solar power daily news - oct. 18, 2011 - spi 2011

Gordon Hunter, CEO,Littelfuse, Inc., discuss-es how Littelfuse equip-ment provides circuitprotection options thatothers cannot offer.

SPDN: Littelfuse is known as the world’sleading provider of circuit protectioncomponents and solutions. How didLittelfuse get involved in the solar photo-voltaic market?

GH: Several years ago, Littelfuse began

tenKsolar CEO JoelCanon talks about hiscompany’s RAISWAVETM system.

SPDN: What is uniqueabout tenKsolar?

JC: tenKsolar designed the RAIS WAVEsystem to lower the cost of energy andimprove reliability. Solar hardware man-ufacturers have traditionally focused onreducing costs and efficiencies for theirpiece of the puzzle, and over time the

Stephen Colvin,Vice President ofMarketing forMersen’s NorthAmerican Electrical Protection dis-cusses why his company recentlychanged its name and how that namechange reflects a corporate vision.

SPDN: Why did Ferraz Shawmut changeits name to Mersen?

SC: Our name change reflects a corpo-rate-wide strategic initiative to unify our

From Parking Lotto Power Plant:Inovateus Helps GEEnergy Industrial Solutions Build a 100-kW Solar Energy Carport in Plainville,Connecticut

GE Energy Industrial Solutions recentlyunveiled a solar carport for electric vehi-cles (EVs) at the company’s Plainville,Conn., headquarters. GE used the expert-ise of Inovateus Solar, a solar industryleader, to collaborate on this excitingproject. Inovateus Solar helped install

Troy Pierce, SeniorDesign Engineer forHuck in Waco,Texas, a division ofAlcoa Fastening Systems, discusses thesuperiority of Huck’s application-specificfasteners.

SPDN: Describe Huck. What is your pri-mary line of business?

TP: Huck is a division of AlcoaFastening Systems, specializing inengineered fasteners and associated

Dave Morosoli, VPand GM, RECSolar, talks aboutREC Solar’s strong growth in U.S. commer-cial and government turnkey installations.

SPDN: Tell our readers a little about yourmain line of business?

DM: REC Solar is a leading provider oflarge-scale solar electric systems withover a decade of proven performancehelping federal and local governmentagencies, retailers, manufacturers,

Bob Hayworth,Chairman andCEO of BajaConstruction, shares why his companyis so prolific in the solar industry.

SPDN: Baja Construction—what do youdo?

BH: Baja, established in 1981, is a con-struction company engaged in the busi-ness of highly specialized and engineeredhigh-tensile, light gauge steel structures.We design, engineer, supply and install

Solar Power DailyNews recently hadthe chance to inter-view Jetion Solar USA President andCEO Juergen Fehr about his innovativeline of solar cells and modules.

SPDN: Tell our readers a little aboutJETION SOLAR USA.

JF: Jetion Solar USA is a subsidiary ofJetion Solar China Ltd. and one of thelargest designer, manufacturer and sup-plier of high efficiency solar cells and

Enrique de la Cruz,general manager ofSolar Solutions atAEG PowerSolutions (AEG PS), talks about select-ing the right utility-scale inverter.

SPDN: What’s the most important crite-ria in selecting an inverter for utility-scale projects?

ED: Bankability, but a buyer should con-sider a variety of things prior to purchas-ing. First, the inverter must have high

Dr. StefanParhofer, CEO ofGehrlicher SolarAmerica Corp.,tells us about this family-ownedEuropean PV system integrator.

SPDN: What’s your company’s main lineof business?

SP: Gehrlicher is one of the oldestEuropean PV system integrators (found-ed 1994 by Klaus Gehrlicher) and is still100 percent family-owned. We have

Dal las • 10¢Oser Communicat ions GroupTuesday, October 18, 2011

Pankaj Desai, CEO ofSonali Solar, discusseswhat you can expect tosee from his company atSolar PowerInternational.

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

PD: Sonali Solar is a vertically-integrat-ed company spanning different phases ofthe photovoltaic supply chain; we design,

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Jeff Smidt, VP/GM forUL’s Global EnergyBusiness, talks about hiscompany.

SPDN: What role hasUnderwriters Laborato-ries [UL] played in the growing solarindustry?

JS: UL has been working with leaders inthe solar industry for more than twodecades to set the standards for safe PVtechnology. As a leading safety testing


TENKSOLAR SYSTEMSREDUCE OPERATINGCOSTS, ENHANCE SAFETY

REC SOLAR GROWINGTURNKEY SOLAR FOR BUSI-NESS AND GOVERNMENT

MERSEN: A LEADER INCARBON, GRAPHITE ANDCIRCUIT PROTECTION

UNDERWRITERS LABS:A KEY PLAYER INGROWING SOLAR INDUSTRY

GEHRLICHER SOLARAMERICA SEES A BRIGHTFUTURE AHEAD IN THE U.S.

LITTELFUSE CIRCUITPROTECTION COMPONENTSENGINEERED TO PERFORM

JETION SOLAR USASTRIVING TO BE THELEADER IN PV MODULES

SONALI: A LEADER INPRODUCT VALUE AND PRO-MOTIONAL GIVEAWAY IDEAS

AEG POWER SOLUTIONS:INTRODUCING A WHOLENEW TYPE OF INVERSION

HUCK BLIND RIVETS AREFASTENERS OF CHOICEFOR CSP AND PV MARKETS

BAJA—WHY ARE THEYWINNING SO MANYSOLAR DEALS?

INOVATEUS SOLARAND GE CARPORT

AN INDEPENDENT PUBLICATION NOT AFFILIATED WITH ANY OTHER ORGANIZATION

Solar Power Dai ly NewsTuesday, October 18, 20114

An interview with ScottJohnson, President ofSolarDock®.

SPDN: How did yourbusiness get started?

SJ: Our introduction tosolar came through ourreal estate develop-ment practice. Sevenyears ago, while constructing a buildingto house the world headquarters of a solarpanel manufacturer, we acquired the onlyflat roof system that was available in themarket. We were perplexed and frustrat-ed with the engineering requirements andinstallation lead- time, but we were excit-ed about the opportunity to embracerenewable technology. From that experi-ence, we developed our product andreceived the patent, and the Solardocknon-penetrating racking system was

born. As Presidentof Solardock today,I am pleased towork with a teamof talented profes-sionals who havedelivered over 30megawatts ofSolarDock productto Fortune 500companies, K-12

schools, universities, non-profit organi-zations, commercial businesses, publicinstitutions and building owners (underpurchase power agreements).

SPDN: What would you say makes yourcompany unique?

SJ: We’ve recently adopted a tagline thatreally defines our approach: “Going fulltilt to bring you more power.” With everyinstallation, the optimal tilt angle is calcu-

Copper State Bolt & Nut Co. (CSBN) isa distributor and manufacturer of fasten-ers, industrial and construction products,cutting tools and abrasives, power tools,fluid sealing products, and related items.

CSBN provides products and service insupport of mining, industrial, construc-tion, utilities and telecommunications,automotive, maintenance and repair,OEM, and government accounts.

CSBN’s operations include nearly400 employees throughout 21 locationsin Arizona, Texas, Colorado, NewMexico and Nevada, with productionfacilities in Phoenix, Ariz. The companyalso has a Mexican subsidiary supportingthe border region and mining propertiesthroughout Mexico.

lated and built in to the SolarDock mount-ing system to maximize power productionfor our customers. “Going full tilt” alsodescribes our commitment to productexcellence and service. With seven yearsof experience, we bring broad industryexpertise to all our partnerships. Our cus-tomers enjoy lower upfront capital cost,minimal maintenance cost and the confi-dence of a long-term asset, lasting beyondthe panel warranty period. Our 25-yearwarranty is unmatched in the industry.

SPDN: Where is your current productemphasis?

