The Saudi Arabian chemical and plastics group Sabic has been producing plastic granulates in Genk, Belgium, since 2009. Here, Sabic has also developed a polymer composite material in collaboration with the Dutch module manufacturer Solarge. Solarge is using this material to replace the glass in its modules. The advantage is that the panels weigh only a quarter of the weight of a conventional glass-foil module.
Focus on recycling
This makes the panels ideal for use on roofs with low load-bearing capacity. But Solarge modules have another advantage. The manufacturer, based in Weert in the southern Dutch province of Limburg, has not only focused on weight and a low carbon footprint in the development of its modules, but also on recyclability. The modules are designed so that they can be completely dismantled into their individual parts at the end of their service life – including the encapsulation films and solar cells.
2.3 megawatts installed
The modules went into series production last year. Now, energy company Engie has built a large solar plant on the roof of Sabic in Genk using Solarge modules. A total of 4,600 panels were installed on the Sabic roof by Sun4Business on behalf of Engie. Together, they generate 2.3 megawatts.
The new solar plant will supply around 2,000 megawatt hours of clean solar power every year for at least the next 25 years. Sabic uses almost all of this on site for plastics production, reducing its CO2 emissions by around 800 tonnes per year.
Sustainability is an opportunity for European manufacturers
It is the first megawatt plant with modules from Solarge. “With this technology, we are demonstrating that European manufacturers can make a difference when they focus on innovation and sustainability,“ emphasises Jan Vesseur, Managing Director of Solarge. “Solarge’s ambition is to promote the global energy transition with sustainable, PFAS-free solar modules that are also recyclable at the end of their useful life. To this end, we are working to expand our capacities in the Netherlands and the United States,” he says.
Solarge’s modules are primarily aimed at the commercial and industrial solar panel market, particularly roofs that cannot bear much additional weight. “This opens up huge additional potential for using roofs to install solar panels,“ explains Jan Vesseur.
Modules tested in-house
Engie, for its part, opted for Solarge’s recyclable and lightweight solar modules after testing them thoroughly at its own research and development centre, Laborelec. “They offer a smart solution for roofs with limited load capacity, which is typical for large factory buildings,“ says Vincent Verbeke, Managing Director of Engie Belgium. He announces that Engie intends to continue using these modules in Belgium. The goal is to install solar systems with a total capacity of 300 megawatts by 2030. (su/hcn)
While the energy transition is sometimes disparaged in political discussions, optimism and a focus on the future characterized this year’s The smarter E Europe. Although the visitor and exhibitor records set in 2024 were not quite broken, the rear halls of the Munich exhibition center were at times almost impassable between May 7 and 9. 2,737 companies and organizations from 57 countries presented their new products and services, attracting around 107,000 trade visitors from 157 countries. With more than 2,600 participants, the accompanying conferences and side events also met with great interest.
“Accelerating Integrated Energy Solutions” was the motto of this year’s The smarter E Europe with its four trade fairs Intersolar Europe, ees Europe, Power2Drive Europe, and EM-Power Europe. With the global expansion of renewable energies in full swing, the challenge now is to make the energy system more flexible, digital, and integrative. “The smarter E Europe was once again the blueprint for the climate-neutral energy world of the future,” said Markus Elsässer from organizer Solar Promotion. “The technologies and solutions are available. Now it’s a matter of continuing along this path with determination.”
Latest market figures presented
The trend toward integrating photovoltaics into the energy system for a stable, affordable, and secure energy supply around the clock was evident not only in the products on display, but also in the latest market figures presented by industry associations SolarPower Europe and BSW-Solar. In addition to photovoltaics, battery storage is also growing strongly. The European storage market is expected to grow by 36 percent to 29.7 gigawatt hours this year, with large-scale storage accounting for 55 percent of this growth. Photovoltaic expansion in Europe is expected to grow slightly by 3 percent to 84.7 gigawatts of installed capacity this year. Larger commercial rooftop systems and solar parks are becoming increasingly important, as is the marketing of electricity via power purchase agreements.
However, Joachim Goldbeck, CEO of BSW-Solar, sees one challenge in adapting the regulatory framework so that the grid-integrated expansion of electricity storage facilities can be driven forward even more quickly, whether through privileges in building law or a reform of grid fees. He also sees differing national regulations, for example in labor law or the establishment of company branches, as an obstacle to a Europe-wide energy transition, as these make cross-border activities very difficult, even for solar companies.
