Solar Power Daily News - Oct. 19, 2011 - SPI 2011

AN INDEPENDENT PUBLICATION NOT AFFILIATED WITH ANY OTHER ORGANIZATION

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

NEW CONTRACTS IN HIGH-GROWTH PHOTOVOLTAIC MARKETS

Oser Communications Group

SOLAR REPORT SIMPLIFIES ROOFTOP PANEL LAYOUT

Worldwide demand for electricity is increasing, and is expected to reach 26,000TWh in 2020. In China, for example, demand for electricity is expected to triple over the next 20 years. As part of the effort to increase global electricity generation, solar photovoltaic technologies continue to emerge as an important solution for tomorrow’s energy needs.

Until 2010, 80 percentof photovoltaic demand came from Europe. Today, demand is shifting to new regions like the

Bob Grant, Executive Vice President, EagleView Technologies talks about the report.

DYNALENE: HIGH PERFORMANCE GLYCOLS FOR RENEWABLE APPLICATIONS

RADIAN SERIES INVERTER/ CHARGER BRINGS SIMPLICITY, TRUST AND RELIABILITY TO MARKET

Continued on Page 82

SPDN: What is a solar report?

BG: EagleView’s Solar Report provides a 3D model of the roof with guaranteed accurate measurements, including line lengths, pitch, solar orientation, azimuth details and a grid layout to assist in panel placement.

Continued on Page 66

BUREAU VERITAS BRINGS EXPERTISE FOR MANAGEMENT OF ASSETS

Kevin Wedman, CBO is the Vice President of Power & Utilities for Bureau Veritas North America, Inc.

SPDN: Tell us about Bureau Veritas North America, Inc.

Dallas • 10¢

DMT FOCUSES ON REDUCING COST OF OWNERSHIP FOR ITS CUSTOMERS

Tom Devine, CEO of Diamond Wire Material Technologies (DMT), a subsidiary of Meyer Burger, discusses how the company is adapting to growth.

SPDN: Tell our readers a little about your company. What’s your main line of business?

KW: Bureau Veritas is a global company specializing in the fields of quality assurance, health, safety, and environmental (QHSE) services. Bureau Veritas has been actively involved with the power

TD: DMT is a subsidiary of Meyer Burger, which is the leading manufactur-

GEN/TRANʼS SILENT GENERATOR SYSTEM DELIVERS CLEAN BACKUP POWER

HUBER+SUHNER RADOX SOLAR—NEW MODULAR CONNECTION SOLUTIONS FOR CRYSTALLINE PV MODULES

Continued on Page 66

Beth Johnson, Vice President of Marketing and Business Development for Gen/Tran Corporation, shares information about Gen/Tran.

Continued on Page 87

In a time when energy is at a premium, and the future of oil, natural gas, and coal are uncertain, new technologies such as solar thermal and geothermal are becoming more important. The method of transferring the heat generated by the sun or underground to systems that provide hot water or air conditioning for residential and commercial buildings is becoming more efficient, affordable, and available.

The last piece of putting together

The Radian Series Inverter/Charger, the muchheralded innovation from power conversion technology pioneer OutBack Power, introduces a radical new feature to the world of renewable energy: simplicity. The Radian Series has raised the bar in the commercial and residential renewable energy market, delivering a new standard of quality, durability and dependability.

The Radian Series Inverter/Charger

GTC: Gen/Tran Corporation was started in our garage by my father in 1982 when he invented the first compact manual

HUBER+SUHNER has a strong legacy of performance amongst leading Prototype of the new manufacturers of modular system from high-performance HUBER+SUHNER with modules with customizable “blue box” ® Radox SOLAR junction boxes. The company remains at the forefront by presenting a modular system consisting of a base junction box, an application specific module for integrating “smart electronics,” and the connection

Continued on Page 39

Continued on Page 87

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INTERTEK SUPPORTS INCREASED TRADE, GLOBAL MARKET ACCESS

Intertek solutions continue to align and advance the growing needs for the global solar industry

Intertek, a leading provider of quality and safety solutions, today said that ongoing development in solar power technologies will fast-track the demand for global industry standards as the company prepared to attend and provide expert commentary at the APEC Solar Technology and Conformance Initiative meetings Continued on Page 71

ALUMINUM PROFILE SOLUTIONS FROM SAPA RENEWABLE ENERGY

Jason J. Weber, Manager – Business Development, Sapa Extrusions discusses the company’s global product solutions for the solar market.

SPDN: What distinguishes your company’s leadership in the solar industry?

JW: First, we are a global company. As the world’s largest aluminum extrusion company, we operate 15 manufacturing facilities in North America (U.S. and Continued on Page 39

SPDN: Tell us a little about Gen/Tran.

SOLAR TAKE-OFF ENSURED BY 25 GW PROJECT PIPELINE

By Craig Stevens, President, Solarbuzz

For those who can remember the solar distant past, otherwise known as the 1980s and 1990s, the U.S. was initially almost wholly off-grid, driven by meeting industrial and rural home electricity applications.

Phase One effectively ended at the commencement of the first California on-grid program in 1998, known as the Emerging Renewables Program, followed quickly Continued on Page 97

TÜV RHEINLAND PTL EXPECTS A SOARING SOLAR YEAR

Solar Power Daily News sat down with Richard Bozicevich, Vice President of Business Development at TÜV Rheinland Photovoltaic Testing Laboratory.

SPDN: What would you say makes your company unique?

RB: TÜV Rheinland PTL holds a unique place among solar test laboratories based on our long history of solar testing. For a long time, ours was the only North Continued on Page 71

T.R.A.-MAGEʼS SOLAR EDUCATION PARK TO PROMOTE SOLAR IN UTAH 4

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

T.R.A.-MAGE’s Solar Education Park was designed as an educational resource for those that are interested in learning more about the latest trends in solar technology; including solar tracking, solar racking and solar mounting systems.

T.R.A.-MAGE is dedicated to helping

the public understand the basics of solar energy, with a vision of increased education and adoption of solar energy throughout the state of Utah. The opening of the Solar Education Park is a major step toward achieving that goal.

The park has now been officially

THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT FOR JETION SOLAR USA

Jetion Solar USA has opened a facility in Charlotte, NC. The company is owned and operated by Jetion Solar China Ltd., a multinational manufacturer of PV solar modules. It is the company’s first effort to serve the U.S. market as a stand-alone operation. In a facility of over 20,000 square feet, the company will be the final point of assembly for Agrade PV solar modules ready for final installation. Along with assembly, the U.S. team will also warehouse, sell, deliver and service the company’s product line as it is brought to the market place. “We are very excited to introduce one of the world’s leading solar module manufacturers to the U.S. market” says Juergen Fehr, president of Jetion Solar USA. He continues, “Timing is everything. As this market’s need for renewable energy grows, we will be there to

deliver one of the most efficient lines of modules in the market today.”

Jetion Solar has been manufacturing solar modules since 2004. The company has been growing exponentially with installations around the globe.

Jetion Solar USA will have the full backing of the company’s world headquarters in China. “At Jetion Solar USA, we will work with our international team to bring solar solutions to the North American market now and into the future,” says Fehr. He continues, “Everyone we’ve been in contact with tells us that we are doing everything right. Customer service will be the underlying theme in everything we do here.”

The new office will have a team of experts in every phase of operation: manufacturing, sales and logistics. “We

Solar Power Daily News opened to the public and everyone is welcome to visit anytime during business hours to see what the park has to offer.

Having been equipped with 19 mockroof areas, two solar tracking systems, a ground mount solution, and ballasted solution, and a host of solar mounting systems (including those for metal roof installations) the solar park is truly a unique solar education experience.

Visit www.tra-mage.com or stop by booth 7045 for more information.

AN INDEPENDENT PUBLICATION NOT AFFILIATED WITH ANY OTHER ORGANIZATION

Lee M. Oser CEO and Editor-in-Chief Steve Cox Lyle Sapp Kate Seymour Senior Associate Publishers Kim Forrester Associate Publisher Lorrie Baumann Editorial Director Jennifer Miller Lorrie Brownstone Dirk Deppey A.J. Flick Associate Editors

want to be the complete package for any installer, contractor or developer. When customers call, we will line them up with the right person with the necessary solution to get the job done,” says Fehr.

There couldn’t be a better time for Jetion Solar USA to open its doors than now. There will be continued pressure for renewables to play a crucial role to fulfill this country’s energy needs. Solar will play the biggest role. That’s Jetion Solar USA’s specialty. “We are eager to meet the challenges ahead of us,” says the company’s president. “We are even more eager to provide the solution.”

For more information, visit www.jetionsolarus.com or visit booth 6255.

Valerie Wilson Art Director Yasmine Brown Graphic Designer Selene Pinuelas Traffic Manager Paul Harris James Martin John McQuaig Bill Morris Deborah Yarbrough Account Managers Enrico Cecchi European Sales Solar Power Daily News is published by Oser Communications Group ©2011.

All rights reserved.

Executive and editorial offices at: 1877 N. Kolb Road, Tucson, AZ 85715 520-721-1300/Fax: 520-721-6300 www.oser.com European offices located at Lungarno Benvenuto Cellini, 11, 50125 Florence, Italy.

TENKSOLARʼS UNIQUE APPROACH TO DELIVERING MORE ENERGY 8

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

tenKsolar’s RAIS WAVETM system was designed with the fundamental goal of improving solar system output in order to provide less expensive electricity. At the core of the design is the tenKsolar RAIS[R] (Redundant Array of Integrated Solar) PV module. Due to its tolerance of imperfect light, increased DC-AC efficiency and improved reliability, the RAIS PV module delivers more energy per watt than conventional solar modules.

The cells in tenKsolar’s RAIS PV module are connected in a unique and proprietary manner. They are industry standard poly crystalline silicon cells that are cut in half and wired into a mesh grid.

As the cells in conventional solar panels are wired in series, conventional modules depend on uniformly distributed light to balance the current across the PV cells in the string, thereby limiting the output of the module to the output of its least productive cell. Because of these output limitations, shading or adding extra light to a cell creates a problem for conventional panels. In contrast, tenKsolar RAIS modules use the mesh grid of PV cells to integrate light across the entire module surface and turn all available light into energy. As a result, the RAIS PV Module is able to harvest reflected light through a simple static reflector, and thus generate more energy

per area and per project. In addition, spots of shade, soiling, even physical damage to a portion of a RAIS PV module has minimal impact on the individual module and array output.

Beyond the gains made by added light, a tenKsolar system operating in real-world conditions converts module power to grid electricity with an efficiency of at least 92 percent. Integrated module electronics decouple internal cell dependencies to ensure cells and modules operate at their intrinsic maximum power point (MPPT) under all environmental and lighting conditions (versus overall module MPPT). As a result, a tenKsolar system increases inverter efficiencies, improves system availability and reduces annual degradation.

Conventional solar architectures and those utilizing micro-inverters and external DC optimizers simply cannot achieve the system level efficiency of the RAIS WAVE system.

By incorporating concepts from reliability designs like those found in systems powering the internet, the tenKsolar system redefines the standard for solar reliability. With conventional systems, a spot of shade, an open or short, or physical damage to the panel in one place will dramatically drop the energy output of Continued on Page 82

SUPER-SIZED MODULES FOR COST REDUCTION OF UTILITY-SCALE PV INSTALLATIONS

Solar Power Daily News

By Eric Tobin and Roger Little, Spire Corporation

Despite significant recent declines in module pricing, cost still remains a major prohibitive factor for largescale development of solar projects. Balance of system (BOS) and installation costs must now be reduced to sufficiently lower overall system costs.

The utilization of super-sized (1 kW+) modules manufactured on-site at a “solar breederh factory is a promising approach for significantly reducing systems costs to levels that will drive expansion of the industry and permit utilities to meet increasingly stringent renewable portfolio standard targets.

The solar utility PV market is experiencing significant growth that will continue for the foreseeable future. Utilities are expected to add over 20-GW of solar PV to their generation portfolios by 2020. The rapid growth in market demand is driving development of utility-scale solar projects such as grid-tied solar farm systems of 25 to 200-MW. These farms will consist primarily of crystalline silicon (x-Si) modules due to utility demands for reliability, high efficiency, a proven track record, and

demonstrated 20-year life span, as well as overall cost considerations.

Conventional PV modules provide a maximum power output of between 230-270 watts. Larger modules, up to 400 watts, have been recently introduced and are targeted specifically at the utility market. Super-sized modules, more than double this size, can provide even greater benefit for PV utilities.

