solar power daily news - oct. 19, 2011 - spi 2011

Beth Johnson, VicePresident of Marketingand BusinessDevelopment forGen/Tran Corporation,shares information aboutGen/Tran.

SPDN: Tell us a little about Gen/Tran.

GTC: Gen/Tran Corporation was startedin our garage by my father in 1982 whenhe invented the first compact manual

By Craig Stevens,President, Solarbuzz

For those who canremember the solar dis-tant past, otherwiseknown as the 1980s and1990s, the U.S. was initially almost whol-ly off-grid, driven by meeting industrialand rural home electricity applications.Phase One effectively ended at the com-mencement of the first California on-gridprogram in 1998, known as the EmergingRenewables Program, followed quickly

Intertek solutions con-tinue to align andadvance the growingneeds for the globalsolar industry

Intertek, a leading provider of quality andsafety solutions, today said that ongoingdevelopment in solar power technologieswill fast-track the demand for globalindustry standards as the company pre-pared to attend and provide expert com-mentary at the APEC Solar Technologyand Conformance Initiative meetings

Tom Devine, CEO ofDiamond WireMaterial Technologies(DMT), a subsidiary ofMeyer Burger, discusseshow the company isadapting to growth.

SPDN: Tell our readers a little about yourcompany. What’s your main line of busi-ness?

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

The Radian SeriesInverter/Charger, the much-heralded innovation frompower conversion technolo-gy pioneer OutBack Power,introduces a radical newfeature to the world ofrenewable energy: simplicity. The RadianSeries has raised the bar in the commer-cial and residential renewable energymarket, delivering a new standard ofquality, durability and dependability.

The Radian Series Inverter/Charger

Jason J. Weber,Manager – BusinessDevelopment, SapaExtrusions discusses the company’sglobal product solutions for the solarmarket.

SPDN: What distinguishes your compa-ny’s leadership in the solar industry?

JW: First, we are a global company. Asthe world’s largest aluminum extrusioncompany, we operate 15 manufacturingfacilities in North America (U.S. and

Kevin Wedman, CBO isthe Vice President ofPower & Utilities forBureau Veritas NorthAmerica, Inc.

SPDN: Tell us aboutBureau Veritas North America, Inc.

KW: Bureau Veritas is a global companyspecializing in the fields of quality assur-ance, health, safety, and environmental(QHSE) services. Bureau Veritas hasbeen actively involved with the power

Bob Grant, ExecutiveVice President, Eagle-View Technologiestalks about the report.

SPDN: What is a solarreport?

BG: EagleView’s Solar Report providesa 3D model of the roof with guaranteedaccurate measurements, including linelengths, pitch, solar orientation, azimuthdetails and a grid layout to assist in panelplacement.

Worldwide demandfor electricity isincreasing, and isexpected to reach 26,000TWh in 2020. InChina, for example, demand for electric-ity is expected to triple over the next 20years. As part of the effort to increaseglobal electricity generation, solar photo-voltaic technologies continue to emergeas an important solution for tomorrow’senergy needs.

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

In a time whenenergy is at apremium, andthe future of oil, natural gas, and coal areuncertain, new technologies such as solarthermal and geothermal are becomingmore important. The method of transfer-ring the heat generated by the sun orunderground to systems that provide hotwater or air conditioning for residentialand commercial buildings is becomingmore efficient, affordable, and available.

The last piece of putting together

Dal las • 10¢Oser Communicat ions GroupWednesday, October 19, 2011

HUBER+SUHNERhas a strong legacyof performanceamongst leadingmanufacturers ofhigh-performancemodules withRadox® SOLARjunction boxes. The company remains atthe forefront by presenting a modular sys-tem consisting of a base junction box, anapplication specific module for integrating“smart electronics,” and the connection

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Solar PowerDaily News satdown with Richard Bozicevich, VicePresident of Business Development atTÜV Rheinland Photovoltaic TestingLaboratory.

SPDN: What would you say makes yourcompany unique?

RB: TÜV Rheinland PTL holds a uniqueplace among solar test laboratories basedon our long history of solar testing. For along time, ours was the only North


SOLAR TAKE-OFFENSURED BY 25 GWPROJECT PIPELINE

ALUMINUM PROFILESOLUTIONS FROM SAPARENEWABLE ENERGY

INTERTEK SUPPORTSINCREASED TRADE,GLOBAL MARKET ACCESS

TÜV RHEINLAND PTLEXPECTS A SOARINGSOLAR YEAR

DYNALENE: HIGHPERFORMANCE GLYCOLSFOR RENEWABLEAPPLICATIONS

GEN/TRANʼS SILENTGENERATOR SYSTEMDELIVERS CLEANBACKUP POWER

SOLAR REPORTSIMPLIFIES ROOFTOPPANEL LAYOUT

HUBER+SUHNER RADOXSOLAR—NEW MODULAR CON-NECTION SOLUTIONS FORCRYSTALLINE PV MODULES

NEW CONTRACTS INHIGH-GROWTHPHOTOVOLTAIC MARKETS

RADIAN SERIES INVERTER/CHARGER BRINGSSIMPLICITY, TRUST ANDRELIABILITY TO MARKET

BUREAU VERITASBRINGS EXPERTISE FORMANAGEMENT OF ASSETS

DMT FOCUSES ON REDUC-ING COST OF OWNERSHIPFOR ITS CUSTOMERS

AN INDEPENDENT PUBLICATION NOT AFFILIATED WITH ANY OTHER ORGANIZATION

Prototype of the newmodular system from

HUBER+SUHNER withcustomizable “blue box”

Solar Power Dai ly NewsWednesday, October 19, 20114

T.R.A.-MAGE’s Solar Education Parkwas designed as an educational resourcefor those that are interested in learningmore about the latest trends in solar tech-nology; including solar tracking, solarracking and solar mounting systems.T.R.A.-MAGE is dedicated to helping

the public understand the basics of solarenergy, with a vision of increased educa-tion and adoption of solar energythroughout the state of Utah. The open-ing of the Solar Education Park is a majorstep toward achieving that goal.

The park has now been officially

Jetion Solar USA has opened a facility inCharlotte, NC. The company is ownedand operated by Jetion Solar China Ltd.,a multinational manufacturer of PVsolar modules. It is the company’s firsteffort to serve the U.S. market as astand-alone operation. In a facility ofover 20,000 square feet, the companywill be the final point of assembly for A-grade PV solar modules ready for finalinstallation. Along with assembly, theU.S. team will also warehouse, sell,deliver and service the company’s prod-uct line as it is brought to the marketplace. “We are very excited to introduceone of the world’s leading solar modulemanufacturers to the U.S. market” saysJuergen Fehr, president of Jetion SolarUSA. He continues, “Timing is every-thing. As this market’s need for renew-able energy grows, we will be there to

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

Jetion Solar has been manufactur-ing solar modules since 2004. The com-pany has been growing exponentiallywith installations around the globe.Jetion Solar USA will have the fullbacking of the company’s world head-quarters in China. “At Jetion SolarUSA, we will work with our internation-al team to bring solar solutions to theNorth American market now and intothe future,” says Fehr. He continues,“Everyone we’ve been in contact withtells us that we are doing everythingright. Customer service will be theunderlying theme in everything we dohere.”

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

want to be the complete package for anyinstaller, contractor or developer. Whencustomers call, we will line them upwith the right person with the necessarysolution to get the job done,” says Fehr.

There couldn’t be a better time forJetion Solar USA to open its doors thannow. There will be continued pressurefor renewables to play a crucial role tofulfill this country’s energy needs. Solarwill play the biggest role. That’s JetionSolar USA’s specialty. “We are eager tomeet the challenges ahead of us,” saysthe company’s president. “We are evenmore eager to provide the solution.”

For more information, visitwww.jetionsolarus.com or visit booth6255.

opened to the public and everyone is wel-come to visit anytime during businesshours to see what the park has to offer.Having been equipped with 19 mock-roof areas, two solar tracking systems, aground mount solution, and ballastedsolution, and a host of solar mountingsystems (including those for metal roofinstallations) the solar park is truly aunique solar education experience.

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

T.R.A.-MAGEʼS SOLAR EDUCATIONPARK TO PROMOTE SOLAR IN UTAH

THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT FORJETION SOLAR USA

Lee M. OserCEO and Editor-in-Chief

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Associate Editors

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Enrico CecchiEuropean Sales

Solar Power Daily News is published byOser Communications Group ©2011.

All rights reserved.Executive and editorial offices at:

1877 N. Kolb Road, Tucson, AZ 85715520-721-1300/Fax: 520-721-6300

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AN INDEPENDENT PUBLICATION NOTAFFILIATED WITH ANY OTHER ORGANIZATION


SUPER-SIZED MODULES FORCOST REDUCTION OFUTILITY-SCALE PV INSTALLATIONSBy Eric Tobin and RogerLittle, Spire Corporation

Despite significant recentdeclines in module pricing,cost still remains a majorprohibitive factor for large-scale development of solarprojects. Balance of system (BOS) andinstallation costs must now be reduced tosufficiently lower overall system costs.The utilization of super-sized (1 kW+)modules manufactured on-site at a “solarbreederh factory is a promising approachfor significantly reducing systems coststo levels that will drive expansion of theindustry and permit utilities to meetincreasingly stringent renewable portfo-lio standard targets.

The solar utility PV market is expe-riencing significant growth that will con-tinue for the foreseeable future. Utilitiesare expected to add over 20-GW of solarPV to their generation portfolios by2020. The rapid growth in marketdemand is driving development of utili-ty-scale solar projects such as grid-tiedsolar farm systems of 25 to 200-MW.These farms will consist primarily ofcrystalline silicon (x-Si) modules due toutility demands for reliability, high effi-ciency, a proven track record, and

demonstrated 20-year lifespan, as well as overall costconsiderations.

Conventional PV modulesprovide a maximum poweroutput of between 230-270watts. Larger modules, up to400 watts, have been recently

introduced and are targeted specificallyat the utility market. Super-sized mod-ules, more than double this size, can pro-vide even greater benefit for PV utilities.Such larger modules, approximately 5.5-ft by 12.5-ft (Figure 1), provide signifi-cant cost savings by lowering materials,BOS, and installation expenses. Totalpredicted savings approach $0.50/watt.This cost reduction would translate intobillions of dollars in cost savings over thenext decade for the rapidly growing util-ity market segment. In particular, super-sized modules offer:• Fewer field failures/Higher reliability• Fewer DC connections and groundingpoints• Reduced wire management• Reduced handling• Significantly fewer mechanical fasteners• A single DC/DC power conditioner orDC/AC inverter

TENKSOLARʼS UNIQUE APPROACHTO DELIVERING MORE ENERGYtenKsolar’s RAIS WAVETM system wasdesigned with the fundamental goal ofimproving solar system output in orderto provide less expensive electricity. Atthe core of the design is the tenKsolarRAIS[R] (Redundant Array ofIntegrated Solar) PV module. Due to itstolerance of imperfect light, increasedDC-AC efficiency and improved relia-bility, the RAIS PV module deliversmore energy per watt than conventionalsolar modules.

The cells in tenKsolar’s RAIS PVmodule are connected in a unique andproprietary manner. They are industrystandard poly crystalline silicon cells thatare cut in half and wired into a mesh grid.

As the cells in conventional solarpanels are wired in series, conventionalmodules depend on uniformly distributedlight to balance the current across the PVcells in the string, thereby limiting theoutput of the module to the output of itsleast productive cell. Because of theseoutput limitations, shading or addingextra light to a cell creates a problem forconventional panels. In contrast,tenKsolar RAIS modules use the meshgrid of PV cells to integrate light acrossthe entire module surface and turn allavailable light into energy. As a result,the RAIS PV Module is able to harvestreflected light through a simple staticreflector, and thus generate more energy

per area and per project. In addition,spots of shade, soiling, even physicaldamage to a portion of a RAIS PV mod-ule has minimal impact on the individualmodule and array output.

Beyond the gains made by addedlight, a tenKsolar system operating inreal-world conditions converts modulepower to grid electricity with an efficien-cy of at least 92 percent. Integrated mod-ule electronics decouple internal celldependencies to ensure cells and mod-ules operate at their intrinsic maximumpower point (MPPT) under all environ-mental and lighting conditions (versusoverall module MPPT). As a result, atenKsolar system increases inverter effi-ciencies, improves system availabilityand reduces annual degradation.Conventional solar architectures andthose utilizing micro-inverters and exter-nal DC optimizers simply cannot achievethe system level efficiency of the RAISWAVE system.

By incorporating concepts from reli-ability designs like those found in sys-tems powering the internet, the tenKsolarsystem redefines the standard for solarreliability. With conventional systems, aspot of shade, an open or short, or physi-cal damage to the panel in one place willdramatically drop the energy output of

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INOVATEUS SOLAR FEATURES NEWGE SOLAR-POWERED ELECTRICVEHICLE CHARGING CARPORTON YOUTUBEInovateus Solar Partnerswith GE Energy IndustrialSolutions on One of theLargest Electric VehicleCharging Stations inNorth America

Inovateus Solar LLC, anational solar power dis-tributor and integrator,recently partnered withGE Energy IndustrialSolutions on the installa-tion of one of NorthAmerica’s largest electricvehicle (EV) charging stations at the GEfacility in Plainville, Connecticut. Theproject is now posted to the innovativeand educational Inovateus Solar PVPowerUp channel on YouTube. TheInovateus Solar PV PowerUp channel onYouTube now features 22 educational,Inovateus Solar product and projectvideos.