Booming cominbation of PV, storage and energy management
Dimitris Galanos, Key Account Manager Greece at Sungrow, was optimistic. The combination of photovoltaics and large-scale storage is booming in Greece and is also being promoted through tenders. Sungrow has already supplied inverters and batteries for projects with a capacity of over 4 gigawatts and expects this figure to double in the coming years.
Pol Spronck, EU Sales Director at myenergi, also sees the increasing use of batteries and energy management systems to balance generation and consumption as an opportunity to stabilize the grid. The Dutch company presented new solutions for private households and businesses in Munich, including energy distributors, energy sensors, smart wall boxes, and a user-friendly app.
Hans-Christoph Neidlein
The new iHomeManager of Sungrow (right).
Spanish battery manufacturer Cegasa showcased its modular and scalable storage solutions for residential, C&I, and utility-scale applications. Dyness (China) also showcased versatile modular battery storage systems for private and commercial applications. In addition to inverters and storage systems in all sizes, Sungrow presented fast charging solutions for commercial electric vehicle fleets and, for the first time, the iHome Manager, an energy management system for households.
Hot topic cybersecurity
Cybersecurity is becoming increasingly important for controllable devices such as inverters and batteries. “Cybersecurity plays a crucial role for us when it comes to the development and use of our products,” says Quirin Löffelmeier, Senior PR Manager Europe at Sungrow. The company has the relevant certifications, complies with relevant regulations such as the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and operates servers in Germany for its European business. Claire Gardner, Marketing Manager Europe at Chinese inverter manufacturer Solis (Ginlong), expressed a similar view.
Goldbeck Solar presented a new cybersecurity system in Munich that is designed to reliably protect large solar installations from hacker attacks and digital threats. It is based on intelligent hardware combined with permanent interface testing, continuous monitoring of internal network anomalies, and regular identification of vulnerabilities in the network. “It is important to protect not only individual components such as inverters, but entire systems,” emphasizes Sergey Bruch, Head of IT Infrastructure and Cybersecurity at Goldbeck Solar.
Advanced weather forecasting solutions
In times of increasing storms and hail events, weather forecasting systems that are as accurate as possible, such as those offered by Vaisala, are becoming increasingly important for plant operators. As a precautionary measure, tracking systems can then be laid flat to minimize wind resistance, according to Rémy Parmentier, Head of Solar and Hybrid at the Finnish company.
Hans-Christoph Neidlein
Vaisala presented its advanced weather forecasting systems and weather stations.
The Hail Alert Response System from Array Technologies uses sophisticated weather forecasting algorithms to preventively retract solar trackers about 30 minutes before a predicted hail event, as Aaron Gabelnick explained. The US company, which acquired Spanish solar tracker manufacturer STI Norland three years ago, also has production facilities in Spain. Among other things, it presented its OmniTrack, which can be flexibly adapted to hilly terrain, thus minimizing the amount of groundwork required.
Advanced solar modules
Advanced solar modules also took up a lot of space in Munich. In addition to higher power output and durability, weight is often a factor, especially for large commercial and logistics roofs. Among others, Heliup from France showcased its frameless Stykon lightweight modules, which weigh less than 5 kilograms per square meter, 60 percent less than conventional modules, and can be easily and quickly glued in place. They have an efficiency rating of 19 percent and are manufactured near Grenoble. Annual capacity currently stands at 100 megawatts. According to CEO Yannick Veschetti, the next step is to achieve a module efficiency of 21 percent and expand production.
Hans-Christoph Neidlein
Alden Lee of DAS Solar next to the company’s lightweight module, which can be supplied framed or frameless.
DAS Solar showcased its entire range of modules, from lightweight modules (efficiency 21,7 percent) and dirt-repellent modules to Topcon back-contact modules with an efficiency of 24.8 percent.
3-gigawatt module factory in France
The Chinese manufacturer is currently building a production facility for n-type TopCon modules with an annual capacity of 3 gigawatts in the Montbéliard region of eastern France. The ground-breaking ceremony for the conversion of an existing factory took place recently. Production is scheduled to start in spring 2026, according to Alden Lee, General Manager of DAS Solar France. 300 employees are to be hired.
