The Chinese module and energy storage manufacturers module "2.0" is a glass-glass module with thin sheets. Interestingly, the solar cells are not embedded in an EVA film, but rather in silicone, which is applied in liquid form. Many experts are keen to remove EVA, because it can form free radicals upon penetration of moisture.
According to BYD, the new technology will increase the modules service life to 50 years. Furthermore, it is suitable for voltages up to 1,500 and, says the manufacturer, it is PID-free. The busbars have been replaced by 24 wires, which reportedly reduces silver consumption by 25% and increases efficiency. A 60 cell module can now reach 280 watts.
BYD first presented the module as a prototype a year ago. While it is still undergoing certification, a production capacity of between 400 and 500 MW has been planned. The company says its overall solar PV module manufacturing capacity has reached 1 GW, with plans to ramp up to 2 GW this year and 3 GW in 2016. It adds that production costs are at US$0.40/Wp.
New storage solutions
In addition to the module "2.0", BYD also presented its "B-Box" battery, which contains iron phosphate cells and is available at a capacity of 2.5 kWh. This can be extended to 10 kWh in a battery cabinet.
The company says that even under relatively high discharge rates of 1C, the battery holds 6,000 cycles. Depending on the capacity, a discharge of up to 12.6 kWh can be achieved. The batteries can be combined with the power electronics of SMA, for example, says BYD.
The "BYD Mini-ES", meanwhile, is a complete battery storage system, which can be bought with a capacity of either three or six kWh. It is AC-coupled and, thus, differs from the BYD-DC-coupled system that has long been on the German market. According to BYD, it is compatible with all major solar inverters and the emergency function is standard.
Regarding battery cells, BYD says it has an annual production capacity of 10 GWh. Much of that is used for electric cars and buses, which are used, for example, at Amsterdams Schiphol airport.
Translated and edited by Becky Beetz
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