The dedication for the project tookplace on May 26, 2011. The CEO of GEEnergy Industrial Solutions, Luis

Ramírez, joined byConnecticut GovernorDannel Malloy, along withGE and Inovateus Solar con-tractors and employees gath-ered to unveil the GEElectric Vehicle (EV) SolarCarport in Plainville, Conn.

“The GE EV SolarCarport Project is an opportu-nity to deliver a truly sustain-able electric vehicle chargingsolution,” says Paul Singer,general manager industrialtechnology, GE Energy

Industrial Solutions. “Joining forces withInovateus Solar on the EV Solar Carporthelped us deliver one of the largest car-ports in North America, and we were gladto have both their insight and their dedicat-ed staff on hand throughout the construc-tion process.”

GE uses solar energy and smart gridtechnology to fully charge up to 13 elec-tric vehicles per day via six Level 2 GEEV Charging Stations. The solar panelson the 216-foot by 40-foot, 40-stall car-

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

The GE EV Solar Carport producesthe energy equivalent to power 20 homesper year. The average freestanding homeuses approximately 7,000 to 10,000 kWhours per year. With greater than a 25-year lifespan, the EV Solar Carport willannually deliver 125 MW hours via 100kW DC power.

Inovateus Solar started the project inDecember, 2010 and completed it in lateMay, 2011, on time and on budget.

“Our objective with this project is toutilize a mix of installation formats tocreate a practical on-site ‘lab’ to illustratea range of design options when creatingthis type of solar system,” says TJKanczuzewski, president of InovateusSolar LLC. “We are excited to collabo-rate with GE on this important alternativeenergy development and education proj-ect and look forward to other future proj-ects.”

The carport incorporates GE’s infra-structure technology, utilizing GEEverGold™ Safety Switches and GECombiner Boxes along with the GE EVCharging Stations. GE’s core AC equip-ment safely distributes the power gener-ated from the solar panels. The GE EVSolar Carport connects to the grid, whereit deposits extra energy and withdrawsthat energy when needed.

Key Inovateus supplier/partners

included Schott Solar for the PV panelsand Satcon for the two 100 kW inverters.Inovateus subcontracted the electricalwork to Power Systems ElectricalContractors in Farmington, Conn.

As the general contractor, Inovateushired Solaire Generation of New York toinstall a custom version of its PremiumSolar Parking Power Plant. The can-tilevered roof design protects vehiclesand people from the elements while pre-venting unwanted access to PV panelsand electrical systems—including sixcharging stations. The canopy design alsocaptures and redirects rainwater andsnowmelt with its unique decking, gutterand drain system.

“Inovateus assembled an exceptionalgroup of contractors for this project.Solaire Generation was thrilled to havebeen selected as the solar canopyprovider,” says Brian Cuff, director ofdesign and construction. “This projectillustrates a truly exciting vision―theintegration of GE charging stations, GEpower distribution equipment, and solarcanopy structures. We believe that it’s amodel of integration that may quicklybecome standard for this type of installa-tion.”

See the Inovateus Solar/GE Carportin booth 831. Contact Inovateus Solartoll-free at 877-876-Solar (76527) or574-485-1400; fax 574-485-1419; [email protected]; or visit themonline at www.inovateussolar.com.

DIMERCO EXPRESS ENHANCESSUPPLY CHAIN VISIBILITYThe logistic demands placed by your sup-pliers, vendors, partners, and own organ-ization have escalated the need to have“real time” information at your fingertips. For organizations to achieve supplychain maximization, they need to partnerwith a company utilizing the latest tech-nology and resources available. DimercoExpress has positioned itself as a trulyinnovative market leader in this arena.

For operation and managementexcellence, and service to its customersglobally, Dimerco Express Group suc-cessfully deployed a web 2.0 basedDimerco Value Plus System[c] (12375)on August 1, 2009. The Dimerco ValuePlus System integrates the processes ofsales activity, operation, accounting, andfinancial management to serve as the tooland platform in supply chain manage-

ment. The system provides an informa-tion and knowledge bank to build upDimerco Express Group as the mostcompetitive global transportation andlogistics service provider. Not only doesthe IT system help integrate internalprocesses and information to enhanceoperation and management efficiently, italso provides real-time visibility toDimerco’s customers for their effectivebusiness management in supply chain.

Feature HighlightsSupply Chain Orientation: Integratessales activity, operations, accounting, andfinancial management across the supplychain in the transportation and logisticsindustry for management efficiency andcustomer service excellence.

Web 2.0 based collaboration: Eases

deployment, connectivity and access.Business Intelligent: Centralizes the

data control mechanism to improve dataquality and dynamic and flexible analysisreporting tool for customization reports.

Automation: Preserves naturalresources by reducing paperwork throughthe automation of integrated work flowand process across the supply chain.

The Dimerco Value Plus Systemallows you to control your supply chain,instead of your supply chain controllingyou. The visibility offered to you byDimerco Express allows you to coordinateyour supply chain needs through any of itsservices and products, including air, ocean,warehousing, trucking, domestic air/roadtransportation, and customs brokerage.

Operating on a single platform, theDimerco Value Plus System allows you

to source globally with confidence.Through Dimerco’s global network of151 wholly-owned offices, includingover 79 offices in greater China, DimercoExpress is there in person to meet yoursupply chain requirements. Simply stat-ed, all your supply chain requirementsare met and exceeded in a timely, accu-rate, efficient, and effective manner.

Dimerco views technology and sys-tems development as a core businessstrategy and strength in business nowa-days. The company continuously investsin technology and centrally develops andmaintains its systems to provide its cus-tomers the most innovative means to suc-ceed in managing their supply chain.

As a recognized leader in the logis-tics industry, Dimerco Express providesyou the tools for “real time” visibilitythroughout your entire supply chain.

To learn more about DimercoExpress, please stop by booth 4932 atSolar Power International and visit thewebsite: www.dimerco.com.

DEHN EXPANDS PRODUCT RANGEOF SURGE PROTECTORS FOR DCPHOTOVOLTAIC APPLICATIONSThe rapidly growing PV industry, nowgenerating at DC voltages of 600 and1,000 V, has placed exceptional demandson the current SPD technology, and pre-viously available SPD products intendedto protect systems components such asinverters, arrays, or combiner box com-ponents from the effects of lightningcaused surges and transients.

Responding to this demand forapplication at these DC voltages,

DEHN has developed and introduced anew technology and product, specifi-cally designed to function under theissues associated with these DC volt-ages. The new DEHNguard M YPVand PV-SCI addresses those issues byincorporating a switched fused circuitin parallel to the MOV discharge cir-cuit, permitting the disconnect to oper-ate arc free.

DEHN has recently expanded its ini-

tial product offering toinclude a broader range ofvoltages and product con-figuration. These uniqueSPD products are nowavailable for 150 V, 600 V,1.000 V and 1,200 V (andsoon will have a 1500VDC SPD) applicationsand are configured in botha “Y” ( three-pole) config-uration for floating sys-tems, and a two- poledesign for grounded sys-tems.

DEHN’s unique SPDare UL 1449 third editioncompliant for the applicable rated DC

voltage applications.In 2010, DEHN cele-

brated its 100-yearanniversary of serving theelectrical industry inresearch, design, manu-facture of products, andoffering technical expert-ise and services to mini-mize the effects of tran-sients caused by light-ning and other sources.

Please visit DEHNInc. at Solar PowerInternational 2011Dallas, booth 321, call772-460-9315, or email

[email protected].


system. For OEMs and installers, the newsystem provides more flexibility regardingthe choice of electronic suppliers and thecomplexity of electronic functions.Moreover, the junction box can be easilyretrofitted and maintained. These advan-tages also result in cost savings.

The HUBER+SUHNER Group,based in Switzerland, is a leading inter-national manufacturer of componentsand systems for electrical and opticalconnectivity for main marketsCommunication, Transportation andIndustrial. The company can draw on

HUBER+SUHNER (Con’t. from p. 1) core competencies in the areas of RadioFrequency, Fiber Optics and LowFrequency. In close collaboration withits customers, HUBER+SUHNERdevelops and manufactures first classproducts of highest quality.

The company’s product rangeincludes coaxial, fiber optic and coppercables, cable systems, connectors, anten-nas and lightning protection compo-nents. HUBUR+SUHNER is represent-ed by 18 group companies and numerousagencies, in over 60 countries.

For more information visitwww.hubersuhner.com or stop by booth2744.

Due to their size, it is more difficultand expensive to transport very largemodules over long distances. This pro-vides an incentive for local modulemanufacturing at the solar farm site orat centralized locations with multiplecustomers nearby. For on site produc-tion, a module factory would be situat-ed adjacent to or within a solar farmsite. Solar cells would be delivered tothe site, and modules would be manu-factured and transported short dis-tances from the factory to the installlocation. Importantly, the transporta-tion constraint does not apply to thekey materials that go into a solar mod-ule, i.e., the solar cells, which aresmall, light and can be tightly packed.

Capital expenditures for a modulefactory are modest in comparison to

Spire (Con’t. from p. 8) the overall expenses associated with asolar farm installation. The buildingexpenses are quickly offset by savingsrealized from the larger moduledesign. Furthermore, at the completionof the project, the factory can bedecommissioned and the equipmentrelocated to another solar farm site tocontinue production. Module manufac-turing equipment required to producesuper-sized modules is similar indesign and cost to that used for con-ventional modules.

The overall cost savings providedand modest investment required makes asolar breeder factory with capability ofproducing super-sized modules a com-pelling alternative for construction ofutility-scale solar farms.

For more information, visit Spireat booth 4935 at Solar PowerInternational.

The X5-STS printer plat-form from ASYS Solarenables rapid developmentof advanced solar cell con-cepts on standard c-Siwafers as well as alterna-tive substrate materials.Solar cell manufacturers inpursuit of efficiency boost-ing concepts can leveragethe advanced technology of the X5-STSfor their development and optimizationof Double Print, Dual Print, SelectiveEmitter and MWT processes.

For metallization of solar cells, therole of efficiency enhancing technologiesis particularly growing in importance.Increasing cell efficiency results in high-er power from modules and thus greaterpower concentration in the overallinstalled PV system. This in turn lowersBoS costs.

The X5-STS printer features thepatented EVA[TM] vision alignment sys-tem with two cameras and two lightsources for “look up + look down” func-tionality, the benefit of which is accurateand repeatable edge and pattern align-ment to +/- 12.5 µm@ 6 Sigma. Throughthe implementation of advanced lightingtechniques, low contrast patterns andfiducials are recognized and aligned to.

A self-leveling andprogrammable dualsqueegee print headallows for precise con-trol of print pressure,speed, stroke length aswell as snap off distanceand speed. The processparameters that aredeveloped on the X5-

STS printer, they can be readily trans-ferred to any of the ASYS in-line screenprinters to allow easy process transferinto volume manufacturing. This is espe-cially important as short developmentcycles and rapid scale-up are critical tocapturing today’s fast paced market.