Such larger modules, approximately 5.5ft by 12.5-ft (Figure 1), provide significant cost savings by lowering materials, BOS, and installation expenses. Total predicted savings approach $0.50/watt.

This cost reduction would translate into billions of dollars in cost savings over the next decade for the rapidly growing utility market segment. In particular, supersized modules offer: • Fewer field failures/Higher reliability • Fewer DC connections and grounding points • Reduced wire management • Reduced handling • Significantly fewer mechanical fasteners • A single DC/DC power conditioner or DC/AC inverter Continued on Page 18

INOVATEUS SOLAR FEATURES NEW GE SOLAR-POWERED ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING CARPORT ON YOUTUBE 16

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Inovateus Solar Partners with GE Energy Industrial Solutions on One of the Largest Electric Vehicle Charging Stations in North America

Inovateus Solar LLC, a national solar power distributor and integrator, recently partnered with GE Energy Industrial Solutions on the installation of one of North America’s largest electric vehicle (EV) charging stations at the GE facility in Plainville, Connecticut. The project is now posted to the innovative and educational Inovateus Solar PV PowerUp channel on YouTube. The Inovateus Solar PV PowerUp channel on YouTube now features 22 educational, Inovateus Solar product and project videos.

The dedication for the project took place on May 26, 2011. The CEO of GE Energy Industrial Solutions, Luis

Ramírez, joined by Connecticut Governor Dannel Malloy, along with GE and Inovateus Solar contractors and employees gathered to unveil the GE Electric Vehicle (EV) Solar Carport in Plainville, Conn.

“The GE EV Solar Carport Project is an opportunity to deliver a truly sustainable electric vehicle charging solution,” says Paul Singer, general manager industrial technology, GE Energy Industrial Solutions. “Joining forces with Inovateus Solar on the EV Solar Carport helped us deliver one of the largest carports in North America, and we were glad to have both their insight and their dedicated staff on hand throughout the construction process.”

GE uses solar energy and smart grid technology to fully charge up to 13 electric vehicles per day via six Level 2 GE EV Charging Stations. The solar panels on the 216-foot by 40-foot, 40-stall car-

port will also power all the lighting in the parking lot to offset an additional $10,000 in energy costs each year.

The GE EV Solar Carport produces the energy equivalent to power 20 homes per year. The average freestanding home uses approximately 7,000 to 10,000 kW hours per year. With greater than a 25year lifespan, the EV Solar Carport will annually deliver 125 MW hours via 100 kW DC power.

Inovateus Solar started the project in December, 2010 and completed it in late May, 2011, on time and on budget.

“Our objective with this project is to utilize a mix of installation formats to create a practical on-site ‘lab’ to illustrate a range of design options when creating this type of solar system,” says TJ Kanczuzewski, president of Inovateus Solar LLC. “We are excited to collaborate with GE on this important alternative energy development and education project and look forward to other future projects.”

The carport incorporates GE’s infrastructure technology, utilizing GE EverGold™ Safety Switches and GE Combiner Boxes along with the GE EV Charging Stations. GE’s core AC equipment safely distributes the power generated from the solar panels. The GE EV Solar Carport connects to the grid, where it deposits extra energy and withdraws that energy when needed.

Key Inovateus supplier/partners

included Schott Solar for the PV panels and Satcon for the two 100 kW inverters.

Inovateus subcontracted the electrical work to Power Systems Electrical Contractors in Farmington, Conn.

As the general contractor, Inovateus hired Solaire Generation of New York to install a custom version of its Premium Solar Parking Power Plant. The cantilevered roof design protects vehicles and people from the elements while preventing unwanted access to PV panels and electrical systems—including six charging stations. The canopy design also captures and redirects rainwater and snowmelt with its unique decking, gutter and drain system.

“Inovateus assembled an exceptional group of contractors for this project.

Solaire Generation was thrilled to have been selected as the solar canopy provider,” says Brian Cuff, director of design and construction. “This project illustrates a truly exciting vision―the integration of GE charging stations, GE power distribution equipment, and solar canopy structures. We believe that it’s a model of integration that may quickly become standard for this type of installation.”

See the Inovateus Solar/GE Carport in booth 831. Contact Inovateus Solar toll-free at 877-876-Solar (76527) or 574-485-1400; fax 574-485-1419; email info@inovateussolar.com; or visit them online at www.inovateussolar.com.

DEHN has developed and introduced a new technology and product, specifically designed to function under the issues associated with these DC voltages. The new DEHNguard M YPV and PV-SCI addresses those issues by incorporating a switched fused circuit in parallel to the MOV discharge circuit, permitting the disconnect to operate arc free.

DEHN has recently expanded its ini-

tial product offering to include a broader range of voltages and product configuration. These unique SPD products are now available for 150 V, 600 V, 1.000 V and 1,200 V (and soon will have a 1500 VDC SPD) applications and are configured in both a “Y” ( three-pole) configuration for floating systems, and a two- pole design for grounded systems.

DEHN’s unique SPD are UL 1449 third edition compliant for the applicable rated DC

voltage applications.

In 2010, DEHN celebrated its 100-year anniversary of serving the electrical industry in research, design, manufacture of products, and offering technical expertise and services to minimize the effects of transients caused by lightning and other sources.

Please visit DEHN Inc. at Solar Power International 2011 Dallas, booth 321, call 772-460-9315, or email info@dehn-usa.com.

deployment, connectivity and access.

Business Intelligent: Centralizes the data control mechanism to improve data quality and dynamic and flexible analysis reporting tool for customization reports.

Automation: Preserves natural resources by reducing paperwork through the automation of integrated work flow and process across the supply chain.

The Dimerco Value Plus System allows you to control your supply chain, instead of your supply chain controlling you. The visibility offered to you by Dimerco Express allows you to coordinate your supply chain needs through any of its services and products, including air, ocean, warehousing, trucking, domestic air/road transportation, and customs brokerage.

Operating on a single platform, the Dimerco Value Plus System allows you

to source globally with confidence.

Through Dimerco’s global network of 151 wholly-owned offices, including over 79 offices in greater China, Dimerco Express is there in person to meet your supply chain requirements. Simply stated, all your supply chain requirements are met and exceeded in a timely, accurate, efficient, and effective manner.

Dimerco views technology and systems development as a core business strategy and strength in business nowadays. The company continuously invests in technology and centrally develops and maintains its systems to provide its customers the most innovative means to succeed in managing their supply chain.

As a recognized leader in the logistics industry, Dimerco Express provides you the tools for “real time” visibility throughout your entire supply chain.

To learn more about Dimerco Express, please stop by booth 4932 at Solar Power International and visit the website: www.dimerco.com.

DEHN EXPANDS PRODUCT RANGE OF SURGE PROTECTORS FOR DC PHOTOVOLTAIC APPLICATIONS

The rapidly growing PV industry, now generating at DC voltages of 600 and 1,000 V, has placed exceptional demands on the current SPD technology, and previously available SPD products intended to protect systems components such as inverters, arrays, or combiner box components from the effects of lightning caused surges and transients.

Responding to this demand for application at these DC voltages,

DIMERCO EXPRESS ENHANCES SUPPLY CHAIN VISIBILITY

The logistic demands placed by your suppliers, vendors, partners, and own organization have escalated the need to have “real time” information at your finger tips. For organizations to achieve supply chain maximization, they need to partner with a company utilizing the latest technology and resources available. Dimerco Express has positioned itself as a truly innovative market leader in this arena.

For operation and management excellence, and service to its customers globally, Dimerco Express Group successfully deployed a web 2.0 based Dimerco Value Plus System[c] (12375) on August 1, 2009. The Dimerco Value Plus System integrates the processes of sales activity, operation, accounting, and financial management to serve as the tool and platform in supply chain manage-

Solar Power Daily News

ment. The system provides an information and knowledge bank to build up Dimerco Express Group as the most competitive global transportation and logistics service provider. Not only does the IT system help integrate internal processes and information to enhance operation and management efficiently, it also provides real-time visibility to Dimerco’s customers for their effective business management in supply chain.

Feature Highlights Supply Chain Orientation: Integrates sales activity, operations, accounting, and financial management across the supply chain in the transportation and logistics industry for management efficiency and customer service excellence.

Web 2.0 based collaboration: Eases

X5-STS SEMI-AUTOMATIC SCREEN PRINTER FOR NEXT GENERATION CELL TECHNOLOGIES 18

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

The X5-STS printer platform from ASYS Solar enables rapid development of advanced solar cell concepts on standard c-Si wafers as well as alternative substrate materials.

Solar cell manufacturers in pursuit of efficiency boosting concepts can leverage the advanced technology of the X5-STS for their development and optimization of Double Print, Dual Print, Selective Emitter and MWT processes.

For metallization of solar cells, the role of efficiency enhancing technologies is particularly growing in importance.

Increasing cell efficiency results in higher power from modules and thus greater power concentration in the overall installed PV system. This in turn lowers BoS costs.

The X5-STS printer features the patented EVA[TM] vision alignment system with two cameras and two light sources for “look up + look down” functionality, the benefit of which is accurate and repeatable edge and pattern alignment to +/- 12.5 µm @ 6 Sigma. Through the implementation of advanced lighting techniques, low contrast patterns and fiducials are recognized and aligned to.

A self-leveling and dual programmable squeegee print head allows for precise control of print pressure, speed, stroke length as well as snap off distance and speed. The process parameters that are developed on the X5STS printer, they can be readily transferred to any of the ASYS in-line screen printers to allow easy process transfer into volume manufacturing. This is especially important as short development cycles and rapid scale-up are critical to capturing today’s fast paced market.

The printer is specifically designed to allow processing of a large variety of flexible and rigid substrates (Hybrid Ceramics, Solar Cells, Wafers, LTCC) up to 350 x 350 mm in size. A porous stone vacuum print nest allows secure and convenient mounting of substrates of various shapes and sizes. With the convenient shuttle loading and automatic alignment, the X5-STS combines the benefits of an in-line printer with the flexibility of a semi-automatic system. Temperature and Humidity Control as well as SPC and Continued on Page 82

Solar Power Daily News HUBER+SUHNER (Con’t. from p. 1)

system. For OEMs and installers, the new system provides more flexibility regarding the choice of electronic suppliers and the complexity of electronic functions.

Moreover, the junction box can be easily retrofitted and maintained. These advantages also result in cost savings.

The HUBER+SUHNER Group, based in Switzerland, is a leading international manufacturer of components and systems for electrical and optical connectivity for main markets Communication, Transportation and Industrial. The company can draw on Spire (Con’t. from p. 8)

Due to their size, it is more difficult and expensive to transport very large modules over long distances. This provides an incentive for local module manufacturing at the solar farm site or at centralized locations with multiple customers nearby. For on site production, a module factory would be situated adjacent to or within a solar farm site. Solar cells would be delivered to the site, and modules would be manufactured and transported short distances from the factory to the install location. Importantly, the transportation constraint does not apply to the key materials that go into a solar module, i.e., the solar cells, which are small, light and can be tightly packed.

Capital expenditures for a module factory are modest in comparison to

core competencies in the areas of Radio Frequency, Fiber Optics and Low Frequency. In close collaboration with its customers, HUBER+SUHNER develops and manufactures first class products of highest quality.

The company’s product range includes coaxial, fiber optic and copper cables, cable systems, connectors, antennas and lightning protection components. HUBUR+SUHNER is represented by 18 group companies and numerous agencies, in over 60 countries.

For more information visit www.hubersuhner.com or stop by booth 2744.

the overall expenses associated with a solar farm installation. The building expenses are quickly offset by savings realized from the larger module design. Furthermore, at the completion of the project, the factory can be decommissioned and the equipment relocated to another solar farm site to continue production. Module manufacturing equipment required to produce super-sized modules is similar in design and cost to that used for conventional modules.

The overall cost savings provided and modest investment required makes a solar breeder factory with capability of producing super-sized modules a compelling alternative for construction of utility-scale solar farms.

For more information, visit Spire at booth 4935 at Solar Power International.

AZTEC WASHER COMPANY, INC. OFFERS SEALING SOLUTIONS FOR COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL USERS Solar Power Daily News

Aztec Washer Company, Inc. has served the building and construction industries for over 40 years. The company is well known by its reputation for competitive, dependable, quality products and customer care that you can count on. Aztec is an industry leader with two primary sealing product innovations, Master Seal® bonded sealing washers and the Master Flash® pipe flashing product lines.

