application to be successful. By adaptingenhancement and a hardware and non-peak times. As more utilities adopt to changing market demands andcomponent reduction. The new product time of use for residential customers, the innovating products that address customerfocusses primarily on the solar self- windows usually slide towards the evening challenges, storage companies willconsumption market, which does not hours and outside the solar window, develop a more sustainable businessrequire sophisticated backup capabilities. making solar production almost negligible model. Through its deep experience in the depending on the time of year. The German solar + storage market, sonnen3. Flexibility in Application obvious solution to offset the rates in has already designed and manufactured these TOU areas is to use storage. Storage products around the globe that meetWhile the majority of the U.S. still perceives combined with solar offers an even better specific regional needs and adhere tostorage as a backup application - keeping these standards, contributing to its leadership in the industry. www.sonnen-batterie.com www.pessolar.com 18
THINK TANKDER certificationWords: Bernd Hinzer, Principal Engineer and Head of Section Grid CodeCompliance and Tobias Gehlhaar Principal Engineer, DNV GLUtility grid interconnection requirements for distributed generation, including solar, havebeen evolving to support higher levels of penetration. The new requirement thatDistributed Energy Resources (DERs) have to meet according to IEEE 1547 requiresverification that the DER asset is compliant to this new standard. This article describesDNV GL’s 3-step approach, which ensures verification and can contribute to a more costeffective project and provide long-term benefits. Bernd Hinzer Distributed Energy Resources (DER) can The locally relevant performance category put stress on the power grid [8]. according to IEEE 1547 will be defined Tobias Gehlhaar Interconnection requirements for improving based on attributes such as technology, electrical reliability have been well known application purpose, and specific19 PES Solar for a long time and DNV GL has worked in characteristics of power grid (a set of the implementation of these for many years. requirements that specify technical A good number of new requirements have capabilities and settings for a DER). been developed over time [1]. DNV GL refers to these official documents as “grid Based upon the chosen category, a DER codes” whether they are laws, orders, will have to be compliant with specific standards, or any other document that interconnection and interoperability identifies requirements for safe and utility requirements. Therefore testing, verification supportive integration of DER to the power and certification procedures have to be grid. Regional rules for interconnection and offered to be used in the market. A interoperability of DER are also routinely state-of-the-art designed DER must be able identified and these also require DER to support the EPS with ancillary services compliance. These grid codes are evolving. (e.g. active and reactive power generation) New regulations come up and they have to during normal operation, as well as during be implemented. This often happens electrical faults in the electric power system cross-regionally in order to handle the (e.g. during LVRT and HVRT, see example in increasing amount of DER generators Figure 2). Amongst other requirements, this connected to the electrical power grid. obligation has to be taken into consideration during design, planning and In the United States, a new draft of the next negotiating interconnection agreements for revision of IEEE 1547 has been new DER facilities with the utility. communicated (working title: “P1547/D4.0, May 2016, IEEE Standard for To verify the fulfilment of these new Interconnection and Interoperability of requirements, testing specifications must Distributed Energy Resources with be defined. The IEEE P1547 draft [4] only Associated Electric Power Systems gives high-level specifications for tests for Interfaces”) [4]. Finalisation of this standard short circuit behaviour and more detailed is expected in 2017. The corresponding test test specifications and procedures will be standard, IEEE P1547.1 is being revised defined in the dedicated testing standard consequently and the finalisation is IEEE P1547.1. Variation of voltage dip depth expected in 2018/2019. IEEE 1547 defines during hardware testing is state-of-the-art three technology-neutral categories of according to other test standards like DNV performance for DER, powered by wind, GL-SE-0124 [2] or DNV GL-ST-0125 [3], and powered by solar, and powered by biogas corresponding testing equipment [5] is or water, as well as, being connected to available to perform such testing with storage systems. voltage drops down to different voltage
THINK TANKlevels and under full load or partial load. Figure 1: High-level overview of performance-based category approach [4], Source: IEEE-draft and [6,7]Drafting of IEEE P1547.1 has begun andshould coordinate with existing test Figure 2: Interconnection system default response to abnormal voltage and voltage Ride-Throughstandards like [3]. A typical test set-up for requirements for DER of Category III [4], Source: IEEE-draft and [6,7]such testing can be seen in [3], as shown inbelow Figure 3. Figure 3: Hardware test set-up for low-voltage ride-through test equipment, full power [3], Source: DNV GLThe tests according to [3] are performed forthree voltage levels and for two durations www.pessolar.comwith two loading levels as 3-phase voltagedips and as 2-phase voltage dips. Theduration is set by using the switchingcommands of switch S2. Z2 which can beset variably and will lead to voltage levelswhich can be set as needed for testingspecific grid code requirements. Suchrequirements can be interconnectionsystem default response to abnormalvoltage, the so called voltage Ride-Throughrequirements as shown in Figure 2.A corresponding verification is importantfor advising, consulting, planning andinsuring companies, as well as for banks,lenders, owners, and for operators of DERfacilities and utilities (operators of EPS). Inorder to reduce the risk of operatingproblems, such investigations should bebased on hardware testing includingvoltage drops down to different residualvoltage levels. It is not enough to performonly simulations using unvalidatedsimulation models. Validating modelsagainst LVRT and HVRT test results ispossible. This is part of DNV GL’s servicesand validation standards exist. Proof ofvalidation to these requirements should beincluded in the interconnection agreementsin order to improve national electricreliability. As this task of proof andindependent verification is repeatedfrequently, the use of a certification systemshould be considered for IEEE 1547 [4].There is a growing demand for services oftesting, verification and certification ofinterconnection and interoperabilityrequirements.The global approach of these services isintended to help in determining whichrequirements are to be taken from IEEE1547 [4] (or similar parallel requirements),how to provide evidence of compliance bytesting and measuring technical capabilitiesof types and plants, and how to evaluatethe results and keep them compliant withcertain requirements at different levels.As the verification methodology remains tobe specified in IEEE P1547.1 and there maybe a transition period with lack of clarity,DNV GL offers the international servicespecification DNVGL-SE-0124 [2] which can 20
THINK TANKbe used. To avoid misunderstandings, in Definition phase Pre-screening reportDNVGL-SE-0124 [2] all verification steps are Grid code requirementswell-defined; however, definition of • Investigating grid code requirementrequirements is not given here as they are • Defining assessment scope Test plannationally or regionally different. Using this Simulation planservice specification helps each stakeholder Figure 4: Definition Phase [2], Source: DNV GL Test reportin his own area to independently prove (determination of electricalfulfilling all requirements. Verification phase characteristics) Certification report (CR)Usually types of power generating DER are • Test plan preparation Different CR’ssold in multiple global regions with different • Modelling simulation modelsgrid interconnection requirements. For • P erforming tests according to test Certificatethose that required it, a “multi-national Different certificatesapproach” can cover several sets of plan and preparing test report with Statement ofrequirements with one test and one type measurement results compliance (SoC)certificate. In the United States, not only • E valuating measurement results based Different SoCIEEE 1547 is relevant, but also NERC rules, on defined assessment scoperesulting in requirements such the • Validating simulation modelsfollowing: Figure 5: Verification Phase [2], Source: DNV GL• Reactive power and voltage control Certification phase• Performance during and after disturbances • Finally assessing verification• Active power control • S tating conformity according to service• Harmonics and subsynchronous specification and based on success criteria interactions according to defined assessment scope • Issuing certificates• Models for facility interconnection studies Figure 6: Possible reports in certification phase according DNV GL SE-0124 [2], Source: DNV GL• Communications between plants and operators The first step (definition phase) includes However, know-how is growing about which assignment of the relevant country and the class can be recommended to be assignedFor other markets additional requirements grid code, as well as the verification level for which country in the world. Currently classcan also be expected, see [1]. which sets the scope of project according to I or II seem reasonable to follow IEEE 1547 [4] the service specification [2]. The verification and therefore be implementable in the UnitedThe Service Specification DNVGL-SE-0124 level is divided into three classes. States. The performance categories of IEEE[2] describes a structured way to prove the 1547 [4] will be another issue to be assignedfulfilment of interconnection and Class I: finally approved by system operator during the definition phase.interoperability requirements for DER, to be used in his gridClass II: evaluateddivided into generating unit type (type according to service specification [2] and The second phase, the verification phase,certificate) and generating plant (project found to fulfil interconnection requirement includes testing. For this, the level andcertificate). This is because type testing of scope of testing has to be defined, which isDER does not need to be repeated for each No class: test and report according to the done as a test plan preparation. This can beproject as well interconnection agreement. maximum capability approach done for the requirements of IEEE 1547 [4]Independent proof can easily be confirmed or for multiple countries (based onby a corresponding type certificate The verification level can be set individually multi-national sales approach of manufactureraccording to the service specification [2]. for each certification. of DER), resulting in less testing.However, no generating plant should get apower purchase agreement without havingproven that all equipment used within theplant have successfully passed the testsrelated to IEEE 1547 performance category,and the plant as a whole is compliant whichcan be proved by a project certificateaccording to the service specification [2].The simple approach of the servicespecification [2] is divided into 3 phases:Definition phase, Verification phase, andCertification phase.For foreign countries a pre-screeninginvestigation of relevant rules andrequirements may be helpful.21 PES Solar