SJ: Continuing to focus on overall valuefor our customers is our mission. Today,our systems allow installers to be highlyproductive, installing 40-percent morekW/year than a typical rooftop system.The roof-friendly features ofSolarDock’s non-penetrating mountingsystem protects the surface membraneand roof structure and is the only systemthat allows for weight to be distributed

SOLARDOCK GOES FULL TILT TODELIVER MORE POWER AND SERVICE

COPPER STATE BOLT & NUT: THEPARTS TO DO THE JOB



Lee M. OserCEO and Editor-in-Chief

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

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AN INDEPENDENT PUBLICATION NOTAFFILIATED WITH ANY OTHER ORGANIZATION


Adhesives Research (AR), a leadingdeveloper and manufacturer of custompressure-sensitive adhesive tapes (PSAs),specialty coatings, films and laminates,announces several sophisticated bondingtechnologies to enhance the capabilitiesand performance of a variety of photo-voltaic (PV) modules. The company’sbonding technologies are being displayedduring Solar Power International at booth4743.

Among the technologies offered isAR’s conductive PSA bus bar technolo-gy. This technology is an alternative totraditional bonding methods, such as sol-dering, for electrical interconnects andliquid epoxies.ARclad[R] 92708 is a highly conductivePSA supported by a tin-coated copperfoil carrier, which provides panel manu-facturers with reliable performance undera wide variety of conditions such asdamp heat (85C / 85%RH) and high tem-peratures (120C) and has the ability tofunction reliably under rigorous thermalcycling conditions. This adhesivedemonstrates improved current carryingcapacity and thermal properties whencompared to first generation bus bar tapetechnologies.

The adhesive was developed usingAdhesives Research’s extensive experi-ence in electrical interconnects andgrounding applications. The new bond-ing technology is supported and validat-ed by a variety of testing methods toevaluate performance, strength and relia-bility. AR’s testing process is available topotential customers during the designphase of a project.

Technology highlights include:• Reduced T-joint resistance• Lower resistance and excellent

joint stability in hot ampacity testing (10amps, 120 ºC, 6-days)

• Good thermal shock performance(IEC 61646, -40 – 85 ºC)• Very stable damp heat resistance (85ºC/85% RH).

Founded in 1961, Adhesives Researchoffers problem-solving capabilities andcustom solutions in adhesive polymeriza-tion, mixing, adhesive coating and releaseliner design supported by extensive prod-uct development and analytical support.The company’s North American and

Limerick, Ireland, facilities are certified

Solartron Energy Systems Inc. (Solartron)is the designer and manufacturer behindthe revolutionary SolarBeamTM parabolicdish. The SolarBeam is the first parabolicdish to achieve SRCC certification. Thedesigners and engineers behind theSolarBeam foresaw the need to engineeran affordable system capable of high ther-mal energy and electricity production – ahybrid system.

The SolarBeamTM Concentratorachieves peak 39,239 BTUs of thermalheat per hour by tracking the sun withflawless precision and collecting thesun’s radiation from a 15.8 m2 (160 sq.ft)surface area and focusing the energy on a25x25 cm (10” x 10”) absorber.

Based on SRCC data, the SolarBeamoutperforms glazed flat plate, evacuatedtube, or concentrated thermal systems forefficiency and kW output. In addition tothe instantaneous energy output perform-ance, the SolarBeam is 30 percent moreefficient than systems that do not trackthe sun.

The SolarBeam also has AdvancedProtection System (APS), which preventsheat stagnation from occurring. Multiplesensors monitor the fluid temperature andthe system will automatically move awayfrom the sun if the temperature of the pri-mary loop has been achieved. When addi-tional heat is required, the SolarBeamautomatically resumes tracking.

The SolarBeam Concentrator wasdesigned as a low maintenance systemcapable of providing water temperaturesup to 93 degrees Celsius (199.4 degreesFahrenheit).The SolarBeam can be usedto provide: process heating, space heat-ing and air conditioning (withAbsorptionchillers). Installations of SolarBeamshave occurred in Canada, USA, Europeand Australia.

Generating high thermal efficiencyis one thing. Generating electricity isanother. SolarTron’s engineers mergedthe two to provide a hybrid system allpacked into a small area.

The future CPV (ConcentratedPhoto-voltaic) add-on will provide peak3.5 kW per hour of electricity. Thisbreakthrough technology utilizes a triplejunction CPV cellwith an operating effi-ciency of 31 percent.

With a dish collector area of 15.8square meters, focusing on a CPV panelarea of 226 square centimeters, theSolarBeam drastically reduces spacerequirements and maintenance as com-pared with PV panels.

The reflective petal’s patent-pendingcurvature makes the SolarBeam the onlysystem in the world to maximize the solarpotential for thermal and concentratedphoto-voltaic power.

Continued on Page 18Continued on 2

SOLAR BEAM DISH REPLACES15 TO 15 FLAT PANELS

ADHESIVES RESEARCH ADVANCESPV CELL TECHNOLOGY: NEWBONDING ADHESIVES ENHANCEPERFORMANCE AND CAPABILITIES


NEARLY 20 YEARS OF RENEWABLEENERGY EXPERIENCE BEHINDMAGNETEKʼ E-FORCE PV INVERTERMagnetek’s E-Force® utility scale PVinverter prototype is on display in booth709 at Solar Power International.

Magnetek has been in the renewableenergy business for nearly 20 years, hav-ing shipped over 750MW of power con-version systems, including 600MW ofthe second generation E-Force powerconditioning system for wind applica-tions. This field-proven design efficientlyconverts the electrical power that is avail-able from renewable sources, reduces thetime and cost of installation and assures along service life.

Magnetek’s compact, air-cooled E-Force photovoltaic inverter is designedfor grid-tied large solar applications suchas ground mount installations. E-Forceinverters have generous de-rating criteriaon critical components, achieving arobust and reliable inverter capable ofdelivering maximum power availability

on a continuous basis. E-Force unitsachieve peak and CEC efficiencies of97.8 percent and 97 percent respectively,subject to NRTL validation. Total currentharmonic distortion is less than 5 percentthrough E-Force’s control switchingtechnology. E-Force offers twoMaximum Power Point Tracking(MPPT) algorithms maximizing energyproduced under varying light conditions.Unique switching technology includeslarge capacity Insulated Gate Bi-polarTransistors (IGBTs) to improve servicelife. Magnetek’s E-Force PV utility scaleinverter is designed to integrate easilyinto a shelter minimizing heat generationand overall shelter footprint.

Sophisticated self-diagnostics andremote-monitoring capabilities allowscustomers to monitor energy generationand operational status. Grid supportoptions include VAR control and LVRT.

E-Force PV inverters are pending UL1741 approval. An Ontario FIT compli-ance option will be available.

Durable E-House™ shelters willalso be available to house balance ofplant components including transformersand switch gear. These modular sheltersare designed for quick, easy installation,minimizing field wiring and installationcosts. They are built to withstand localconditions, whether it’s snow load ordesert sun, delivering long system life.Magnetek provides complete servicefrom start to finish, including commis-sioning, installation and technical sup-port, remote diagnostics, unit historytracking, training, and upgrading.

Magnetek, Inc. is a leadingprovider of digital power and motioncontrol systems used in energy deliv-

ery, overhead material handling andelevator applications. In addition topower conditioning products forrenewable energy applications, thecompany is North America’s largestsupplier of digital drive systems forindustrial cranes, hoists and monorails.Magnetek provides EnergyEngineered® drives, radio remote con-trols, motors, and braking and collisionavoidance subsystems to NorthAmerica’s foremost overhead materialhandling crane builders. Magnetek isalso the world’s largest independentbuilder of highly-integrated digitalmotion control systems for high-rise,high-speed elevators and is a leadingindependent supplier of digital motioncontrol systems for underground coalmining applications. Magnetek is head-quartered in Menomonee Falls, Wis., inthe greater Milwaukee area and oper-ates manufacturing facilities inPittsburgh, Pa., and Canonsburg, Pa.,as well as Menomonee Falls.