Master Seal Washers are bonded through a unique process that allows for optimal resistance to weathering from ozone, ultraviolet light, and standard environmental agents. The washers are designed to provide a seal as well as a cushion or vibration dampening function even in applications where expansion

and contraction occur, such as metal roofs or siding, electrical, automotive, heavy equipment, aerospace, marine and many more.

Aztec’s washers are designed with a wide range of diameters as well as a variety of backing and facing materials, Aztec Washer Company can provide a washer to suit both common and unique applications. Their in-house design and manufacturing capabilities allow them to create custom solutions to meet specific requirements.

An in-house lab provides top-rated compounds for the eleven styles of Master Flash pipe flashings currently available, plus the ability to develop designs to meet evolving demands of the market. With a twenty year warranty as a

Huck, a division of Alcoa Fastening Systems known for its engineered fasteners, has developed a fastener designed specifically for the solar industry. The blind fastener, known as the Huck

SolarRivet, was customized and manufactured just for solar troughs as a result of Huck’s working with Arvada, Colo.based solar company SkyFuel.

Huck has been working with

HUCK INTRODUCES SPECIALTY FASTENER FOR SOLAR TROUGHS

Wednesday, October 19, 2011 standard for Aztec Master Flash pipe flashings, these IAPMO / UPC listed products are suitable for use with doublewall heated pipes, also known as type-b vents, as well as many others such as electrical and solar applications. Their parts are exceptional, as evidenced by an ICC listing, an ISO 9001 certification and customer satisfaction around the world.

The unique qualities of their products and sincere commitment and loyalty to their customers sets Aztec apart from inferior offshore counterparts and attempts to imitate the Master Flash brand.

Aztec Washer’s new 35 Year Master Flash is the only ICC listed flashing for the metal building industry in the US today. It’s a self-sealing flashing made with a 35 year warranted polymer. It has a high quality enamel coated insert that breathes additional life into the product to assist in meeting this demanding time frame. This 35 Year Master Flash has SkyFuel for more than three years. Said Troy Pierce, Senior Design Engineer for Huck, “SkyFuel came to us with a problem, and we were able to provide the solution. We always welcome an engineering challenge.”

In testing its parabolic solar troughs, SkyFuel noticed the slight possibility of slippage. The troughs – and the fasteners needed to be so strong that they could sus-

23

undergone over six years of testing and refinement in order to acquire this listing and meets the international building code (IBC) and international residential building code (IRC) strict standards. It is the only ICC listed “35 Year” metal roof flashing available, anywhere.

The Aztec Washer Company service team works personally with clients to ensure their needs and satisfaction are met. Worldwide locations including Mexico, Germany, UK, Poland, and Australia allow prompt delivery no matter where the destination. A large volume of stock on hand and extended shipping hours provide superior shipping options, giving customers just-in-time delivery service. Unsurpassed quality, service, and innovative product development has brought Aztec to its current leadership position and bodes well for success in the future.

Visit Aztec Washer Company at booth 5438 at Solar Power International or call 858-513-4350. tain an 84 mile-an-hour, three-second wind gust without movement. The company came to Huck to help craft a solution.

“SkyFuel needed a complete holefill rivet, otherwise known as a CHFR,” said Pierce. He continued, “Using one of our compatible blind rivets as a guide, we worked closely with SkyFuel to design Continued on Page 100

AMERICAN GALVANIZERS ASSOCIATION: GREEN YOUR SOLAR ENERGY WITH SUSTAINABLE BUILDING MATERIALS 34

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Renewable energy sources, such as wind and sun, are ever-present – providing stable and reliable generation potential; however, to take advantage of the sun’s potential requires a stable, reliable structure for the solar panels. The backbone of all solar panels and energy production, the racking system, is an often-overlooked, but critical component for uninterrupted generation. The need for sustainable, durable, maintenance-free solar structures and racking systems that work in synergy with the green nature of solar power is paramount.

Solar generation requires the panels and all racking systems be exposed to the environment year round, including UV rays, rain, snow, etc. To protect these multi-million dollar investments and ensure uninterrupted reliable power generation, proper corrosion protection of the racking systems must be employed.

Hot-dip galvanized (HDG) steel, which is 100-percent recyclable, enhances the sustainability of solar projects, while providing 75+ years of maintenance-free corrosion protection.

Hot-dip galvanizing, the process of dipping structural steel into molten zinc to create a metallurgical bond of zinciron alloy layers, provides cost-effective,

superior durability and sustainability.

HDG’s maintenance-free longevity not only saves time and money, it also eliminates environmental impact. Each maintenance cycle of unprotected or inadequately protected steel introduces labor, energy, and material inputs and emission outputs – adding both monetary and environmental impact throughout the life of your project.

Hot-dip galvanizing has been specified to protect steel for more than 150 years in various markets from intricate artistic sculpture to corrosive industrial facilities and in environments from tropical Bermuda to arctic Northern Canada.

Specified not only for its maintenanceContinued on Page 101

ADHESIVE RESEARCH SHOWCASES TAPES FOR ELECTRICAL INSULATION AND JUNCTION BOX APPLICATIONS Solar Power Daily News

Adhesives Research (AR), a leading developer and manufacturer of custom pressure-sensitive adhesive tapes (PSAs), specialty coatings, films and laminates, is showcasing the company’s sophisticated bonding technology designed for electrical insulation and junction box applications in crystalline and thin film photovoltaic modules at Solar Power International. Visit the AR solar team in booth 4743.

AR’s PSA technology for electrical insulation offers very low outgassing, good dielectric performance and UV stability. Drawing upon the company’s proven technologies used within the electronics industries, these tapes are completely customizable in both single-and double-faced formats. In addition to strong insulation characteristics, the tapes act as an excellent bonding interface to various components within the PV cell.

Highlights of the technology include: • UV stable adhesive • Good thermal resistance • Very low outgassing characteristics (tested at 110C for 1 hour by dynamic head space GC/MS)

AR’s PSA technology for junction box

applications produces long-term, reliable bonds, and outperforms other bonding products in accelerated aging and damp heat tests. Utilizing acrylic adhesives specially designed for bonding to polycarbonate, tedlar and glass, these tapes draw from AR’s proven technologies for foam tapes used in a variety of industrial applications.

Highlights of the technology include: • Excellent high temperature performance (up to 120 C) • Heat and moisture resistance • Closed cell foam, double faced construction • UL 746C on TPT film, polycarbonate and glass

Founded in 1961, Adhesives Research offers problem-solving capabilities and custom solutions in adhesive polymerization, mixing, adhesive coating and release liner design supported by extensive product development and analytical support. The company’s North American and Limerick, Ireland, facilities are certified to the updated ISO 9001:2000 standard.

Adhesives Research’s pressure-

Continued on Page 100

IMPROVED LOW-LIGHT PERFORMANCE SONALI SOLAR ANNOUNCES FACTORY EXPANSION PROJECT AND FAVORABLE TEMPERATURE Sonali Solar, an up and coming player in low cost module production.

COEFFICIENT PUT BOSCH SOLAR the high-efficiency module manufactur“We couldn’t be happier that the develing arena, is announcing its factory opment of our new state of the art automatENERGY AT THE FOREFRONT Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Solar Power Daily News

Advancements in cell efficiency have given Bosch Solar Energy the edge in the crystalline solar module space. The latest product – a high-performance 60-cell mono-crystalline module currently on display at the Bosch booth – offers a peak performance of up to 260 Wp output.

Now installers and end-users can look forward to an enhanced module efficiency of 15.84 percent, thanks to an optimized module concept. The panels contain the latest Generation 4 Bosch solar cells utilizing a selective emitter technology. In addition, the modules boast enhanced interconnection between solar cells by means of a light harvesting string. This reduces optical and electrical losses, thus increasing efficiency.

Performance is further improved with a durable anti-reflective coating on the module glass.

Earlier this year, Bosch set a new world record in silicon cell technology when its Generation 5 large-area PERC solar cells on p-type wafers achieved an efficiency of 19.6 percent. These measurements were confirmed by the independent calibration laboratory at Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems.

This advanced cell technology improves cell performance under weak light conditions. Due to the high open-circuit voltage, the Generation 5 cell’s temperature coefficient is noticeably better than that of

BAJAʼS SOLAR SUPPORT SYSTEM— DESIGNED FROM A CARPORT BUT ENGINEERED FOR THE SUN Baja Construction, the leader in highly specialized and engineered solar support Sapa Extrusions (Con’t. from p. 1)

Canada), with additional support from 40 facilities in Asia and Europe. As a single source for PV, CSP and CPV components, with one call we can provide what you need when you need it, no matter where you need it. That includes PV Module Frames, Racking and Mounting System Components, Solar Thermal Equipment, Concentrated Solar Power Collectors. Inverter Housings and Components, and Thermal Management Solutions.

SPDN: How do you deliver those resources to the marketplace?

JW: We emphasize our role as development partners. Providing customer solutions is one of Sapa’s core values, earning it a strong position among the renewable energy industry. With hundreds of thousands of solutions and nearly 50 Dynalene (Con’t. from p. 1)

these systems is the heat transfer fluids, typically propylene and ethylene glycol.

Propylene and ethylene glycol are both produced from petroleum or natural gas, making these products limited in supply by the limits of the supply of oil and natural gas left on our planet. Ethylene glycol itself is toxic and undesirable for a system that might be used to heat domestic water. Both of these fluids, used at temperatures higher than 220 degrees Fahrenheit, break down quickly into acids that can damage systems. As the technologies for the systems have advanced, so too have the fluids.

There are a number of more efficient, safe, and renewable fluids that can

Continued on Page 101

structures has installed its Solar Support SystemTM at facilities generating, in

years of business in Europe, North America, and Asia, Sapa shares its expertise with customers to develop complete and cost-effective answer, from simple solutions to the most challenging and unique applications. An example is the Sapa Solar Frame which offers a cost advantage in reducing frame weight and fabrication costs with quicker assembly time.

SPDN: Doesn’t that take expertise from specialized people?

JW: We bring our customers the experts within the extrusion industry, people who understand the applications and advantages of aluminum profiles. Next we develop a deep understanding of our customer’s business and their product requirements. We emphasize “Speed-toMarket” that allows us to go from print to production, quickly and economically, because we already understand the prod-

be used to improve a typical glycol heat transfer system, especially in solar thermal and geothermal applications. These coolants, designated by Dynalene as biobased glycols, are produced from domestically grown corn and produce 25 percent less CO2 emissions than propylene or ethylene glycol during their production. Dynalene has three main products produced using bio-based glycols: Dynalene BioGlycol, Solar Glycol-XT, and Geoglycol.

Dynalene BioGlycol is the flagship product of Dynalene’s bio-based line. It is an inhibited glycol similar to propylene glycol, but is more durable and has a 30 percent lower viscosity when used below 32 degrees F. Dynalene BioGlycol can be mixed with water and tailored to your

39

expansion project at Solar Power International this year. The company’s 25MW manufacturing capacity will double this month, and by next year, Sonali plans to be at 75MW annual capacity in a new facility in Gujarat, India. This assembly line includes a first of its kind electroluminescence tester in India and also has the ability to produce glass to glass modules for bipv applications.

As demand for the company’s product increased this past year, Sonali took advantage of Indian government incentives and began planning the assembly line expansion project. Sonali has always focused on developing the most efficient and durable module at a highly competitive price. New testing equipment will help position Sonali as a major global player in high-quality,

ed manufacturing facility is finally underway, and we look forward to delivering high-quality modules to customers at our renowned low cost,” said Sonali CEO Pankaj Desai. Desai has been running Sonali Solar as a family business for the last five years. Its parent company, Jash Industries, was started by Desai’s father more than 55 years ago.

Sonali manufactures photovoltaic modules from mono and poly-crystalline silicon cells. Its product range is currently 80W to 300W. All Sonali products are UL 1703 certified for the US and Canada and backed by a 25 year warranty. Sonali ships product globally and has ready stock in the US. For more information, visit Sonali at booth 3900 or at www.sonalisolar.com.

aggregate of 35MWs of power.

Baja will custom design, engineer, supply and install Solar Support Systems to support PV and secondarily, shade vehicles of all heights. PV is mounted

directly to Baja’s Solar Support System with a patent-pending connection that delivers minimal impact to the site, maximum efficiencies for installation and the potential for additional revenue.

For more information, email bob@bajacarports.com, visit www.bajacarports.com or stop by booth 143.

uct solutions we can provide.