THINK TANKTopics: Certification Goals:• Technical components • Comply with international standards during life-cycle• Solar, PV, CSP • Minimise design errors and risks, gain time• Projects or project phases • Improve yield, e.g. avoid costly field rectifications• Grid Access etc. • Ensure proper documentationFigure 7: Benefits of test, verification and certification for stakeholder according DNV GL SE-0124 [2], Source: DNV GLManufacturers of DER generating unit types “All stakeholders of DER plants (projects)can have proof of evidence independent will benefit if they see their individualfrom any local requirement, with a scope requirements met”defined in the definition phase. This shouldbe done according to the listing of possible Type certificates and project certificates for PV and CHP farms (capacity from 1 MWverification features from the Appendix of grid code requirements all over the upto 400 MW), as well as a lot of industrythe Standard DNV GL-ST-0125 [3] (e.g. worldare feasible and welcome at projects with a capacity of more thanfrequency control or reactive power stakeholder (Figure 8). Type Certificates 50MW per generator, having donecontrol only). (TC) and Project Certificates (PC) will testing, verification and certification provide independent proof of evidence within these areas.All stakeholders of DER plants (projects) regarding the set of interconnectionwill benefit if they see their individual requirements e.g. in IEEE 1547 [4] for each A renewable energy generating plant (RES)requirements met. This is possible when stakeholder while precisely documenting is a DER “system of systems” with a highrequiring the strongest class I for a project the ability of the DER type or plant. complexity. The sooner a neutral expert iscertificate (PCI) according to the local involved in the project processes, the moredemands as given in IEEE 1547 [4] Stakeholder interested in the services, efficient the project will run; costs aresupported by DNV GL SE-0124 [2] and DNV should call the most experienced and by reduced during the entire project lifetime.GL SE-0125 [3].. German Government (DAkkS) endorsed neutral expert to let them confirm that their A cooperation with independent experts toEquipment manufacturers can benefit by investment is safe, sound, and fit for proof the compliance of DER accordingasking for an Equipment Certificate in class purpose. NV GL Renewables Certification mandatory Interconnection RequirementsII, covering many countries and local experts know all major manufacturers of as in IEEE 1547 [4], makes each stakeholderrequirements, and taking into account a DER, know more than 1000 German Wind, more competitive. Using the servicesstandardised but limited scope. This scope according DNV GL SE-0124 [2] and DNV GLis the intersecting area between the gridcode applied (e.g. IEEE 1547 [4] and NERC) Figure 9: Influence of test, verification and certification to lifetime costs, Source: DNV GLand the service specification itself.• Statement of Compliance (SoC)• Component Certificate (CC)• Equipment Certificate (EC)• Type Certificate (TC)• Project Certificate (PC)• Compliance Monitoring ServiceThis 3-step approach offers a variety ofpossible services by keeping things easy tounderstand, keeping results valuable anddecreasing risk inside the project.Type-Certified DER offer an easier global sellingpossibility without separate permissionprocesses within each regional area ofinterest. At project area everything will beapproved ahead the commissioning, toavoid time consuming and money wastingtests on site. By using this approach theyield of projects will increase considerably. www.pessolar.com 22
THINK TANK Manufacturers of: Operators Standardisation • Power generating plant operator Organisations • Power generating units (wind, solar, CHP etc.) • Electrical system operators Testing • Virtual power plant operators laboratories • Power generating plants (adviser,consulter, planner) • Power generating facilities andother electric power grids in general • All kind of components Authorities Financing sector EPC-companies • Banks (Engineering Procurement Construction) • Investors Owner and •Insurance Buyer companies Supporting engineering Law firms companies (including software houses)Figure 8: Stakeholders that benefit from test, verification and certification services, Source: DNV GLSE-0125 [3] will close gaps in standards [3] link: http://rules.dnvgl.com/docs/pdf/ [7] EPRI Response to FERC NOPR RM16-8:and interpretation will manage and check DNVGL/ST/2016-03/DNVGL-ST-0125.pdf http://elibrary.ferc.gov/idmws/file_list.complex interfaces by seeing that each asp?accession_num=20160523-5131DER has technical innovations. The [4] P1547™/D4.0 Draft Standard forindependent expert is doing more than the Interconnection and Interoperability of [8] EPRI. “Recommended Settings forminimum standard, will help each Distributed Energy Resources with Voltage and Frequency Ride-Through ofstakeholder to ensure risk reduction and Associated Electric Power Systems Distributed Energy Resources: Minimumincrease bankability for each Distributed Interfaces, May 2016 and Advanced Requirements and SettingsEnergy Resource. for the Performance of Distributed Energy [5] Voltage dip test equipment can be Resources During and After System www.dnvgl.com rented from DNV GL: Disturbances to Support Bulk Power System Reliability and Their RespectiveReferences: https://www.dnvgl.com/news/dnv-gl- Technical Implications on Industry successfully-commissions-ovrt-test-unit- Stakeholders.” May 2015. [Online] http://[1] link: www.dnvgl.com/GridCode for-wind-turbines-71603 www.epri.com/abstracts/Pages/Listing.pdf ProductAbstract.aspx [6] IEEE Response to FERC NOPR RM16-8:[2] link: http://rules.dnvgl.com/docs/pdf/ http://elibrary.ferc.gov/idmws/file_list.DNVGL/SE/2016-03/DNVGL-SE-0124.pdf asp?accession_num=20160524-505523 PES Solar
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ASK THE EXPERTSBacking a winnerIain Garner, Business Development Director and Ismael Bena, Director UK & Ireland,DMEGC Solar, called in to PES to tell us how they went against the trend and backedmono-Si cells, we hear why that was the way to go. The company is rated by the AltmanZ Score of financial stability, something to be proud of… Iain Garner PES: Welcome to PES Solar/PV products and the best cost-performance magazine. Thanks for talking with us. ratio, to ensure long term growth and Ismael Bena Would you like to begin by explaining a business sustainability. little about the background of your25 PES Solar organisation and how you currently DMEGC is also one of very few solar PV serve the solar industry? manufacturers to be rated highly by the “Altman-Z Score” of financial stability, due Iain Garner & Ismael Bena: DMEGC was to its diversified and balanced business. founded in 1980 and has developed to become the global No.1 magnetics PES: Is solar/PV a growing business manufacturer. Customers include area? How are you capitalising on Microsoft, Siemens, Samsung, HP, LG, this growth? Bosch, Sony, Toshiba, Panasonic, IBM, Phillips and Apple. DMEGC was listed on IG & IB: Yes, our solar PV business has the Shenzhen stock exchange in 2006, and grown quickly and we expect further now has annual revenues over USD 1.3bn sustainable growth in future. Currently and 15,000 employees. It’s part of the DMEGC is making further investment of Hengdian Group, which is one of the largest USD 1bn to expand capacity from 1GW to privately owned enterprises in China, with 1.6GW of solar cells and from 0.5GW to activities in chemicals, pharmaceuticals, 1GW of modules for completion in 2016. tourism, media and entertainment. PES: Please tell us about DMEGC’s The magnetics business ranges from different cell and module offerings? permanent magnets for large scale generators and motors, to electronic IG & IB: Based on p-type technology, components for a wide range of products DMEGC mono-Si cells are currently including mobile phones and even solar PV reaching the highest efficiency available in inverters. DMEGC magnetic cores are used China. Good colour consistency has for various EMI filters, HF transformer coils allowed us to solve the poor aesthetics’ and DC/DC converters by PV inverter issues that have often plagued inferior, manufacturers such as SMA, ABB, so-called “all black” modules. Market SolarEdge, Huawei and Sungrow. response to these products has been very strong, particularly in residential markets. DMEGC Solar was set up in 2009 as a vertically integrated PV manufacturer of Over the last 5 years, many PV cell silicon ingot/rods, wafers, solar cells and manufacturers’ concentrated resources on modules. There’s a strong focus on R&D to production of poly-Si due to the lower provide consistent high quality, reliable material costs. DMEGC held the contrary view that mono-Si would be the future trend