Lee expects the “made in France” modules to have manufacturing costs per watt that are around 5 cents higher than in China. There are also plans to set up cell production with an annual capacity of 3 gigawatts. However, until the EU’s planned subsidies for modules with European cells are implemented, the cells will be supplied from the company’s main plant in China. (hcn)
The latest generation of Trina Storage’s Elementa 2 Pro integrated storage platform comes with proprietary cells that have 314 amp hours and, according to the manufacturer, over 15,000. The five megawatt-hour system has a robust three-stage safety concept for maximum safety in the most demanding environments. This includes fire detection, fire suppression and explosion protection.
Designed for compactness and flexibility, the Elementa 2 Pro large storage system offers high energy density with a small footprint and particularly low operating noise (below 70 decibels), making it suitable for urban or industrial locations. Elementa 2 Pro is equipped with an intelligent temperature management system that uses hybrid cooling technology to keep cell temperature differences below 2.5 degrees Celsius, even under extreme conditions.
Shield extreme climate solution with thicker glass
Vertex S+ Shield is Trinasolar’s rooftop solution for extreme weather conditions. Designed for residential and commercial rooftops, the PV module with n-type i-Topcon technology features thicker glass and an optimisedFor installation in open spaces, the Shield solution for extreme climatic conditions combines the robust Vertex N Shield module with either the Vanguard 1P Tracker or a fixed pitch mounting system. With thicker glass and an optimised frame design, the solution can withstand hail of up to 75 millimetres. The system can also support snow loads of up to 2.2 metres.
New Honey module for modernisations
The new Honey module was developed as a compatible option for replacing older Trinasolar Honey modules and comparable products in the 60-cell format. This compact, durable and easy-to-install module concept is particularly suitable for modernising older systems and for easy installation in small roof systems with limited space.
The new Honey comes equipped with the latest n-type i-Topcon cell technology. It combines a robust double glass structure, excellent performance at higher temperatures and good compatibility with both older and newer inverters. frame design for enhanced protection against hail and increased load-bearing capacity. With a compact size (1.76 × 1.13 metres) and improved durability, the module is the ideal solution for applications with increased exposure to snow, wind or hail.
Smart solutions for large systems and assembly
Visitors will also gain an insight into the comprehensive portfolio of mounting systems, including the Fixorigin fixed tilt system and the Vanguard 1P and Vanguard 2P single and double-row tracking systems. All systems are designed to deliver high performance in a wide range of complex terrains and challenging climatic conditions across Europe.
Trinasolar will also be showcasing the full Vertex N portfolio for large-scale applications at booth A1.170, as well as the Vertex S+ family of modules designed for a wide range of residential and commercial rooftop installations. (nhp)
The “Matrix” architecture, debuting in a serial module for the first time, offers up to 90% higher yields under the same conditions, including partial shading, compared to traditional modules. Developed in collaboration with two Fraunhofer institutes and various vehicle manufacturers, these innovative panels are set to be produced at Opes Solar Mobility’s new facility in Zwenkau, Germany, starting this autumn.
Significant benefits for diesel-powered commercial and recreational vehicles
The new solar panel is ideally suited for the growing field of e-mobility in logistics and camping. At the start of production, the primary focus will be on conventional diesel vehicles with larger roof surfaces.
Modern commercial and recreational vehicles are increasingly equipped with main and auxiliary electrical consumers, such as refrigeration units, liftgates, and air conditioning systems. These are currently powered by the diesel engine or the alternator, which increases fuel consumption. With photovoltaic panels installed on the vehicle roof, solar energy can now supply these electricity-consuming devices, thereby reducing the load on the alternator or engine. This meaningfully lowers operating costs and CO2 emissions.
“Photovoltaics on commercial vehicles is not an eco-niche but economically viable. Even light commercial vehicles equipped with 800 watts of solar power can achieve fuel savings of up to 9%. We estimate the market potential in the EU at over 20 GW of solar capacity annually,” says Robert Händel, CEO of Opes Solar Mobility.
A standard semi-trailer, for example, can generate up to 5 kW – equivalent to the output of a typical residential rooftop system. At the same time, battery life is extended and deep discharges can be prevented.