Over the past three years, we have made significant investments in people through the establishment of a dedicated Renewable Energy Team. Our focus on the RE industry allows us to facilitate the sales and supply process by communicating with customers in their own nomenclature. Another resource is our North American Technical Center that works to establish finished designs for innovative custom features and improved end-use applications which help customers to optimize the value of their products.

SPDN: Do you support this technology with capital investment?

JW: In North America alone, our CAPEX for 2011will be $50 million, providing increased capacity and further expanding our offerings to the RE industry.

low temperature freezing point requirements.

Dynalene Solar Glycol-XT is specifically designed for solar thermal systems, such as a hot water heater. The XT stands for extended temperature because in a pressurized system Solar Glycol-XT can be used at temperatures as high as 350 degrees F if stagnation ever occurs. It can also be used at lower temperature to prevent freezing. Solar Glycol-XT is a dropin replacement to propylene glycol in most solar thermal systems and offers compatibility with aluminum as well as most other metals.

Dynalene GeoGlycol is specifically designed for geothermal systems. It is premixed and ready to install and has the same low viscosity as the Dynalene

To be a turnkey supplier, we have invested in high speed production equipment in several locations: two TekFab machines, a Joseph Machining Center, high speed PV frame cell, long bed machining centers and a Joseph double cut miter saw.

Additionally, Sapa continuously utilizes the Genesis Production System (Lean Manufacturing) to optimize production methods to increase throughput and product quality.

SPDN: How would you summarize your value proposition to this market?

JW: Using our global footprint, we are expanding our value chain for supply to customers. Working as “One Company” delivers our combined experience and increases our speed to market.

For more information, visit booth 5436 or go to www.sapagroup.com/solar.

BioGlycol, which means it uses less energy to pump from the deep wells. Dynalene GeoGlycol is optimized with understanding that geothermal systems have many different types of materials in their components, such as carbon steel and aluminum as well as PVCs and other plastics.

Dynalene’s bio-based coolants offer a renewable, affordable, and nontoxic option for your glycol system, whether it is solar, geothermal or regular HVAC. They can be added to a system with no adjustments needed and are compatible with most of the typical glycols used today.

For more information, visit Dynalene in booth 155 at Solar Power International, call 610-262-9686 or visit www.dynalene.com.

UNIVERSITY OF NOTRE DAME WORKS WITH INOVATEUS SOLAR TO ACCEPT THE DONATION OF TWO SOLAR TECHNOLOGIES ATOP ITS COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING 66

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Inovateus Solar LLC, a national solar power distributor and integrator, worked closely with the University of Notre Dame to complete the installation of two flexible PV systems on Fitzpatrick Hall, the Notre Dame College of Engineering.

The University’s College of Engineering will use the new 10 kW solar installation as both a power generating system and research and development tool. The unique installation on the rooftop of Fitzpatrick Hall employs two new thin-film solar technologies that students and teachers can monitor for real-time demonstration and instruction. Inovateus Solar and its partners donated the time, engineering

and materials to the University of Notre Dame to make this solar power teaching tool possible.

The new technologies that Inovateus Solar supplies, each of which produces 5 kW of energy, include a peel-and-stick panel application by United Solar Ovonic of Rochester Hills, Michigan. The company’s product is called Uni-Solar PVL-144. The second technology, by SoloPower, based out of San Jose, California, is its new SFX1-i3 210-watt panels. New to the industry, SoloPower is committed to being energy-and-cost-competitive.

Both companies donated the solar Continued on Page 101

SOLARDOCKʼS PATENTED SYSTEM SOLVES CLIMATE AND ENGINEERING CHALLENGES More power. Less work.

The next generation of solar.

SolarDock’s patented, lightweight solar module mounting system combines a high-tilt angle of up to 35 degrees with the only truly non-penetrating design.

With a UL-listing and California DSA Bureau Veritas (Con’t. from p. 1)

generation industry since 1950. The company has been involved with more than 42,000 MW of generation spanning from CGT, Cogeneration, Geothermal, Hydro, Nuclear, Solar, Steam, and Wind Power Plants/Facilities. Bureau Verities is a partner who will ensure cost effectiveness and on-time delivery.

SPDN: What do you believe has made Bureau Veritas Power & Utilities so successful?

KW: Any company that believes in the value of its services and products has the EagleView Technologies (Con’t. from p. 1)

SPDN: How does this report benefit installers?

BG: There is no longer a need for timeconsuming hand measurements or hours spent creating a drawing in CAD. EagleView’s Solar Report is available in a CAD format and features a grid overlay of 1’ x 1’ squares. The diagrams provide the ability for solar installers to accurately calculate material needs and overall positioning of solar equipment.

SPDN: Tell us about the industry’s acceptance and use of the reports.

pre-check approval, the SolarDock solution solves the greatest number of climate and engineering challenges, and: Maximizes annual kWh power production—10-20 percent more kWh/year than low-angle flat mounting.

Dramatically increases installation

potential to be successful. In addition to this belief in our services we hire experts in our field with experience in power project delivery. We mission is to assist our clients in managing their assets, products, services, systems and employees. Bureau Veritas offers a comprehensive services portfolio that contributes to risk prevention and performance improvement that benefits our clients.

SPDN: What tools does your company offer its clients in order to distinguish yourselves from the competition?

KW: We have created Green VISION (View Intelligent Submittals Improved

BG: The response has been phenomenal.

EagleView began providing roof measurement reports to the construction and insurance industries in 2008. With the growth in solar popularity and the addition of many state incentive programs our customers began asking for a report to help with solar installations.

Our Solar Report was released in 2010 and has seen steady growth in the market.

One of our goals is to provide a reliable source of accurate information to the contractor. The report not only saves them time but provides critical information they need to accurately assess a project’s potential solar value.

OPTIMIZING COMMUNICATIONS WITH WIRELESS FOR THE UTILITY AND COMMERCIAL SCALE SOLAR POWER INDUSTRY Solar Power Daily News

By Bret Dianich, Technologies, Inc.

FreeWave

The same wireless distributed intelligence networks used in many utility applications, such as distribution automation, are available to solar power generation facilities whether utility scale or commercial scale plants. With solar power generation, systems often can benefit from the cost savings of wireless versus fiber optic cable. Unlike fiber, which has both an expensive and time-consuming process to install, wireless technologies are easily deployed, dependable solutions. Wireless technologies can support all types of solar power generation models from the solar troughs, dishes, tracking photovoltaic, fixed photovoltaic, heliostats and etcetera, delivering valuable management and operations infor-

mation directly to the user’s desktop.

Wireless distributed intelligence communication systems―composed of industrially hardened radios, like FreeWave Technologies―offer several advantages that some of the other options do not. When looking at distributed intelligence networks, users can find an ideal monitoring and tracking solution for solar power generation because they are based on pre-programmed logic. A distributed intelligence system can monitor specific parts of a field. In fact, the O&M team can isolate the SCADA and commands down to a specific string of solar panels. This is ideal for monitoring and tracking applications, especially when they are remotely located. A centralized intelligence system, on the other hand, is Continued on Page 100

productivity—up to 40 percent more SolarDock in one year than a typical mounting system.

and water.

As real estate veterans, SolarDock is able to anticipate and solve construction issues, and customers enjoy comprehensive support from engineering design to installation. With more than 250 successful projects and 20 megawatts installed in 30 states and worldwide, SolarDock is recognized among leading integrators and distributors as the proven choice in flat-roof solar mounting systems.

Visit SolarDock at Solar Power International, booth 5309, or for more information, visit www.solardock.com.

Online Notification) a procedure and infrastructure for the electronic submittal of plans and documents. Utilizing electronic documents for plan and document submittals decreases the time and cost associated with printing multiple copies and the transport and delivery of paper documents.

program has eliminated printing, shipping and non productive overhead that have totaled over $170K per project. It is also customizable to the needs of each client and presents a secure place to archive project data. There will be no more printing multiple large documents for plan review on any of our projects.

This approach has offered more than a green solution to project management; it has helped us and the companies that we serve to keep up with the fast pace of review and reporting processes.

Installers and end-users get immediate and long-term cost savings through: Intelligent product design— Standardized parts, few components and simple assembly result in lower labor and equipment cost.

Roof-friendly features—protecting the panel, roof surface and warranty.

Lower maintenance costs—patented design encapsulates wiring, sheds snow

SPDN: How has this program been beneficial to your clients?

KW: The Green VISION Program, using BVnet, has saved approximately 46 trees per power project as well as eliminating shipping miles that produce toxic emissions into the air. The Green VISION SPDN: Does the report offer any additional features?

BG: The reports have turned out to be a great sales tool for our customers. In addition to the CAD files, the report is delivered as a pdf file and provides the option for the installer to customize a cover page with his or her logo and contact information. This is a powerful tool for use in the sales presentation to the property owner.

The report has a very professional appearance and features a 3D model of the building, five color photographs and diagrams.

EagleView also includes a second report specifically meant to be left with the property owner for a lasting impression.

Visit Bureau Veritas at booth 6311 at Solar Power International or online at www.us.bureauveritas.com.

SPDN: What does the future look like for the solar reports?

BG: We believe that the next generation of solar reports will be industry-changing. They will include interactive tools for panel placement and for creating real time energy production estimates. They will be very useful for making presentations to prospects. Solar Power International attendees can learn more about the latest enhancements at EagleView’s booth 435.

For more information visit EagleView Technologies at booth 435 or online at www.eagleview.com.

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Solar Power Daily News Gen/Tran (Con’t. from p. 1)

transfer switch to enable consumers to safely feed power from a portable generator to a home or business. Over the years, we’ve steadily introduced new products to expand our line, and today we offer a broad line of manual and fully automatic transfer switches and accessories for generator applications up to 50 kilowatts. Gen/Tran® products are available at national home centers, electrical wholesalers, power equipment dealers and online retailers.

SPDN: What brings you to the Solar show?

GTC: Throughout our history, we’ve talked to many people who need backup power, but aren’t able to install a generator for various reasons. They might live in a condo or high rise building. They might live in a community with strict association restrictions. Or, their office/business space may not be conducive for installing a traditional generator. Folks depending on TÜV Rheinland (Con’t. from p. 1)

American facility of its kind, and was heavily involved in developing many of today’s major standards. I feel our history and our place as part of an extensive global network that includes five other laboratories worldwide makes us stand out.

SPDN: What do you anticipate to be your greatest challenge in the year ahead?

RB: I feel we are well poised to meet whatever challenges may arise. I suppose a sudden market slowdown could be challenging, as TÜV Rheinland is heavily invested in the overall global solar marketplace.

However, since we offer accreditations and marks for all the global markets, a specific slowdown in activity for one region or another is not as significant as long as the market as a whole remains vibrant.

SPDN: Are you introducing any new services in the next year?

RB: TÜV Rheinland is very active with regard to developing new solar services.

Our teams are highly involved in both standards development activity and scientific research for applied technologies.

A major focus for us right now involves Long Term Reliability (LTR) of solar technology. We all know that the more Intertek (Con’t. from p. 1)

held in San Francisco, California, from September 15-16, 2011.

The APEC Solar Technology and Conformance Initiative brings together public and private sector representatives from across the APEC region and North America to discuss ways of improving trade for solar power technology through standards development and conformity assessment services. Through this initiative, discussions will be held to determine the best ways to help eliminate trade barriers which may slow production, impact product quality or increase costs along the solar product supply chain. Intertek has supported manufacturers, owners and operators in the solar

sensitive, at-home medical devices need cleaner power than some generators can deliver. In an emergency, consumers just want to power the basics. Business owners want to minimize any productivity and revenue losses. We’re introducing the Silent Generator™ Power System to fill a need in the backup power market that has not previously been met.

SPDN: Tell me about the Silent Generator.

GTC: The Silent Generator™ Power System is a battery-powered unit that delivers 4,000 watts of instantaneous power in the event of a power outage. It’s ideal for office computers and servers, refrigeration, medical equipment and other applications where reliable power is critical. When connected to the grid, the Silent Generator™ is constantly recharging so it’s ready for the next power disruption. It works indoors, releases no harmful emissions and is portable, so you can take it with you when you move. It can be recharged with most any renewable power source such as solar,

accurately we can develop specific analysis techniques the better the market will be for solar products.

SPDN: What are the most difficult challenges facing the solar power industry today?

RB: That is a big question. I suppose if one looks at classical data the biggest challenge would have to be Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE), or the cost-per-watt-installed against other sources of supply. That has always been the major factor that bubbles to the top of any major market comparative summary. That said, I’ve always been optimistic toward human ingenuity solving tough problems. I have been fortunate enough to have experienced some of the market rush days of Silicon Valley, which gave me a good case for optimism when I see the amount of brainpower currently dedicated to resolving some of the sticky issues for wider solar adoption.