ASK THE EXPERTSdue to its greater potential for efficiency modules provide extra added-value to PV DMEGC headquarters. In these moreincrease. Investments were therefore made systems installers and end-customers. economically developed areas of China,in mono-Si cell technology innovation and Benefits include real time module-level DMEGC is able to recruit, train and retaincost control. Current market trends show monitoring, additional safety features, power very high quality employees, in order tohigh efficiency and uniform colour are now output optimisation under shade conditions guarantee the complex needs for quality insignificant advantages and DMEGC is and system cost savings through longer PV cell and modules compared with thepositioned as a mono-Si PV cell and string configuration. The platform and heavy industry nature of silicon ingots/rodsmodule specialist. applications provided by SolarEdge also and wafer production. bring the opportunity for future systemIn addition to high quality standard PV upgrades with battery storage integration. PES: What are the advantages, bothmodules, DMEGC is manufacturing and in technological terms and for thedeveloping specific PV module products to PES: We see that you are a vertically end user?meet special market demands. Examples integrated manufacturer, how importantinclude double glass modules for BIPV, high is this? IG & IB: From the technology perspective,salt resistant modules for projects in coastal DMEGC is a market leading companyareas, high temperature and stress resistant IG & IB: DMEGC Solar is integrated across producing the highest efficiency mono-Simodules for desert areas, smart modules for the PV value chain from silicon ingots and PV cells in China, with the additional andpremium customers, and bifacial cells in rods, to wafers, PV cells and PV modules. related benefit of excellent colourdouble glass modules for sound barrier We also offer full project construction EPC consistency, ideal for full black modules.projects. All provide a great variety of services in China. This integrated chain This means better use of space andadditional options for discerning customers. provides better internal cost control and reduced overall installed system cost, plus guaranteed raw materials delivery. When stable and high energy yield with improvedPES: We are interested in DMEGC’s the PV market demand is high, we can investment returns for the end-user.optimised processing; please can you provide the shortest delivery time forexplain this to us? downstream products and better lead- We also receive reports from our European times to distributors and end-customers. distributors that DMEGC black modules areIG & IB: DMEGC has improved PV cell When market demand slows, our really becoming an important choice forefficiency and colour with in-house downstream projects can absorb internal residential systems. It’s often a “dealproprietary technology in the production surplus capacity. closer” for installers to provide PV modulesprocess. This is our own special know-how which are aesthetically pleasing. Deliveringwith years of R&D by our engineers, which is Production of silicon ingots/rods and a system which really looks integrated onnow yielding such good results. wafers is located in Henan Province in the customers’ property can add significant central China. Here DMEGC enjoys cost value compared to other PV modules. OftenReferring to PV module performance advantages due to low electricity prices in bright blue PV cell colours and silveroptimisation, we have entered a strategic these less developed areas. The production anodised frames are seen as ugly bypartnership with SolarEdge as supplier of of both PV cells and modules are co- non-technical homeowners, or in worstoptimiser junction boxes to manufacture located in Zhejiang Province with the cases inconsistent colour shades are seen“embedded” smart modules. DMEGC smart www.pessolar.com 26
ASK THE EXPERTS “There will be many special markets and niche opportunities where high quality, customer- orientated PV manufacturers and systems installers can thrive”as a faulty product by the end-consumer. there is a need for these enhanced managers, homeowners, construction modules, as large scale PV power growth companies, commercial business andThe efforts DMEGC takes to ensure continues to accelerate, particularly in more power companies across the world.homogenous black modules are strongly challenging environments. This leadsappreciated in the market, reducing directly to our work on bi-facial modules There will be many special markets andcomplaints, customer service issues and and cells, another holy grail for the PV niche opportunities where high quality,overall enhancing returns through the value industry that has yet to be realised at scale. customer-orientated PV manufacturerschain. Combined with the novel cell concepts and systems installers can thrive. DMEGC being investigated and new PV module is laying a solid foundation for itsPES: The company places a strong focus configurations, the R&D team at DMEGC development and we are confident abouton Technology Innovation. Tell us more. is an exciting place to be! the future in solar PV.IG & IB: DMEGC is striving for improved PV PES: Geographically speaking, where PES: And conversely, what presents youcell efficiency and product quality, using are the key markets for DMEGC and do with the biggest challenges?volume scaling to drive down costs. We’re you have any plans for expansion intospending around 3% of revenue each year other areas? Minimum import price (MIP) controls, onto support R&D and new technology Chinese manufactured products in Europeinnovation. IG & IB: Over the last 4-5 years DMEGC and AD&CV tax in the USA, are artificially has built up a sales network across Europe, holding PV module and cell prices at a highRunning large scale production at several with sales offices in The Netherlands, level. Many PV manufacturers have steppedlocations requires constant vigilance, as France, Germany and the United Kingdom. out of the MIP agreements and are noweven the smallest improvements can have producing in other low cost regions to avoidlarge impacts. The potential for further PV The product enhancements available with price controls. Even the European and UScell enhancements is well defined in our DMEGC products have resulted in a strong manufacturers, who the controls weretechnology road map. market demand for both PV cells and intended to protect, are able to sell at modules. Our customers benefit from prices well below the MIP level. TheAs we add further capacity during 2016-17 knowledgeable local contacts and efficient situation needs to be resolved urgently,there will be opportunities to bring online logistic services, building on DMEGC group so consumers and investors can enjoyseveral new process steps and progressive experience with major OEM customers in lower cost solar PV energy generation.changes to PV cell architecture. These will automotive and electronics.further improve production yield, efficiency PES: What are your thoughts aboutand overall PV module product performance. There is already a strong demand for prospects for the rest of 2016, moving DMEGC products in Japan, Africa, the on in to 2017, with regard to yourPES: How important is your R&D Middle East, South East Asia and Australian organization and the solar industrydepartment, what are they currently regions which we hope to develop further in general?working on? with local based sales teams in the coming 1-2 years. IG & IB: Due to the fast increase in PVIG & IB: The main technology road map installations across China, with 20GW oftargets for our research team are, first and PES: Which aspect of the industry new capacity added in 2016, PV cell/foremost, to improve cell efficiency by provides the most satisfaction for you module costs will reduce before the year0.1-0.2% every quarter, both for poly and right now? end. Meanwhile, new production capacitymono cells. This will include developing RIE will be coming online during this period,poly and PERC mono with higher efficiency IG & IB: It may not always seem this way leading to fierce competition. DMEGC isduring 2016-17. R&D is also working on in individual markets, but globally solar PV well positioned, ready to provide a stronglyseveral interesting new concepts including capacity is ramping up quickly and we can differentiated and high value-added rangeHIT, MWT and EWT cell architectures. All are expect the industry to be at least three of products to customers, with higherknown across the PV industry, however times its current size within 3-4 years. This efficiency and more competitive prices.applying these to GW scale cell production means the solar PV business will becomeand achieving low costs is a challenging goal. increasingly mainstream for investors, fund www.dmegcsolar.comModule level R&D is in continuousdevelopment on a new generation of doubleglass modules. It’s becoming clear that27 PES Solar
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ASK THE EXPERTSThin film PV revivalWith module efficiencies increasing and costs decreasingin thin film PV, it seemed the perfect opportunity for PESto discover more from Michael van der Gugten, Sales andMarketing Executive, Smit Thermal Solutions. Here’s whyhe thinks the thin film revival is underway… Michael van der Gugten PES: Welcome back to PES Solar. Smit process tools, covering all thermal Thermal Solutions is a new name, but processes, for CTIEC’s 100MW CdTe29 PES Solar you’re not new to the thin film PV project in Chengdu. production equipment market or to this magazine. Can you give us the PES: So is solar / PV a growing business background? area for you? How are you capitalising on this growth? Michael van der Gugten: As some of your readers may know, Smit Thermal Solutions MvdG: We’ve always been convinced that was established in June 2015, following the thin film solar is the way ahead for us and restructuring of Smit Ovens. But while our that it will be a big part of the future name has changed, our commitment electricity generation mix. Just look at recent remains the same: to supply thermal developments. Module efficiencies are process solutions for cost-effective mass increasing towards 18% and small cell production of thin film solar cells, efficiencies are moving ever closer to 25%. particularly for cadmium telluride (CdTe) In December 2015, Solar Frontier achieved a and CIGS (Cu(In,Ga)(Se,S)2). And of course, record-breaking 22.3% from a CIGS cell and we still have 75 years’ experience in glass then in June this year, ZSW, a German and electronics to call on, as well as over a research centre, announced they had beaten decade in thin film PV. So we really this with an efficiency of 22.6%. understand large-scale manufacturing. At the same time, the costs are coming Like a lot of the industry, we have been down. Experts writing in a recent White through some challenging times in the last Paper published by CIGS-PV.net predict that few years. However, the restructuring has within a few years we could see a total cost put us on a sound financial footing for the of ownership of 0.40 US-$ / Wp even at long-term, with a secure basis to take on production capacities as low as 150 MWp/a. large projects and handle the growing demand in this market. For instance, in May Thin film PV undoubtedly has an exciting this year, we signed a deal with CTIEC, an future. It’s low cost, it has low affiliate of China National Building Materials environmental footprint and it is inherently (CNBM) that acquired CIGS thin-film versatile for applications like Building producer Avancis and CTF in 2014. This Integrated PV (BIPV). This year, major contract is for the delivery of multiple core manufacturers like First Solar and Solar Frontier are producing at full capacity. It is