The printer is specifically designed toallow processing of a large variety of flex-ible and rigid substrates (HybridCeramics, Solar Cells, Wafers, LTCC) upto 350 x 350 mm in size. A porous stonevacuum print nest allows secure and con-venient mounting of substrates of variousshapes and sizes. With the convenientshuttle loading and automatic alignment,the X5-STS combines the benefits of anin-line printer with the flexibility of asemi-automatic system. Temperature andHumidity Control as well as SPC and

X5-STS SEMI-AUTOMATIC SCREENPRINTER FOR NEXT GENERATION CELLTECHNOLOGIES


Solar Power Dai ly News 23Wednesday, October 19, 2011

AZTEC WASHER COMPANY, INC.OFFERS SEALING SOLUTIONSFOR COMMERCIAL ANDRESIDENTIAL USERSAztec Washer Company, Inc. has servedthe building and construction industriesfor over 40 years. The company is wellknown by its reputation for competitive,dependable, quality products and cus-tomer care that you can count on. Aztecis an industry leader with two primarysealing product innovations, MasterSeal® bonded sealing washers and theMaster Flash® pipe flashing productlines.Master Seal Washers are bonded

through a unique process that allows foroptimal resistance to weathering fromozone, ultraviolet light, and standardenvironmental agents. The washers aredesigned to provide a seal as well as acushion or vibration dampening functioneven in applications where expansion

and contraction occur, such as metalroofs or siding, electrical, automotive,heavy equipment, aerospace, marine andmany more.Aztec’s washers are designed with a

wide range of diameters as well as a vari-ety of backing and facing materials,Aztec Washer Company can provide awasher to suit both common and uniqueapplications. Their in-house design andmanufacturing capabilities allow them tocreate custom solutions to meet specificrequirements.An in-house lab provides top-rated

compounds for the eleven styles ofMaster Flash pipe flashings currentlyavailable, plus the ability to developdesigns to meet evolving demands of themarket. With a twenty year warranty as a

standard for Aztec Master Flash pipeflashings, these IAPMO / UPC listedproducts are suitable for use with double-wall heated pipes, also known as type-bvents, as well as many others such aselectrical and solar applications. Theirparts are exceptional, asevidenced by an ICC list-ing, an ISO 9001 certifi-cation and customer satis-faction around the world.The unique qualities oftheir products and sincerecommitment and loyaltyto their customers setsAztec apart from inferioroffshore counterparts andattempts to imitate theMaster Flash brand.Aztec Washer’s new 35 Year Master

Flash is the only ICC listed flashing forthe metal building industry in the UStoday. It’s a self-sealing flashing madewith a 35 year warranted polymer. It hasa high quality enamel coated insert thatbreathes additional life into the productto assist in meeting this demanding timeframe. This 35 Year Master Flash has

undergone over six years of testing andrefinement in order to acquire this listingand meets the international building code(IBC) and international residential build-ing code (IRC) strict standards. It is theonly ICC listed “35 Year” metal roof

flashing available, anywhere.The Aztec Washer

Company service team workspersonally with clients toensure their needs and satisfac-tion are met. Worldwide loca-tions including Mexico,Germany, UK, Poland, andAustralia allow prompt deliv-ery no matter where the desti-nation.A large volume of stockon hand and extended shipping

hours provide superior shipping options,giving customers just-in-time deliveryservice. Unsurpassed quality, service, andinnovative product development hasbrought Aztec to its current leadershipposition and bodes well for success in thefuture.Visit Aztec Washer Company at

booth 5438 at Solar Power Internationalor call 858-513-4350.

HUCK INTRODUCES SPECIALTYFASTENER FOR SOLAR TROUGHSHuck, a division of Alcoa FasteningSystems known for its engineered fasten-ers, has developed a fastener designedspecifically for the solar industry. Theblind fastener, known as the Huck

SolarRivet, was customized and manu-factured just for solar troughs as a resultof Huck’s working with Arvada, Colo.-based solar company SkyFuel.Huck has been working with

SkyFuel for more than three years. SaidTroy Pierce, Senior Design Engineer forHuck, “SkyFuel came to us with a prob-lem, and we were able to provide thesolution. We always welcome an engi-neering challenge.”In testing its parabolic solar troughs,

SkyFuel noticed the slight possibility ofslippage. The troughs – and the fasteners -needed to be so strong that they could sus-

tain an 84 mile-an-hour, three-secondwind gust without movement. The compa-ny came to Huck to help craft a solution.“SkyFuel needed a complete hole-

fill rivet, otherwise known as a CHFR,”said Pierce. He continued, “Using one ofour compatible blind rivets as a guide, weworked closely with SkyFuel to design



ADHESIVE RESEARCH SHOWCASESTAPES FOR ELECTRICAL INSULATIONAND JUNCTION BOX APPLICATIONSAdhesives Research (AR), a leadingdeveloper and manufacturer of custompressure-sensitive adhesive tapes (PSAs),specialty coatings, films and laminates, isshowcasing the company’s sophisticatedbonding technology designed for electri-cal insulation and junction box applica-tions in crystalline and thin film photo-voltaic modules at Solar PowerInternational. Visit the AR solar team inbooth 4743.

AR’s PSA technology for electricalinsulation offers very low outgassing,good dielectric performance and UV sta-bility. Drawing upon the company’sproven technologies used within the elec-tronics industries, these tapes are com-pletely customizable in both single-anddouble-faced formats. In addition tostrong insulation characteristics, thetapes act as an excellent bonding inter-face to various components within thePV cell.

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

AR’s PSA technology for junction box

applications produces long-term, reliablebonds, and outperforms other bondingproducts in accelerated aging and dampheat tests. Utilizing acrylic adhesivesspecially designed for bonding to poly-carbonate, tedlar and glass, these tapesdraw from AR’s proven technologies forfoam tapes used in a variety of industrialapplications.

Highlights of the technologyinclude:• Excellent high temperature perform-ance (up to 120 C)• Heat and moisture resistance• Closed cell foam, double faced con-struction• UL 746C on TPT film, polycarbonateand glass

Founded in 1961, Adhesives Researchoffers problem-solving capabilities andcustom solutions in adhesive polymer-ization, mixing, adhesive coating andrelease liner design supported by exten-sive product development and analyticalsupport. The company’s NorthAmerican and Limerick, Ireland, facili-ties are certified to the updated ISO9001:2000 standard.

Adhesives Research’s pressure-

AMERICAN GALVANIZERSASSOCIATION: GREEN YOURSOLAR ENERGY WITH SUSTAINABLEBUILDING MATERIALSRenewable energy sources, such as windand sun, are ever-present – providing sta-ble and reliable generation potential;however, to take advantage of the sun’spotential requires a stable, reliable struc-ture for the solar panels. The backboneof all solar panels and energy production,the racking system, is an often-over-looked, but critical component for unin-terrupted generation. The need for sus-tainable, durable, maintenance-free solarstructures and racking systems that workin synergy with the green nature of solarpower is paramount.

Solar generation requires the panelsand all racking systems be exposed to theenvironment year round, including UVrays, rain, snow, etc. To protect thesemulti-million dollar investments andensure uninterrupted reliable power gen-eration, proper corrosion protection ofthe racking systems must be employed.Hot-dip galvanized (HDG) steel, whichis 100-percent recyclable, enhances thesustainability of solar projects, while pro-viding 75+ years of maintenance-freecorrosion protection.

Hot-dip galvanizing, the process ofdipping structural steel into molten zincto create a metallurgical bond of zinc-iron alloy layers, provides cost-effective,

superior durability and sustainability.HDG’s maintenance-free longevity notonly saves time and money, it also elimi-nates environmental impact. Each main-tenance cycle of unprotected or inade-quately protected steel introduces labor,energy, and material inputs and emissionoutputs – adding both monetary and envi-ronmental impact throughout the life ofyour project.

Hot-dip galvanizing has been speci-fied to protect steel for more than 150years in various markets from intricateartistic sculpture to corrosive industrialfacilities and in environments from trop-ical Bermuda to arctic Northern Canada.Specified not only for its maintenance-



Canada), with additional support from 40facilities in Asia and Europe. As a singlesource for PV, CSP and CPV compo-nents, with one call we can provide whatyou need when you need it, no matterwhere you need it. That includes PVModule Frames, Racking and MountingSystem Components, Solar ThermalEquipment, Concentrated Solar PowerCollectors. Inverter Housings andComponents, and Thermal ManagementSolutions.

SPDN: How do you deliver thoseresources to the marketplace?

JW: We emphasize our role as develop-ment partners. Providing customer solu-tions is one of Sapa’s core values, earn-ing it a strong position among the renew-able energy industry. With hundreds ofthousands of solutions and nearly 50

years of business in Europe, NorthAmerica, and Asia, Sapa shares itsexpertise with customers to developcomplete and cost-effective answer, fromsimple solutions to the most challengingand unique applications. An example isthe Sapa Solar Frame which offers a costadvantage in reducing frame weight andfabrication costs with quicker assemblytime.

SPDN: Doesn’t that take expertise fromspecialized people?

JW: We bring our customers the expertswithin the extrusion industry, people whounderstand the applications and advan-tages of aluminum profiles. Next wedevelop a deep understanding of our cus-tomer’s business and their productrequirements. We emphasize “Speed-to-Market” that allows us to go from print toproduction, quickly and economically,because we already understand the prod-

Sapa Extrusions (Con’t. from p. 1) uct solutions we can provide.

Over the past three years, we have madesignificant investments in peoplethrough the establishment of a dedicat-ed Renewable Energy Team. Our focuson the RE industry allows us to facili-tate the sales and supply process bycommunicating with customers in theirown nomenclature. Another resource isour North American Technical Centerthat works to establish finished designsfor innovative custom features andimproved end-use applications whichhelp customers to optimize the value oftheir products.

SPDN: Do you support this technologywith capital investment?

JW: In NorthAmerica alone, our CAPEXfor 2011will be $50 million, providingincreased capacity and further expandingour offerings to the RE industry.

To be a turnkey supplier, we have invest-ed in high speed production equipment inseveral locations: two TekFab machines,a Joseph Machining Center, high speedPV frame cell, long bed machining cen-ters and a Joseph double cut miter saw.

Additionally, Sapa continuously utilizesthe Genesis Production System (LeanManufacturing) to optimize productionmethods to increase throughput andproduct quality.

SPDN: How would you summarize yourvalue proposition to this market?

JW: Using our global footprint, we areexpanding our value chain for supply tocustomers. Working as “One Company”delivers our combined experience andincreases our speed to market.

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

these systems is the heat transfer fluids,typically propylene and ethylene glycol.Propylene and ethylene glycol are bothproduced from petroleum or natural gas,making these products limited in supplyby the limits of the supply of oil and nat-ural gas left on our planet. Ethylene gly-col itself is toxic and undesirable for asystem that might be used to heat domes-tic water. Both of these fluids, used attemperatures higher than 220 degreesFahrenheit, break down quickly intoacids that can damage systems. As thetechnologies for the systems haveadvanced, so too have the fluids.

There are a number of more effi-cient, safe, and renewable fluids that can

be used to improve a typical glycol heattransfer system, especially in solar ther-mal and geothermal applications. Thesecoolants, designated by Dynalene as bio-based glycols, are produced from domes-tically grown corn and produce 25 per-cent less CO2 emissions than propyleneor ethylene glycol during their produc-tion. Dynalene has three main productsproduced using bio-based glycols:Dynalene BioGlycol, Solar Glycol-XT,and Geoglycol.

Dynalene BioGlycol is the flagshipproduct of Dynalene’s bio-based line. Itis an inhibited glycol similar to propyleneglycol, but is more durable and has a 30percent lower viscosity when used below32 degrees F. Dynalene BioGlycol canbe mixed with water and tailored to your

Dynalene (Con’t. from p. 1) low temperature freezing point require-ments.

Dynalene Solar Glycol-XT is specif-ically designed for solar thermal systems,such as a hot water heater. The XT standsfor extended temperature because in apressurized system Solar Glycol-XT canbe used at temperatures as high as 350degrees F if stagnation ever occurs. It canalso be used at lower temperature to pre-vent freezing. Solar Glycol-XT is a drop-in replacement to propylene glycol inmost solar thermal systems and offerscompatibility with aluminum as well asmost other metals.

Dynalene GeoGlycol is specificallydesigned for geothermal systems. It is pre-mixed and ready to install and has thesame low viscosity as the Dynalene

BioGlycol, which means it uses less ener-gy to pump from the deep wells. DynaleneGeoGlycol is optimized with understand-ing that geothermal systems have manydifferent types of materials in their compo-nents, such as carbon steel and aluminumas well as PVCs and other plastics.

Dynalene’s bio-based coolants offera renewable, affordable, and nontoxicoption for your glycol system, whether itis solar, geothermal or regular HVAC.They can be added to a system with noadjustments needed and are compatiblewith most of the typical glycols usedtoday.

For more information, visitDynalene in booth 155 at Solar PowerInternational, call 610-262-9686 or visitwww.dynalene.com.

Advancements in cell efficiency havegiven Bosch Solar Energy the edge in thecrystalline solar module space. The lat-est product – a high-performance 60-cellmono-crystalline module currently ondisplay at the Bosch booth – offers a peakperformance of up to 260 Wp output.

Now installers and end-users canlook forward to an enhanced module effi-ciency of 15.84 percent, thanks to anoptimized module concept. The panelscontain the latest Generation 4 Boschsolar cells utilizing a selective emittertechnology. In addition, the modulesboast enhanced interconnection betweensolar cells by means of a light harvestingstring. This reduces optical and electricallosses, thus increasing efficiency.

Performance is further improved with adurable anti-reflective coating on themodule glass.

Earlier this year, Bosch set a newworld record in silicon cell technologywhen its Generation 5 large-area PERCsolar cells on p-type wafers achieved anefficiency of 19.6 percent. These measure-ments were confirmed by the independentcalibration laboratory at FraunhoferInstitute for Solar Energy Systems.

This advanced cell technologyimproves cell performance underweak lightconditions. Due to the high open-circuitvoltage, the Generation 5 cell’s temperaturecoefficient is noticeably better than that of


BAJAʼS SOLAR SUPPORT SYSTEM—DESIGNED FROM A CARPORT BUTENGINEERED FOR THE SUNBaja Construction, the leader in highlyspecialized and engineered solar support

structures has installed its Solar SupportSystemTM at facilities generating, in

directly to Baja’s Solar Support Systemwith a patent-pending connection thatdelivers minimal impact to the site, max-imum efficiencies for installation and thepotential for additional revenue.