SPDN:What services are your customers calling for the most?

RB: Again, LTR of solar technology is a big focus right now. Another service that is gaining a lot of traction is the execution of the Sandia Model for Insolation modeling. We’ve seen some good uptake in both of these services from manufacturers trying to understand key elements

industry with a broad range of services, including safety certification, performance, reliability, and bankability testing.

Intertek has an established presence in North America, Europe and Asia and is committed to finding solutions to facilitate trade by working closely with companies located in the APEC member economies who manufacture or support solar product intended for export around the world. During the APEC Solar Technology Standards Conformance Initiative, Intertek’s Dr. Paul Robusto, Business Development Manager, Solar Energy Products, contributed to the discussion during a panel on “Facilitating Solar Technology Deployment through Conformity Assessment.” Dr. Robusto addressed standard development, includ-

wind or hydro, and qualifies for Federal and state tax credits, significantly reducing the initial investment.

SPDN: How long will the unit run?

GTC: Depending on what you have connected, and how much power is being drawn, our Silent Generator™ could last a few hours or a few days. If the unit is running at 50 percent load at a constant rate, the unit will run for 24 hours without recharging. But, if you’re just running a home office and some lights, it could last four to five days.

SPDN: Who are your target customers for this product?

GTC: Medical, small business and residential. Businesses have an easier time justifying the investment in backup power because the payback is faster. Yet only 39 percent of small businesses have provision for backup power, though they depend on electricity for emergency lighting, servers, phones, cash registers and alarms. Small of their products performance.

SPDN: Please describe who your typical customers are.

RB:A typical TÜV Rheinland customer in this market is a module, component, inverter, or solar system manufacturer taking a new product from its design phase to development and market release. This constitutes the greatest bulk of our business. Additionally, some of the largest industry material suppliers are asking us to perform significant testing in our labs.

Power plant manufacturers, installers and financiers are also important users of our technologies and services.

SPDN: How do you see the next 12 to 18 months in terms of the economy, sales, technology and product evolution as they relate to solar energy?

RB: Our expectation for this stage of the market lifecycle is that there will be a contraction in the number of manufacturers involved with panel production. We are optimistic that the solar market itself will continue to grow, but we feel some consolidation among the lower tier module suppliers is in the forward path for module production. Conversely, we anticipate Balance of Systems (B.O.S.) equipment providers to expand and increase the number and

ing the new IEC and UL standards impacting Flat Panel and Concentrated Photovoltaic Module testing and certification.

Intertek will also be a key contributor to the next APEC Solar Technology Standards Conformance Initiative which will be held in Taipei, Taiwan on October 12-13, 2011. This Initiative will focus on photovoltaic performance and reliability testing. “It is important that we work with manufacturers across APEC member economies to provide access to the latest requirements in PV performance and reliability testing in order to meet the growing demands of investors in the solar market” said Sunny Rai, Vice President - Renewables, Intertek. Mr. Rai will speak during the conference in

71

medical facilities are required to have backup power for treatment rooms, refrigeration for pharmaceuticals and specimen samples as well as lighting. Tech-savvy consumers who want to stay in touch need power for electronic devices such as cell phones and tablet computers.

SPDN: What makes it unique from other offerings?

GTC: Certain key features distinguish our unit from similar offerings. First, our Silent Generator™ System delivers true sine wave power. Many other UPS systems run a modified sine wave, which is not tolerated by sensitive electronics. Next, the unique design of our heavy-duty cabinet allows for proper ventilation, and our premium batteries carry a 10-year warranty. Lastly, we use GFCI-protected, medical-grade receptacles for safe connection to appliances.

Each system is tested prior to shipping.

To learn more, visit www.gen-tran.com or visit booth 539. types of products they bring to market. As for emerging technologies and product innovation, as a long-time participant in the solar market we have seen a lot of ideas come and go as the market has grown.

Given our long history in the market, we are very excited about some of the recent advances we’ve seen. Probably the best word I can think of to describe what I feel the future holds would be “bullish.”

Mr. Bozicevich is the Vice President of Business Development for TÜV Rheinland Photovoltaic Testing Laboratory, where he directs and oversees North American operations for solar technologies. Mr. Bozicevich has held management and executive management posts for a variety of Silicon Valley startup ventures focused around high-end capital equipment utilized in nanotechnology process environments.

Additionally, he has held executive management operational posts at various multinational companies specializing in high throughput―high volume production automation. He is a graduate of Michigan Technological University with a B.S.E.E. For more information, write to 2210 South Roosevelt Street, Tempe, Arizona 85282, call 480-966-1700 or email robizicevich@us.tuv.com.

Taiwan on the topic of gGlobal PV Material and Reliability Standards and Programs” where he will address the latest reliability, durability and bankability testing requirements to support long field product life times of 25 years.

Intertek’s expertise in the renewable sector, including solar, wind and energy storage technology will assist local manufacturers navigate the global solar market requirements. As an IECEE Certification Body Testing Laboratory (CBTL), Intertek’s IEC issued test reports can be used to obtain certification marks for up to 54 countries including Japan, China, United Kingdom, Australia, and most European countries.

To learn more, visit www.intertek.com or stop by booth 2742.

ANGSTROM SCIENCES, INC.: WHO WE ARE AND WHAT WE BRING TO THE TABLE 82

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

In 1988, Angstrom Sciences was founded

by Mark Bernick. Mark founded Angstrom Sciences on the premise that the thin film deposition community was desperately in need of a better “mousetrap.” In conjunction with an effort to also provide the thin film community with a highly responsive materials supplier, Angstrom enjoyed early success

with magnetrons and materials supporting room temperature superconductivity research. Developing unique corporate IP focused on tailoring magnetic fields to optimize the sputter deposition process along with novel cooling technology, Angstrom enjoyed success across a spectrum of product offerings that included a full range of circular and linear mag-

LOCHINVAR CORPORATION MERGER BRINGS NEW SOLAR THERMAL PRODUCTS TO NORTH AMERICA Two Market Leaders, One Strong Brand In 2010, Tennessee-based Lochinvar Corporation―a leading manufacturer of high-efficiency water heaters, boilers and pool heaters―and Austria-based TiSUN―a global leader and specialist in solar heating technology―entered into a partnership which brings technology and innovation in solar thermal products to North America. The joint efforts of these two companies offer new opportunities for energy savings.

Solar Thermal Systems 101 The basics of a Lochinvar/TiSUN solar thermal system are very straightforward.

1) Use a solar thermal flat plate collector to harvest the sun’s energy.

Transfer the solar thermal energy into a dedicated pre-heat tank or heat exchanger.

Major Components

Air Liquide (Con’t. from p. 1)

United States, where renewable portfolio standards* (RPS) have been established in several states as well as some federal procurement contracts, China and Japan, where nationwide feed-in-tariffs are now in place, and will soon emerge in India and the MENA. The rapid reduction in manufacturing costs is now enabling solar installations to take off in these new, high growth markets. Securing access to photovoltaic demand in these regions is therefore key for solar industry players.

In this context, Air Liquide is strengthening its leadership in the solar photovoltaic industry by signing multiple long-term contracts with manufacturers located in high potential photovoltaic tenKsolar (Con’t. from p. 8)

the entire panel, or possibly from all panels in the string. However, that never happens with a RAIS module or in a ASYS (Con’t. from p. 18)

Traceability Functions complete the options list for this printer. The Windowsbased software interface is simple and

A Lochinvar/TiSUN solar thermal domestic water system consists of a collector, pump, differential controller, heat exchanger, expansion tank, air management, and tank storage. Although this sounds like quite a few components, the components found in a forced circulation solar thermal system are identical to those in a closed loop heating system.

After the collector and storage have been selected, responsibly incorporating the other key components ensures years of trouble free service. Proper pump sizing and flow, placement and sizing of an expansion tank, as well as sensors will all enhance the performance of the core group of components.

Solar Power Daily News netrons. During this time period, Angstrom became regarded as one of the world leaders in deposition technology focused on magnetron sputtering and became the principal supplier to many of the leading OEM system manufacturers.

In 2000, Angstrom initiated activities to broaden both the technical and commercial reach of its product lines. To address the needs of the semiconductor manufacturers who require large circular magnetrons with high material utilization and extraordinary uniformity, Angstrom developed a line of products that incorporate rotating magnet arrays. At the same time, recognizing the needs of the

large area coating producers, a series of retrofit modules were developed to improve the yield, utilization and performance of the planar magnetrons which dominated the industrial landscape at that time. These two activities have set the stage for the latest chapter in Angstrom’s history: developing robust, cylindrical magnetrons for the PV and flat panel display markets.

In 2006, Richard Newcomb joined Angstrom Sciences to lead the cylindrical magnetron program. Rich previously held key positions at Airco/BOCCT and

in mind, and all collectors in the line bear the OG100 certification by the SRCC. This certification lists the performance test data as well as materials used to construct the collector.

controller also has a slow-start feature that avoids pump pulsing which is beneficial on days that are overcast.

Solar Pump Stations Solar Pump Stations integrate several necessary solar components on a single chassis. This includes pump, differential controller, safety group (to include the relief valve), and a place to connect an expansion tank. As an added bonus, Lochinvar-TiSUN pump stations include an integral flow meter. This pre-packaged system performs all monitoring of tanks and collector temperatures as well as BTU metering.

Continued on Page 101

Solar Storage When designing a solar thermal system, one thing needs to be kept in mind. The sun does not shine 24-hours a day. Solar storage in commercial solar thermal systems is the key to maximizing the allowable harvested BTUs of energy that can be collected from the sun versus BTUs that must be purchased from the local utility.

There are several possibilities for transferring and storing this energy in the system.

System Accessories It has been said that, “the devil is in the details.” The performance and installation of a solar thermal system can be enhanced with the proper use of solar accessories. Since the Lochinvar/TiSUN offering includes a complete line of accessories, designers can specify a complete commercial solar thermal system utilizing a single source manufacturer.

Solar Collectors At the heart of every Lochinvar/TiSUN system is a solar thermal flat plate collector. Lochinvar/TiSUN collectors are constructed with performance and durability

Solar Control Integral to the pump station is the differential controller. This control can be purchased separately and paired with the supplied sensors and field supplied circulators to operate a variety of systems. The included SD card can perform data logging functions while also providing the installer the ability to pre-program the control prior to installation at the job site.

The Lochinvar/TiSUN differential

regions: • In the US, Stion has chosen the Group to supply electronic gases and related equipment for its new manufacturing facility in Mississippi. Stion is a manufacturer of high efficiency thin-film solar panels. In 2010, it formed a strategic partnership with TSMC, the world’s leading semiconductor foundry, diversifying into solar. The US is on track to install over 30GWp in photovoltaic power by 2020.

• In China, where the Group already supplies multiple leading solar companies, Air Liquide will supply a high volume of specialty gases and precursors, as well as associated Equipment & Installation, to the largest Silicon thin film manufacturer in South China.

China has set a new target of over

50GWp of installed photovoltaic power by 2020.

• In India, Air Liquide has been selected to supply high-volume carrier gases to the new Poly-Silicon and wafers manufacturing plant of a key business conglomerate. India has set a target of 20GWp of installed photovoltaic power by 2020.

• In Vietnam, Air Liquide has been selected to supply the new fabs of one of the world’s leading solar cell manufacturing companies in Ho Chi Minh City.

• In Morocco, Air Liquide signed a partnership agreement with MedZ to support the development of local manufacturing initiatives based on Silicon thin film technologies, as part of the national solar program’s ambition of reaching multiGW of installed solar power in the com-

RAIS Wave system because the RAIS WAVE system has parallel connections in the module and between modules, the entire system is internally redundant. If any part of the module production is dis-

rupted, the rest of the module and system remains unaffected. This resilience to incidental soiling also practically eliminates the need for frequent cleaning and maintenance of the system, thereby pro-

viding greater returns to the system owner.

Visit tenKsolar at Solar Power International booth 1307 or at www.tenksolar.com.

intuitive. The machine status and set-up parameters are all located on one screen.

Target applications include R&D as well as low to medium volume production.

With an initial set-up and change-over time

of <5min this machine is the choice of commercial and academic research labs as well as material suppliers world-wide.

With offices located in 40 countries and a staff of 50+ engineers working in R&D,

Application and Process Support; ASYS customers have the peace of mind of having local and 24hr support.