For more information, please contactEd Butte Director, Renewable Energy262-252-2905, or email [email protected].

SUPER-SIZED MODULES FOR COSTREDUCTION OF UTILITY-SCALE PVINSTALLATIONSBy 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 the

industry and permit utilities tomeet increasingly stringentrenewable portfolio standardtargets.

The solar utility PV marketis experiencing significantgrowth that will continue forthe foreseeable future. Utilities

are 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 to

utility demands for reliability, high effi-ciency, a proven track record, anddemonstrated 20-year life span, as wellas overall cost considerations.

Conventional PV modules provide amaximum power output of between 230-270 watts. Larger modules, up to 400watts, have been recently introduced andare targeted specifically at the utilitymarket. Super-sized modules, more thandouble this size, can provide even greaterbenefit for PV utilities. Such larger mod-ules, approximately 5.5-ft by 12.5-ft(Figure 1), provide significant cost sav-ings by lowering materials, BOS, andinstallation expenses. Total predictedsavings approach $0.50/watt. This costreduction would translate into billions ofdollars in cost savings over the nextdecade for the rapidly growing utilitymarket 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 fasten-ers• A single DC/DC power conditioner or

DC/AC inverter

Due to their size, it is more difficult andexpensive to transport very large mod-ules over long distances. This providesan incentive for local module manufac-turing at the solar farm site or at central-ized locations with multiple customersnearby. For on site production, a modulefactory would be situated adjacent to orwithin a solar farm site. Solar cells wouldbe delivered to the site, and moduleswould be manufactured and transportedshort distances from the factory to the

TRANSFORM SOLAR: THE WONDEROF SLIVER TECHNOLOGYInterview with Phil Mackey, ExecutiveManager, Transform Solar

SPDN: Tell our readers about your compa-ny. What’s your main line of business?

PM: Transform Solar is bringing its sole-ly-owned, innovative SLIVER photo-voltaic technology to market. We havesubstantial manufacturing assets in theU.S. and are backed by two major andcomplementary companies: MicronTechnology and Origin Energy. We are inproduction and within the next two tothree years will be scaling our SLIVER-based solar module production capacityto over 300 MWper year.


PM: SLIVER technology is a novel way

to make bifacial, very thin, monocrys-talline silicon solar cells. These cells aredistinctively different; they are smaller,thinner, and more flexible than conven-tional cells. Using these points of differen-tiation, we can offer lightweight, flexiblemodules that better meet our customers’needs because they are competitive inprice and they deliver higher energyyields, better partial-shading performance,and lower module-to-module mismatch.

SPDN: Are you introducing any newproducts?

PM: We just received UL standard certi-fication for our SLIVER Series IV mod-ules, and we are in the process of com-mercializing them globally. First ship-ments will be made to our distributors inEurope and Australia, and they will beshowcased at SPI for the U.S. market.

We plan to introduce othernew products in 2012―inparticular, a lightweight flex-ible product with less than13percent efficiency and ahigh-voltage moduledesigned to unleash the sim-plicity and performanceadvantages of an all-parallelsystem design.

SPDN: How do you handle sales?

PM: We sell SLIVER panels throughselect distribution partners. We havesecured key relationships in Europe,Japan, and Australia, and we are current-ly building partnerships in the U.S.

SPDN: Who are your target end-users?

PM: The key difference with SLIVERpanels is their superior performancewhen systems encounter partial shading.For this reason, we intend to focus large-ly on rooftop applications. It is difficultfor customers to be fully confident that

some unforeseen sourceof shade won’t be aproblem over the longlife of their rooftop sys-tem. Our productsdecrease this risk whileincreasing confidence inlong-term energy yields.

SPDN: Tell our readers about your tradeshow objectives, plans, products, promo-tions, etc.

PM: We are showcasing our currentproducts and prototypes of future prod-ucts at our booth 6809. In particular, weare demonstrating novel concepts likean all-parallel design module and alightweight, flexible panel that fitsmetal/flat roofs without the need forpenetration or heavy framing. Theseconcepts leverage the unique features ofSLIVER technology to deliver a betteroutcome to our customers.

For more information, visit www.transformsolar.com or stop by booth 6809.



manufacture and market highly efficientmono and poly-crystalline PV modules.We own and operate a state of the artmanufacturing facility with an automatedproduction line to supply our customerswith the highest quality solar modules onthe market.


PD: Sonali Solar is uniquely positioned toprovide high quality modules at anextremely competitive price. Our manu-facturing facility is located in India, whichhelps keep our costs down, but our panelsare made on an automated, state-of-the-artproduction line, which includes one of thefirst electroluminescence testers in India.This combination of low cost and highmanufacturing standards allows us todeliver the best value to our customers.

SPDN: Tell our readers about your tradeshow objectives, plans, products, promo-tions, etc.

PD: Trade shows have played a veryimportant role in our business. We enjoymeeting buyers personally, showing themour product and discussing businessopportunities with potential customers.This year we are running a very excitingpromotion involving free diamonds. Weplan to exhibit at trade shows in Dallas2011 (Booth #3900), San Diego 2012(Booth #623), Germany 2012, and India

Sonali Solar (Con’t. from p. 1) 2012.

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

PD: We plan to bring out a 300W line ofmodules in the next couple of months.Our research team is always working tobring higher wattage modules to marketat very competitive prices.

SPDN: Please assess the marketplace asit relates to your product line.

PD: We are currently focusing on theU.S., European and Asian markets. Weare particularly excited by the Indiangovernment’s recent announcement ofadditional incentives there. We believethat by having an established manufac-turing facility already in India, we will beable to take full advantage of the incred-ible growth that the Indian market willsee in the next few years.

SPDN: To what do you attribute yourcompany’s success?

PD: Full credit goes to our employees.Having the right team is critical to thesuccess of any company, and we believethat we have assembled an outstandinggroup of professionals who will makeSonali Solar a highly successful compa-ny that provides the best value for ourcustomers.

Visit Sonali Solar at Solar PowerInternational booth 3900.

to the updated ISO 9001:2000 standard.Adhesives Research’s pressure-sen-

sitive adhesives are used around theworld in electronics, displays, wirelesstelecommunications, window fabrica-tion, and the pulp and paper industry, aswell as in medical diagnostics anddevices, wound care and pharmaceuti-cals/transdermals. Based in Glen Rock,Pennsylvania, Adhesives Research also

Adhesives Research (Con’t. from p. 8) operates manufacturing facilities inIreland and Colombia, has sales and mar-keting offices in Great Britain andSingapore, a representative office inShanghai, China and sales representationin 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.

Today concentrated solar power (CSP)plants are becoming more common, andthe need for more efficient and affordabletechnology has taken center stage. CSPplants need efficient and high tempera-ture fluids to capture the maximumamount of energy produced by the sun’sradiation. Typically, hydrocarbon fluidsare used in these systems to transfer heat.These have problems with thermalsdegradation, flash point, toxicity andcost. Molten salt technology couldreplace these fluids.

Molten salts are environmentally-friendly heat transfer salt fluids and ther-mal storage media designed for ultra-high-temperature applications. Dynalenehas developed two molten salts:Dynalene MS-1, which is a binary saltmixture designed for energy storage ofheat overnight when there is no sun to

heat the system, and Dynalene MS-2,which is a ternary eutectic salt mixtureengineered as a heat transfer fluid tomove the heat form the collectors towhere it can be used to generate electric-ity. Dynalene molten salts are specifical-ly engineered to safely withstand exces-sive heat loads far above the boundariesof most alternative heat transfer fluidsand exhibit negligible vapor pressurenear peak operating temperatures and arenon-toxic and non-flammable.