For more information, [email protected], visitwww.bajacarports.com or stop by booth143.

aggregate of 35MWs of power.Baja will custom design, engineer,

supply and install Solar Support Systemsto support PV and secondarily, shadevehicles of all heights. PV is mounted

IMPROVED LOW-LIGHT PERFORMANCEAND FAVORABLE TEMPERATURECOEFFICIENT PUT BOSCH SOLARENERGY AT THE FOREFRONT

SONALI SOLAR ANNOUNCESFACTORY EXPANSION PROJECTSonali Solar, an up and coming player inthe high-efficiency module manufactur-ing arena, is announcing its factoryexpansion project at Solar PowerInternational this year. The company’s25MW manufacturing capacity will dou-ble this month, and by next year, Sonaliplans to be at 75MW annual capacity in anew facility in Gujarat, India. This assem-bly line includes a first of its kind electro-luminescence tester in India and also hasthe ability to produce glass to glass mod-ules for bipv applications.

As demand for the company’s productincreased this past year, Sonali took advan-tage of Indian government incentives andbegan planning the assembly line expan-sion project. Sonali has always focused ondeveloping the most efficient and durablemodule at a highly competitive price. Newtesting equipment will help position Sonalias a major global player in high-quality,

low cost module production.“We couldn’t be happier that the devel-

opment of our new state of the art automat-ed manufacturing facility is finally under-way, and we look forward to deliveringhigh-quality modules to customers at ourrenowned low cost,” said Sonali CEOPankaj Desai. Desai has been runningSonali Solar as a family business for the lastfive years. Its parent company, JashIndustries, was started by Desai’s fathermore than 55 years ago.

Sonali manufactures photovoltaicmodules from mono and poly-crystallinesilicon cells. Its product range is current-ly 80W to 300W. All Sonali products areUL 1703 certified for the US and Canadaand backed by a 25 year warranty. Sonaliships product globally and has readystock in the US.

For more information, visit Sonali atbooth 3900 or at www.sonalisolar.com.


Online Notification) a procedure andinfrastructure for the electronic submittalof plans and documents. Utilizing elec-tronic documents for plan and documentsubmittals decreases the time and costassociated with printing multiple copiesand the transport and delivery of paperdocuments.

SPDN: How has this program been bene-ficial to your clients?

KW: The Green VISION Program, usingBVnet, has saved approximately 46 treesper power project as well as eliminatingshipping miles that produce toxic emis-sions into the air. The Green VISION

program has eliminated printing, ship-ping and non productive overhead thathave totaled over $170K per project. It isalso customizable to the needs of eachclient and presents a secure place toarchive project data. There will be nomore printing multiple large documentsfor plan review on any of our projects.This approach has offered more than agreen solution to project management; ithas helped us and the companies that weserve to keep up with the fast pace ofreview and reporting processes.

Visit Bureau Veritas at booth 6311 atSolar Power International or online atwww.us.bureauveritas.com.

generation industry since 1950. The com-pany has been involved with more than42,000 MW of generation spanning fromCGT, Cogeneration, Geothermal, Hydro,Nuclear, Solar, Steam, and Wind PowerPlants/Facilities. Bureau Verities is apartner who will ensure cost effective-ness and on-time delivery.

SPDN: What do you believe has madeBureau Veritas Power & Utilities so suc-cessful?

KW: Any company that believes in thevalue of its services and products has the

potential to be successful. In addition tothis belief in our services we hire expertsin our field with experience in powerproject delivery. We mission is to assistour clients in managing their assets,products, services, systems and employ-ees. Bureau Veritas offers a comprehen-sive services portfolio that contributes torisk prevention and performanceimprovement that benefits our clients.

SPDN: What tools does your companyoffer its clients in order to distinguishyourselves from the competition?

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

Bureau Veritas (Con’t. from p. 1)

SPDN: How does this report benefitinstallers?

BG: There is no longer a need for time-consuming hand measurements or hoursspent creating a drawing in CAD.EagleView’s Solar Report is available ina CAD format and features a grid overlayof 1’ x 1’ squares. The diagrams providethe ability for solar installers to accurate-ly calculate material needs and overallpositioning of solar equipment.

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

BG: The response has been phenomenal.EagleView began providing roof meas-urement reports to the construction andinsurance industries in 2008. With thegrowth in solar popularity and the addi-tion of many state incentive programs ourcustomers began asking for a report tohelp with solar installations.

Our Solar Report was released in 2010and has seen steady growth in the market.One of our goals is to provide a reliablesource of accurate information to thecontractor. The report not only savesthem time but provides critical informa-tion they need to accurately assess a pro-ject’s potential solar value.

EagleView Technologies (Con’t. from p. 1) SPDN: Does the report offer any addi-tional features?

BG: The reports have turned out to be agreat sales tool for our customers. In addi-tion to the CAD files, the report is deliv-ered as a pdf file and provides the optionfor the installer to customize a cover pagewith his or her logo and contact informa-tion. This is a powerful tool for use in thesales presentation to the property owner.The report has a very professional appear-ance and features a 3D model of the build-ing, five color photographs and diagrams.EagleView also includes a second reportspecifically meant to be left with the prop-erty owner for a lasting impression.

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

BG: We believe that the next generationof solar reports will be industry-chang-ing. They will include interactive toolsfor panel placement and for creating realtime energy production estimates. Theywill be very useful for making presenta-tions to prospects. Solar PowerInternational attendees can learn moreabout the latest enhancements atEagleView’s booth 435.

For more information visit EagleViewTechnologies at booth 435 or online atwww.eagleview.com.

UNIVERSITY OF NOTRE DAME WORKSWITH INOVATEUS SOLAR TO ACCEPTTHE DONATION OF TWO SOLARTECHNOLOGIES ATOP ITSCOLLEGE OF ENGINEERINGInovateus Solar LLC, a national solarpower distributor and integrator,worked closely with the University ofNotre Dame to complete the installa-tion of two flexible PV systems onFitzpatrick Hall, the Notre DameCollege of Engineering.

The University’s College ofEngineering will use the new 10 kWsolar installation as both a power gen-erating system and research and devel-opment tool. The unique installation onthe rooftop of Fitzpatrick Hall employstwo new thin-film solar technologiesthat students and teachers can monitorfor real-time demonstration andinstruction. Inovateus Solar and itspartners donated the time, engineering

and materials to the University of NotreDame to make this solar power teach-ing tool possible.

The new technologies thatInovateus Solar supplies, each of whichproduces 5 kW of energy, include apeel-and-stick panel application byUnited Solar Ovonic of RochesterHills, Michigan. The company’s prod-uct is called Uni-Solar PVL-144. Thesecond technology, by SoloPower,based out of San Jose, California, is itsnew SFX1-i3 210-watt panels. New tothe industry, SoloPower is committedto being energy-and-cost-competitive.Both companies donated the solar

OPTIMIZING COMMUNICATIONS WITHWIRELESS FOR THE UTILITY ANDCOMMERCIAL SCALE SOLARPOWER INDUSTRYBy Bret Dianich, FreeWaveTechnologies, Inc.

The same wireless distributed intelli-gence networks used in many utilityapplications, such as distribution automa-tion, are available to solar power genera-tion facilities whether utility scale orcommercial scale plants. With solarpower generation, systems often can ben-efit from the cost savings of wireless ver-sus fiber optic cable. Unlike fiber, whichhas both an expensive and time-consum-ing process to install, wireless technolo-gies are easily deployed, dependablesolutions. Wireless technologies can sup-port all types of solar power generationmodels from the solar troughs, dishes,tracking photovoltaic, fixed photovoltaic,heliostats and etcetera, delivering valu-able management and operations infor-

mation directly to the user’s desktop.Wireless distributed intelligence

communication systems―composed ofindustrially hardened radios, likeFreeWave Technologies―offer severaladvantages that some of the other optionsdo not. When looking at distributed intel-ligence networks, users can find an idealmonitoring and tracking solution forsolar power generation because they arebased on pre-programmed logic. A dis-tributed intelligence system can monitorspecific parts of a field. In fact, the O&Mteam can isolate the SCADA and com-mands down to a specific string of solarpanels. This is ideal for monitoring andtracking applications, especially whenthey are remotely located. A centralizedintelligence system, on the other hand, is


SOLARDOCKʼS PATENTED SYSTEMSOLVES CLIMATE ANDENGINEERING CHALLENGESMore power. Less work.

The next generation of solar.SolarDock’s patented, lightweight solarmodule mounting system combines ahigh-tilt angle of up to 35 degrees withthe only truly non-penetrating design.With a UL-listing and California DSA

pre-check approval, the SolarDock solu-tion solves the greatest number of climateand engineering challenges, and:

Maximizes annual kWh power pro-duction—10-20 percent more kWh/yearthan low-angle flat mounting.

Dramatically increases installation

productivity—up to 40 percent moreSolarDock in one year than a typicalmounting system.

Installers and end-users get immedi-ate and long-term cost savings through:

Intelligent product design—Standardized parts, few components andsimple assembly result in lower labor andequipment cost.

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

Lower maintenance costs—patenteddesign encapsulates wiring, sheds snow

and water.As real estate veterans, SolarDock is

able to anticipate and solve constructionissues, and customers enjoy comprehen-sive support from engineering design toinstallation. With more than 250 success-ful projects and 20 megawatts installed in30 states and worldwide, SolarDock isrecognized among leading integratorsand distributors as the proven choice inflat-roof solar mounting systems.

Visit SolarDock at Solar PowerInternational, booth 5309, or for moreinformation, visit www.solardock.com.


held in San Francisco, California, fromSeptember 15-16, 2011.

The APEC Solar Technology andConformance Initiative brings togetherpublic and private sector representativesfrom across the APEC region and NorthAmerica to discuss ways of improvingtrade for solar power technology throughstandards development and conformityassessment services. Through this initia-tive, discussions will be held to deter-mine the best ways to help eliminatetrade barriers which may slow produc-tion, impact product quality or increasecosts along the solar product supplychain. Intertek has supported manufac-turers, owners and operators in the solar

Intertek (Con’t. from p. 1) Taiwan on the topic of gGlobal PVMaterial and Reliability Standards andPrograms” where he will address the lat-est reliability, durability and bankabilitytesting requirements to support long fieldproduct life times of 25 years.

Intertek’s expertise in the renewablesector, including solar, wind and energystorage technology will assist local man-ufacturers navigate the global solar mar-ket requirements. As an IECEECertification Body Testing Laboratory(CBTL), Intertek’s IEC issued testreports can be used to obtain certificationmarks for up to 54 countries includingJapan, China, United Kingdom,Australia, and most European countries.

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

ing the new IEC and UL standardsimpacting Flat Panel and ConcentratedPhotovoltaic Module testing and certifi-cation.

Intertek will also be a key contribu-tor to the next APEC Solar TechnologyStandards Conformance Initiative whichwill be held in Taipei, Taiwan on October12-13, 2011. This Initiative will focus onphotovoltaic performance and reliabilitytesting. “It is important that we workwith manufacturers across APEC mem-ber economies to provide access to thelatest requirements in PV performanceand reliability testing in order to meet thegrowing demands of investors in thesolar market” said Sunny Rai, VicePresident - Renewables, Intertek. Mr. Raiwill speak during the conference in

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

Intertek has an established presencein North America, Europe and Asia and iscommitted to finding solutions to facili-tate trade by working closely with com-panies located in the APEC membereconomies who manufacture or supportsolar product intended for export aroundthe world. During the APEC SolarTechnology Standards ConformanceInitiative, Intertek’s Dr. Paul Robusto,Business Development Manager, SolarEnergy Products, contributed to the dis-cussion during a panel on “FacilitatingSolar Technology Deployment throughConformity Assessment.” Dr. Robustoaddressed standard development, includ-

transfer switch to enable consumers tosafely feed power from a portable gener-ator to a home or business. Over theyears, we’ve steadily introduced newproducts to expand our line, and todaywe offer a broad line of manual and fullyautomatic transfer switches and acces-sories for generator applications up to 50kilowatts. Gen/Tran® products are avail-able at national home centers, electricalwholesalers, power equipment dealersand online retailers.

SPDN: What brings you to the Solarshow?

GTC: Throughout our history, we’vetalked to many people who need backuppower, but aren’t able to install a genera-tor for various reasons. They might live ina condo or high rise building. They mightlive in a community with strict associationrestrictions. Or, their office/business spacemay not be conducive for installing a tra-ditional generator. Folks depending on

sensitive, at-home medical devices needcleaner power than some generators candeliver. In an emergency, consumers justwant to power the basics. Business ownerswant to minimize any productivity andrevenue losses. We’re introducing theSilent Generator™ Power System to fill aneed in the backup power market that hasnot previously been met.

SPDN: Tell me about the SilentGenerator.

GTC: The Silent Generator™ PowerSystem is a battery-powered unit that deliv-ers 4,000 watts of instantaneous power inthe event of a power outage. It’s ideal foroffice computers and servers, refrigeration,medical equipment and other applicationswhere reliable power is critical. When con-nected to the grid, the Silent Generator™ isconstantly recharging so it’s ready for thenext power disruption. It works indoors,releases no harmful emissions and isportable, so you can take it with you whenyou move. It can be recharged with mostany renewable power source such as solar,

Gen/Tran (Con’t. from p. 1) wind or hydro, and qualifies for Federaland state tax credits, significantly reducingthe initial investment.