Visit www.asys-group.com or booth 5324 for more information.

For more information, visit www.Lochinvar.com or booth 3833 at the 2011 Solar Power International Show.

ing years.

As Francisco Martins, Vice-President World Business Line Electronics of the Air Liquide Group, stated: “These new contracts demonstrate the strength of Air Liquide’s solar offering in strategic and high-growth regions for this industry.

The photovoltaic activity is at the crossroads of and the Environment and requires High Tech solutions, three growth drivers for the Air Liquide Group.”

For more information, visit www.airliquide.com.

Portfolio Standards (RPS): Policy that requires electricity providers to obtain a minimum percentage of their power from renewable energy resources.

CHRISTOPHER ASSOCIATES: TAILORED SOLUTIONS FOR THE PHOTOVOLTAIC INDUSTRY

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Solar Power Daily News

Matthew Holzman, President of Christopher Associates, shares about his company.

SPDN: Tell our readers a little about your company. What’s your main line of business?

MH: Well, I am both the president of Christopher Associates, Inc., engineering and distribution firm serving the electronics and photovoltaic industries, as well as president of SEMA, the Solar OutBack Power (Con’t. from p. 1)

is a powerful solution engineered from the ground up to simplify design and installation of grid-interactive and standalone power systems. It allows designers and distributors to successfully achieve renewable energy independence and security.

Rugged reliability, in-field serviceability and first-rate customer service further minimizes “windshield time” for designers and installers, advancing OutBack’s reputation for “no hassle” problem solving and fast turnaround. The streamlined design and installation process also helps businesses manage inventory, sell more products and enjoy business growth.

“I’ve been able to trust OutBack Diamond Wire Technologies (Con’t. from p. 1)

er of capital equipment for the photovoltaics, semiconductor and sapphire industries. Like Meyer Burger, DMT has a long history in its core technology and strong commercial relationships. We’re based in Colorado Springs, Colo. with a global sales and applications presence.

Our main line of business is the manufacture and sale of diamond wire as well as other consumables used in cutting applications for the photovoltaic, semiconductor and sapphire industries.

SPDN: What would you say makes your company unique?

TD: There are several factors that make DMT unique. First, it’s synergy. With Meyer Burger’s global presence we have the opportunity to provide worldclass products and solutions across a broad product portfolio in the value chain. Second, with Meyer Burger’s incessant focus on reducing the Costof-Ownership (CoO) for our customers, we approach the technology and market from a unique angle. Meyer Burger’s philosophy isn’t just supplying a worldclass product, it’s centered on developing world-class solutions that drive the best cost-of-ownership equation for our customers. DMT is heavily invested in this vision.

SPDN: What was the most significant event or series of events affecting your company in the past year?

Engineering & Manufacturing Association. Christopher Associates has been one of the leading North American suppliers of materials and equipment for high technology manufacturing for more than 30 years. We find the best technology globally and then tailor solutions for our customer base of more than 1,000 manufacturers. We have an extensive engineering and technical support team as well as global logistics support.

company unique?

MH: We help our partners stay ahead of the technology and manufacturing curves and to remain competitive. By finding global solutions, we can provide the best technology at very competitive prices while maintaining a very high level of support.

SPDN: What was your program last year?

87

tions in materials and processes for our customers.

SPDN: Tell us about SEMA.

MH: Last year we held a meeting of engineers, managers and other stakeholders in the manufacturing and quality processes to form the Solar Engineering & Manufacturing Association. The solar industry has grown rapidly, and there are several associations that address certain niches, but none of them really address many of the manufacturing and engineering issues: best practices, quality standards, new technology or professional education, as examples. Since then, we have held a number of meetings featuring

SPDN: What would you say makes your

MH: In the past year, we have seen the North American solar industry finally begin to take off, and with it, a significant increase in our customer base as well as sales. We have added engineering and support staff, and have been able to develop a number of exciting new solu-

Power for years, and the Radian Series Inverter/Charger takes their product line, performance and reliability to a new level,” said David Katz, Founder and CTO of AEE Solar. “We’re already seeing significant demand for it, and expect that this line will help accelerate our sales and customer growth in the months to come.”

Because all products are engineered and manufactured in the U.S.A., availability and turnaround of needed parts and service is best-in-class. Additionally, the Radian Series is backed by OutBack Power’s 10-year history of quality and innovation in the renewable energy market and unparalleled customer support team.

Basic grid-tied systems can back power back to the utility from a renewable energy source, but only grid-interactive systems can power the load if the

grid fails. The Radian Series is unique in its ability to support large dynamic load variations without voltage spikes or sags.

From the perfect sunny day to the storm of the century—this system is built to carry the load. The Radian Series Inverter/Charger’s dual AC inputs also provide the flexibility to connect to the grid and recharge the batteries from a generator. Customers have a continuous power supply, even if emergency conditions last for an extended period of time.

The Radian Series offers grid-interactive and stand-alone capability in the same package. The grid-interactive solution combined with the ease of a basic grid-direct PV system integrates directly into standard home wiring. In addition, the modular, parallel architecture combined with OutBack’s robust HUB

Communication Manager provides the ability to build a system from eight to 80kW—enough to power even larger loads.

Additional features include: simplified system setup via a powerful programming wizard, optional integrated balance of system load center for easy installation, field serviceable modular design, and both 12V AUX output as well as programmable dry contact relay.

The Radian Series is an integrated power appliance that does it all.

Integration means simplicity—the new generation of renewable energy has arrived.

For more information, visit OutBack Power in booth 701 at Solar Power International and online at www.outbackpower.com.

TD: We went through a very significant growth period this year, and this dominated our thinking. As we brought on new capacity – which went up by a factor of five from a year ago – we had to ensure that we had the talent, processes and infrastructure to absorb the growth while continuing to be responsive to our customers.

such as ours. Therefore, we’ve invested significantly in developing our culture to bring Lean and Six Sigma to the forefront of our paradigm to serve the customer.

product and process solutions that maximize their capital investment.

SPDN: How well did the company adapt to the increased volume?

TD: Naturally, this creates some challenges that have to be thought about very carefully. For instance, we were building and installing new lines each month, which is a significant logistical, facilitization and qualification challenge. The obvious next challenge was bringing on new people. For a few months in 2011 we were the fastest-growing manufacturing company west of the Mississippi. So candidate selection, on-boarding and training programs were critical. Thankfully, we have an excellent human resource and training team that was able to deliver outstanding new-hire talent.

SPDN: What types of quality and improvement programs have you implemented?

TD: We’re committed to a Lean Six Sigma way of life. Lean is focused on elimination of waste, and Six Sigma is focused on the elimination of variation.

Both of these methods are extremely important in a continuous flow operation

SPDN: What do you anticipate to be your greatest challenge in the year ahead?

TD: The global economy is significantly on our minds. There is significant uncertainty in the private and public sectors, which makes it challenging to accurately forecast events. This will be a challenge.

Even so, you plan for success, so the challenge is to do today what we will regret not having done when the global economy stabilizes. This is systems thinking, like process documentation, characterization and product performance measures. It’s driving a Lean environment and then pushing headlong into Six Sigma. It’s people development, supply chain optimization and working on being a good social citizen. And of course, it’s building stronger relationships with our customers, helping them overcome their challenges and deploying our strategy to become the supplier of choice in our markets.

SPDN: Where is your current product emphasis?

TD: Offering a high quality wafering wire that provides a substantial cost-ofownership improvement over traditional cutting technologies. But we’re also very focused on the broader question of solving customer problems by providing

Continued on Page 101

SPDN: How do you see the next year in terms of economy, sales, technology, and product evolution?

TD: The jury is certainly still out on the economy. The debt situation coupled with anemic GDP growth in Europe and North America is certainly worthy of concern. There is a great deal of uncertainty, which increases risk. Therefore, managing the risk is critical, while simultaneously keeping one eye on the opportunities created by market conditions.

Because of the value converting to diamond wire offers, we are moderately decoupled with a general market decline.

SPDN: What is your outlook in general for this product line?

TD: Very positive. Imagine that you’re running a capital intensive factory, and someone offers you an opportunity to nearly double your capacity without adding equipment. That’s a compelling ROI equation for any factory manager.

Everyone is interested in driving down costs and, in particular, getting PV products to within grid parity range. The entire value chain needs to drive costs lower and lower. Converting to diamond wire is a critical element in that equation.

For more information, visit Diamond Materials at Solar Power International booth 5156.

WALMART ANNOUNCES PLAN TO INSTALL SOLAR PANELS ON UP TO 60 ADDITIONAL STORES IN CALIFORNIA WITH SOLARCITY Solar Power Daily News

Walmart’s solar power initiative will total more than 130 stores by the end of 2013; Adds hundreds of jobs through partnership with SolarCity

ric tons of carbon dioxide emissions per year, which is the equivalent of taking approximately 4,100 cars off the road; and • Provide 20 to 30 percent of each facility’s total electric needs.

Walmart has initiated a plan to install solar panels on up to 60 additional stores in California with SolarCity, expanding the Walmart’s solar portfolio to more than 75 percent of its stores in the state, making California the first state in the nation where Walmart has devoted this level of commitment to renewable energy.

“Walmart has undertaken one of the most ambitious solar initiatives of any company in the U.S., and tripled the scale of its initial project with us,” added Lyndon Rive, SolarCity’s CEO. “Walmart is setting an example that far more companies in the U.S. can follow; it is possible for many businesses to pay less for solar power than they currently pay for electricity.”

“California presents a great opportunity for Walmart to make significant progress toward our sustainability goals by installing solar power on more than 130 store rooftops throughout the state,” said Kim Saylors-Laster, Walmart vice president of energy. “Walmart has reduced energy expenses by more than a million dollars through our solar program, allowing us to pass these savings on to our customers in the form of everyday low prices.”

When complete, Walmart’s total solar commitment in California is expected to: • Generate up to 70 million kilowatt hours of clean, renewable energy per year, which is the equivalent of powering more than 5,400 homes; • Avoid producing more than 21,700 met-

“Walmart’s effort to expand and accelerate its solar power initiative program here in California demonstrates their commitment to sustainability. These kinds of projects create jobs, reduce costs for businesses by lowering power bills, and protect the environment,” said Mary D. Nichols, Chair of the California Air Resources Board. “We appreciate Walmart’s leadership and encourage other businesses to follow Walmart’s lead.”

“Walmart’s commitment to renewable energy in California is commendable,” said Gwen Ruta, vice president for corporate partnerships at Environmental Defense Fund. “These projects are a winwin for the environment and our economy, and help move our country toward a cleaner energy future.”

SolarCity will own, install and maintain the new solar power systems. The company has added more than 500 new full-time jobs since it initiated its first Walmart solar project.

“Our solar efforts in California have proven to be a great way for Walmart to build our renewable energy program,” said Mack Wyckoff, senior manager of renewable energy at Walmart. “We are confident that we will continue to grow our solar energy program in the U.S. and around the world because of the initial success we have had in California.”

For more information about SolarCity, call 888-765-2489, visit them online at www.solarcity.com or stop by booth 715.

An upstart, Canadian-based balance of systems supplier is revolutionizing solar power conversion technology.

SPARQ Systems Inc. has developed a novel photovoltaic microinverter that lowers the costs of installation and ownership of PV technology to households and small businesses while also dramatically increasing the energy efficiency and reliability of PV systems.

With these differentiators, SPARQ is also able to target a disruptive new market: the integrated AC module. A plugand-play technology, the integrated AC module eliminates complicated wiring, junction boxes and extra installation steps, requiring simply a panel, a power cord and a plug. Connecting directly to the power grid, SPARQ microinverters enable the user’s solar module to harness the clean power of the sun.

The uniqueness of the SPARQ technology is found in the power and

control circuitry required to interface PV modules with the power grid.

SPARQ’s innovative approach uses fewer conversion stages, lossless switching, no unreliable electrolytic capacitors and optical-isolators, transformer isolation and elegant digital control techniques. This allows for a microinverter design that has very high power density, ultra-high reliability and higher energy production.

SPARQ believes that small is beautiful. Fewer parts mean reduced size, weight and cost. SPARQ’s systems cost less and return investment sooner―in eight years or less, compared to an average of 13 years with other systems.

Savings are further enhanced through government Feed-in-Tariff and tax incentive programs.

For more information, call 1-613533-6000 x78238, or email mbeaudette@sparqsys.com.