The melting points of a Dynalene’smolten salts are designed to fit the appli-cation. Dynalene MS-1 has a meltingpoint of 237 degrees C. The melting pointof the Dynalene MS-1 is higher becauseit is designed for energy storage and notmeant to be a working heat transfer fluid,

DYNALENE MOLTEN SALT FORSOLAR APPLICATIONS


Solar Power Dai ly News 23Tuesday, October 18, 2011

BUREAU VERITAS―ENVIRONMENTALCOMPLIANCE MANAGEMENT OFSOLAR PROJECTSBureau Veritas is pleased to announcethat it has been selected to act asCompliance Manager by the Departmentof Interior―Bureau of LandManagement (BLM) for the IvanpahSolar Power Complex and the GenesisSolar Energy Projects located inCalifornia.

These projecst are a great step in themove toward renewable, environmental-ly-friendly power solutions forCalifornia,” said Kevin Wedman, VicePresident of Power and Utilities for

Bureau Veritas. “We are always excitedto participate in a project that providesviable energy sources for today and thefuture.”

As Compliance Manager, BureauVeritas will ensure that the projectadheres to construction and environmen-tal requirements during the constructionphase of the Ivanpah Complex. In addi-tion, Bureau Veritas’ role as ComplianceManager for the BLM will involve work-ing with other agencies in the environ-mental compliance monitoring program

(e.g., the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service,the California Department of Fish andGame, etc.) to the extent requested bythose agencies and authorized by theBLM.

The Ivanpah Solar Power ComplexProject is one of 34 fast track projectsthat are being funded through theAmerican Recovery and ReinvestmentAct (ARRA) to help the ObamaAdministration to achieve its initiative ofmaking a rapid and responsible move tolarge-scale production of renewable ener-gy on publicly owned lands.

The Genesis Solar Energy Plant willbe one of the largest solar energy plantsin the nation. The electricity will be gen-erated solely by solar thermal technolo-gy, without the need for supplementalfuel for electricity production. The result

of this clean energy production technolo-gy will be an annual reduction of 330,000tons of carbon dioxide.

Bureau Veritas is a global companyspecializing in the fields of quality assur-ance, health, safety, and environmental(QHSE) services. Bureau Veritas’ 47,000employees across the globe provideindustry, technical, and local expertisethat is unsurpassed. With over 2,400QHSE professionals in over 80 officesacross the United States, and operationsin over 1,000 offices in 170 countries,Bureau Veritas develops solutions thatcontribute to risk prevention and per-formance improvement to help organiza-tions create long-term value through ourtechnical and regulatory expertise.

Visit Bureau Veritas in booth 6311 atSolar Power International.

broadly and evenly. SolarDock can cus-tomize the angle of the system. The angleallows users to maximize the kWh pro-duction on the roof and REC value, whilelowering upfront capital cost.

SPDN: What distinguishes your productfrom the competition?

SJ: We’re constantly pushing the envelopeto make the product better. Recently, wereceived an NRTL listing for SolarDockwith a new grounding clip approved andcurrently in use. We’re proud of our nextgeneration technology that is:• TUV Rheinland certified

• Certified for winds up to 120 mph• California DSA pre-check approved• OPA Fit compliant in Canada• Lightweight• Ventilated in way that ensures no ener-gy degradation due to heat build up• Made in USA and Canada• Made with no exposed wires or ballast—the most attractive system in the market

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

SJ: In the next year, we expect to expandour manufacturing footprint to add theWest Coast to our current East Coast andDetroit locations. We’ve found that licens-

SolarDock (Con’t. from p. 4) ing the Solardock to qualified partners is agreat way to grow the company. We arelooking to expand the licensing footprint inEurope and other geographic markets thatmake sense. Our business model allows usto be flexible with changes in solar pro-grams, markets and incentives. We’ll main-tain our focus on exceeding the quality andservice expectations of our customers.


SJ: The face of SolarDock is our greatteam of people—they really care abouthow customers benefit from our product.Many times we’ve had the privilege ofwalking a new client (installers and end

users) through their first installation—including getting up on a roof to help laythe first pieces of a system. We haveexperienced sales people throughout theUS and Canada to guide customersthrough every step of the process. Our in-house design experts help our customersunderstand how to maximize the value ofa SolarDock installation on each roof.Our flexible manufacturing model allowsus to meet demanding schedules and pro-vide customized solutions along the way.

Information about how SolarDock canincrease your power production by 10-20 percent over low-angle or flat mount-ing systems, stop by booth 5309 or visit:www.solardock.com.


WIRELESS TECHNOLOGY FOR ASECURE UTILITY SCALE PV SYSTEMBy Bret Dianich, FreeWaveTechnologies, Inc.

The Photovoltaic (PV) industry contin-ues to expand as a result of growing pub-lic support, advances in technology andefficiency, declining equipment costs,investment tax credits and other incen-tives. As this utility-scale market grows,there is new focus on reducing solar plantcapital expenditure (capex) infrastructurecosts and keeping overall operationalexpenses (opex) to a minimum.Implementing a secure wireless networkwithin the PV plant can help to increaseoperational efficiency while loweringopex expenses.

Secure wireless technology that hasbeen proven in the military and highnoise/interference environments is nowbeing used for utility-scale solar plants.This wireless technology usesFrequency-Hopping Spread Spectrum(FHSS), which is a method of transmit-ting and receiving radio signals by rapid-ly switching among many frequencychannels. It uses a pseudorandomsequence known only to both transmitterand receiver. Using FHSS, filtering andencryption, radio manufacturers can giveplant operators maximum uptime of thewireless network, also while providing ahigh degree of security and resiliency.Because the radios transmit by rapidly

changing channels, it is virtually impos-sible to jam or intercept radio transmis-sions. All systems have to be acceptablysecure and reliable. Every wireless proto-col is, by its very nature, open to noise,interference and security challenges. Aproperly architected and deployed wire-less system will mitigate these issuesvery successfully. Wireless systems, suchas those with FreeWave Technologiesradios, have been the only link to manyremote sites for many years.

PV system operators also can usewireless systems for security. Specificalarms can be triggered if a PV panel out-put power is measured at zero (PV panelis disconnected by vandal or thieves).Perimeter intrusion detection systemscan be installed using motion-detectionand video cameras. Bandwidth require-ments can vary depending on the resolu-tion, color level and frame rate of thevideo. Some low bandwidth systems useinfrared sensors to detect movement, andupon movement will take a black andwhite image of the area under surveil-lance. This image is then wirelessly sentto the operations office for further analy-sis or action. These types of wireless sys-tems offer a high degree of flexibility andavoid the costs of new trenching, newconduit and wiring. Wireless securitysystems have been used for many years


New products and high-quality projectsolution offerings are what BoschSolar Energy brings to the table in theyear ahead. The vertically integratedmodule manufacturer is backed by a125-year history of technologicalexcellence and is all set to take on theNorth American solar industry with abang.

As a leading provider of photo-voltaic products, Bosch designs state-of-the-art solar modules that reduceproduction costs while delivering opti-mal performance. Transforming solarenergy into electricity, Bosch’s photo-voltaic products, such as monocrys-talline silicon solar cells meet theneeds of both residential and commer-cial customers, reducing the use offossil fuels and helping stem climatechange.

Among Bosch’s latest productsthat will be launched at SPI is a high-efficiency 60-cell monocrystallinemodule powered by Generation 3cells. These cells have a textured sur-face with a silicon nitride anti-reflec-tive coating which greatly improvestheir performance. The module has ahigh performance of up to 245 Wp

output and an efficiency of 14.91 per-cent. Both versions of the module- asilver frame, white backsheet modeland all-black panel - are currently ondisplay at the Bosch Solar Energybooth.