SPDN: How long will the unit run?

GTC: Depending on what you have con-nected, and how much power is beingdrawn, our Silent Generator™ could lasta few hours or a few days. If the unit isrunning at 50 percent load at a constantrate, the unit will run for 24 hours with-out recharging. But, if you’re just run-ning a home office and some lights, itcould last four to five days.

SPDN: Who are your target customersfor this product?

GTC: Medical, small business and residen-tial. Businesses have an easier time justify-ing the investment in backup powerbecause the payback is faster. Yet only 39percent of small businesses have provisionfor backup power, though they depend onelectricity for emergency lighting, servers,phones, cash registers and alarms. Small

medical facilities are required to havebackup power for treatment rooms, refrig-eration for pharmaceuticals and specimensamples as well as lighting. Tech-savvyconsumers who want to stay in touch needpower for electronic devices such as cellphones and tablet computers.

SPDN: What makes it unique from otherofferings?

GTC: Certain key features distinguishour unit from similar offerings. First,our Silent Generator™ System deliverstrue sine wave power. Many other UPSsystems run a modified sine wave,which is not tolerated by sensitive elec-tronics. Next, the unique design of ourheavy-duty cabinet allows for properventilation, and our premium batteriescarry a 10-year warranty. Lastly, we useGFCI-protected, medical-grade recepta-cles for safe connection to appliances.Each system is tested prior to shipping.

To learn more, visit www.gen-tran.comor visit booth 539.

TÜV Rheinland (Con’t. from p. 1)

American facility of its kind, and washeavily involved in developing many oftoday’s major standards. I feel our historyand our place as part of an extensive glob-al network that includes five other labora-tories worldwide makes us stand out.

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

RB: I feel we are well poised to meet what-ever challenges may arise. I suppose a sud-den market slowdown could be challeng-ing, as TÜV Rheinland is heavily investedin the overall global solar marketplace.However, since we offer accreditations andmarks for all the global markets, a specificslowdown in activity for one region oranother is not as significant as long as themarket as a whole remains vibrant.

SPDN: Are you introducing any newservices in the next year?

RB: TÜV Rheinland is very active withregard to developing new solar services.Our teams are highly involved in bothstandards development activity and sci-entific research for applied technologies.A major focus for us right now involvesLong Term Reliability (LTR) of solartechnology. We all know that the more

accurately we can develop specificanalysis techniques the better the marketwill be for solar products.

SPDN: What are the most difficult chal-lenges facing the solar power industry today?

RB: That is a big question. I suppose if onelooks at classical data the biggest challengewould have to be Levelized Cost of Energy(LCOE), or the cost-per-watt-installedagainst other sources of supply. That hasalways been the major factor that bubblesto the top of any major market comparativesummary. That said, I’ve always been opti-mistic toward human ingenuity solvingtough problems. I have been fortunateenough to have experienced some of themarket rush days of Silicon Valley, whichgave me a good case for optimism when Isee the amount of brainpower currentlydedicated to resolving some of the stickyissues for wider solar adoption.

SPDN:What services are your customerscalling for the most?

RB: Again, LTR of solar technology is abig focus right now. Another service thatis gaining a lot of traction is the execu-tion of the Sandia Model for Insolationmodeling. We’ve seen some good uptakein both of these services from manufac-turers trying to understand key elements

of their products performance.

SPDN: Please describe who your typicalcustomers are.

RB:A typical TÜV Rheinland customer inthis market is a module, component,inverter, or solar system manufacturer tak-ing a new product from its design phase todevelopment and market release. Thisconstitutes the greatest bulk of our busi-ness. Additionally, some of the largestindustry material suppliers are asking usto perform significant testing in our labs.Power plant manufacturers, installers andfinanciers are also important users of ourtechnologies and services.

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

RB: Our expectation for this stage of themarket lifecycle is that there will be a con-traction in the number of manufacturersinvolved with panel production. We areoptimistic that the solar market itself willcontinue to grow, but we feel some consol-idation among the lower tier module sup-pliers is in the forward path for module pro-duction. Conversely, we anticipate Balanceof Systems (B.O.S.) equipment providersto expand and increase the number and

types of products they bring to market. Asfor emerging technologies and productinnovation, as a long-time participant in thesolar market we have seen a lot of ideascome and go as the market has grown.Given our long history in the market, weare very excited about some of the recentadvances we’ve seen. Probably the bestword I can think of to describe what I feelthe future holds would be “bullish.”

Mr. Bozicevich is the Vice President ofBusiness Development for TÜVRheinland Photovoltaic TestingLaboratory, where he directs and over-sees North American operations for solartechnologies. Mr. Bozicevich has heldmanagement and executive managementposts for a variety of Silicon Valley start-up ventures focused around high-endcapital equipment utilized in nanotech-nology process environments.Additionally, he has held executive man-agement operational posts at variousmultinational companies specializing inhigh throughput―high volume produc-tion automation. He is a graduate ofMichigan Technological University witha B.S.E.E.

For more information, write to 2210South Roosevelt Street, Tempe, Arizona85282, call 480-966-1700 or [email protected].


United States, where renewable portfoliostandards* (RPS) have been establishedin several states as well as some federalprocurement contracts, China and Japan,where nationwide feed-in-tariffs are nowin place, and will soon emerge in Indiaand the MENA.

The rapid reduction in manufactur-ing costs is now enabling solar installa-tions to take off in these new, highgrowth markets. Securing access to pho-tovoltaic demand in these regions istherefore key for solar industry players.

In this context, Air Liquide isstrengthening its leadership in the solarphotovoltaic industry by signing multiplelong-term contracts with manufacturerslocated in high potential photovoltaic

regions:• In the US, Stion has chosen the Groupto supply electronic gases and relatedequipment for its new manufacturingfacility in Mississippi. Stion is a manu-facturer of high efficiency thin-film solarpanels. In 2010, it formed a strategicpartnership with TSMC, the world’sleading semiconductor foundry, diversi-fying into solar. The US is on track toinstall over 30GWp in photovoltaicpower by 2020.• In China, where the Group alreadysupplies multiple leading solar compa-nies, Air Liquide will supply a highvolume of specialty gases and precur-sors, as well as associated Equipment& Installation, to the largest Siliconthin film manufacturer in South China.China has set a new target of over

Air Liquide (Con’t. from p. 1) 50GWp of installed photovoltaic powerby 2020.• In India, Air Liquide has been selectedto supply high-volume carrier gases tothe new Poly-Silicon and wafers manu-facturing plant of a key business con-glomerate. India has set a target of20GWp of installed photovoltaic powerby 2020.• In Vietnam, Air Liquide has beenselected to supply the new fabs of one ofthe world’s leading solar cell manufac-turing companies in Ho Chi Minh City.• In Morocco, Air Liquide signed a part-nership agreement with MedZ to supportthe development of local manufacturinginitiatives based on Silicon thin filmtechnologies, as part of the national solarprogram’s ambition of reaching multi-GW of installed solar power in the com-

ing years.

As Francisco Martins, Vice-PresidentWorld Business Line Electronics of theAir Liquide Group, stated: “These newcontracts demonstrate the strength ofAir Liquide’s solar offering in strategicand high-growth regions for this industry.The photovoltaic activity is at the cross-roads of and the Environment andrequires High Tech solutions, threegrowth drivers for the Air LiquideGroup.”

For more information, visitwww.airliquide.com.

Portfolio Standards (RPS): Policy thatrequires electricity providers to obtain aminimum percentage of their power fromrenewable energy resources.

ANGSTROM SCIENCES, INC.:WHO WE ARE AND WHAT WEBRING TO THE TABLEIn 1988, Angstrom Sciences was foundedby Mark Bernick. Mark foundedAngstrom Sciences on the premise thatthe thin film deposition community wasdesperately in need of a better “mouse-trap.” In conjunction with an effort toalso provide the thin film communitywith a highly responsive materials sup-plier, Angstrom enjoyed early success

with magnetrons and materials support-ing room temperature superconductivityresearch. Developing unique corporate IPfocused on tailoring magnetic fields tooptimize the sputter deposition processalong with novel cooling technology,Angstrom enjoyed success across a spec-trum of product offerings that included afull range of circular and linear mag-

netrons. During this time period,Angstrom became regarded as one of theworld leaders in deposition technologyfocused on magnetron sputtering andbecame the principal supplier to many ofthe leading OEM system manufacturers.In 2000, Angstrom initiated activities tobroaden both the technical and commer-cial reach of its product lines. To addressthe needs of the semiconductor manufac-turers who require large circular mag-netrons with high material utilization andextraordinary uniformity, Angstromdeveloped a line of products that incor-porate rotating magnet arrays. At thesame time, recognizing the needs of the

large area coating producers, a series ofretrofit modules were developed toimprove the yield, utilization and per-formance of the planar magnetronswhich dominated the industrial landscapeat that time. These two activities have setthe stage for the latest chapter inAngstrom’s history: developing robust,cylindrical magnetrons for the PV andflat panel display markets.

In 2006, Richard Newcomb joinedAngstrom Sciences to lead the cylindri-cal magnetron program. Rich previouslyheld key positions at Airco/BOCCT and


Traceability Functions complete theoptions list for this printer. The Windows-based software interface is simple and

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

Target applications include R&D aswell as low to medium volume production.With an initial set-up and change-over time

ASYS (Con’t. from p. 18) of <5min this machine is the choice ofcommercial and academic research labs aswell as material suppliers world-wide.With offices located in 40 countries and astaff of 50+ engineers working in R&D,

Application and Process Support; ASYScustomers have the peace of mind of hav-ing local and 24hr support.

Visit www.asys-group.com or booth5324 for more information.

tenKsolar (Con’t. from p. 8)

the entire panel, or possibly from all pan-els in the string. However, that neverhappens with a RAIS module or in a

RAIS Wave system because the RAISWAVE system has parallel connections inthe module and between modules, theentire system is internally redundant. Ifany part of the module production is dis-

rupted, the rest of the module and systemremains unaffected. This resilience toincidental soiling also practically elimi-nates the need for frequent cleaning andmaintenance of the system, thereby pro-

viding greater returns to the systemowner.

Visit tenKsolar at Solar PowerInternational booth 1307 or atwww.tenksolar.com.

LOCHINVAR CORPORATION MERGERBRINGS NEW SOLAR THERMALPRODUCTS TO NORTH AMERICATwo Market Leaders, One Strong BrandIn 2010, Tennessee-based LochinvarCorporation―a leading manufacturer ofhigh-efficiency water heaters, boilers andpool heaters―and Austria-basedTiSUN―a global leader and specialist insolar heating technology―entered into apartnership which brings technology andinnovation in solar thermal products toNorth America. The joint efforts of thesetwo companies offer new opportunitiesfor energy savings.

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

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

Transfer the solar thermal energyinto a dedicated pre-heat tank or heatexchanger.

Major Components

A Lochinvar/TiSUN solar thermaldomestic water system consists of a col-lector, pump, differential controller, heatexchanger, expansion tank, air manage-ment, and tank storage. Although thissounds like quite a few components, thecomponents found in a forced circulationsolar thermal system are identical tothose in a closed loop heating system.

After the collector and storage havebeen selected, responsibly incorporatingthe other key components ensures yearsof trouble free service. Proper pump siz-ing and flow, placement and sizing of anexpansion tank, as well as sensors will allenhance the performance of the coregroup of components.

Solar CollectorsAt the heart of every Lochinvar/TiSUNsystem is a solar thermal flat plate collec-tor. Lochinvar/TiSUN collectors are con-structed with performance and durability

in mind, and all collectors in the line bearthe OG100 certification by the SRCC.This certification lists the performancetest data as well as materials used to con-struct the collector.

Solar Pump StationsSolar Pump Stations integrate severalnecessary solar components on a singlechassis. This includes pump, differentialcontroller, safety group (to include therelief valve), and a place to connect anexpansion tank. As an added bonus,Lochinvar-TiSUN pump stations includean integral flow meter. This pre-pack-aged system performs all monitoring oftanks and collector temperatures as wellas BTU metering.

Solar ControlIntegral to the pump station is the differ-ential controller. This control can be pur-chased separately and paired with thesupplied sensors and field supplied circu-lators to operate a variety of systems. Theincluded SD card can perform data log-ging functions while also providing theinstaller the ability to pre-program thecontrol prior to installation at the job site.The Lochinvar/TiSUN differential

controller also has a slow-start featurethat avoids pump pulsing which is bene-ficial on days that are overcast.

Solar StorageWhen designing a solar thermal system,one thing needs to be kept in mind. Thesun does not shine 24-hours a day. Solarstorage in commercial solar thermal sys-tems is the key to maximizing the allow-able harvested BTUs of energy that can becollected from the sun versus BTUs thatmust be purchased from the local utility.There are several possibilities for transfer-ring and storing this energy in the system.