SPARQ SYSTEMS INC.: SIMPLER, SMARTER SOLAR

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

89

AEG POWER SOLUTIONS BRINGS PROTECT PV.500 SOLAR INVERTER TO THE U.S. Solar Power Daily News

AEG Power Solutions (AEG PS), a global provider of innovative premium power electronics, has launched its high-efficiency, full-featured utility-scale inverter to the North American market. Launched in Europe and Asia in April, the Protect PV.500 Inverter – with an efficiency greater than 98 percent and flexible grid management features – is ideal for utility-scale deployment.

“As grid requirements vary from project to project, the Protect PV.500 is designed so that changes can be made easily,” said Kaivon Mortazavi, Vice President of North America for AEG PS. “With four different ways to provide reactive power control, adjustable settings for Low Voltage Fault Ride Through, provisionable ramp parameters for start and

COOPER INDUSTRIES BRINGS HISTORY OF INNOVATION & RELIABILITY TO INDUSTRY

Rob Taylor, Chief Marketing Officer, Cooper Industries, tells us about their current product emphasis.

SPDN: What sets Cooper Industries company apart from the competition?

RT: For more than 177 years, Cooper

Industries has served as a brand leader and trusted provider of innovative and cost-efficient electrical solutions.

Through our extensive commitment to new product development, operational excellence and unparalleled customer loyalty and service, we continue to provide our customers with a level of inno-

SPARQ SYSTEMS, INC. LAUNCHES PV CLEANTECH PARTNERSHIP WITH SANMINA New solar microinverter design significantly increases product lifespan and reliability.

SPARQ Systems, Inc., a Canadian global provider of solar microinverters, is pleased to announce that it has partnered with Sanmina SCI Corp. (Nasdaq: SANM), a leading manufacturer of electronic and mechanical products. Sanmina will produce SPARQ’s new microinverters and communications hubs for solar photovoltaic systems for the consumer market.

SPARQ has developed an efficient and low-cost microinverter solution that produces more AC power from PV panels for longer periods under lower light and partial shading conditions. The design eliminates unreliable components, which increases the lifespan of the Solarbuzz (Con’t. from p. 1)

thereafter by the Self Generation program. The former stimulated small and primarily residential installations, the latter small commercial projects. A similar distributed generation program followed soon after in New Jersey.

Phase Two lasted just over a decade.

This phase was driven by a highly fragmented residential end-market in conjunction with the proliferation of a commercial segment dominated by system sizes up to 1 MW. Phase Two also resulted in the start-up of a large number of dynamic companies servicing the downstream U.S. market. The primary drivers of the market were distributed generation programs in California and New Jersey.

microinverters threefold, giving homeowners up to 25 years of performance.

The solar microinverters will be produced for global markets at SanminaSCI’s worldwide regional facilities in San Jose, Calif., and at the company’s Ottawa, Ontario facility for Canadian markets.

“Sanmina-SCI’s core strengths include a focus on alternative energy technologies,” says Praveen Jain, Chief Executive Officer of SPARQ Systems.

“They have the expertise, the infrastructure and the track record to meet all of our product needs as we move into fullscale production. And Sanmina-SCI’s multi-continental manufacturing presence is well-suited for SPARQ, in producing the microinverters to meet local content requirements globally. We are delighted to be working with this quality-

The clear goals of these programs were to yield economically self-sustaining markets by their conclusion. Depending on the definition of grid parity, California is on schedule to reach that goal three years earlier than planned. The ending of the CSI funding has coincided with what can probably be considered the most remarkable year for pricing in the history of the US solar market.

Phase Three started last year. It was triggered by the need for utilities to meet renewable energy targets set out in a multitude of variably-structured Renewable Portfolio Standards. These regulations have been combined with the new pricing environment that now delivers solar electricity to utilities in the 10-12 cents per KW-hr range, with the assistance of an

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

97

stop operations, and remote power control, its flexibility is unmatched.”

The Protect PV.500 has an operating direct current (DC) input range of 400 to 1000 V and a rated AC power output of 510 kVA. It is also available as part of a fully integrated 1 MW equipment shelter with two Protect PV.500 inverters, communications equipment, MV transformer and switchgear.

Derived from the highly successful PV.250, the Protect PV.500 features a power stack with advanced-design measuring and control technology. The device control is fully digital and communication-enabled, so parameters can also be

monitored and controlled remotely via the Internet. AEG PS products include such features as low-loss chokes, highquality components and double coating of all printed circuit boards (PCBs) making them reliable for decades to come.

Over the past 60 years, AEG Power Solutions (AEG PS) has provided mission critical power control and power systems to selected end markets such as power generation, oil and gas and the solar energy industry.

For more information, please stop by Solar Power International booth 254, call 877-315-4584 or email AEG Power Solutions at solarsales@aegps.com.

vation and support that is unmatched by our competitors. In fact, Cooper’s experience in the electrical arena consists of a robust range of solar products, including standard and custom panel support systems, cable management, power management and enclosure solutions. Our history of innovation and expertise continues to set us apart from competitors as we provide quality products that meet the industry’s need for flexible, durable and long-lasting solar products.

RT: For solar project installations, Cooper’s emphasis and expertise lies in the balance of system components. We currently offer a range of solar mounting, cable management, power management and circuit management and protection products. This includes a set of standard and custom engineered solutions for mounting solar PV panels in ground, commercial roof and open structure applications. Our combiner boxes provide the housing to combine and connect the conductors from several arrays or solar

SPDN: Where is Cooper’s current product emphasis?

focused organization.”

“We’re committed to helping the clean technology sector grow to its full potential. Partnering with companies like SPARQ to bring innovative new products to market is important to Sanmina-SCI’s overall clean technology strategy,” says Tom Clawson, Executive Vice President of Sanmina-SCI’s Industrial Markets.

“We have brought hundreds of highly complex products to market and this deep knowledge of new product introductions enables us to bring products like SPARQ’s new microinverters to market quickly and efficiently.”

“We are very pleased to bring this Canadian innovation to global markets, enabling small businesses, consumers and manufacturers to reap the benefits of this highly reliable and efficient renewable energy technology,” says Randall North, Chief Operating Officer of SPARQ Systems.

Continued on Page 100

able, lightweight and compact, giving the user faster return on investment and increased flexibility. The company is based in Kingston, Ontario.

About SPARQ Systems, Inc. SPARQ Systems, Inc. is the global enabler of integrated AC modules.

SPARQ microinverters are highly reli-

About Sanmina-SCI Sanmina-SCI Corporation is a leading electronics contract manufacturer serving the fastest-growing segments of the global Electronics Manufacturing Services (EMS) market.

Recognized as a technology leader, Sanmina-SCI provides end-to-end manufacturing solutions, delivering superior quality and support to OEMs primarily in the communications, defense and aerospace, industrial and semiconductor systems, medical, multimedia, enterprise computing and storage, automotive and clean technology sectors. Sanmina-SCI has facilities strategically located in key regions throughout the world. More information regarding the company is available at http://www.sanmina-sci.com.

For more information, please visit SPARQ Systems, Inc.go to www.sparqsys.com, email info@sparqsys.com or call 1-613-533-3438.

important Federal Investment Tax credit.

Nonetheless, this pricing was unthinkable even 18 months ago. As a result, many utilities are increasing their RFP sizes and their issuance frequency. This new commercial equation has resulted in a US project pipeline that has now reached nearly 25 GW. Phase Three is also characterized by an increase in “solar active” states.

During Phase Two, California and New Jersey led the nation in solar projects with 80 percent of the national total.

Utility engagement has changed this picture. The top six state pipelines are California, Arizona, Nevada, Texas, New Jersey, and New Mexico; in total, 44 states now contribute to the pipeline.

Utility segment project development

activity is now evident across 35 states.

Utility rate bases, access to private capital, and solar-friendly regulations will ultimately determine the pace of growth during this phase and, in particular, how quickly 25 GW of the project development work turns into reality. The delivery of just a small proportion of these will secure enormous growth for the solar market in the US. Ultimately, it will be clear that 2011’s painful price cuts laid the foundation for tomorrow’s (solar) electric rate of growth.

This article is based on the Solarbuzz United States Deal Tracker.

For more information, visit www.solarbuzz.com or on Twitter, @Solarbuzz. Global solar energy market research and analysis since 2001.

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Solar Power Daily News AGA (Con’t. from p. 34)

free longevity, sustainability, and low life-cycle cost, but also for durability, aesthetics, and low initial cost – hot-dip galvanizing will ensure your project shines for generations.

About the American Galvanizers Association (AGA) The American Galvanizers Association (AGA) is a non-profit trade association established in 1935 to support the afterfabrication hot-dip galvanizing industry.

For more than 75 years, the AGA has provided the specifying community technical assistance on specification, design, Bosch Solar Energy (Con’t. from p. 39)

standard solar cells. Enhanced weak light performance is also achieved through application of high precision laser technology for edge isolation. Hence, solar modules with these cells yield proportionately more output under weak light incidence and increased ambient temperatures, thus increasing the annual energy yield.

Bosch’s latest modules are expected to hit the market in the first half of 2012.

Inovateus Solar (Con’t. from p. 66)

panels for the project.

As the project integrator, Inovateus Solar also called upon several other key partner suppliers, all of whom either donated their products, labor or deeply discounted them for this one-of-a-kind university demonstration. Shoals Technologies in Portland, Tenn. provided its combiner boxes. Californiabased SMA America, the U.S. subsidiary of SMA Solar Technology AG in Germany, supplied the inverters.

“SMA America was thrilled to work with Inovateus Solar on such an exciting project,” said Jurgen Krehnke, President and General Manager of SMA America. “Because it provides a hands-on learning opportunity while reducing the school’s power consumption and carbon footprint, this solar installation further elevates Notre Dame among academic universities.”

Inovateus Solar donated the services of Midland Engineering Company to physically install the panels over the EPDM roof, and Koontz-Wagner Electric Company to provide its power generation and distribution expertise to the project. Both these companies are based in South Bend.

“We gathered our local resources and decided to do the job as a donation to the University. Our contribution and the generous donations of our partners made the project possible,” JP von Rahl, Inovateus Solar’s Project Manager explains. “Notre Dame is a prestigious University that we knew would benefit for our solar integration expertise. Not only will the installation generate free energy to the university for over 25 years, it provides the ND alumni a fine example of Inovateus Solar’s installation capabilities that could be applied to alumni owned businesses and facilities anywhere.”

“This is our first job with Inovateus Solar,” said Gregory R.

performance, painting over galvanizing, and any other galvanizing topic. The AGA has a number of free tools (publications, continuing education seminars) available for specifiers to learn about how hot-dip galvanizing protects steel and to help you specify galvanized steel for your next project. Visit www.galvanizeit.org or www.galvanizedpower.com for more information.

To learn more about how the natural, renewable, and durable zinc of the hotdip galvanized coating will ensure renewable solar power can be generation without interruptions or impact to the environment, stop by the AGA booth 3952.

With its distinctive product offering and advanced cell technology, Bosch Solar Energy is poised to take the North American market by storm, bringing its customers a whole new level of performance.

Bosch Solar Energy will be exhibiting its products at Solar Power International, Booth 5115, Hall D. For more information, please visit www.bosch-solarenergy.com or call 650356-3100.

Seiss, manager of service operations for Midland Engineering. “They have a great reputation, not only in the Midwest, but also nationally. We look forward to working together on more projects in the future. They are very organized and had a plan to execute all the systems being installed.”

Erin Hafner, programs manager for The Office of Sustainability at the University of Notre Dame, said the project is closely aligned with the school’s sustainability strategy in that the renewable energy generated will be carbon-free and directly support the goal of reducing the University’s carbon footprint. The power generated by the installation is equivalent to the energy needed to power two homes―about 15,000 kW hours per year.

“The solar installation also supports the University’s research mission,” Hafner added, “by providing a monitoring system for faculty and students to gather and analyze real-time data on outputs of the system.”

Inovateus Solar has extensive experience in helping colleges and educational institutions with the integration and installation of solar power. From large solar installations at Grand Valley State University near Grand Rapids, Mich., and the first net-zero school in Richardsville, Ky, to smaller educational installs such as Love Creek Nature Center in nearby Berrien Springs, Mich., Inovateus Solar understands the critical nature of solar power engineering for research and sustainable energy edification.

For more information Contact Inovateus Solar toll-free at 877-876Solar (76527) or 574-485-1400, fax 574-485-1419, email info@inovateussolar.com, or visit them online at www.inovateussolar.com.

Stop by booth 831 and visit Inovateus Solar at Solar Power International.