ASK THE EXPERTSthe right moment for producers to move pressure chemical vapour deposition processes for both reel-to-reel and discreteinto large-scale thin film PV manufacturing (AP-CVD) systems that can be used for manufacturing.and we aim to enable this by providing TCO layer deposition.equipment for profitable mass production. For profitable mass production, you alsoOf course, there are challenges when a new In all of these, we focus on reproducibility, need to consider aspects such as inlinetechnology moves from early development controllability and reliability. These are the versus batch processing, materials coststo high-volume. But with our experience in vital ingredients for mass production and and safety. Based on our high-volumeglass, displays and electronics, we offer our keeping costs down. You need to be sure manufacturing background, we offer inlinecustomers systems built on a deep your processes will deliver consistently high solutions for sheet to sheet and roll-to-rollunderstanding of cost-effective high- yields, without frequent operator because they give higher throughput. Wevolume manufacturing. interventions or downtime. calculate our systems can allow CIGS production at up to 60 m2 per hour, which isPES: What are your thin film solutions? We’ve done a lot of work in measuring faster than batch processes. Plus with anWhat do they involve, and what are the these factors, which we’re presenting at inline solution, you avoid repeated heatingbenefits to your customers? PVSec Singapore 2016. For example, in and cooling cycles, which means reduced CIGS crystallisation, one of the key issues energy consumption, as well as a reducedMvdG: We produce a number of different is ensuring a constant temperature across risk of bad cells.solutions for both CdTe and CIGS. These the substrate plate. If you can do this, youinclude rapid thermal processing (RTP) for achieve greater process accuracy over the In terms of materials cost and safety,the selenisation of CIGS thin film active full area of the substrate, which has a thermal solutions offer a way to eliminatelayers with an integrated annealing step up positive impact on your yields. In our the need for hazardous substances. Forto 600° C, as well as solutions for systems, we standardly reach a instance, for CIGS crystallisation we’vedeposition, activation and back contact temperature uniformity of +/- 2°C over the created solutions that use elementalannealing of CdTe stacks and atmospheric entire substrate width in atmospheric selenium, which is far cleaner than H2Se. www.pessolar.com 30
ASK THE EXPERTSProducers get multiple benefits: lower raw that you work in close collaboration with These all cut costs and there are othermaterials costs, better utilisation rates (up SERIS in Singapore. What does this ways as well.to 70%) and a simpler, safer operating involve, how crucial is it to futureenvironment because they’re not dealing developments? One is to reduce the total number ofwith highly toxic, H2Se. processes and machines required in your MvdG: SERIS is Singapore’s national overall operation. Our CIGS solution is aPES: How do you intend to develop your institute for applied solar energy research, good example. It combines crystallisation,solutions further? and it chose one of our RTP crystallisation selenisation and post-processing systems for its work on CIGS. Although it (potassium) in a single machine, so thereMvdG: One interesting area is doping is a research institute, SERIS sees that is no separate deposition step in theCIGS with potassium. Scientific studies thermal processes are a key step towards equipment line which means that it takesindicate this leads to higher efficiencies. mass production. So we’ve supplied them up less floor space. This substantiallyIn 2014, ZSW achieved a then world-record with a full system, not just an R&D set-up, reduces investment. There’s also lessefficiency of 20.8%, which outperformed which means they can produce on 30 x 30 risk of production failures because thethe existing record for multicrystalline cm substrates. They installed the system substrates are kept in a controlledsilicon, using a potassium doping in early 2016 and the first results are now atmosphere between processes rathertechnique. coming through. than being exposed to the air.We see this as a potential area for future We have also supplied equipment to other We also believe in modular design anddevelopment with the right partners to research institutions such as HZB we build in exactly the right amount ofsupport us. An atmospheric process with (Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin) and Solliance, functionality – enough for the producers’elemental potassium could be particularly an R&D partnership based in the process, but never more. This means weinteresting as it might avoid unwanted Netherlands. These institutions produce limit the potential points of failure in thechemical recombinations with the selenium. transferable knowledge that is beneficial system, which adds to the reliability. to their partners and to the industry as a Additionally, if the producer wants newAnother area of interest is spatial atomic whole. By working with them, we gain functionalities, we can exchange just thelayer deposition (ALD) . Like potassium valuable input which helps us continuously relevant module.doping, today it’s still primarily a research improve reproducibility and controllabilitytopic, but ALD could bring high throughput in our systems. PES: How do you see the thinfor mass manufacturing and improve final film revival?efficiency, for instance, by ensuring a PES: Indeed, cost cutting is becomingpin-hole free buffer layer. We’ve already more and more important, how is SMIT MvdG: After all the consolidation in thedone some work in this field. Potentially, Thermal Solutions tackling this issue? industry, we believe the thin film revival isALD could be used in inline production and well underway. That’s why we’re seeingeven be extended to crystallisation and MvdG: We’re dedicated to enabling major investments in new equipment andpost-processing. Here too, we see cost-effective mass production, so capacity like those of CNBM. Also for manyopportunities to take this further with the cost-cutting is always on our agenda. businesses consolidation has had aright partner or partners. Earlier in this interview, we discussed inline positive effect, these companies have processes, reduced materials and energy access to a variety of technologies for massPES: You talked about partners. We hear consumption, and safer operations. production under one roof. This creates a31 PES Solar
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ASK THE EXPERTScross-fertilisation of ideas that will really PES: Which aspect of the industry define how everyone manufactures thin filmtake us to the next step. provides the most satisfaction for PV? That remains to be seen. you right now?The challenge now is to be flexible. Many PES: What are your thoughts aboutcompanies and institutes have invested a It’s extremely satisfying to see the thin prospects for the remainder of 2016 andgreat deal in developing technologies over film sector going forward strongly after moving forward into 2017 with regard tothe last 25 years. However, these may not the turbulence of the last few years. This your organisation, and the solar industrybe the best solutions for mass production. technology has huge potential to help the in general?So they will need to let go of these and global community move even further toadopt alternatives. That won’t be easy. cleaner, renewable energy sources. MvdG: We are optimistic about the future.However, the market opportunities are The industry is in a strong position tothere and so are the mass production Within our company, we’re delighted to see deliver the benefits of thin film solar PV.equipment and processes. That’s why the success of our CdTe solutions, where The technology is available in the marketwe believe it’s the ideal moment to invest business is healthy and we’re gaining and ready to go to the next phase. That’sin thin-film. significant orders. In coming years, we true for us as a company as well. Smit expect the CIGS market to be equally Thermal Solutions is well-placed to supportPES: What are your industry goals? successful. customers with proven high-volume manufacturing solutions.MvdG: For our customers, we’re dedicated Having worked hard over the last 10 years,to enabling them to achieve profitable mass it’s satisfying to see the business results To producers we would say, you can investproduction. For ourselves, our goal is to coming through. It’s also a credit to our in thin film and make money today andbe in the top three hardware suppliers for team. The Netherlands has a proud longer-term, the future will be highlythermal solutions worldwide. We aim to be tradition of equipment engineering, and our profitable.innovative and a front-runner in keeping up engineers are highly motivated to solvewith the industry’s goals in areas such as challenging problems and come up with www.smitthermalsolutions.comstandardisation, as well as supporting solutions that are simple, robust andupcoming technologies such as Perovskites. reliable. [1] http://cigs-pv.net/why-invest-in-cigs- thin-film-technology/PES: Geographically speaking, where PES: And conversely, what presents youare the key markets for Smit Thermal with the biggest challenges? [2] http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/Solutions and do you have any plans article/pii/S0040609014010670for expansion into other areas? MvdG: We want to see the market mature towards mass production within the next [3] http://www.materialsviews.com/MvdG: Currently our key markets are South five years, with cost-effective, large- cuingase2-outperforms-multicrystalline-East Asia and USA, because these are capacity production systems from input to silicon/where businesses are investing heavily final product. It’s ambitious, but achievable.in thin film PV manufacturing. We see [4] https://www.tue.nl/fileadmin/content/opportunities to help new manufacturers One open issue is standardisation. Will the faculteiten/tn/PMP/White_papers/step into thin film, as well as support existing industry come up with a standard sequence Delft2012_-_ALD4PV.pdfproducers to expand their production. of processes – not equipment – that will33 PES Solar