System AccessoriesIt has been said that, “the devil is in thedetails.” The performance and installa-tion of a solar thermal system can beenhanced with the proper use of solaraccessories. Since the Lochinvar/TiSUNoffering includes a complete line ofaccessories, designers can specify a com-plete commercial solar thermal systemutilizing a single source manufacturer.

For more information, visitwww.Lochinvar.com or booth 3833 at the2011 Solar Power International Show.


CHRISTOPHER ASSOCIATES:TAILORED SOLUTIONS FOR THEPHOTOVOLTAIC INDUSTRYMatthew Holzman, President ofChristopher Associates, shares about hiscompany.

SPDN: Tell our readers a little about yourcompany. What’s your main line of busi-ness?

MH: Well, I am both the president ofChristopher Associates, Inc., engineeringand distribution firm serving the elec-tronics and photovoltaic industries, aswell as president of SEMA, the Solar

Engineering & ManufacturingAssociation. Christopher Associates hasbeen one of the leading North Americansuppliers of materials and equipment forhigh technology manufacturing for morethan 30 years. We find the best technolo-gy globally and then tailor solutions forour customer base of more than 1,000manufacturers. We have an extensiveengineering and technical support teamas well as global logistics support.

SPDN: What would you say makes your

company unique?

MH: We help our partners stay ahead ofthe technology and manufacturing curvesand to remain competitive. By findingglobal solutions, we can provide the besttechnology at very competitive priceswhile maintaining a very high level ofsupport.

SPDN: What was your program lastyear?

MH: In the past year, we have seen theNorth American solar industry finallybegin to take off, and with it, a significantincrease in our customer base as well assales. We have added engineering andsupport staff, and have been able todevelop a number of exciting new solu-

tions in materials and processes for ourcustomers.

SPDN: Tell us about SEMA.

MH: Last year we held a meeting of engi-neers, managers and other stakeholdersin the manufacturing and quality process-es to form the Solar Engineering &Manufacturing Association. The solarindustry has grown rapidly, and there areseveral associations that address certainniches, but none of them really addressmany of the manufacturing and engineer-ing issues: best practices, quality stan-dards, new technology or professionaleducation, as examples. Since then, wehave held a number of meetings featuring

er of capital equipment for the photo-voltaics, semiconductor and sapphireindustries. Like Meyer Burger, DMT hasa long history in its core technology andstrong commercial relationships. We’rebased in Colorado Springs, Colo. with aglobal sales and applications presence.Our main line of business is the manu-facture and sale of diamond wire as wellas other consumables used in cuttingapplications for the photovoltaic, semi-conductor and sapphire industries.

SPDN: What would you say makes yourcompany unique?

TD: There are several factors that makeDMT unique. First, it’s synergy. WithMeyer Burger’s global presence wehave the opportunity to provide world-class products and solutions across abroad product portfolio in the valuechain. Second, with Meyer Burger’sincessant focus on reducing the Cost-of-Ownership (CoO) for our customers,we approach the technology and marketfrom a unique angle. Meyer Burger’sphilosophy isn’t just supplying a world-class product, it’s centered on develop-ing world-class solutions that drive thebest cost-of-ownership equation for ourcustomers. DMT is heavily invested inthis vision.

SPDN: What was the most significantevent or series of events affecting yourcompany in the past year?

Diamond Wire Technologies (Con’t. from p. 1) product and process solutions that maxi-mize their capital investment.

SPDN: How do you see the next year interms of economy, sales, technology, andproduct evolution?

TD: The jury is certainly still out on theeconomy. The debt situation coupledwith anemic GDP growth in Europe andNorth America is certainly worthy ofconcern. There is a great deal of uncer-tainty, which increases risk. Therefore,managing the risk is critical, while simul-taneously keeping one eye on the oppor-tunities created by market conditions.Because of the value converting to dia-mond wire offers, we are moderatelydecoupled with a general market decline.

SPDN: What is your outlook in generalfor this product line?

TD: Very positive. Imagine that you’rerunning a capital intensive factory, andsomeone offers you an opportunity tonearly double your capacity withoutadding equipment. That’s a compellingROI equation for any factory manager.Everyone is interested in driving downcosts and, in particular, getting PV prod-ucts to within grid parity range. Theentire value chain needs to drive costslower and lower. Converting to diamondwire is a critical element in that equation.

For more information, visit DiamondMaterials at Solar Power Internationalbooth 5156.

such as ours. Therefore, we’ve investedsignificantly in developing our culture tobring Lean and Six Sigma to the forefrontof our paradigm to serve the customer.

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

TD: The global economy is significantlyon our minds. There is significant uncer-tainty in the private and public sectors,which makes it challenging to accuratelyforecast events. This will be a challenge.Even so, you plan for success, so thechallenge is to do today what we willregret not having done when the globaleconomy stabilizes. This is systemsthinking, like process documentation,characterization and product perform-ance measures. It’s driving a Lean envi-ronment and then pushing headlong intoSix Sigma. It’s people development, sup-ply chain optimization and working onbeing a good social citizen. And ofcourse, it’s building stronger relation-ships with our customers, helping themovercome their challenges and deployingour strategy to become the supplier ofchoice in our markets.

SPDN: Where is your current productemphasis?

TD: Offering a high quality waferingwire that provides a substantial cost-of-ownership improvement over traditionalcutting technologies. But we’re also veryfocused on the broader question of solv-ing customer problems by providing

TD: We went through a very significantgrowth period this year, and this domi-nated our thinking. As we brought onnew capacity – which went up by a factorof five from a year ago – we had toensure that we had the talent, processesand infrastructure to absorb the growthwhile continuing to be responsive to ourcustomers.

SPDN: How well did the company adaptto the increased volume?

TD: Naturally, this creates some chal-lenges that have to be thought about verycarefully. For instance, we were buildingand installing new lines each month,which is a significant logistical, faciliti-zation and qualification challenge. Theobvious next challenge was bringing onnew people. For a few months in 2011 wewere the fastest-growing manufacturingcompany west of the Mississippi. So can-didate selection, on-boarding and train-ing programs were critical. Thankfully,we have an excellent human resource andtraining team that was able to deliver out-standing new-hire talent.

SPDN: What types of quality andimprovement programs have you imple-mented?

TD: We’re committed to a Lean SixSigma way of life. Lean is focused onelimination of waste, and Six Sigma isfocused on the elimination of variation.Both of these methods are extremelyimportant in a continuous flow operation

is a powerful solution engineered fromthe ground up to simplify design andinstallation of grid-interactive and stand-alone power systems. It allows designersand distributors to successfully achieverenewable energy independence andsecurity.

Rugged reliability, in-field servicea-bility and first-rate customer service fur-ther minimizes “windshield time” fordesigners and installers, advancingOutBack’s reputation for “no hassle”problem solving and fast turnaround. Thestreamlined design and installationprocess also helps businesses manageinventory, sell more products and enjoybusiness growth.

“I’ve been able to trust OutBack

Power for years, and the Radian SeriesInverter/Charger takes their product line,performance and reliability to a newlevel,” said David Katz, Founder and CTOof AEE Solar. “We’re already seeing sig-nificant demand for it, and expect that thisline will help accelerate our sales and cus-tomer growth in the months to come.”

Because all products are engineeredand manufactured in the U.S.A., availabil-ity and turnaround of needed parts andservice is best-in-class. Additionally, theRadian Series is backed by OutBackPower’s 10-year history of quality andinnovation in the renewable energy marketand unparalleled customer support team.

Basic grid-tied systems can backpower back to the utility from a renew-able energy source, but only grid-interac-tive systems can power the load if the

OutBack Power (Con’t. from p. 1) grid fails. The Radian Series is unique inits ability to support large dynamic loadvariations without voltage spikes or sags.From the perfect sunny day to the stormof the century—this system is built tocarry the load. The Radian SeriesInverter/Charger’s dual AC inputs alsoprovide the flexibility to connect to thegrid and recharge the batteries from agenerator. Customers have a continuouspower supply, even if emergency condi-tions last for an extended period of time.

The Radian Series offers grid-inter-active and stand-alone capability in thesame package. The grid-interactive solu-tion combined with the ease of a basicgrid-direct PV system integrates directlyinto standard home wiring. In addition,the modular, parallel architecture com-bined with OutBack’s robust HUB

Communication Manager provides theability to build a system from eight to80kW—enough to power even largerloads.

Additional features include: simpli-fied system setup via a powerful pro-gramming wizard, optional integratedbalance of system load center for easyinstallation, field serviceable modulardesign, and both 12V AUX output aswell as programmable dry contact relay.The Radian Series is an integrated powerappliance that does it all.

Integration means simplicity—thenew generation of renewable energy hasarrived.

For more information, visit OutBackPower in booth 701 at Solar PowerInternational and online at www.outback-power.com.


SPARQ SYSTEMS INC.:SIMPLER, SMARTER SOLARAn upstart, Canadian-based balance ofsystems supplier is revolutionizing solarpower conversion technology.

SPARQ Systems Inc. has developeda novel photovoltaic microinverter thatlowers the costs of installation and own-ership of PV technology to householdsand small businesses while also dramati-cally increasing the energy efficiency andreliability of PV systems.

With these differentiators, SPARQ isalso able to target a disruptive new mar-ket: the integrated AC module. A plug-and-play technology, the integrated ACmodule eliminates complicated wiring,junction boxes and extra installationsteps, requiring simply a panel, a powercord and a plug. Connecting directly tothe power grid, SPARQ microinvertersenable the user’s solar module to harnessthe clean power of the sun.

The uniqueness of the SPARQtechnology is found in the power and

control circuitry required to interfacePV modules with the power grid.SPARQ’s innovative approach usesfewer conversion stages, losslessswitching, no unreliable electrolyticcapacitors and optical-isolators, trans-former isolation and elegant digital con-trol techniques. This allows for amicroinverter design that has very highpower density, ultra-high reliability andhigher energy production.

SPARQ believes that small is beauti-ful. Fewer parts mean reduced size,weight and cost. SPARQ’s systems costless and return investment sooner―ineight years or less, compared to an aver-age of 13 years with other systems.Savings are further enhanced throughgovernment Feed-in-Tariff and tax incen-tive programs.

For more information, call 1-613-533-6000 x78238, or [email protected].

WALMART ANNOUNCES PLAN TOINSTALL SOLAR PANELS ON UPTO 60 ADDITIONAL STORES INCALIFORNIA WITH SOLARCITYWalmart’s solar power initiative willtotal more than 130 stores by the end of2013; Adds hundreds of jobs throughpartnership with SolarCity

Walmart has initiated a plan to installsolar panels on up to 60 additionalstores in California with SolarCity,expanding the Walmart’s solar portfolioto more than 75 percent of its stores inthe state, making California the firststate in the nation where Walmart hasdevoted this level of commitment torenewable energy.

“Walmart has undertaken one of themost ambitious solar initiatives of anycompany in the U.S., and tripled the scaleof its initial project with us,” addedLyndon Rive, SolarCity’s CEO.“Walmart is setting an example that farmore companies in the U.S. can follow; itis possible for many businesses to payless for solar power than they currentlypay for electricity.”

“California presents a great opportu-nity for Walmart to make significantprogress toward our sustainability goalsby installing solar power on more than130 store rooftops throughout the state,”said Kim Saylors-Laster, Walmart vicepresident of energy. “Walmart hasreduced energy expenses by more than amillion dollars through our solar pro-gram, allowing us to pass these savingson to our customers in the form of every-day low prices.”

When complete, Walmart’s totalsolar commitment in California isexpected to:• Generate up to 70 million kilowatthours of clean, renewable energy peryear, which is the equivalent of poweringmore than 5,400 homes;• Avoid producing more than 21,700 met-

ric tons of carbon dioxide emissions peryear, which is the equivalent of takingapproximately 4,100 cars off the road; and• Provide 20 to 30 percent of each facili-ty’s total electric needs.

“Walmart’s effort to expand and accel-erate its solar power initiative programhere in California demonstrates theircommitment to sustainability. Thesekinds of projects create jobs, reducecosts for businesses by lowering powerbills, and protect the environment,” saidMary D. Nichols, Chair of theCalifornia Air Resources Board. “Weappreciate Walmart’s leadership andencourage other businesses to followWalmart’s lead.”

“Walmart’s commitment to renew-able energy in California is commend-able,” said Gwen Ruta, vice president forcorporate partnerships at EnvironmentalDefense Fund. “These projects are a win-win for the environment and our econo-my, and help move our country toward acleaner energy future.”

SolarCity will own, install and main-tain the new solar power systems. Thecompany has added more than 500 newfull-time jobs since it initiated its firstWalmart solar project.

“Our solar efforts in California haveproven to be a great way for Walmart tobuild our renewable energy program,”said Mack Wyckoff, senior manager ofrenewable energy at Walmart. “We areconfident that we will continue to growour solar energy program in the U.S. andaround the world because of the initialsuccess we have had in California.”

For more information aboutSolarCity, call 888-765-2489, visit themonline at www.solarcity.com or stop bybooth 715.