Angstrom (Con’t. from p. 82)

Applied Films (which subsequently became the PV division of Applied Materials), and brought to Angstrom Sciences key process know-how and large-area coating expertise. Coming from a production environment, Rich knew first hand all of the attributes that a robust cylindrical magnetron would possess and, with an eye towards that, Rich developed the highly acclaimed Onyx Revolution®. Extensive field trials at multiple customer sites over the past 18 months have validated the superiority of Angstrom’s cylindrical magnetron technology. In all cases, higher material utilizations and enhanced deposition efficiency have been observed and documented when compared to our competition. These benefits are substantial and have been the driving force behind Angstrom’s success with this product Christopher Associates (Con’t. from p. 87)

industry experts. We have a very active technical committee run by Jasbir Bath, and we recently held our first standards and engineering technology training sessions, which were very successful.

SPDN: It sounds as if you’re making quite a bit of progress.

MH: Yes. Believe it or not, the statistical data base on long-term reliability is limited, and, as they are finding in Germany, there are a number of issues related to modules and systems that have been inadequately addressed. We feel that SEMA can make a real contribution to the longterm success of the solar industry SPDN: Back to your business. How do you see the industry this year?

MH: North America seems to be the bright spot right now. We are seeing Chinese module manufacturers bleeding and cutting prices, but a number of North American manufacturing facilities are coming on line rapidly and are geared for a higher level of service and support to their customers. This may be the key to their success.

In addition, with rising costs in China and the savings on shipping, the North American industry will be able to compete more closely.

SPDN: And your own business?

MH: It has been growing rapidly. We represent several of the largest Asian materials and equipment manufacturers, who have quietly become some of the largest suppliers in the industry. These include Tonsan sealants, Jolywood backsheet, HUETTINGER (Con’t. from p. 100)

conductors makes accurate control of the power supply critical. The machine‘s output power has to be able to be measured and controlled precisely. To guarantee this at a higher load, HUETTINGER implemented a higher signal processing resolution in the machine’s control system. This means that the measuring instruments in the power supply can

101

line.

Recognizing that cathodes are just part of a broader system-based solution, Frank Zimone came on board in October of 2009. Frank previously ran operation/engineering for a nanotechnology start-up and was at Denton Vacuum for 17 years leading that organization’s efforts to grow into a world-wide systems supplier for thin film deposition tools.

Frank brought a unique system-based approach to the company and a wealth of relevant application engineering, technical leadership, and project engineering skills.

Leading a team of thirty-seven, highly skilled professionals, Mark, Rich and Frank have the ability to analyze each customer’s unique process-driven requirements for deposition technology, and craft a specific solution that is robust, cost-effective and delivered on time. This is truly the Angstrom Advantage!

GSMC pastes and Sunlight ribbon. On the equipment side, we represent Orient laminators among several other suppliers.

SPDN: What is your outlook for some of these products?

MH: Tonsan are one of the largest suppliers of sealants and potting compounds in the industry, and we have been doing very well with a number of the leading module manufacturers. Orient has probably the largest installed base of laminators in the industry, and we have had good success in North America already, while GSMC are one of the largest paste manufacturers, as well.

Our business has been growing with the industry, and we expect this growth to accelerate significantly this year.

SPDN: Describe your current marketing strategy.

MH: As an engineering services and materials supplier to several industries, we have a very strong technical team on both materials and equipment. We believe in working with engineering and management to provide not just products, but solutions. By working closely to help engineer processes and applications, we deliver greater value.

SPDN: What are some of the challenges you face?

MH: The cost pressure on the industry is significant. Our challenge is to deliver the best cost solution while delivering the best technology to our customers.

For more information, please visit Christopher Associates, email Matthew Holzmann at matt@christopherweb.com. facilitate more accurate recording of the output power generated and the exact results reported back to the control systems. By that, the control system can readjust the output power reliably and precisely at any time and adapt to the target value. Stable processes and optimal process results are the outcome.

For more information about HUETTINGER Electronic, Inc., 800-910-0035 or email info@us.huettinger.com.

INNOVATIVE NEW PRODUCTS SPUR INCREASE IN OAIʼS SOLAR SIMULATOR AND I-V TESTER SALES 100

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

OAI’s Solar Test Division announced a significant increase in sales. Sales were spurred not only by increases in OAI’s standard solar simulator line, but also by new, innovative products. OAI introduced an advanced 350 nm to 1800 nm Class AAA Solar Simulator ideal for multi-junction solar cell testing, a high current I-V tester and a solar power meter that were developed by working with customers as part of OAI’s customer-centered approach. As standard products, OAI offers: 50mm, 156 mm, 210 mm, and 300 mm Solar Simulators; low and high current I-V testers; test fixtures, and power meters with reference cells. OAI’s line of TriSOL CLASS AAA Solar Simulators and I-V Testers are not only budget friendly, but also are easy to use, have long term reliability, meet the highest specifications and are competitively Huck (Con’t. from p. 23)

the CHFR they needed in a 1/2” diameter; the first commercially available 1/2” blind hole-filling fastener ever produced.” This custom fastener design successfully met all design and testing parameters of SkyFuel in the Generation III frame. The result was the Huck SolarRivet, engineered to provide the highest level of joint strength possible.

The fact that the CHFR was made of aluminum was also an advantage.

SkyFuel’s Adrian Farr, VP of Product Engineering said, “The aluminum half-inch diameter CHFR eliminates the concern of dissimilar metals commonly found with aluminum frames and steel fasteners.” He added, “We are now able to use a single structural fastener throughout the space frame. This eliminates the possibility of installing a fastener in the wrong location.”

The SolarRivet offers solar manufacturers of both parabolic troughs and photovoltaic frames many market advantages FreeWave (Con’t. from p. 66)

based on all decisions being made only at the master radio location.

This class of radio used for this type of distributed intelligence network has been proven in communication-intensive industries, such as military, oil and gas, and electric power. The leading companies offering data radios, including FreeWave, stand by their products with training, tech support, warranties and experience. These attributes arm O&M teams with the confidence required for managing their communications system.

Proprietary protocol data radios are offered at a variety of speeds, interface protocols and security. They are offered with varieties of form factors available to match the needs of the user.

Range or link distance is another advantage in the top class of radios.

Some types have proven to communicate over 60 miles line-of-sight. Standardsbased radios tend to offer a range that is

priced. The increase in OAI’s Solar Test business is a clear indication that the market recognizes the value incorporated in OAI’s approach. New solar test products that assist companies in both R&D and production are also in development.

“For almost 40 years, OAI has been a leader in the measurement and control of light,” said Dr. Charles Turk, President of OAI. “It is gratifying that we have been able to apply this expertise to the solar market and have seen the acceptance of our products by customers around the world,” he added. About 40 percent of OAI’s products are exported, demonstrating the worldwide acceptance of OAI’s manufacturing philosophy of using standard modules to get superior specifications with cost-effective pricing.

Contact OAI at www.oainet.com, email at sales@oainet.com.

in addition to the no-slippage grip. It provides a high level of vibration resistance, a benefit all Huck fasteners share. It reduces labor costs, because highly skilled welders are not necessary for installation. It can be installed quickly, without the “fumble factor” you find with two-piece nut and bolt systems. And it can be installed in the field, greatly reducing transportation costs from site to site.

Stated Adrian Farr of SkyFuel, “Our goal was to develop the most efficient, lowest installed cost parabolic solar collector. The SkyTrough[R] parabolic solar collector utilizes an all-aluminum space frame that has been designed for quick and easy assembly. The Huck halfinch CHFR fastener is an important component in helping us achieve our goals.”

Huck is currently working with SkyFuel to develop a 5/8” blind rivet fastener for future trough developments, and plans to expand its presence in the solar market extensively in the coming years.

Visit Huck at Solar Power International in Alcoa Fastening Systems booth 6513. more accurately described as hundreds of feet. The top class technologies are used successfully in extremely harsh conditions with high vibration, such as robotics, unmanned aerial vehicles in the military, and farm vehicles, proving in the field that they can effectively communicate in all types of environments.

A wireless system can potentially save a company millions of dollars in installation fees and the technologies have been proven in the field over and over again in many different industries. Any manufacturer who has a solid product offering is likely willing to provide operators with test equipment to prove the technology before they buy it. It is easy to use, quick to install, reliable and low risk. When ROI is a key in determining the best communications solution, the benefits of distributed intelligence with top class data radios should be part of every decision process.

For more information visit: www.freewave.com or contact Bret Dianich at bret@freewave.com.

HUETTINGER ELECTRONIC, INC.ʼS NEW & IMPROVED TRUEPLASMA RF SERIES 1000

Solar Power Daily News

Cost-efficient manufacturing processes that produce high-efficiency solar cells: These are challenges that must be met by generators for film deposition in the production of solar cells. HUETTINGER Electronic offers the TruPlasma RF Series 1000, which now offers even more advantages: The high frequency power supplies have been technically improved and now provide even higher output stability. The new power supplies have been available since March 2011.

Application spectrum expanded in several models Currently available in the TruPlasma RF Series 1000: The TruPlasma RF 1003 high frequency generator. With a frequency of 13.56 megahertz, it produces an output power of three kilowatts and is particularly well-suited for plasma applications in semiconductor and solar cell production.

For the demanding coating and etching processes in these industries, the power supply delivers the necessary processing energy with a high level of accuracy and reproducibility. To carry out these processes with lower power consumption, HUETTINGER has now improved this product family: The TruPlasma RF 1001 and the Adhesives Research (Con’t. from p. 34)

sensitive adhesives and adhesive tape technologies are used around the world in electronics, displays, wireless telecommunications, window fabrication, and the pulp and paper industry, as well as in medical diagnostics and devices, wound care and pharmaceuticals/transdermals. Based in Glen Rock, Pennsylvania, Adhesives Research also operates manufacturing

TruPlasma RF 1002 now supply users with power supplies of one and two kilowatt power outputs. These generators help to keep plant expenses down because they cost less to purchase and operate.

Extra communications interface makes integration easier HUETTINGER has also equipped the new and improved TruPlasma RF Series 1000 with an extra communications interface. As an alternative to the previous RS232/485 interface, the process power supply now also comes with a PROFIBUS connection. This means that the generators can now be fully used on the European market. Thanks to the new interface and its very compact size, the power supplies can be integrated into the machines easily and economically.

Improved output power stability For the TruPlasma RF Series 1000 to better meet the demands of the semiconductor manufacturing industry, HUETTINGER has considerably improved the stability of the output power. The processing of the filigree structures of semiContinued on Page 101

facilities in Ireland and Colombia has sales and marketing offices in Great Britain and Singapore a representative office in Shanghai, China and sales representation in Japan, Korea and Taiwan.

For more information on Adhesives Research and its products, call 800-4456240 (717-235-7979 outside North America) or visit its website at www.adhesivesresearch.com. Stop by Solar Power International booth 4743.

panels into one main bus or feed, with fuses designed specifically for the protection of solar panels and conductors. Solar kits help eliminate expensive utility power investments by providing reliable power in remote applications. We also provide the products and services to connect large, utility-grade solar photovoltaic energy system installations to the grid.

help us develop solutions that decrease overall installation and ongoing maintenance costs of solar systems. All products withstand harsh environmental conditions and comply with all necessary codes for maximum peace of mind. For instance, weatherproof enclosures have a special UV absorption compound built-in for protection against harmful UV rays. This provides long dependable service in the most demanding of environmental conditions.

SPDN: How do Cooper’s solutions impact the customer?

RT: Solar systems are typically broken into four major categories: panels, inverters, balance of system and engineering/installation. Cooper’s products fall under the balance of system category. Our solutions are appropriate for commercial, industrial and utility applications. Electrical distributors and contractors, developers and facility owners and managers are the end users benefiting from the minimal maintenance requirements, ease of installation and long-term durability offered from Cooper products.

Cooper Industries (Con’t. from p. 97)

Specially designed solar Generator StepUp [GSU] transformers, cooled with Envirotemp FR3 soy oil based dielectric fluid, are both environmentally friendly and provides the extended insulation life critical to the cycle duty in solar applications. A full line of molded rubber parts and substation products such as capacitors, arresters, relays and automation communication systems help ensure that the quality of the electricity generated by the solar installation meets grid interconnection requirements.

RT: Cooper’s solar industry products are all designed to positively impact the customer.

Our combined experience and innovation

SPDN: Who are Cooper’s target end users?

For more information, visit Cooper Industries at www.cooperindustries.com or call 713-209-8400.