Solar modules on vehicles are continuously subjected to vibrations and shocks, and they experience heavier dirt buildup than conventional stationary solar systems. In addition, they are constantly exposed to changing shading conditions. O.Motion combines various technologies to address these challenges.
The core innovation lies in the newly developed Matrix architecture, where solar cells are arranged in a masonry-like pattern. Unlike traditional modules that rely on soldered busbars, the cells are interconnected using a highly conductive specialised adhesive for electrical contact, eliminating the need for ribbon soldering.
The matrix minimizes resistance losses and maximises the active cell area per square meter. Compared to conventional flexible modules, this allows up to 30% more output on the same surface. Reduced sensitivity to shading further enhances energy yields under real-world conditions.
The new adhesive connections provide not only excellent electrical conductivity but also exceptional mechanical durability – a crucial advantage for mobile applications subject to vibrations and high temperatures. With this, O.Motion sets new standards for flexible, high-performance solar panels in the automotive sector, claims the company.
The “Matrix” architecture, used for the first time in a serial module, delivers up to 90% higher yields under the same conditions – including partial shading – compared to conventional modules. The development involved, among others, two Fraunhofer institutes and several vehicle manufacturers. The panels will be manufactured at the company’s new factory in Zwenkau, Germany, starting this fall.
Significant benefits for diesel-powered commercial and recreational vehicles
The new solar panel is ideally suited for the growing field of e-mobility in logistics and camping. At the start of production, the primary focus will be on conventional diesel vehicles with larger roof surfaces.
Modern commercial and recreational vehicles are increasingly equipped with main and auxiliary electrical consumers, such as refrigeration units, liftgates, and air conditioning systems. These are currently powered by the diesel engine or the alternator, which increases fuel consumption.
With photovoltaic panels installed on the vehicle roof, solar energy can now supply these electricity-consuming devices, thereby reducing the load on the alternator or engine. This meaningfully lowers operating costs and CO2 emissions.
“Photovoltaics on commercial vehicles is not an eco-niche but economically viable. Even light commercial vehicles equipped with 800 watts of solar power can achieve fuel savings of up to 9%. We estimate the market potential in the EU at over 20 GW of solar capacity annually,” says Robert Händel, CEO of Opes Solar Mobility.
A standard semi-trailer, for example, can generate up to 5 kW—equivalent to the output of a typical residential rooftop system. At the same time, battery life is extended and deep discharges can be prevented.
Solar modules on vehicles are continuously subjected to vibrations and shocks, and they experience heavier dirt buildup than conventional stationary solar systems. In addition, they are constantly exposed to changing shading conditions. O.Motion combines various technologies to address these challenges.
The core innovation lies in the newly developed Matrix architecture, where solar cells are arranged in a masonry-like pattern. Unlike traditional modules that rely on soldered busbars, the cells are interconnected using a highly conductive specialized adhesive for electrical contact, eliminating the need for ribbon soldering.
The matrix minimizes resistance losses and maximizes the active cell area per square meter. Compared to conventional flexible modules, this allows up to 30% more output on the same surface. Reduced sensitivity to shading further enhances energy yields under real-world conditions.
The new adhesive connections provide not only excellent electrical conductivity but also exceptional mechanical durability – a crucial advantage for mobile applications subject to vibrations and high temperatures. With this, O.Motion sets new standards for flexible, high-performance solar panels in the automotive sector, the company claims.
Perovskite-based solar cells are seen as a highly promising technology in the solar industry, with the potential to achieve higher efficiencies and reduce costs compared to traditional silicon-based cells. However, despite over a decade of research, progress has been slow, with only a few companies advancing beyond small-scale laboratory cells. As the technology develops, researchers are grappling with its complexity and the challenges associated with scaling it for mass production.
As solar semiconductors, perovskites belong to the so-called compound semiconductors, which includes CIGS and cadmium telluride. Strictly speaking, these are organometallic thin-film cells. As a material, it is far more complex than crystalline silicon. The mineral itself contains methylammonium lead iodide, i.e. a hybrid of organic methylammonium and lead iodide, which is inorganic. There is now a very large family of perovskites, which also includes purely inorganic materials such as caesium lead iodide.