In addition, Bosch Solar Energyoffers turn-key solar project solutions.Given a suitable site, Bosch providesall other facets of realizing a solar sys-tem. With its own module supply andexperienced in-house technical team,Bosch delivers a solar system withfully wrapped warranties. Bosch hasthe capabilities to take on develop-ment and permitting and securefinancing for the system through third-party financing partners.

Bosch Solar Energy has alsorecently opened a second office inMooresville, NC, in addition to itsexisting sales office in San Mateo,Calif. to expand its presence in NorthAmerica.

Bosch Solar Energy will beexhibiting its products at Solar PowerInternational, Booth 5115, Hall D. Formore information, please visitwww.bosch-solarenergy.com or call650-356-3100.

BOSCH SOLAR ENERGY TO EXPANDIN NORTH AMERICA WITH NEWOFFICE, PRODUCT PORTFOLIO ANDTURN-KEY PROJECT DEVELOPMENT


agriculture and cold storage operations,and others benefit from going solar. Wehave over 7,000 installations nationwideincluding agencies and businesses suchas the Department of Veterans Affairs,COSTCO, Nestle, DuPont, Longs Drugs,IKEA, and Safeway. PV solar is all wedo, and we know how to make goingsolar easy for our clients. We have beenin business since 1997.


DM: Our history of solar expertise andrelentless focus on value for our cus-tomers makes us the trusted solar partnerof choice. REC Solar’s unmatched indus-try experience allows us to deliver ener-gy savings that clients can trust will makea difference to their organization withclean, renewable solar power. Our teamof design professionals, engineers, andfinancial and energy specialists works tofirst understand our client’s operationenergy consumption and correspondingutility rate tariffs, and then collaboratesto apply best practices in designing theoptimal system for their site. In addition,REC Solar selects the best technologies

to be incorporated into the system todeliver consistent performance fordecades.

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

DM: We’ve had a tremendous yearacross all our commercial, government,and utility segments. For commercialprojects we continue to build out instal-lations nationwide for COSTCO,IKEA, Fresh and Easy, and others. Forgovernment, we continue to see growthserving the U.S. Department ofVeterans Affairs (VA) among otheragencies. For example, the VA hasawarded us with new two contracts todesign and install turnkey rooftop,ground mount and carport solar arraysfor VA hospitals in California andTexas. The contracts total 6.6 MW(megawatts) and include a 4 MW addi-tion at the West Los Angeles MedicalCenter, bringing that total system sizeto 9 megawatts—making it the largestinstalled solar energy system nation-wide for the VA. In the utility segment,we completed a 1.21 MW solar instal-lation, the largest single system of itskind in the state of Hawaii and the first

REC Solar (Con’t. from p. 1) utility-sponsored large scale solar farmfor Kaua’i. What really makes thisproject unique is the fact that this solarfarm has at times supplied 100 percentof the entire circuit’s 1MW load duringpeak solar hours of the day.

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

DM: As the industry continues movingdown the price-demand curve withlower installed dollar prices per watt atlarger quantities sold, leading installerslike REC Solar need to continue toadapt to change. Solar companies haveto continually increase operational effi-ciencies to accommodate the lowerprices required to compensate fordeclining incentives and rebates. Wemust adapt to lower margins at highervolumes throughout the value chain inorder to continue to bring the cost ofgoing solar down—quite simply, wemust continue to show how solar makessense on an economic level in order forus to continue our growth. REC Solaris well positioned to handle the transi-tion due to our many years of experi-ence delivering value to thousands ofclients nationwide. In fact, because wehave been so skilled at continuing to

move down the cost curve, many proj-ect developers are now approaching usto serve as the engineering, procure-ment and construction contractor fortheir projects – something we are verywilling to do to fulfill our vision ofbring solar to the mainstream.


DM: Our experience installing thousandsof large plant and distributed PV systemsthroughout the U.S provides an assuranceto customers that projects are completedon time and perform over their expectedlife. We are trusted by large commercialbrands, federal government agencies,utilities, and thousands of homeownersthroughout the U.S. The company has astrong balance sheet and relationshipswith more suppliers than any other com-pany in the industry. Our association withour parent company, Mainstream Energy,makes us one of the largest buyers ofsolar components in the U.S. We have theexperience and that matters most to thoseinterested in going solar.

For additional information on REC Solarvisit www.recsolar.com or call888.OK.SOLAR (888.657.6527).

more than 430 + employees worldwideand our global revenue is approximately$500 Million USD. We currently havefield offices in the U.K, Italy, Spain,Africa, South America, India and theUnited States. Gehrlicher covers thecomplete downstream value chain of PV– from project development to design,procure, install, O&M and finance. Wealso recently opened a distribution centerin New Jersey, to serve installers andsmaller EPC’s through a Value AddedReselling (VAR) business model.


SP: I would say there are two distin-guishing characteristics: First, bringingdown installation costs has been one ofour core goals. The experience of ourworld-class engineering groups inGermany has enabled us to develop manyinnovative solutions for mounting andcabling. Second, we can combine a

strong European legacy of almost 20years and many hundred megawatts ofinstalled base with an equally strong andexperienced U.S. team. Although we arefairly new here, our combined teamexperience here in the US is almost 50MW.

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

SP: Obviously the oversupply of crys-talline panels, which came not as a sur-prise, and the subsequent price drop hashad a big impact. As a system integratorin principle we are happy about every-thing that drives the cost of a PV systemdown. But they way it occurred showedthat the PV industry, although it is amulti-billion industry on a global basis, isnot yet really a mature industry. It is achallenge to drive business in such avolatile environment.

SPDN: Describe your current marketingstrategy.

Gehrlicher Solar (Con’t. from p. 1) SP: As Gehrlicher Worldwide, our focusin the last 12 months has been clearly toexpand into markets outside Europe.Although Europe is still by far thebiggest market, markets like Germanyare not growing any more and areextremely price-competitive. However,in India, Latin America and the U.S.there is a large untapped potential for PV.Here in the U.S., we are currently mainlyactive on East Coast distributed genera-tion projects in the 400 kW to four MWrange, but are also looking into largerprojects and expanding into theSouthwest.

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

SP: We still do see a lot of inefficienciesin the U.S. market, related to financingand permitting. Due to the uncertaintiesin the revenue streams (mainly SRECs),many projects do not get built, eventhough they are viable. The expected ter-mination of the 1603 Cash Grant pro-gram will also impact the market. But as

a large player, we can overcome some ofthese challenges with innovative financ-ing solutions, so we are optimistic

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

SP: There are many exciting developmentson the technology side, but we do notexpect them to have a big impact on themarket already in 2012. Conventionaltechnology will dominate in the short termand prices may fall further. Regarding theoverall U.S. PV market, we expect signifi-cant growth, but the many variablesregarding the financing and changes infederal and state incentive schemes cer-tainly will bring us a few surprises.

In a nutshell: it still will be a challengingand partially unpredictable market, butfull of opportunities. Like the past 20years.

For more information, call GehrlicherSolar America Corp. at 908-219-4379.

INOVATEUS SOLAR IS INTEGRATOROF CHOICE FOR STERMAN MASSERPOTATO FARMSInovateus Solar is the integrator of choicefor a 3.5 acre ground-mounted solar arrayfor Sterman Masser Potato Farms locatedin Sacramento, Penn. For more than 250years, the sun has helped eight genera-tions of the Masser family grow potatoeson their family-owned farm. Now thesun, with a new one-megawatt ground-mount solar project, will help pay theenergy bill to operate one of the nation’slargest potato processing facilities

The decision to go solar was a natu-ral evolution for Keith Masser, Chairmanand CEO of Sterman Masser Inc.

Sterman Masser Inc. employs 200. Thecompany is “green-minded, earning anEPA award in 1998 for implementingIntegrated Pest Management practices onthe 4,600 acres of farmland. Chemicaluse is limited and the company employserosion control and crop rotation. Masseralso compacts and recycles discardedpackaging material. Workers store, wash,size and package 300 million pounds ofpotatoes each year at the Sacramentoplant and at a sister facility in WhitePigeon, Mich.

