Saint-Gobain Solar Displays Crystalline Silicon Photovoltaic Modules Made With LightSwitch Frontsheet
High-performance module provides lightweight benefits without sacrificing performance
Saint-Gobain Solar, a leading manufacturer of sustainable materials and engineered renewable energy solutions, will be displaying crystalline silicon (c-Si) modules made with LightSwitch frontsheets at Intersolar Europe in Munich from June 8-10, 2011 (A6 - 260). Inherently lightweight, LightSwitch fluoropolymer film incorporated with the high efficiency of c-Si solar cells provide a unique combination of enhanced performance, increased durability, and manufacturing efficiency, bringing concrete benefits to both module manufacturers and end-users. Saint-Gobain will soon be submitting these modules for International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) certification, the gold standard for proven performance under extreme conditions.
"The LightSwitch portfolio was created to meet the growing need for lightweight, high-performance PV modules," according to Julia DiCorleto, Business Manager, Photovoltaics & Extruded Films, Saint-Gobain Solar. "By combining LightSwitch Frontsheet film with c-Si solar cell technology, manufacturers and end-users get the best of both worlds -- a high-performance PV module that meets lightweight requirements."
Conventional c-Si modules typically include a heavy glass front design requiring extra care in handling and increased installation costs. Ideal for lightweight solar modules, LightSwitch Frontsheet is a melt processable fluoropolymer providing superior weatherability and UV resistance. Tough and reliable, these highly transparent films provide frontsheets weighing as low as 0.1 kg/m2 that offer outstanding resistance to chemicals and weathering, low flammability, stress crack resistance, and insulating properties. At roughly half the weight of conventional materials, LightSwitch films allow c-Si PV module manufacturers to deliver a lightweight, high-performance product. Lightweight modules manufactured using these innovative films allow end-users to install a high-performance PV system without costly and time-consuming structural redesign.
Saint-Gobain will soon be submitting this module design for IEC certification to demonstrate performance under extreme conditions. Highly respected throughout the photovoltaic industry, the IEC sets internationally accepted standards for electronic and electronic-related technologies -- including photovoltaic modules. The IEC works in cooperation with member countries, as well as several major standards development organizations, including the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE).
About Saint-Gobain Solar
A worldwide leader in solar energy services, Saint-Gobain boasts a long and successful history in the construction materials market. Nearly 350 years of history, marked by technical revolutions and commercial successes, has made Saint-Gobain an ever-present industry player. Today, Saint-Gobain is combining its traditional field of expertise, housing and construction, with its solar technology know-how. The company's commitment to continual innovation aims to people's lives more comfortable, economical and sustainable throughout the world. Saint-Gobain Solar reaffirms the company's commitment to making solar energy a springboard of growth and innovation. For more information, visit http://www.pv.saint-gobain.com.
SOURCE: Saint-Gobain Solar