Broad band gap
Perovskite cells have a particularly large band gap, which is significant because it allows them to efficiently absorb and convert visible and ultraviolet light (which has higher energy and shorter wavelengths). This can potentially lead to better performance by increasing the voltage generated by the solar cell. Silicon, on the other hand, has a fixed and rather small band gap and doesn’t capture visible light as effectively.
This performance means that the electrical voltages from perovskite cells are higher than from silicon cells, although electrical currents are lower. Modules featuring these novel cells are not yet available for mass production, but a trend can be identified, namely the stacking of perovskites in tandem cells or triple cells with amorphous or micromorphous silicon, cadmium telluride or CIGS. Crystalline silicon is generally used as the substrate for the photoactive layer, with a finished solar cell that is less than one micrometre thick, highlighting the major challenge facing the industry in taking these delicate laboratory cells and turning them into marketable solar modules.
Stability a sticking point
In laboratory tests, mini modules with perovskite cells (without silicon substrate) exhibited a relatively sharp drop in performance of up to 45 percent within the first few days in the field. After two months a certain degree of stabilisation sets in, but stronger solar radiation and higher temperatures are known to accelerate losses in output and yield.
A further challenge is the stability of coatings with metal-organic solar cells. Experience with CIS or cadmium telluride has shown that thin-film modules do not easily endure for 20 or 30 years. Passivation of interfaces is decisive for the performance of perovskites, which require tiny admixtures of lead in order to exhibit adequate stability over time. If they can be reliably stabilised, the minerals could supply clean electricity for decades, even in the face of high UV radiation and other environmental influences.
Promising results
The efficiencies of conventional silicon cells in the laboratory setting have been impressive, reaching as high as 34 percent – that‘s a third of the energy in sunlight converted into usable energy. By way of contrast, the theoretical efficiency of silicon-perovskite cells is by some estimates just under 43 percent, which would be an absolute game changer for the solar industry. In the world outside of the laboratory, the question of whether factories are indeed capable of manufacturing practicable solar modules on the basis of perovskites will be the decisive factor for the energy transition and for hoped-for lower costs.
The “first” perovskite module, comprising 72 cells (M6) and offering an impressive output of 545 watts, was presented in Munich last year by Oxford-PV from Brandenburg an der Havel. Its efficiency was stated as 24.4 percent – far from hypothetical claims.
All things considered, it seems safe to say that it will be some time before tandem modules of silicon and perovskite will be truly marketable. Nevertheless, interesting prototypes will be on display this year again in Munich – the scientists and engineers have been hard at work, after all, and have findings to share. And in the years ahead, we can be confident of continued innovation. (HS/TF)
As silicon wafer technology reaches its natural limits with TOPCon and BackContact cells, the solar industry is increasingly turning its attention to stacked cells and alternative materials as the next frontier. These innovations promise to boost efficiencies while addressing key challenges such as cost reduction and wafer thickness.
Currently, the focus is shifting towards stacked cells, which combine crystalline silicon with multiple layers of amorphous or nanosilicon, as well as perovskite cells, which offer significant potential for higher performance. Already, hand-picked HJT (heterojunction) cells are achieving efficiencies above 30 percent in laboratory settings. Meanwhile, solar modules are emerging that feature a bottom cell of crystalline silicon with a top cell composed of wafer-thin amorphous layers, delivering efficiencies on par with TOPCon cells.
Moving on from melts
Silicon is proven as a material for wafers and cells and is easy to handle in mass production, even at high throughput rates. However, the high temperatures required for the silicon melt for ingots demand significant investment in cell factories. This high capex stands in the path of new factories on a scale of gigawatts per year. Against this backdrop, scientists and engineers are working feverishly to produce wafers no longer from melts and ingots, but by depositing gaseous silane onto a substrate directly.
Such wafers would no longer be 140 or 160 micrometres, but less than 50 micrometres thick. It would no longer be necessary to saw cells from ingots , which would also significantly reduce silicon losses, particularly in the sawing slurry. However, ultra-thin cells require entirely new technologies for moving and processing during production. The weight alone is enough to bend these slender cells. They must remain vertical throughout the production process.
Glass-glass becoming the standard
Ultra-thin cells can only be used in glass-glass modules where they are in the neutral zone, i.e. free from bending forces. Otherwise they would soon crumble. Because the trend is towards larger modules with a surface area of up to three square metres, module manufacturers are reducing the size of the glass. Otherwise, the modules would be simply too heavy. Transportation and installation would have to be by crane. Some large solar modules with 1.6-millimetre thick glass have already had their official launch. Because the strength of the glass is closely tied to its quality, the risk of breakage is very high.
