06-01-2011 Mainz / Heerlen

MWT module: the design of SCHOTT Solar and Solland Solar follows nature’s example / Joint German-Dutch project produces back-contacted solar modules

• Series production of the innovative MWT (Metal Wrap Through)module with significantly higher energy output
• VDE confirms: All tests for IEC certification were successfully completed

Mainz / Heerlen, 1 June 2011 - In nature, plants convert sunlight into energy. The new solar modules developed by SCHOTT Solar and Solland Solar resemble the structure of a leaf. The invention falls back on a process that has already been optimised by nature. Sunlight is captured even more efficiently and used to generate high energy output. A special highlight at Intersolar, the modules will be presented installed on a tracker of GILDEMEISTER energy solutions. Solar trackers orient toward the sun – just like the leaves of a plant.

Solar companies SCHOTT Solar and Solland Solar will start production of back-contacted solar modules based on Sunweb technology in August. The multicrystalline modules consist of 60 cells and achieve up to 250 Wp, exceeding the energy output of many competitors. The compact module surface offers up to 10 percent higher performance per square metre. Its outstanding appearance makes this premium module particularly suited for residential roof-top systems.

All tests to IEC standard were successfully completed

Dr. Thomas Block, product manager at SCHOTT Solar, explained: “Our modules based on Metal Wrap Through (MWT) technology successfully completed all tests to the IEC 61215 and 61730 standards.” The German Association for Electrical, Electronic & Information Technologies VDE confirmed positive test results just in time for the leading industry trade fair Intersolar in Munich. “However, the certification process has not been completed yet,” added Thomas Block. Full certification was applied for because the module is a completely new innovation. All applicable regulations and test procedures were observed during the process. “We are proud to have achieved this important milestone. We will start small series production in August and the first modules will be available from Q4 2011,” confirmed Britta Breuer, marketing communication manager at Solland Solar. Selected customers will then be offered the first pilot production modules of the two companies.

SCHOTT Solar and Solland Solar have been achieving a true win-win situation with their cooperation. SCHOTT Solar contributes long-standing experience in module engineering and production as well as in conducting module quality tests. Solland supports the joint project with its Sunweb technology, offering benefits related to cell and module technology. Given the high quality standards of both companies, the SCHOTT PERFORM MWT series of SCHOTT Solar and the SUNWEB module of Solland Solar are provided with a 25-year linear performance guarantee.

Tracking system orients toward the sun

Both companies will present their sophisticated modules at Intersolar Europe. The modules will be installed on the SunCarrier 70 tracking system of GILDEMEISTER energy solutions. The compact tracker orients the module surface toward the sun, generating additional output of up to 40% compared to fixed systems. At Intersolar, it will be shown with 48 modules and a total output of 11.7 kilowatts (48 x 245W), equalling annual total CO2 savings of approx. 12,000 kg per year and about 60,000 driven kilometres per electric vehicle.

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Technical data

SCHOTT PERFORM MWT series / Solland Solar Sunweb module

- Fitted with: 60-cell back-contacted module

- Type of solar cell: Sunweb (multicrystalline, 156 mm x 156 mm, full-square)

- Glass thickness: Low-iron solar glass 4.0 mm (front side), composite foil (rear side)

- Frame material: Aluminium black anodised

- Output classes: 235 / 240 / 245 / 250 Wp

- Plug: Tyco connectors IP 67

- Max. reverse current: 10 A

- Temperature range: -40 to +85°C

- Max. load (acc. to IEC 61215 ed. 2): Pressure: 5,400 N/m2

- Fire protection classification (acc. to IEC 61730): C

- Weight: 22 kg

- Dimensions: 1,613 mm x 984 mm

- Frame height: 35 mm, black

 

 

GILDEMEISTER energy solutions SunCarrier 70

- Rotation axis: Rotating around the vertical axis, single-axis azimuth tracking

- Rotation angle: max. 220°

- Modules: Suited for all standard module types and sizes

- Performance: Up to 14,000 Wp (depending on module type)

- Inclination angle of the module surface: 30° to the horizontal

- Module surface (width x height): max. 84.05 sqm

- Installation height above ground space approx. 4.00 m

- Control: Programmable Logic Controller = PLC (via time, date and location coordinates by means of an astronomical algorithm)

- Drive: Multi-stage transmission, positive connection of chain wheel and anchor chain

- Technical approval: Static testing conducted by Landesgewerbeanstalt Bayern (LGA)

- Dead weight (steel construction, galvanised, without modules): 2,300 kg

- Applications: Ground-mounted systems

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