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THINK TANKIt’s all in themeasurementWords: André Richter, Business Developer Technology,Meyer Burger Technology LtdHigh efficiency, high performance – achieving these levels investor must decide which technology isrequires expenditure and commitment. This report most suitable and offers the best productinvestigates the measurement technology required. and system configuration for the maximum yield and maximum return over the entire In recent decades, the use of photovoltaics lifetime. These questions can only be (PV) has become increasingly widespread. answered through detailed measurement In 2016 more than 200 GW of solar modules calculations and accelerated aging tests. have already been installed worldwide. At the same time, the energy generation costs A PV system is made up of more than just a of photovoltaics have become consistently solar module; it also consists of an inverter, more attractive. The growing volume of cabling, a module frame, AC connection photovoltaic installations brings with it the and other system parts. The overall increased need for quality control and interaction of the components as a whole quality certification. is of course vital for to ensure maximum performance. Diagram 1 shows the crucial dependencies which must be satisfied to enable low-cost Table 1 shows the various influencing photovoltaic energy generation. Low-cost factors depending on the scope of the energy generation means system costs. measurements. In order to establish the System costs in turn mean low tool and best solution for each application, a POS costs, the high energy yield of solar comparison between technologies and modules as well as high durability and long systems must be done while taking the lifetime of the PV systems. An investment in geographic location of the installation into photovoltaics occurs essentially when the PV account. In this way, different PV systems system is installed because the maintenance can be accurately compared; specifically costs following installation are minimal. larger installations of modules and inverters, generally with a number of so-called Photovoltaic installations are generally very strings. The entire bandwidth of influencing robust and have a relatively long lifespan factors has a technical effect on the system typically in excess of 20 years. Initially the as described in Table 1. Each component and part exhibits a degree of variation and with many parts in the overall35 PES Solar
THINK TANKPhoto 1: Bifacial solar system with temperature compensated irradiation sensor at the module level. [Photo: Meyer Burger]context; considerable variance within the Table 1 Series Connectionentire system can result. Therefore it is not Mismatchalways wise to test a complete PV system at AC-Gridthe outset. There are other reduced variants, MPP Trackingsuch as precise comparison measurements Module mountingof single strings from different photovoltaic soilingtechnologies. However, even using this angel of inclination of lightreduced variant, the measurement of a single Degradation LIDmodule on an inverter is still influenced by the Degradation PIDrelevant network. This could, for example, temperature dependencylead to short-term feed-in losses which in Wp measurementturn result in influences on the measurementresults that have nothing to do with the PV-System XXXXXXXXXXXtechnology comparison. Single String with Inverter XXXXXXXXXXThe best option with the fewest influencingfactors for determining the unique Single module with inverter (X) X X X X X X X Xperformance of a specific module technology Single module with IV tracker XXXXXXXis to carry out individual modulemeasurements without an inverter while using Single module climate chamber XXXXa simulated load. When testing individualmodules, both laboratory and outdoor Single module flash measurement (X) Xmeasurement tests can be carried out. better energy yield prediction qualityThe lab tests can be done both before andafter the outdoor tests. Although laboratory less accurate for modell inputmeasurements are more precise than theoutdoor measurements, lab conditions are higher measurement accuracysimulated and do not really correspond toclimate realities. In reality, the sun does not less energy yield prediction qualityflash at 1000 W/m2 for just 10 ms and leavethe solar cells at 25°C. Influencing factors that determine the yield of a PV system. If the investigation is limited to a small part such as only a module, the influencing factors can be reduced. This comes at the expense of prediction accuracy in the system. A good compromise is outdoor measurements on the individual modules that permit the construction of models. Pilot measurements of PV systems and initial measurements of individual modules in the laboratory must still be carried out however. www.pessolar.com 36
THINK TANKPhoto 2: Test site at INES with various module types. A part of this site is already designed for bifacial systems. [Photo: INES] Using this measurement data, it is possible 3) Light soaking: Light soaking is useful for to construct an electrical model of the solar to determine initial degradation followed by module for use in simulation tests. It is of a further flash measurement in the course always necessary to investigate an laboratory. According to the standard, the adequate number of samples in order to module should be kept approximately at determine variations. the MPPT point, but OC (open collector) is also possible. Meyer Burger continually drives the development of industrial production 4) Outdoor measurement of individual processes for the solar industry which modules: A comparison of different include such familiar PV technologies as modules has been shown to be best the high performance heterojunction cell practice here (tolerance best practice better technology (HJT) for economic mass than 0.5 %), since the absolute imprecisions production. See Photo 1: bifacial HJT in the measurement of environmental system, possibly with irradiation sensor. conditions are 3% even with best practice Although the technology has been in use and thus still very high wind speed. for years, the current production chain has to demonstrate its fitness for use. It is necessary to determine the solar The following test sequence has proved radiation, temperature, and, if possible, useful in technical terms, also from the wind and spectral lines while perspective of reducing the work involved: simultaneously (within a few ms if possible) determining the measurement of module 1) Performance measurement in the performance. This enables the UI laboratory: Performance measurements are characteristic curve of a module to be used in the initial development phase determined, similar to the flash before and after climate chamber tests measurement in the laboratory, which (thermo-cycling und damp heat). For enables a transfer of the module bifacial variants, a performance measurement data to other locations. measurement is undertaken from both sides. The characteristic curve shows all of the 2) Matrix measurement: The so-called matrix module’s relevant electrical points within measurement described in IEC 61 853 the forward current-voltage curve: determines both the low-light behaviour as maximum power point, short-circuit well as the behaviour at different temperatures. current, open circuit voltage and, by means The results of the matrix measurement are the of mathematical models, many other temperature coefficients for performance, parameters such as the shunt resistance. current and voltage. As a general rule, this characteristic curve is also fitted to the 1-diode or 2-diode37 PES Solar
THINK TANK Low LCOELoe system costs Low O&M costs High stability Low BOS soft costs: High energy yield: Quality Low financing costs Low development fees WpLow BOS area related costs TK/degradation/ bifacialLow BOS power related costsLow production costs:High yieldLow labourLow overheadLow module costs: DesignWaferGlass/encapsulant/j-box/..Facility/gases/waterDiagram 1 Influencing factors for ever more efficient PV systems. The LCOE takes the initial costs into account and discounts the operating costs. Since costs forPV are incurred almost exclusively at the start, the LCOE can largely be achieved through lower-cost systems and higher energy yields. Meyer Burger’s newtechnology can generate 10 % to 25 % higher yields while achieving savings in the PV system at the same time. Meyer Burger uses extremely high-quality materialsthat extend the active life considerably beyond 25 years.model of a solar diode. These parameters Pyranometers are very slow and have a overview of the operating points of a solarcan then continue to be used. different spectral sensitivity than solar cells. module at a particular location. If samples They are however very useful for the are taken at relatively short intervals andIn the laboratory, environmental conditions purpose of comparing radiation values these intervals integrated, it is possible toare carefully controlled making with and transferring the measurements determine the energy yield of a solar modulemeasurements of solar radiation and to other locations. with great accuracy. Other losses can occurtemperature only necessary for the most in a solar system due, for example, to theminor corrections of the normal values. For A calibrated