The problem is not quite so noticeable with solar modules of less than two square metres, although here too there are enormous differences in quality. The support on the base frames also plays an important role. If very large double-glazed modules with thin glass are mounted on trackers, for example, the modules act like sails in the wind. It is not uncommon for the clamp, which is subject to a great deal of stress, to fail entirely. Without proper support, the breakage of the module is inevitable. Solar parks have already noticed a third or more of modules suffering glass breakage within the first year of installation.
Glass breakage is very difficult to diagnose. It frequently remains inconspicuous for a period of time, and is even overlooked during on-site inspections. It can take a while for moisture to penetrate the crack and reduce performance. Inverters are typically the first to indicate a problem, either by switching off due to insufficient insulation resistance or by only turning on later in the day when the sun is higher. This issue bears similarities to the known embrittlement of the backsheets in modules from 2010 to 2012.
Looking ahead, the industry is closely watching the development of perovskite-based tandem solar cells. However, as with any emerging technology, there are significant challenges to address – especially in scaling laboratory achievements into commercially viable solutions.
The next article will delve into the ongoing advancements of silicon-perovskite tandem cells and the obstacles still to be overcome before they can be mass-produced. (HS/TF)
TOPCon cells, short for tunnel oxide passivated contact, are currently in high demand. Developed by the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (ISE) in Freiburg, these cells are available in both monofacial and bifacial designs.
In 2024, Jinko presented a monocrystalline, bifacial TOPCon module with a module efficiency of 23.53%. Longi Solar even achieved 25.19% using a P-type TOPCon cell, which is more resistant to higher temperatures than Perc and offers higher yields in low-light conditions.
After PID and LID – now UVID?
Modules with TOPCon cells are now being installed on a massive scale worldwide. In real conditions, it has become clear that, in certain circumstances they lose power due to the influence of ultraviolet radiation in the solar spectrum. This is reminiscent of light-induced degradation (LID), which was a major issue for Perc modules in 2017 and 2018, but has essentially been resolved since 2020. To date, TOPCon modules have shown no abnormalities with regard to LID.
However, performance reductions seemingly linked to the UV dose on the front side have indeed been measured in modules. The proportion of UV in sunlight varies mainly with altitude or can be influenced by local conditions. This impacts the bonding of silicon with hydrogen, which reduces the performance of modules.
Checkerboard pattern
It is also known that UVID does not affect all TOPCon modules equally. Depending on the film or front glass, this effect may be more or less pronounced. The quality of the passivation layer made of silicon nitride and aluminium oxide is critical. The more homogeneous it is, the lower the influence of UV light. In darkness (at night) or bad weather, performance reduction can partially reverse to normal levels.
In modules damaged by UVID in the electroluminescence, it is possible to identify the typical checkerboard pattern of affected cells. Some manufacturers our tackling the issue with special UV blockers in the encapsulation foils. The phenomenon of UVID that can be particularly influential on the front of modules, while the rear sides of bifacial modules are far less at risk
Evolving performance
As the industry pushes for higher efficiencies, the performance of solar modules continues to evolve. With advancements such as TOPCon technology leading the charge, the potential for increased energy generation is becoming more apparent. However, challenges including UVID continue to present hurdles. Looking ahead, the demand for more sustainable, efficient and cost-effective solutions is only growing, and the next steps in solar cell technology are set to push the boundaries even further
The latest generation of Trina Storage’s Elementa 2 Pro integrated storage platform comes with proprietary cells that have 314 amp hours and, according to the manufacturer, over 15,000. The five megawatt-hour system has a robust three-stage safety concept for maximum safety in the most demanding environments. This includes fire detection, fire suppression and explosion protection.
Designed for compactness and flexibility, the Elementa 2 Pro large storage system offers high energy density with a small footprint and particularly low operating noise (below 70 decibels), making it suitable for urban or industrial locations. Elementa 2 Pro is equipped with an intelligent temperature management system that uses hybrid cooling technology to keep cell temperature differences below 2.5 degrees Celsius, even under extreme conditions.