“In 2009, Pennsylvania Power &

Light was deregulated, and we knew wewere looking at paying more for electric-ity,” Masser says. “Solar could hedgeagainst the expected higher rates. Wedecided the solar project was feasiblewhen economic development fundingbecame available last year.”

Masser hopes to sell back energycredits in Pennsylvania and possibly inOhio. He expects his first solar project,which was completed in late May, to payfor itself within five to 10 years.

Inovateus Solar supplied the engi-neering, procurement and constructionfor the project on land marginally suit-able for farming. A key partner wasSecco, Inc., a local general contractor,chosen for its expertise and knowledge ofpermitting and local resources. “We’veworked with Secco before,” says NathanVogel, project manager for Inovateus

Solar, “and knew of their abilities.”Inovateus chose Schletter racking,

two Xantrex GT500 inverters, andSchott Solar 230 watt polycrystallinemodules for the solar panels. ShoalsTechnology also supplied some of theelectrical components. Xantrex encasedthe inverters, including all electricalcomponents, in concrete. “This‘megawatt in a box’ was a first-time useof concrete,” Vogel says. “Xantrex hasalways used metal in the past.”

“Inovateus Solar was the contractor ofchoice,” says Keith Masser. “We selectedthem because they were cooperative, andwe were able to negotiate a mutual con-tract with ease. We liked their connectionswith Schneider Electric and Secco.

Little did Keith’s great, great, great,



BH: Our in-house engineering depart-ment is able to customize a site-specificstructure; our material is light gauge,high-tensile steel—half the weight ofstructural steel with same amount ofstrength; and our experience both techni-cally and geographically. There is noother company out there with the depthof experience in terms of labor and geog-raphy—most of our employees havebeen in the business of steel design, engi-neering and installation for a minimum of15 years in more than 23 states. Anotherimportant fact, we are contracted in thethree western states with InternationalIronworker’s Union.

SPDN: What is your outlook for yoursolar support structures?

BH: We see a great demand for solar car-ports, as there is not much difference inprice between a solar roof-mounted solu-tion and a solar carport solution. The sec-

ondary benefit of shaded parking in con-junction with the generation of solarpower is a winning combination. Shadedparking is not just a convenience for carowners; we are continuing to building PVshaded solutions for the essential opera-tions of cattle and dairy farms, RV andboat storage, transportation centers andwater districts.


BH: I am amazed to find that the solarindustry is filled with “construction-lite”companies trying to execute on a con-struction site. Baja brings more than 40years of construction experience and reli-ability to each job.

For more information, call Bob at 925-766-2612, [email protected], visitwww.bajacarports.com or stop by booth143.

solar support structures as part of a solarground-mount, carport and RV/BoatStorage solution; and continue to build car-ports, RV/Boat and Self-Storage facilities.

SPDN: Why is Baja winning most of thesolar structure business?

BH: We are a nationwide company, oper-ating under 43 years of experience build-ing light gauge, high-tensile steel struc-tures. In 1981, we were building carportsand then expanded our business to includethe RV and Boat Storage, and Self-Storagemarkets. As the solar business grew, wealso emerged as the leader in solar supportsystems up to 17’ clear height.

SPDN: What are most significant winsfor your company in the last year?

BH: Well, I would have to say that every

job we do is significant and we treat alljobs with the same intensity. That beingsaid, Baja was awarded the solar struc-ture business for LIPA’s 19MW solar car-port project; and the solar structure busi-ness for General Motor’s electric vehiclesolar carport/EV charging solution.

SPDN:Any new and improved products?

BH: Not only are we improving our orig-inal designs to incorporate grounding,wire management, direct attachment(racking elimination) and accessoryoptions (e.g. security cameras, facia,etc.); we also focusing on DSA struc-tures. We have completed several solarcarport school installations in California,Nevada and New Jersey. We also haveDSA-approved three Baja designs andsix options.

SPDN: What distinguishes Baja from itscompetition?

Baja Construction (Con’t. from p. 1)

reliable solar modules which convertsunlight directly into electrical energy.We supply products worldwide from ourproduction facilities in China as well asin Charlotte, NC.

SPDN: What would you say makesJETION SOLAR USA unique?

JF: Jetion Solar owns and controls themanufacturing of all our products frombeginning to finish so that we can guar-antee the extremely high standards wehave set out for our modules. We alsomaintain our own R&D departmentwhich develops the latest in PV technol-ogy and we have incorporated a numberof our own patents into our products. Wemaintain a sales and service facility atour plant in Charlotte, NC in order toprovide better customer service for ourUS customers.

SPDN: What has JETION SOLAR USAdone to penetrate the US market?

JF: Jetion Solar’s decision to make amajor investment in a manufacturing,

warehousing and sales facility inCharlotte, NC points to the commitmentof Jetion Solar’s interest in servicing theUS market.

SPDN: What is JETION SOLAR USA’Sgoal in the USA?

JF: Jetion Solar is striving to become theleading supplier of PV modules in theUSA. We are confident our quality prod-ucts and fair pricing will establish ourreputation among the renewable energyindustry as a reliable supplier source forPV products as reflected in JETIONSOLAR’s receiving the award for beingthe “FASTEST GROWING COMPA-NY” from Deloitte Technology FAST 50CHINA 2008.

SPDN: What is JETION SOLAR USA’Scorporate philosophy?

JF: To become a good corporate citizenand a leader in our community in termsof educating the community at largeabout the importance of adopting a planfor renewable energy and conserving ourenvironment. We hope to accomplish thisthrough a high level of involvement with-

JETION SOLAR USA (Con’t. from p. 1) in our community with our higher learn-ing education systems such as universi-ties and community colleges. We alsoplan to contribute to our local communi-ty by creating well-paying manufacturingjobs at our manufacturing facility inCharlotte, NC.

SPDN: How is JETION SOLAR USAhelping the local community?

JF: Jetion Solar is constantly seekingnew ways to contribute to the preserva-tion of our environment and one of thethings we are doing is through innovationsuch as our “FULL CYCLE PV” projectwhich is made up of six steps that usesautomation to prevent resource wastage,state-of-the-art quality control to insuremaximum power generation from ourmodules, turnkey consultation to ourcustomers to insure proper use of ourmodules, optimum utilization throughour ability to remotely monitor the per-formance of PV systems and the abilityto provide maintenance to our customersfor their solar projects.

SPDN: Who are the potential users forJETION SOLAR USA’s products?

JF: Our PV modules are designed for avariety of applications both for com-mercial projects as well as residentialprojects. These highly efficient mod-ules can be used for any applicationfrom large scale PV projects such assolar farms to residential rooftopapplications. The benefits are equallycost effective from a renewable energygeneration standpoint as well as pro-vide an excellent return on investment.


JF: JETION SOLAR USA prides itselfon our ability to innovate and surroundourselves with reliable partners. Weare constantly inventing ways toimprove on our products and helpmake our products relevant to the envi-ronment we live in. With the help ofour partners in the industry, we knowwe have helped to increase the level ofawareness for renewable energy andcontribute to the stabilization of cli-mate change.

For more information, visit www.jetion-solarus.com or visit booth 6255.

THE PHOTOVOLTAIC SECTOR:GEFRAN ARRIVES ON THEINTERNATIONAL MARKETGefran’s RADIUS family of inverters arespecifically designed for the photovoltaicsector. The series delivers technologicalknow-how, and meets future challenges,by applying over 45 years of experiencein the electrical drive and energy man-agement segments.

The RADIUS Series inverters offer arange of 10kW to 330kW for industrialapplications and 1.5kW to 5kW for resi-dential use.

Gefran’s made in Italy technologyincludes a voltage range that extends upto 1000 VDC, providing maximum effi-ciency, up to 98.5 percent and full powerup to room temperature of 50°C.

