Fine film with a big effect
Crystalline cell technology: The anti-reflection coating fulfills a wide range of functions. The most important of these is its effect on the efficiency of photovoltaic cells. An overview of the latest developments in the technology used to manufacture this wafer-thin film.
Get ready for competitive BIPV systems
BIPV China: BIPV, often overlooked as the much smaller cousin of the rooftop PV market, is a hot topic right now, buoyed by a small but growing band of markets including BIPV as part of comprehensive solar feed-in tariff (FIT) schemes and bullish growth forecasts. Chinese companies are focusing on domestic and export BIPV markets to survive PV commoditization, bringing new products and competition to this niche market.
Its getting hot in China
Quality for photovoltaics: A packed room, interactive sessions and presentations that gave food for thought. The Solarpraxis workshop Quality for Photovoltaics: the key driver for sustainable growth addressed pressing issues with regards to quality in the PV industry and the solutions that need to be reached.
Leveling solar
Battery storage solutions: The combination of battery storage and photovoltaics has become a hot topic at industry conferences and exhibitions with the introduction of a range of new products and services targeted at utilities, grid operators, and PV power plant owners. The long-term benefit is improving the integration of solar energy into the energy mix. Heres where its at right now.
Market growth, FITs and flourishing fabs
Malaysia: Many see the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) region as a PV market with major potential. Combining a secure, stable government with low-cost manufacturing, Malaysia could find itself in the center of this unfolding market, poised to become a regional PV leader. But will government subsidies for other energy sources and a conservative, tardy feed-in tariff (FIT) nip the blossoming industry in the bud?
New module on top
PV+Test: Two modules went through in September. Solon Blue 230/07 now leads the list of holders of the TÜV Rheinland and Solarpraxis AG seal of quality, while the other clearly showed everything that could go wrong.
Overwhelmingly positive
Interview: Azur Solars UK Managing Director, Markus Feldmann talks to pv magazine about the UK PV market, technological advancements, including battery storage, and how Azur has weathered this years solar market storm. He additionally outlines the companys four key strategies for success.
PV for glass and steel
Organic PV: Several developers of novel solar cells are teaming up with suppliers of building façade and envelope materials to turn buildings into renewable electricity generators. But why are these industrial players working with developers of solar cells that fall so far below acceptable efficiencies?
Rethink and adapt
Italy: After a long period of uncertainty and waiting it is now clear what will happen in Italy. With the new Conto Energia IV, large outdoor installations have become unattractive from one day to the next. The buzzword now is reorientation.
Small but mighty
Taiwan: Taiwans photovoltaic (PV) industry leaders gathered in Taipei from October 5 to 7 for this years PV Taiwan. pv magazine spoke to the movers and shakers to find out how they view the global PV market and how their manufacturing methods can compete in the global arena. Technological advancement was one of the key strategies to emerge. Cost structures, opportunities and threats were also discussed.