irradiation sensor made using inverter and cabling. Relative to the moduleexample, during flash measurements, the a very similar technology should at least be performance however, these are generallysolar radiation is regulated to better than used at the module level (see Photo 1). extremely predictable. From these, such+/-5 % or even less than 1% in the case of These solar radiation sensors generally variables as performance ratio (PR) andvery good flash measurement instruments consist of a small section of a solar cell; sunshine hours are derived.such as those from Pasan. This last they degrade a great deal less, as they aredeviation of less than 1% is also accurately already aged and a temperature sensor is The solar radiation value is also required tomeasured and corrected at the time of directly attached to the rear of the enable a transfer to other locations. Itmeasuring each individual point on the IU measuring cell. This is not possible in the should be noted however that the potentialcharacteristic curve. solar module. The cell temperature has a measurement error is higher in the event of major influence on the short-circuit current a transfer to a different location: TheIn the case of outdoor measurements, which is calibrated on the measuring cells inaccuracy of the solar radiation /environmental conditions are not and is proportional to the solar radiation. temperature measurement for each locationnecessarily stable and therefore the most The very similar spectral dependence of the is ca. 3 %, or >5 % in the case of a transfer.important parameters can vary for PV: measuring cell to the tested modules The relative behaviour of differentabsolute solar radiation, spectrum and ensures a low mismatch in the spectral technologies at a different location can betemperature. To ensure precise and diurnal variations. transferred with much greater accuracy.transferable measurements it is important This method has the advantage of beingto have various types for solar radiation All possible light and temperature able to undertake accurate additional testsmeasurements such as Pyranometers for combinations are encountered during the that would not be possible in the laboratory:determining the absolute radiation energy outdoor measurement of a module over such as the modules being able to track the(if possible separated as diffuse, direct in many days or even months making it position of the sun or determine the degreethe module level and horizontal). possible to obtain a comprehensive of soiling on the module. www.pessolar.com 38
THINK TANKTable 2Measurement Tolerance Unit NoticePyranometer 1.60%reference solar cell 2% Wh/d very slow, big spectral rangeVoltage (IV curve) 0.03%Current (IV curve) 0.10% Wh/dpoints per curve >30MPPT point 0.30% of full scaleMPPT flash 1.5%sampling time difference 0.01 of full scaleTC I 0.02%/KTC Voc 0.03%/K points typicalTC Pmpp 0.04%/K real MPPT depending on interpolation of power Lab tolareances including spectral mismatch second of 2 selected channels abs. (value typ +0.06%/K) uncertainty of TC current abs. (typ value -0.3%/K) uncertainty of TC voltage abs. (typ value -0.4%/K) uncertainty of TC powerList with typical sensors, reference cells and measurements and their inaccuracies relative to calibration. Regular cleaning (optical systems) and regularcalibration are preconditions.A clear awareness of the reference points is available here including individual module accelerated tests. A high level ofvery important when carrying out all measurements, string measurements and a measurement accuracy enables themeasurements. These may be the label laboratory for the necessary initial detection of even the most minisculevalues (Wp, current, voltage), the initial qualifications. This test site has already effects. With this in mind, Meyer Burger islaboratory values (Wp, current, voltage) or been equipped for testing the latest bifacial consistently expanding its measurementderived and filtered values such as the modules. program to include different climate zonesoutdoor STC on day X. Added to this are the worldwide.comparison modules and reference sensors In Chambéry special emphasis is placed onmeasured in parallel, to which a reference is the quality and the calibration of the This is especially important for future-also possible. The specific reference should measurements to ensure a number of good, oriented technologies such as HJT highalways be known for all data. precise and reliable measurements rather performance solar cells in bifacial modules. than measurements for which the Bifaciality typically increases energy yieldTable 2 shows typical inaccuracies of a tolerances and conditions are unknown. In by 10 % to 25 % per annum in return for anumber of measurement sensors and particular, it must be possible to reference slightly higher cost (in terms of Wp),shows the typical inaccuracy as a result the outdoor measurements as well as the calculated on the m2-module areaof spatial and temporal variations. flash measurements in the laboratory to single-sided. An actual increase in yield other measurements over an extended of as much as 40 % per unit area can be5) Final test: The final test is of course a test period. This calls for a sophisticated quality obtained because of the very high powerin a larger solar installation. Here, the management system. density of bifacial modules. In contrast,majority of components such as inverters, the additional costs are only fractional,cable cross-section, AC connection etc. Table 2 contains a list with typical since the solar modules are basically notshould be fixed and comparable in order measurements both in the laboratory more expensive.to limit the variation. Additional effects may and outdoors.occur with this measurement. These Endeavours are of course made from theinclude the PID effect which may arise as Very large quantities of data are outset to avoid known degradation effectsa result of the increased system voltage accumulated quite quickly including through the selection of the mostrelative to the ground potential. spectral lines, IU characteristic curves, economically efficient materials, the right pyranometers, reference sensors and processes and the right technology whileIn addition to its own laboratories and test module temperatures. Sampling is typically at the same time not only significantlysites, Meyer Burger cooperates with a large at one minute or even one second intervals. reducing the total cost for the module butnumber of research partners such as the Many effects and ageing phenomena are also for the system and the energyCSEM in Switzerland, the ISE in Germany, only measurable over an extended period produced. As can be seen in Diagram 1,the NREL in the USA and the INES in of several months which requires these quality and low costs are fundamentallyFrance with whom Meyer Burger has measurements to be conducted steadily incompatible. Through precise qualification,established a major research program. With over an extended period. These large it can be proven that the quality lives up toregard to measurement technology, the volumes of data can only be processed by the expectations.INES provides support with measurement means of databases and analysis software.sites, manpower and know-how in order to www.meyerburger.comtest new module designs and module Meyer Burger’s goal is to develop hightechnologies. performance solar modules within the solar system with an operating life of 40 yearsPhoto 2 shows a number of the test and more. The biggest hurdles which mustsituations in Chambéry, France. In addition be overcome are accurate projectionsto the weather measurement technology, all based on shortened tests as well as theparts required for the qualifications are falsification of operating conditions in highly39 PES Solar
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ASK THE EXPERTSAll pumped upEric Taberlet, President of the Business Unit Semiconductor & Coatingat Pfeiffer Vacuum, joined us at PES to bring us up-to-date with their latest vacuumadvances and ‘Green LabFab’ in France. Eric Taberlet PES: Welcome back to PES Solar/PV ET: As mentioned before, the solar segment magazine. Thanks for talking with us. has been a focus for Pfeiffer Vacuum for the42 PES Solar Would you like to begin by explaining a past 10 years. Of course, as you know, this little about the background of your industry is still undergoing development and organisation and how you currently still facing lot of challenges, both industrial serve the solar industry? and technical. These are forcing a number of consolidations and up-down cycles. Eric Taberlet: Vacuum design and technology are very critical for a number of Despite these challenges, we believe in the key enabling processes serving major long-term development of solar and our industries that are changing our daily life, organisation is committed to supporting the such as telecommunications, connectivity, growth of the industry and of course, taking medical, food, aerospace, advanced part in it. research.... just to list a few. As a global company, Pfeiffer Vacuum is part Pfeiffer Vacuum has been active in these of major investment projects in both thin film industries for more than 125 years. It is just and wafer based technologies. These a natural move to develop our activities in projects are mainly Asia-driven investments, key emerging vacuum industries that have but we still have a strong equipment base in been gaining momentum over the last ten Europe and particularly Germany that years, like solar, LED and AMOLED. contributes a lot to this business. The combination of strong vacuum process PES: Is solar/PV a still a growing know-how and a complete range of vacuum business area for you? How are you solutions is positioning our organisation as capitalising on this growth? a leading vacuum player in the solar manufacturing area. Our business ET: The solar market is definitely still a development in solar started more than ten growing area for Pfeiffer Vacuum. As years ago, and we are constantly evolving mentioned before, despite the cycles, with the market to meet both thin film and the strong consolidation and the capacity wafer based technologies’ needs. adjustment that the industry has been through over the last few years, solar PES: You are active in a number of remains an attractive segment for industry sectors. How important is the Pfeiffer Vacuum. solar business to Pfeiffer Vacuum?