The “RADIUS System” containerline offers standard turnkey system solu-

tions for photovoltaic arrays from 500kWto 1.3MW. Its main advantages include anAC circuit breaker, an integrated DC fuseinput and low-cost operation since thereis no need for air conditioning up to 50°C.The standard settings for the Radiusinclude network connection, accessibilityof system components and a guarantee ofplug-and-play start-up.

The RADIUS offer is completed bya series of equally innovative services,such as design consulting for systems,and constant customer service guaran-teed throughout the world.

GEFRAN is committed to respondto the growing demands from the interna-

ALUMINUM PROFILE SOLUTIONSFROM SAPA RENEWABLE ENERGYSapa, the world’s largest aluminumextrusion company, operates 15 manu-facturing facilities in North America(U.S. and Canada), with additional sup-port from 40 facilities in Asia andEurope. As a single source for PV, CSPand CPV components, with one call,Sapa can provide what you need whenyou need it, no matter where you need it.That includes PVmodule frames, rackingand mounting system components, solarthermal equipment, concentrated solarpower collectors, inverter housings andcomponents, and thermal managementsolutions.

Sapa emphasizes its role as a devel-opment partner. Providing customer solu-tions is one of the company’s core values,earning it a strong position among therenewable energy industry. With hun-

dreds of thousands of solutions and near-ly 50 years of business in Europe, NorthAmerica, and Asia, Sapa shares itsexpertise with customers to developcomplete and cost-effective answers,from simple solutions to the most chal-lenging and unique applications. Anexample is the Sapa Solar Frame whichoffers a cost advantage in reducing frameweight and fabrication costs with quickerassembly time.

Extrusion experts from Sapa, peoplewho understand the applications andadvantages of aluminum profiles, areconnected to Sapa customers. Theydevelop a deep understanding of the cus-tomer’s business and their productrequirements. Focusing on “Speed-to-

Continued on Page 100Continued on Page 101


vision, product solutions and markets.Over time, we found that our varioussubsidiaries were catering to the samemarkets with complementary productssolutions. In a global marketplace, it justmakes sense to operate under one name.It focuses us all on a common goal.Electricity runs the world; at Mersen ourgoal is to keep it safe and reliable.

SPDN: How does Mersen serve therenewable energy market?

SC: Mersen is a leader in carbon,graphite and circuit protection solutionsfor the solar power industry. Mersen’sultra-pure graphite equipment enablesmanufacturers of polysilicon, the princi-pal component in photovoltaic panels, toincrease their efficiency while cuttingtheir costs. We also offer a dedicatedrange of protection components speciallydesigned for solar power generation and

Mersen (Con’t. from p. 1) SC: Unlike general purpose fuses, fuseslisted to UL 2579 are subject to addition-al testing simulating the service environ-ment conditions of photovoltaic installa-tions. There are three new tests that fusesare required to pass within UL 2579.

These tests include:• Verification of freedom from unaccept-able levels of thermally induced driftwhich tests the fuse interrupting capabil-ities after exposure to numerous night-to-day climate transitions;• Verification of Functionality atTemperature Extremes, which tests thefuse interrupting capabilities at ambienttemperatures higher than 25°C; and,• Current Cycling, which tests the fusereliability and longevity when subject toconstant change in temperature and vari-ous current loads.

For more information on Mersen’s SolarPower Solutions visit http://us-fer-razshawmut.mersen.com/solarpower.

SC: UL 2579, officially titled “Fuses forPhotovoltaic Systems,” was firstreleased as an outline of investigation inDecember 2007. Historically, specifyingengineers, integrators and installers havebeen using circuit protection compo-nents and solutions that were originallydesigned for AC power and controlapplications. Although these productsperformed as needed, they were not nec-essarily the optimal solution for photo-voltaic applications. UL 2579 is a prod-uct standard written specifically forfuses intended to be used for photovolta-ic circuit protection. This standardmakes it easier for users to select theproper products quickly and confidently.Most importantly, fuses listed to UL2579 will deliver improved product per-formance and system longevity, addingto the overall value of your solar powerinstallation.

SPDN: How is this standard differentfrom that of general purpose fuses?

distribution including, fuses, fuse hold-ers, wire management solutions, discon-nect switches, cooling and surge protec-tive devices.

SPDN: How exactly is Mersen thebenchmark in solar power circuit protec-tion?

SC: One example of our leadership in theindustry is that, early on, Mersen invest-ed countless resources and expertisetoward helping to develop the propercodes, standards and products needed bythis emerging industry. Research pre-pared by Mersen delivers a higher levelof understanding for solar photovoltaicsystem behavior, potential fault condi-tions and how to prevent these same faultconditions from damaging installations.

SPDN: Which new UnderwritersLaboratories product standard defines theperformance characteristics for fuses tobe installed in photovoltaic systems?

working with some of the leading invert-er and combiner box manufacturers toprovide solutions for their circuit protec-tion applications that others could notoffer. Since then, we have invested inboth a dedicated team of experts in R&D,Sales and Marketing, and the testing andmanufacturing infrastructure that sup-ports this market.

SPDN: That’s impressive. How differentor unique is the circuit protection of solarPV systems?

GH: Solar PV equipment is exposed toextreme environmental conditions andrequires the protection of very sensitivedevices. Selecting and utilizing productswith performance characteristics specifi-cally designed for PV applications is crit-ical, because without proper protection,equipment could be damaged, fires mightoccur or technicians could be injured.

Littelfuse has made significant invest-ments in production capabilities, interna-tional approvals and engineering, includ-ing a 1500Vdc high-current test lab forproduct development, to support thegrowing global needs of the solar PVmarket.

SPDN: Why was the new test lab capa-bility necessary?

GH: Customers are demanding higherefficiencies from their systems.Increasing voltage to reduce transmissionlosses is one strategy to help achieve this.However, it is quite difficult for a circuitprotection device to interrupt high DCvoltage during a short-circuit condition.We believe having our own in-housedesign and test facilities is the mosteffective way to quickly develop these1500Vdc products that will provide solu-tions for these PV market challenges.

SPDN: Are you developing unique prod-

Littlefuse (Con’t. from p. 1) ucts for unique geographic markets?

GH: Current PV circuit protection stan-dards are nearly identical globally. Webelieve it is important to develop prod-ucts that can be used and acceptedthroughout the world. New products likeour SPF and SPFJ meet both theIEC60269-6 and UL 2579 PV fuse stan-dards. This saves our customers bothtime and money by eliminating the needto create different string and array com-biner options for different geographicmarkets.

SPDN: So your new products are certi-fied to both UL2579 and IEC60269-6?

GH: Yes, our solar related products arethird-party certified. We submit our prod-uct to UL for listing to the UL standardsand to VDE for certification to the IECStandards.

SPDN: What products are you showing

at this year’s Solar Power Internationalshow?

GH: We are showing the new SPFJ, aclass J style fuse for 1000VDC applica-tions from 125A to450A. The globalapprovals, compact size and flexiblemounting options were specificallydesigned for protection of inverters andarray combiner circuits.

We are also showing the SPF Series 10 x38 mm fuses for string protection. Inaddition to their UL Listing, these fusesare the first string fuses to obtain third-party certification through VDE to theIECg PV standard.

A new UL Listed 1000 VDC touch-safefuse holder with 90oC rated lugs is alsoon display.

Visit Littelfuse at Solar PowerInternational booth 225 or online atwww.littelfuse.com.