Shield extreme climate solution with thicker glass
Vertex S+ Shield is Trinasolar’s rooftop solution for extreme weather conditions. Designed for residential and commercial rooftops, the PV module with n-type i-Topcon technology features thicker glass and an optimisedFor installation in open spaces, the Shield solution for extreme climatic conditions combines the robust Vertex N Shield module with either the Vanguard 1P Tracker or a fixed pitch mounting system. With thicker glass and an optimised frame design, the solution can withstand hail of up to 75 millimetres. The system can also support snow loads of up to 2.2 metres.
New Honey module for modernisations
The new Honey module was developed as a compatible option for replacing older Trinasolar Honey modules and comparable products in the 60-cell format. This compact, durable and easy-to-install module concept is particularly suitable for modernising older systems and for easy installation in small roof systems with limited space.
The new Honey comes equipped with the latest n-type i-Topcon cell technology. It combines a robust double glass structure, excellent performance at higher temperatures and good compatibility with both older and newer inverters. frame design for enhanced protection against hail and increased load-bearing capacity. With a compact size (1.76 × 1.13 metres) and improved durability, the module is the ideal solution for applications with increased exposure to snow, wind or hail.
Smart solutions for large systems and assembly
Visitors will also gain an insight into the comprehensive portfolio of mounting systems, including the Fixorigin fixed tilt system and the Vanguard 1P and Vanguard 2P single and double-row tracking systems. All systems are designed to deliver high performance in a wide range of complex terrains and challenging climatic conditions across Europe.
Trinasolar will also be showcasing the full Vertex N portfolio for large-scale applications at booth A1.170, as well as the Vertex S+ family of modules designed for a wide range of residential and commercial rooftop installations. (nhp)
Peter Bachmann: Short answer: super. The high demand came as a surprise – we were literally overrun with orders and are now sold out until May and June.
Benjamin Frank: To introduce the new products, we planned a ramp-up by the middle of the year and wanted to give our customers enough time to update portfolios. With the high demand, we‘ve put out more orders and plan to be able to serve also short-term customers from July onwards.
Peter Bachmann: That would be the batteries featuring our new hybrid inverters, which didn’t coe as much of a surprise! The collaboration with BMW has resulted in a very modern and intelligent system that also appeals to existing customers, including abroad.
Benjamin Frank: We rolled out the new system simultaneously in 15 European countries. The success was evident everywhere, even if some markets have some way to go to catch up with Germany.
Have installers been left empty-handed because you couldn’t keep up with deliveries?
Benjamin Frank: We have tried to supply as many systems as possible to all installersso that they can at least familiarise themselves and gather some experience. And also to get them up to speed for the next big swing in the summer.
Peter Bachmann: Practical experience with installers has confirmed our concept. The new system is very easy to install and requires very little effort. Perfect for strengthening and deepening the bond between installers and their solar customers. The storage system, for example, is equally suitable for new builds and retrofitting.
The market for private investments is shrinking, but you confirm high demand. How does this fit into the overall picture?
Benjamin Frank: We do not go through wholesalers. We sell every aspect and component of our Vision system exclusively to partners working in the area of installation trade. The mood among partners is optimistic.
Peter Bachmann: Two-stage distribution has proven to be a good bet. More customers are recognising that photovoltaics is a lucrative investment and pays for itself within a short time. Our system is not only technically a top performer, but we also offer appealing prices. The market is growing and we want to grow with it.
The Solarwatt Manager is the building’s energy distribution control centre. Can it handle the new dynamic electricity tariffs?
Benjamin Frank: Dynamic electricity tariffs have been mandatory since February. At the end of April, we’ll be launching the new Solarwatt Home Plus service, which enables dynamic tariffs and other energy market optimisations – a process that is overseen by our energy manager. This only makes things more attractive for partners and their customers.
You’ve also expanded your module series. Alongside the Vision 5.0 M panel is the smaller Vision XS 5.0 Style panel, which comes in at 260 watts. What was your idea here?
Peter Bachmann: The available roof area on private homes is usually somewhat limited. With large standard modules, there’s valuable space that’s frequently unused. Which is why we now have the Vision XS 5.0 Style panel. This uses the same TOPCon half-cells as the larger Vision M. The installer can thus be freely combined with standard modules and XS modules on the roof, and connected in the same string. (HS/TF)
