06-08-2011 Mainz/Munich

Lightweight design study: SCHOTT Solar reduces PV modules to the essentials

• Up to 60 percent less weight compared to conventional glass-foil modules
• Innovative backing material provides for considerably easier installation

Mainz/Munich, 8 June 2011 – From today, SCHOTT Solar is presenting a unique design study for the next generation of photovoltaic modules at Intersolar Europe 2011 in Munich. The lightweight module weighs up to 60 percent less than conventional glass-foil modules, while offering equal load capacity and being significantly easier to install. This is achieved by using an innovative lightweight material for the rear. The material is a newcomer in the solar sector but has already been used in aircraft and rail vehicle construction.

The new material for the module rear replaces the module frame as well as the foils that have been used up to now. PV cells and embedding material are directly laminated onto the innovative backing material. This significantly reinforces the module, allowing the front glass to be substantially thinner. Consistently, the overall module weight is considerably reduced.

Key benefits of SCHOTT Solar’s innovative lightweight modules are easier installation and reduced installation effort. This is achieved due to lower weight and integrated fastening systems for various substructures that are attached to the module rear. Modules are quickly and conveniently installed on sloped or flat roofs and in ground-mounted systems by means of appropriate adapters. Conventional module frames are no longer necessary. They previously served to protect glass edges, offer the required stiffness to the module and provide attachment points. Lightweight modules can also be used to install systems on roofs with low load capacity that would not have been suitable for conventional PV modules. This applies in particular to old agricultural and industrial buildings, allowing SCHOTT Solar to tap into new fields of roof-top applications in the European market.

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This press release can also be found under www.ffpress.net/Kunde/SOLE/

Press photographs can be downloaded from www.schott-pictures.net

SCHOTT Solar AG
Lars Waldmann
Director Public Relations
55122 Mainz
tel. +49 (0)6131 - 66 14 099
fax +49 (0)6131 - 66 14 003
lars.waldmann@schottsolar.com
www.schottsolar.com

Fink & Fuchs Public Relations AG
Alexandra Mainka
Berliner Straße 164
65205 Wiesbaden
tel. +49 (0)611 - 74131 86
fax +49 (0)611 - 74131 30
alexandra.mainka@ffpr.de
www.ffpress.net