ASK THE EXPERTSThe growth today is driven by solid demand “This unique vertically integrated approachfrom emerging regions in south east Asia gives us the opportunity to develop productsand also first tier investments in upgradesand technology differentiation. So we are in real accordance with customer needs”definitely entering the second developmentstage of the solar industry where we are Eric Taberletlooking into performance and costreduction by technical differentiation The ASM 340 is a multipurpose leak needs. It is also the way to guarantee theand improvement. This is where key players detector, which means it can be used for high quality level of our products, theirlike Pfeiffer Vacuum have an important role maintenance purposes, as well as in a reliability, together with the high level ofto play. production environment in a number of support we offer to our customers. industry sectors. Whatever the volume ofKeeping our strong European and Asian the part to be tested, from small to big test The ASM 340 integrates state of the artequipment business base, as well as a volumes, this product doesn’t compromise electronics, dual, independent, long lifetimestrong connection to the first tier end users, on performance, reliability, up time and filaments and a high performance pumpingmeans we have been able to participate ease of use. The ASM 340 is the best in system, all in a compact table top unit.fully in the ramp-up phase since H2-2015 class unit of its category, with unique Human machine interface is also a majorand this is accelerating in 2016. features for vacuum or sniff testing. concern as the leak detector can be operated by people with various skills,PES: Could you tell us about your ASM PES: What are the advantages, both in from the beginner to the highly qualified340 leak detector? technological terms and for the end user? scientist. For this reason, user friendliness remains a constant concern. There are 9ET: The ASM 340 is our bestselling leak ET: Pfeiffer Vacuum is the only leak languages available to facilitate thedetector and the result of years of detector manufacturer that is able to design operation of our leak detectors anywhere inexperience in vacuum instrumentation leak detectors using in-house components the world. This is definitely what major enddevelopment and manufacturing. Indeed, for the pumping system (turbo and backing users from the industry, including the solar2016 marks our 50th anniversary of leak pumps) as well as the analysis system, players, are looking for when selecting leakdetection activities and we are proud to which are the most strategic elements of detector suppliers.celebrate this event by introducing new such devices.solutions to the market. The ASM 340 is the PES: Pfeiffer Vacuum is known for beingoutcome of a combination of strong This unique vertically integrated approach environmentally friendly. Could you tellvacuum instrumentation, designed by gives us the opportunity to develop us about the ‘Green LabFab’ we areskilled engineers, with the know-how products in real accordance with customer hearing about in France?acquired from the hundreds of applicationswe serve. www.pessolar.com 43
ASK THE EXPERTSET: Launched in 2009 in Annecy, France, “The Pfeiffer Vacuum Group is alwaysthe Green LabFab project is part of our looking for ways to improve products andindustrial and environmental excellenceprogram. It is a component of the research develop new solutions”and development of manufacturingprocesses for the next-generation pumps, Eric Taberletserving in particular the coating andphotovoltaic markets, which have specific together, of course, improves our PES: And conversely, what presents youconstraints. competitiveness and reduces our utilities with the biggest challenges? and manufacturing costs.Benefiting from an aggressive investment ET: Our industry is changing fast and soplan with a focus on innovation and the The ‘Eco Design’ on the other hand will also are the related vacuum requirements,development of cutting-edge technology, play an important role in the development constantly putting pressure on pumpthe Green LabFab project received support not only of eco-friendly products but suppliers to adapt - and adapt fast.from the state, the region and the Annecy solutions which will decrease the cost ofmetropolitan area. ownership (CoO) for our customers. Yes, it is a challenge to keep investing in highly demanding technical markets that,PES: How did this lead to the PES: Geographically speaking, where at the same time, are cost driven.‘Eco Design’? are the key markets for Pfeiffer Vacuum and do you have any plans for expansion The Pfeiffer Vacuum Group is alwaysET: The Green LabFab initiative was the into other areas? looking for ways to improve products andfirst step of a long term program, focusing develop new solutions. Technology andon a sustainable industrial and ET: The key regions for Pfeiffer Vacuum´s innovation have been the drivers for Pfeifferdevelopmental approach. This platform solar development are of course China, Vacuum, as these are key differentiators inprovided human resources, research and Germany with a strong equipment/machine this highly demanding vacuum industry.development as well as precise, flexible base, the rest of Asia (Korea, Taiwan ...) and And we will continue to invest in these.production equipment to pursue our the USA.improvement plan, starting with the PES: What are your thoughts aboutproduction environment and moving A special focus will definitely be given to prospects for the rest of 2016 withnaturally to the mainstream of the the emerging south Asia regions: Malaysia, regard to your organisation and thedevelopment cycle with ‘Eco Design’ Thailand, and Vietnam. India and the Middle solar industry in general?concepts. East are also potential development regions for solar, with some announced capacity ET: 2016 is a very interesting year for solar;Today, this is part of our vacuum roadmap, that also represents a future opportunity it marks the return to positive investment inwhich not only focuses on product where Pfeiffer Vacuum aims to play a role. the solar industry, while the demand forperformance achievements but also on its solar installation is forecast to grow aboveenergy consumption, to bring down the PES: Which aspect of the industry 65 GW.production costs and lower the carbon provides the most satisfaction for youfootprint of the manufacturing processes right now? This solid demand is bringing confidence inthrough design. capacity investments and this is what we ET: Currently the major investments are are looking for from the capital equipmentThe main target was to reduce as much as coming from the c-Si capacity ramp ups side. We cannot expect this to be at thepossible the matter (weight) to energy (kW) and this is driving, I would say, more than level of 2010-2011, but the supply-demandratio per pumping speed unit. 90% of the current capital spent in the gap is closing and, after four years of industry. consolidation, 2016 is finally marking thePES: Are there cost implications in using rebound.this method? The focus is on the improvement of the production performance as well as Pfeiffer Vacuum, of course, is taking part inET: In the manufacturing area, the key processes and technology towards higher the industry rebound. We are positionedbenefits of implementing such a LabFab efficiency cells. with high market shares in the c-Si and thinare: saving power consumption for film market and so will be able to enjoymachining tools and products, compliance Pfeiffer Vacuum is, of course, very active in strong growth in revenue during 2016.with RoHS standards, zero waste and the development of new technology trendsrecycling of all the fluids (water, oils). A key such as the so-called PERC cells, which we www.pfeiffer-vacuum.compoint was also to move from gas source believe will be driving the next 2 or 3 years’heaters to a biomass one. Plus all of this investment in c-SI.44 PES Solar
ASK THE EXPERTS www.pessolar.com 45
ASK THE EXPERTSThe importanceof PV-monitoringMonitoring is omitted in so many PV plants and yet it is an easy, affordable way to detecterrors quickly and avoid yield losses. PES hears from Dr. Frank Schlichting, CEO of SolareDatensysteme GmbH, about how Solar-Log™ can save the PV plant operators energylosses, time and money.Dr. Frank Schlichting, CEO PES: The concept of monitoring is often several inverters, cable damage, faulty defined in different ways. How exactly installation and/or wiring, dirt and grime on would you define monitoring? the modules all cause problems and need to be corrected as soon as possible. Dr. Frank Schlichting: For me, the perfect solution is structured and provides expert Furthermore, expert monitoring is the basis monitoring of PV plants, with a for precise optimised consumption of comprehensive energy management self-produced energy, i.e. true energy system and a professional web portal. management. PES: There are plant operators and EPC/ PES: There are still many PV plants installers who describe monitoring as world-wide operating without the “visualisation of plant data”. Is such monitoring or insufficient monitoring. a statement not a bit overly simplified? Do you have an explanation for this? FS: I think it is, yes. It is insufficient to FS: In the early days of PV the long-term describe monitoring as just the visualisation aspect of a PV asset was not the main of plant data since this presents just a small focus of attention. In fact monitoring was aspect of the functions that a professional not of great significance, the technology energy management system provides as a was nowhere near the level it is today. whole. Cisualisation on its own means no error detection intelligence. I know that This is true, even if PV plants were there are some simply structured solutions equipped with a monitoring system, the that only allow a basic review of plant data, control of operation data left much to be especially within the residential market desired in most cases. Also due to financial segment. However, I wouldn’t call that reasons, in particular, monitoring was often professional monitoring. not implemented during installation and many plant owners haven’t upgraded their PES: Why is monitoring PV plants so PV plants yet. fundamentally important? If the PV plant was operating well without FS: Errors and malfunctions at PV plants monitoring, many plant operators were of are immediately detected and can be the opinion that it was not important to resolved quickly. This helps to minimise install a monitoring system. yield losses. For example: failure of one or46 PES Solar