AEG Power Solutions (AEG PS), a globalprovider of innovative premium power elec-tronics, has launched its high-efficiency,full-featured utility-scale inverter to theNorth American market. Launched inEurope andAsia inApril, the Protect PV.500Inverter – with an efficiency greater than 98percent and flexible grid management fea-tures – is ideal for utility-scale deployment.

“As grid requirements vary fromproject to project, the Protect PV.500 isdesigned so that changes can be made eas-ily,” said Kaivon Mortazavi, VicePresident of North America for AEG PS.“With four different ways to provide reac-tive power control, adjustable settings forLow Voltage Fault Ride Through, provi-sionable ramp parameters for start and

stop operations, and remote power con-trol, its flexibility is unmatched.”

The Protect PV.500 has an operatingdirect current (DC) input range of 400 to1000 V and a rated AC power output of510 kVA. It is also available as part of afully integrated 1 MW equipment shelterwith two Protect PV.500 inverters, com-munications equipment, MV transformerand switchgear.

Derived from the highly successfulPV.250, the Protect PV.500 features apower stack with advanced-design meas-uring and control technology. The devicecontrol is fully digital and communica-tion-enabled, so parameters can also be

monitored and controlled remotely viathe Internet. AEG PS products includesuch features as low-loss chokes, high-quality components and double coatingof all printed circuit boards (PCBs) mak-ing them reliable for decades to come.

Over the past 60 years, AEG PowerSolutions (AEG PS) has provided mis-sion critical power control and powersystems to selected end markets such aspower generation, oil and gas and thesolar energy industry.

For more information, please stop bySolar Power International booth 254, call877-315-4584 or email AEG PowerSolutions at [email protected].

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

SPDN:What sets Cooper Industries com-pany apart from the competition?

RT: For more than 177 years, Cooper

Industries has served as a brand leaderand trusted provider of innovative andcost-efficient electrical solutions.Through our extensive commitment tonew product development, operationalexcellence and unparalleled customerloyalty and service, we continue to pro-vide our customers with a level of inno-

vation and support that is unmatched byour competitors. In fact, Cooper’s experi-ence in the electrical arena consists of arobust range of solar products, includingstandard and custom panel support sys-tems, cable management, power manage-ment and enclosure solutions. Our histo-ry of innovation and expertise continuesto set us apart from competitors as weprovide quality products that meet theindustry’s need for flexible, durable andlong-lasting solar products.

SPDN: Where is Cooper’s current prod-uct emphasis?

RT: For solar project installations,Cooper’s emphasis and expertise lies inthe balance of system components. Wecurrently offer a range of solar mounting,cable management, power managementand circuit management and protectionproducts. This includes a set of standardand custom engineered solutions formounting solar PV panels in ground,commercial roof and open structure appli-cations. Our combiner boxes provide thehousing to combine and connect the con-ductors from several arrays or solar


thereafter by the Self Generation pro-gram. The former stimulated small andprimarily residential installations, the lat-ter small commercial projects. A similardistributed generation program followedsoon after in New Jersey.

Phase Two lasted just over a decade.This phase was driven by a highly frag-mented residential end-market in con-junction with the proliferation of a com-mercial segment dominated by systemsizes up to 1 MW. Phase Two also result-ed in the start-up of a large number ofdynamic companies servicing the down-stream U.S. market. The primary driversof the market were distributed generationprograms in California and New Jersey.

The clear goals of these programs were toyield economically self-sustaining mar-kets by their conclusion. Depending onthe definition of grid parity, California ison schedule to reach that goal three yearsearlier than planned. The ending of theCSI funding has coincided with what canprobably be considered the most remark-able year for pricing in the history of theUS solar market.

Phase Three started last year. It wastriggered by the need for utilities to meetrenewable energy targets set out in a mul-titude of variably-structured RenewablePortfolio Standards. These regulationshave been combined with the new pricingenvironment that now delivers solar elec-tricity to utilities in the 10-12 cents perKW-hr range, with the assistance of an

Solarbuzz (Con’t. from p. 1) important Federal Investment Tax credit.Nonetheless, this pricing was unthink-able even 18 months ago. As a result,many utilities are increasing their RFPsizes and their issuance frequency. Thisnew commercial equation has resulted ina US project pipeline that has nowreached nearly 25 GW.

Phase Three is also characterized byan increase in “solar active” states.During Phase Two, California and NewJersey led the nation in solar projectswith 80 percent of the national total.Utility engagement has changed this pic-ture. The top six state pipelines areCalifornia, Arizona, Nevada, Texas, NewJersey, and New Mexico; in total, 44states 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 regulationswill ultimately determine the pace ofgrowth during this phase and, in particu-lar, how quickly 25 GW of the projectdevelopment work turns into reality. Thedelivery of just a small proportion ofthese will secure enormous growth forthe solar market in the US. Ultimately, itwill be clear that 2011’s painful pricecuts laid the foundation for tomorrow’s(solar) electric rate of growth.

This article is based on theSolarbuzz United States Deal Tracker.

For more information, visitwww.solarbuzz.com or on Twitter,@Solarbuzz. Global solar energy marketresearch and analysis since 2001.

AEG POWER SOLUTIONS BRINGSPROTECT PV.500 SOLAR INVERTERTO THE U.S.

COOPER INDUSTRIES BRINGSHISTORY OF INNOVATION &RELIABILITY TO INDUSTRY

SPARQ SYSTEMS, INC. LAUNCHESPV CLEANTECH PARTNERSHIPWITH SANMINANew solar microinverter design signifi-cantly increases product lifespan andreliability.

SPARQ Systems, Inc., a Canadian globalprovider of solar microinverters, ispleased to announce that it has partneredwith Sanmina SCI Corp. (Nasdaq:SANM), a leading manufacturer of elec-tronic and mechanical products. Sanminawill produce SPARQ’s new microinvert-ers and communications hubs for solarphotovoltaic systems for the consumermarket.

SPARQ has developed an efficientand low-cost microinverter solution thatproduces more AC power from PV pan-els for longer periods under lower lightand partial shading conditions. Thedesign eliminates unreliable components,which increases the lifespan of the

microinverters threefold, giving home-owners up to 25 years of performance.

The solar microinverters will be pro-duced for global markets at Sanmina-SCI’s worldwide regional facilities inSan Jose, Calif., and at the company’sOttawa, Ontario facility for Canadianmarkets.

“Sanmina-SCI’s core strengthsinclude a focus on alternative energytechnologies,” says Praveen Jain, ChiefExecutive Officer of SPARQ Systems.“They have the expertise, the infrastruc-ture and the track record to meet all ofour product needs as we move into full-scale production. And Sanmina-SCI’smulti-continental manufacturing pres-ence is well-suited for SPARQ, in pro-ducing the microinverters to meet localcontent requirements globally. We aredelighted to be working with this quality-

focused organization.”“We’re committed to helping the

clean technology sector grow to its fullpotential. Partnering with companies likeSPARQ to bring innovative new productsto market is important to Sanmina-SCI’soverall clean technology strategy,” saysTom Clawson, Executive Vice Presidentof Sanmina-SCI’s Industrial Markets.“We have brought hundreds of highlycomplex products to market and this deepknowledge of new product introductionsenables us to bring products likeSPARQ’s new microinverters to marketquickly and efficiently.”

“We are very pleased to bring thisCanadian innovation to global markets,enabling small businesses, consumersand manufacturers to reap the benefits ofthis highly reliable and efficient renew-able energy technology,” says RandallNorth, Chief Operating Officer ofSPARQ Systems.

About SPARQ Systems, Inc.SPARQ Systems, Inc. is the globalenabler of integrated AC modules.SPARQ microinverters are highly reli-

able, lightweight and compact, giving theuser faster return on investment andincreased flexibility. The company isbased in Kingston, Ontario.

About Sanmina-SCISanmina-SCI Corporation is a leadingelectronics contract manufacturer servingthe fastest-growing segments of the glob-al Electronics Manufacturing Services(EMS) market.

Recognized as a technology leader,Sanmina-SCI provides end-to-end manu-facturing solutions, delivering superiorquality and support to OEMs primarily inthe communications, defense and aero-space, industrial and semiconductor sys-tems, medical, multimedia, enterprisecomputing and storage, automotive andclean technology sectors. Sanmina-SCIhas facilities strategically located in keyregions throughout the world. Moreinformation regarding the company isavailable at http://www.sanmina-sci.com.

For more information, please visitSPARQ Systems, Inc.go to www.spar-qsys.com, email [email protected] orcall 1-613-533-3438.


free longevity, sustainability, and lowlife-cycle cost, but also for durability,aesthetics, and low initial cost – hot-dipgalvanizing will ensure your projectshines for generations.

About the American GalvanizersAssociation (AGA)The American Galvanizers Association(AGA) is a non-profit trade associationestablished in 1935 to support the after-fabrication hot-dip galvanizing industry.For more than 75 years, the AGA hasprovided the specifying community tech-nical assistance on specification, design,

performance, painting over galvanizing,and any other galvanizing topic. TheAGA has a number of free tools (publica-tions, continuing education seminars)available for specifiers to learn abouthow hot-dip galvanizing protects steeland to help you specify galvanized steelfor your next project. Visit www.galva-nizeit.org or www.galvanizedpower.comfor more information.

To learn more about how the natural,renewable, and durable zinc of the hot-dip galvanized coating will ensurerenewable solar power can be generationwithout interruptions or impact to theenvironment, stop by the AGA booth3952.

AGA (Con’t. from p. 34)

panels for the project.As the project integrator, Inovateus

Solar also called upon several other keypartner suppliers, all of whom eitherdonated their products, labor or deeplydiscounted them for this one-of-a-kinduniversity demonstration. ShoalsTechnologies in Portland, Tenn. pro-vided its combiner boxes. California-based SMA America, the U.S. sub-sidiary of SMA Solar Technology AGin Germany, supplied the inverters.

“SMA America was thrilled towork with Inovateus Solar on such anexciting project,” said JurgenKrehnke, President and GeneralManager of SMA America. “Becauseit provides a hands-on learning oppor-tunity while reducing the school’spower consumption and carbon foot-print, this solar installation furtherelevates Notre Dame among academicuniversities.”

Inovateus Solar donated the serv-ices of Midland Engineering Companyto physically install the panels overthe EPDM roof, and Koontz-WagnerElectric Company to provide its powergeneration and distribution expertiseto the project. Both these companiesare based in South Bend.

“We gathered our local resourcesand decided to do the job as a donationto the University. Our contribution andthe generous donations of our partnersmade the project possible,” JP vonRahl, Inovateus Solar’s ProjectManager explains. “Notre Dame is aprestigious University that we knewwould benefit for our solar integrationexpertise. Not only will the installationgenerate free energy to the universityfor over 25 years, it provides the NDalumni a fine example of InovateusSolar’s installation capabilities thatcould be applied to alumni owned busi-nesses and facilities anywhere.”

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

Inovateus Solar (Con’t. from p. 66)

With its distinctive product offering andadvanced cell technology, Bosch SolarEnergy is poised to take the NorthAmerican market by storm, bringing itscustomers a whole new level of perform-ance.

Bosch Solar Energy will be exhibit-ing its products at Solar PowerInternational, Booth 5115, Hall D. Formore information, please visitwww.bosch-solarenergy.com or call 650-356-3100.

conductors makes accurate control of thepower supply critical. The machine‘soutput power has to be able to be meas-ured and controlled precisely. To guaran-tee this at a higher load, HUETTINGERimplemented a higher signal processingresolution in the machine’s control sys-tem. This means that the measuringinstruments in the power supply can

facilitate more accurate recording of theoutput power generated and the exactresults reported back to the control sys-tems. By that, the control system canreadjust the output power reliably andprecisely at any time and adapt to the tar-get value. Stable processes and optimalprocess results are the outcome.

For more information about HUET-TINGER Electronic, Inc., 800-910-0035or email [email protected].

HUETTINGER (Con’t. from p. 100)

standard solar cells. Enhanced weak lightperformance is also achieved through appli-cation of high precision laser technology foredge isolation. Hence, solar modules withthese cells yield proportionately more out-put under weak light incidence andincreased ambient temperatures, thusincreasing the annual energy yield.

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

Bosch Solar Energy (Con’t. from p. 39)

industry experts. We have a very activetechnical committee run by Jasbir Bath,and we recently held our first standardsand engineering technology training ses-sions, which were very successful.

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

MH: Yes. Believe it or not, the statisticaldata base on long-term reliability is limit-ed, and, as they are finding in Germany,there are a number of issues related tomodules and systems that have been inad-equately addressed. We feel that SEMAcan make a real contribution to the long-term success of the solar industry

SPDN: Back to your business. How doyou see the industry this year?

MH: North America seems to be thebright spot right now. We are seeingChinese module manufacturers bleedingand cutting prices, but a number of NorthAmerican manufacturing facilities arecoming on line rapidly and are geared fora higher level of service and support totheir customers. This may be the key totheir success.

In addition, with rising costs in China andthe savings on shipping, the NorthAmerican industry will be able to com-pete more closely.

SPDN: And your own business?

