Looking into the future
Defect catalogue: Electroluminescence is without a doubt in vogue. But there is still some debate over what the method actually reveals and how the images should be interpreted. We present typical module defects revealed by EL imaging.
New low price suppliers
Module prices: Modules from China are being undercut by products from Southeast Asia and are no longer the cheapest on the market.
No confidence in manufacturer tests
Potential-induced degradation: Even though many module manufacturers are now promoting PID-resistant modules, the problem of potential-induced degradation remains unsolved. Three experts explain why not all tests can be trusted, and how to detect and reduce the effect.
Playing it safe
Crystalline silicon solar technologies: Industry talk has often been of a transition to high efficiency solar cell concepts but the PV market that exists today is risk averse, understandably, with standard modules made of polysilicon continuing to dominate.
Playing the long game
Emerging equipment markets: New manufacturing opportunities for c-Si solar photovoltaics will come from sunbelt markets, but it will take time.
Primarily large-scale
South Africa: The fundamentals for the rapid expansion of the PV market in South Africa appear to be in place. A project pipeline of over 1 GW has developed under the governments REIPPP scheme. The first project was grid-connected last month. What future is there for PV beyond the subsidized, large-scale market?
Raise your glass
The future for glass: Dr. Jens Schneider, head of module technology at Fraunhofer CSP, and Christian Leers, VP Technology at Premium Solar, reveal how a new type of glass which compared favorably against a best-in-class competitor in tests has the potential to deliver improved efficiencies and cost savings in the solar sector.
Ratcheting up competition
Mounting system industry: Competition among mounting system makers is inspiring more engineering efforts to drive down costs while generating better structures. Companies are pursuing multi-pronged strategies to survive.
Ray of light
Egypt: Times are tumultuous in Egypt. Amidst the political and social unrest, one domestic company is trudging forward to bring solar power to those who need it the most in the country. A look at KarmSolar S.A.Es journey and ambition in Egypt.
Rooftop activation
South Africa: The installation of rooftop solar PV systems in South Africa is set to exceed the annual projection of 5 MW because of continuing load shedding and an increase in grid electricity prices. Solar professionals are calling for more incentives and legislation to support this process and to increase the quality of PV installations.