ASK THE EXPERTS“Monitoring is absolutely necessary to manage For them a failure over a longer periodand optimise self-consumption efficiently since leads to even greater financial losses. errors detected too late have a big impact” For older PV plants, natural wear and tear of components also plays a role andThe number of monitored PV plants has monitoring would have helped. In a plant increases the risk of failures. Professionalgrown consistently over the last couple of with a total performance of 52.38 kWp two monitoring reduces the risk of downtimeyears. There are still many EPCs/installers of the seven inverters didn’t work for 31 and malfunctions, in other words: yieldand PV plant operators who are not aware days in August 2015. The owner of this losses.of the disadvantages, risks and financial plant lost 1,081.16 € because the failure waslosses of operating a PV plant without a not immediately detected, reducing the PES: Meanwhile, monitoring is the idealmonitoring system and are even less aware actual PV production greatly. If a basis for the consumption of self-of the advantages of monitoring. professional monitoring system, such as produced energy – which is now in the Solar-Log™, had been installed, the failure spotlight. How would you describe this?PES: So you think that the problem would have been detected and repairedcould possibly be solved with improved within about 5 days. Then loss would have FS: Monitoring is absolutely necessary tocommunication? only been 174.43 €, which would have manage and optimise self-consumption saved the plant owner 906.73 €. efficiently since errors detected too lateFS: Yes, very much so. By pointing out the have a big impact. From a technical point ofrisks one can explain the fundamental Now compare the loss without monitoring view, the planned energy required forimportance of monitoring to EPCs/installers (1,081.16 €) with the cost of a Solar-Log self-consumption cannot be generated inand increase their awareness. 1200 PM+, including installation and service the desired amount in a plant which is not and maintenance contract for 1 year of operating optimally. To meet the energyFaulty installation could cause a PV plant 980 €, it is easy to see that the investment requirements for consumption, electricityto deliver only a portion of its potential for monitoring would have paid for itself needs to be purchased from the utilityoutput and some case studies show that this after just one malfunction. company. Every kWh of energy producedfault could take a few years to be detected. and consumed locally reduces the need toEven if it is only a reduction of a few percent, PES: Monitoring is even more purchase energy.over time this amounts to a huge loss for the worthwhile for older PV plants becauseoperator, which could have been avoided the operators received much higher Here are some reasons for self-with immediate detection. Professional feed-in tariffs – or even subsidies – consumption: the feed-in tariffs that havemonitoring would detect this fault at an compared to today. gradually declined over the years, there is aearly stage. reduction in the amount of energy that can FS: Yes this is correct, depending on the be fed into the grid, a discontinuation ofSDS (Solare Datensysteme GmbH) particular country, operators of older PV subsidies, increasing energy needs andexamined and analysed losses when various plants still receive much higher feed-in raising energy costs.components of a PV plant failed. The results tariffs and sometimes even subsidies.confirmed the importance of monitoring. I Then there is the environmental aspect.would like to give you an example of where SDS offers the perfect solution to ensure that self-consumption optimisation is as efficient as possible with the www.pessolar.com 47
ASK THE EXPERTS“This is a very convenient solution for plantoperators. They do not have to worry aboutmonitoring their plant and can rely on their EPC/installer to react to problems.”Solar-Log™ Smart Energy. Plant operators Inverter independence is an essential and “Commercial Edition” portal, PV plantcan feed a percentage of the generated PV unique selling point of the Solar-Log™ operators can enter into a service andpower output into a public grid, if allowed, system. The Solar-Log™ is now compatible maintenance agreement with their EPC/and use the rest of the energy for self- with inverters from 100 manufacturers, installer, leaving the responsibility ofconsumption. Surplus management allows offering EPC/installers and PV plant monitoring the PV plant to a professional.operators, who have for example a 70% operators a high degree of flexibility. It canfeed-in restriction to use all 100% of their be used in combination with various This is a very convenient solution for plantgenerated PV power. This can be flexibly components such as heat pumps, battery operators. They do not have to worry aboutdeployed thanks to the freely definable storage, meters, heating rods and string monitoring their plant and can rely on theirsurplus prioritisation. The plant operator combiner boxes. EPC/installer to react to problems.determines the order in which theintegrated electrical appliances e.g. a heat SDS offers customised services, for The EPC/installers have the option to act aspump or air conditioner and generators will example, warranty extensions, a portal operators themselves or to outsourcebe turned on. component database, regular training the service to an external portal operator. dates and, of course, support contactsPES: The difference between simple for every country. SDS specialists also monitor PV plants withsolutions and a professional monitoring the Solar-Log™ WEB-4U for portalsystem is becoming increasingly clear. For the installation of a new PV plant, banks operators, thus saving them time, whichWhat advantages in particular does and investors often want credit security. can be spent more efficiently. Errors aremonitoring with Solar-Log™ offer plant The Solar-Log™ is a system that reliably immediately detected, checked, verified,operators? monitors the rate of return from PV plants traced with the ticketing system, assessed and serves to validate this, in other terms: and solved together with the portalFS: PV plants can be flawlessly and reduces the investment risks. operator.precisely monitored with the Solar-Log™energy management system in combination PES: Plant operators generally have the By using the WEB-4U portal operatorswith the Solar-Log™ WEB “Commercial option to leave PV plant monitoring to a benefit from the knowledge gained fromEdition” portal. Thus optimising self- trusted EPC/installer. How does this more than 250.000 Solar-Log™ installationsconsumption (Solar-Log™ Smart Energy) work and what is the advantage? worldwide, for their own plant operation.and implementing feed-in management. After consultation and if necessary, SDS FS: Generally, with the Solar-Log™ WEB creates customised reports for the portal operator. PES: In your opinion is it possible to make PV plant operators more aware of the importance of monitoring? FS: This is possible with strong cooperation with EPCs/installers, associations, experts, respective media such as PES Solar, utility companies and other key influencers. Installers, in particular, have to emphasise the advantages to PV plant operators who still have not installed a monitoring system. They need to convince PV plant operators that monitoring is a safeguard, which quickly pays for itself. We want to help PV plant operators with the return on their investment by providing a professional Solar-Log™ energy management solution. www.solar-log.com48 PES Solar
THINK TANKOCTOPUSFrank Juergens, Director Sales & Marketing at INDEOtec method of depositing a-Si:H films is PECVDSA, tells us more about the innovative top and bottom side in RF mode. The current industrydeposition concept of the OCTOPUS system... knowledge base for depositing amorphous thin films by PECVD reactors is quite good, Motivation since the material was used, on a commercial scale, for PV thin-film cell High-efficiency solar cells of the devices in the past. In contradiction to this, heterojunction or IBC type, which are the SHJ device requires the a-Si:H composed of bulk crystalline silicon and deposition on both sides of the bulk wafer, thin film layers, have the potential to gain a which sets a new challenge for the substantial share in the PV cell market in equipment suppliers, in terms of handling the future. Industry leaders like Panasonic and costs. Also, the films are extremely thin currently hold the world-record in efficiency (approx.10 nm) and hence the deposition of 25.6% for the HIT cell type at R&D scale time is very short, which means that special and 22.5% in mass production . Moreover, care has to be taken to ensure the correct the cell manufacturing technology promises plasma conditions immediately after the costs will fall well below 0.30 USD/Wp. ignition. A simple adaption of the state-of- A study, which investigated the cost the-art PECVD reactor technology from reduction roadmap for heterojunction cell large substrate deposition to the new types, predicts a level of 0.28 USD/Wp for parameter set for HIT cells is therefore SHJ, with a corresponding cell efficiency relatively risky. level of 24.9% . In 2011 Indeotec SA assessed this new Symmetrical cell architectures, such as the application for PECVD systems and started standard heterojunction (SHJ) cell type, the development of a novel RF reactor type have a simplified manufacturing procedure and the system as a whole, which was then with less process steps in the state-of-the- introduced into the market under the name art technology. One of the key, but critical “OCTOPUS II”. Extensive research work processes is the deposition of a-Si:H layers has been allocated to the optimisation of on the top and the bottom side of the the plasma conditions and a new reactor textured c-Si bulk material, which at first, type (the Mirror Reactor), which allows the passivates the Si surface and, secondly, direct deposition of RF plasma to the top creates the emitter by adding n- and p-type and the bottom side of a wafer, without dopant layers. Nowadays, the common needing to flip the wafer outside the system, and hence without the ubiquitous50 PES Solar
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