MH: It has been growing rapidly. We rep-resent several of the largest Asian materi-als and equipment manufacturers, whohave quietly become some of the largestsuppliers in the industry. These includeTonsan sealants, Jolywood backsheet,

GSMC pastes and Sunlight ribbon. Onthe equipment side, we represent Orientlaminators among several other suppliers.

SPDN: What is your outlook for some ofthese products?

MH: Tonsan are one of the largest suppli-ers of sealants and potting compounds inthe industry, and we have been doingvery well with a number of the leadingmodule manufacturers. Orient has proba-bly the largest installed base of lamina-tors in the industry, and we have hadgood success in North America already,while GSMC are one of the largest pastemanufacturers, as well.

Our business has been growing with theindustry, and we expect this growth toaccelerate significantly this year.

SPDN: Describe your current marketingstrategy.

MH: As an engineering services andmaterials supplier to several industries,we have a very strong technical team onboth materials and equipment. Webelieve in working with engineering andmanagement to provide not just products,but solutions. By working closely to helpengineer processes and applications, wedeliver greater value.

SPDN: What are some of the challengesyou face?

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

For more information, please visitChristopher Associates, email MatthewHolzmann at [email protected].

Christopher Associates (Con’t. from p. 87)

Seiss, manager of service operationsfor Midland Engineering. “They have agreat reputation, not only in theMidwest, but also nationally. We lookforward to working together on moreprojects in the future. They are veryorganized and had a plan to execute allthe systems being installed.”

Erin Hafner, programs manager forThe Office of Sustainability at theUniversity of Notre Dame, said theproject is closely aligned with theschool’s sustainability strategy in thatthe renewable energy generated will becarbon-free and directly support thegoal of reducing the University’s car-bon footprint. The power generated bythe installation is equivalent to theenergy needed to power twohomes―about 15,000 kW hours peryear.

“The solar installation also sup-ports the University’s research mis-sion,” Hafner added, “by providing amonitoring system for faculty and stu-dents to gather and analyze real-timedata on outputs of the system.”

Inovateus Solar has extensiveexperience in helping colleges andeducational institutions with the inte-gration and installation of solarpower. From large solar installationsat Grand Valley State University nearGrand Rapids, Mich., and the firstnet-zero school in Richardsville, Ky,to smaller educational installs such asLove Creek Nature Center in nearbyBerrien Springs, Mich., InovateusSolar understands the critical natureof solar power engineering forresearch and sustainable energy edifi-cation.

For more information ContactInovateus Solar toll-free at 877-876-Solar (76527) or 574-485-1400, fax574-485-1419, email [email protected], or visit them online atwww.inovateussolar.com.

Stop by booth 831 and visitInovateus Solar at Solar PowerInternational.

Applied Films (which subsequentlybecame the PV division of AppliedMaterials), and brought to AngstromSciences key process know-how andlarge-area coating expertise. Comingfrom a production environment, Richknew first hand all of the attributes that arobust cylindrical magnetron would pos-sess and, with an eye towards that, Richdeveloped the highly acclaimed OnyxRevolution®. Extensive field trials atmultiple customer sites over the past 18months have validated the superiority ofAngstrom’s cylindrical magnetron tech-nology. In all cases, higher material uti-lizations and enhanced deposition effi-ciency have been observed and docu-mented when compared to our competi-tion. These benefits are substantial andhave been the driving force behindAngstrom’s success with this product

line.Recognizing that cathodes are just

part of a broader system-based solution,Frank Zimone came on board in Octoberof 2009. Frank previously ran opera-tion/engineering for a nanotechnologystart-up and was at Denton Vacuum for17 years leading that organization’sefforts to grow into a world-wide systemssupplier for thin film deposition tools.Frank brought a unique system-basedapproach to the company and a wealth ofrelevant application engineering, techni-cal leadership, and project engineeringskills.

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

Angstrom (Con’t. from p. 82)


based on all decisions being made only atthe master radio location.

This class of radio used for this typeof distributed intelligence network hasbeen proven in communication-intensiveindustries, such as military, oil and gas,and electric power. The leading compa-nies offering data radios, includingFreeWave, stand by their products withtraining, tech support, warranties andexperience. These attributes arm O&Mteams with the confidence required formanaging their communications system.Proprietary protocol data radios areoffered at a variety of speeds, interfaceprotocols and security. They are offeredwith varieties of form factors available tomatch the needs of the user.

Range or link distance is anotheradvantage in the top class of radios.Some types have proven to communicateover 60 miles line-of-sight. Standards-based radios tend to offer a range that is

more accurately described as hundreds offeet. The top class technologies are usedsuccessfully in extremely harsh condi-tions with high vibration, such as robot-ics, unmanned aerial vehicles in the mili-tary, and farm vehicles, proving in thefield that they can effectively communi-cate in all types of environments.

Awireless system can potentially savea company millions of dollars in installa-tion fees and the technologies have beenproven in the field over and over again inmany different industries. Any manufac-turer who has a solid product offering islikely willing to provide operators with testequipment to prove the technology beforethey buy it. It is easy to use, quick toinstall, reliable and low risk. When ROI isa key in determining the best communica-tions solution, the benefits of distributedintelligence with top class data radiosshould be part of every decision process.

For more information visit:www.freewave.com or contact BretDianich at [email protected].

FreeWave (Con’t. from p. 66)

sensitive adhesives and adhesive tapetechnologies are used around the world inelectronics, displays, wireless telecommu-nications, window fabrication, and thepulp and paper industry, as well as in med-ical diagnostics and devices, wound careand pharmaceuticals/transdermals. Basedin Glen Rock, Pennsylvania, AdhesivesResearch also operates manufacturing

facilities in Ireland and Colombia hassales and marketing offices in GreatBritain and Singapore a representativeoffice in Shanghai, China and sales repre-sentation in Japan, Korea and Taiwan.

For more information on AdhesivesResearch and its products, call 800-445-6240 (717-235-7979 outside NorthAmerica) or visit its website atwww.adhesivesresearch.com. Stop bySolar Power International booth 4743.

Adhesives Research (Con’t. from p. 34)

panels into one main bus or feed, withfuses designed specifically for the protec-tion of solar panels and conductors. Solarkits help eliminate expensive utilitypower investments by providing reliablepower in remote applications. We alsoprovide the products and services to con-nect large, utility-grade solar photovoltaicenergy system installations to the grid.

Specially designed solar Generator Step-Up [GSU] transformers, cooled withEnvirotemp FR3 soy oil based dielectricfluid, are both environmentally friendlyand provides the extended insulation lifecritical to the cycle duty in solar applica-tions. A full line of molded rubber partsand substation products such as capaci-tors, arresters, relays and automationcommunication systems help ensure thatthe quality of the electricity generated bythe solar installation meets grid intercon-nection requirements.

SPDN: How do Cooper’s solutionsimpact the customer?

RT: Cooper’s solar industry products are alldesigned to positively impact the customer.Our combined experience and innovation

help us develop solutions that decreaseoverall installation and ongoing mainte-nance costs of solar systems. All productswithstand harsh environmental conditionsand comply with all necessary codes formaximum peace of mind. For instance,weatherproof enclosures have a special UVabsorption compound built-in for protec-tion against harmful UV rays. This pro-vides long dependable service in the mostdemanding of environmental conditions.

SPDN: Who are Cooper’s target endusers?

RT: Solar systems are typically brokeninto four major categories: panels, invert-ers, balance of system andengineering/installation. Cooper’s prod-ucts fall under the balance of system cate-gory. Our solutions are appropriate forcommercial, industrial and utility applica-tions. Electrical distributors and contrac-tors, developers and facility owners andmanagers are the end users benefitingfrom the minimal maintenance require-ments, ease of installation and long-termdurability offered from Cooper products.

For more information, visit CooperIndustries at www.cooperindustries.comor call 713-209-8400.

Cooper Industries (Con’t. from p. 97)

OAI’s Solar Test Division announced asignificant increase in sales. Sales werespurred not only by increases in OAI’sstandard solar simulator line, but also bynew, innovative products. OAI intro-duced an advanced 350 nm to 1800 nmClass AAA Solar Simulator ideal formulti-junction solar cell testing, a highcurrent I-V tester and a solar power meterthat were developed by working withcustomers as part of OAI’s customer-cen-tered approach. As standard products,OAI offers: 50mm, 156 mm, 210 mm,and 300 mm Solar Simulators; low andhigh current I-V testers; test fixtures, andpower meters with reference cells. OAI’sline of TriSOL CLASS AAA SolarSimulators and I-V Testers are not onlybudget friendly, but also are easy to use,have long term reliability, meet the high-est specifications and are competitively

HUETTINGER ELECTRONIC, INC.ʼSNEW & IMPROVED TRUEPLASMARF SERIES 1000Cost-efficient manufacturing processesthat produce high-efficiency solar cells:These are challenges that must be met bygenerators for film deposition in the pro-duction of solar cells. HUETTINGERElectronic offers the TruPlasma RFSeries 1000, which now offers even moreadvantages: The high frequency powersupplies have been technically improvedand now provide even higher output sta-bility. The new power supplies have beenavailable since March 2011.

Application spectrum expanded in sever-al modelsCurrently available in the TruPlasma RFSeries 1000: The TruPlasma RF 1003 highfrequency generator. With a frequency of13.56 megahertz, it produces an outputpower of three kilowatts and is particular-ly well-suited for plasma applications insemiconductor and solar cell production.For the demanding coating and etchingprocesses in these industries, the powersupply delivers the necessary processingenergy with a high level of accuracy andreproducibility. To carry out these process-es with lower power consumption, HUET-TINGER has now improved this productfamily: The TruPlasma RF 1001 and the

TruPlasma RF 1002 now supply users withpower supplies of one and two kilowattpower outputs. These generators help tokeep plant expenses down because theycost less to purchase and operate.

Extra communications interface makesintegration easierHUETTINGER has also equipped thenew and improved TruPlasma RF Series1000 with an extra communicationsinterface. As an alternative to the previ-ous RS232/485 interface, the processpower supply now also comes with aPROFIBUS connection. This means thatthe generators can now be fully used onthe European market. Thanks to the newinterface and its very compact size, thepower supplies can be integrated into themachines easily and economically.

Improved output power stabilityFor the TruPlasma RF Series 1000 to bet-ter meet the demands of the semiconduc-tor manufacturing industry, HUET-TINGER has considerably improved thestability of the output power. The pro-cessing of the filigree structures of semi-

the CHFR they needed in a 1/2” diame-ter; the first commercially available 1/2”blind hole-filling fastener ever pro-duced.” This custom fastener design suc-cessfully met all design and testingparameters of SkyFuel in the GenerationIII frame. The result was the HuckSolarRivet, engineered to provide thehighest level of joint strength possible.

The fact that the CHFR was made ofaluminum was also an advantage.SkyFuel’s Adrian

Farr, VP of Product Engineeringsaid, “The aluminum half-inch diameterCHFR eliminates the concern of dissimi-lar metals commonly found with alu-minum frames and steel fasteners.” Headded, “We are now able to use a singlestructural fastener throughout the spaceframe. This eliminates the possibility ofinstalling a fastener in the wrong loca-tion.”

The SolarRivet offers solar manufac-turers of both parabolic troughs and pho-tovoltaic frames many market advantages

in addition to the no-slippage grip. It pro-vides a high level of vibration resistance,a benefit all Huck fasteners share. Itreduces labor costs, because highlyskilled welders are not necessary forinstallation. It can be installed quickly,without the “fumble factor” you find withtwo-piece nut and bolt systems. And itcan be installed in the field, greatly reduc-ing transportation costs from site to site.

Stated Adrian Farr of SkyFuel, “Ourgoal was to develop the most efficient,lowest installed cost parabolic solar col-lector. The SkyTrough[R] parabolicsolar collector utilizes an all-aluminumspace frame that has been designed forquick and easy assembly. The Huck half-inch CHFR fastener is an important com-ponent in helping us achieve our goals.”

Huck is currently working withSkyFuel to develop a 5/8” blind rivet fas-tener for future trough developments, andplans to expand its presence in the solarmarket extensively in the coming years.

Visit Huck at Solar PowerInternational in Alcoa Fastening Systemsbooth 6513.

Huck (Con’t. from p. 23)

INNOVATIVE NEW PRODUCTS SPURINCREASE IN OAIʼS SOLARSIMULATOR AND I-V TESTER SALES

priced. The increase in OAI’s Solar Testbusiness is a clear indication that themarket recognizes the value incorporatedin OAI’s approach. New solar test prod-ucts that assist companies in both R&Dand production are also in development.

“For almost 40 years, OAI has beena leader in the measurement and controlof light,” said Dr. Charles Turk, Presidentof OAI. “It is gratifying that we havebeen able to apply this expertise to thesolar market and have seen the accept-ance of our products by customersaround the world,” he added. About 40percent of OAI’s products are exported,demonstrating the worldwide acceptanceof OAI’s manufacturing philosophy ofusing standard modules to get superiorspecifications with cost-effective pricing.

Contact OAI at www.oainet.com,email at [email protected].


solar power daily news - oct. 19, 2011 - spi 2011

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