SONNEN_SYSTEMS MULTI_USE:THE NEXT SOLAR FRONTIERsonnen_systems, Inc. is excited about theexpansion of its operations in NorthAmerica in order to satisfy the growingdemand for dual-axis tracking. Space forproduction facilities and warehousingcapabilities are being added with the newbuildings located in Richmond,California. In both the US and Canada,sonnen_systems is expanding into newmarkets with its multi_useTM approach:the combination of a variety of ventures

such as agriculture and parking structureswith power generation is made possibleby the sonnen_system’s single-poledesign and resistance to strong winds andcold temperatures.

sonnen_system’s parent company,Germany-based Kirchner Solar Group(KSG), operates a number of its ownsolar parks. In more than seven years ofexperience with dual-axis tracking thereliability of the systems has been estab-

lished as the main focus of its operation.The tracker design is based on four cen-tral features: a sturdy construction, ahighly accurate control mechanism, thesafety feature safeguard and real-timecommunication. Reliable operationresults in financial feasibility of theinvestment, while innovation such as thetrack_appTM enables the system operatorto have full control over every aspect ofthe tracker. The ability to withstand tem-peratures as low as -40º has been provenby last year’s frigid Canadian winter,where the sonnen_system is the trackerof choice among farmers and ranchers.

The track_app, our newest develop-

ment for iPad and iPhone, offers a previ-ously unheard of ease-of-use for solarpower generation: since maintenancecosts figure strongly into any system cal-culation, sonnen_systems has devised anapp that gives the system operator totalcontrol and a complete overview of all rel-evant information at any time, any place.

sonnen_systems provides reliable,cost-effective and effortless dual-axistracking to North America. If you’reready for solar, you’re ready for son-nen_systems multi_use.

For more information, visitwww.sonnensystems.com or stop bybooth 5150.

DIMERCO EXPRESS: MANAGINGYOUR SOLAR POWER INDUSTRYSUPPLY CHAIN

In 2011, Dimerco Express markedits 40th year in the global logistics mar-ketplace. Your global supply chainshould include an organization with deeproots and history to closely coordinate

the growing demands under today’s eco-nomic conditions. Expertise within thechanging global balance within the solarpower industry is a must.

Dimerco has been dedicated to the

development of the greater China logis-tics market since 1991. As “Your ChinaLogistics Specialist,” Dimerco is con-stantly growing with its customers andpartners by providing time-defined inter-national freight forwarding services aswell as designing and implementing cus-

tomized logistics management solu-tions.Today, Dimerco operates 79 officesin greater China providing air, ocean,warehousing, trucking, domestic air/roadtransportation, cargo insurance broker-age, customs brokerage and AQSIQinspection services.

The objective of Dimerco ExpressCorporation is to be the most competitiveglobal transportation and logistics



efficiency and reliability. It should alsosupport higher (1000V) DC input volt-ages and have smart grid functionality.Finally, the financial strength of the sup-plier should be assessed, keeping in mindthe needs of the project.

SPDN: How high should the efficiencybe?

ED: Recent advances have allowedinverters to reach the 97-to-98-percentrange for CEC efficiency. For example,the efficiency on our AEG ProtectPV.500 inverter is greater than 98 per-cent. Inverter efficiency is a fundamentalindicator of the performance ratio of asolar system. The performance ratio isthe output power that is injected into thegrid, divided by the installed PV peakpower.

SPDN: How do you ensure reliability?

ED: Reliability starts at the foundation ofa product’s design and advances to thecomponent selection. AEG PS designsand manufactures products to meet strin-gent international standards such as UL,CE, ETSI, IEC, etc. The Protect PV.500inverter includes features such as low-loss chokes, high-quality components anddouble-coating of all PCBs. Additionally,quality commissioning and preventativemaintenance will maximize energy out-put. With more than 20 service centersworldwide supported by more than 150field engineers, the AEG Global ServiceTeam is renowned for its fast responsetime and troubleshooting efficiency.

SPDN: What are the advantages of high-er DC input voltages?

ED: For utility-scale installations, the

AEG Power Solutions (Con’t. from p. 1) ideal solar inverters should have DC volt-age capability up to 1,000 VDC, alongwith a compact design that enables opti-mal power efficiency. For example, thehigher the DC input voltages, the lowerthe associated strings, connections andterminations. The DC wires are reducedin size (and cost). Utility-scale develop-ers in the U.S. are increasingly deploying1,000-volt systems.

SPDN: What smart grid functionalitymust be included?

ED: Although grid requirements varyfrom project to project, utilities willbegin to request support for real and reac-tive power control, low-voltage faultride-through, start and stop ramps andremote power control. The AEG ProtectPV.500 is designed so that these featurescan be easily modified to meet projectrequirements.

SPDN: Tell us more about AEG PS?

ED: AEG Power Solutions is a world-wide provider of innovative premiumpower solutions. Backed by more than acentury of innovation and customer serv-ice, AEG Power Solutions offers a full-range of highly reliable, cost effectivesolutions, from power conversion mod-ules, solar inverters and solutions to highreliability UPS systems, industrial charg-ers and DC systems. System solutionsfrom AEG PS are designed to interfacewith the electrical power grid and to offerpower solutions for mission-criticalapplications in harsh environments, suchas utility-scale renewable energy plants,polysilicon manufacturing process,power plants, offshore oil rigs or chemi-cal refineries.

Find AEG Power Solutions in booth 254at Solar Power International.

SOLARBUZZ: U.S. MARKET TO DOU-BLE IN SIZE (AGAIN) — REGIONALAND SEGMENT DIVERSIFICATIONSTRATEGY IS WORKINGBy Junko Movellan, Analyst, Solarbuzz

The US will experience another 100 per-

cent+ growth year in 2011, reachingaround 2 GW of new PV installations.Solarbuzz forecasts that the US market

could triple in size within the next fiveyears, with California leading. As itgrows, the US market has becomeincreasingly geographically diversified,with no single end-market segment dom-inating. There are also more financingoptions available.

While growth has been impressivegiven economic conditions, it is not nec-essarily so when benchmarked againstother regions. The “tortoise and hare”fable is a good analogy to contrast the

pace of U.S. PV market growth relativeto the demand spurts over the past decadefrom Germany, Spain, Czech Republic,and Italy. The often-criticized multipleand complex incentive programs havebeen a driver of steady—rather thanexplosive—US market growth. However,the sheer number of programs has alsohelped by spreading market risk.

A diverse range of state incentive


meaning that it is not going to be pumpedthrough a system. Dynalene MS-2 has amelting point of 127 degrees C, which ismuch lower than Dynalene MS-1, furtherpreventing freeze-up in high-temperatureapplications where it is being used as aheat transfer fluid.

The upper temperature limits of moltensalts are around 565 degrees C for DynaleneMS-1 and 485 degrees C for DynaleneMS-

2. This resistance to high temperaturesmakes molten salt an ideal choice for thecapture of the sun’s energy. The higher thetemperature, the more energy can be creat-ed, thus making the system more efficient.

Dynalene molten salts have showngood compatibility with most alloy steelmaterials up to the maximum recom-mended operation temperatures of thefluids. They have also shown good com-patibility with stainless steels, Inconel,iron aluminides and nickel aluminides.

Dynalene (Con’t. from p. 18) Carbon steel can be used as long as tem-peratures do not exceed 350 degrees C;however, it is strongly recommended touse higher-alloy steels.Commerciallyavailable aluminized products showedlittle to no corrosion protection due tosurface cracking of the aluminum layers,and porous ceramics are not advised dueto salt uptake and crumbling, which canenhance the corrosion rate.

Dynalene molten salts are a stable,safe, and efficient alternative to tradition-

al high temperature heat transfer fluids.They are compatible with most materialsthat have the higher temperature ratingsand can be used in tanks for heat storageor as the working heat transfer fluid inthe collectors. With a high temperaturerating and no vapor pressure, DynaleneMolten salts can help to make the mostout of any CSP system.

For more information, visitDynalene at www.dynalene.com or atbooth 155 at Solar Power International.

Solartron (Con’t. from p. 8)

The collector is made of a special“glass-infused” anodized aluminumspecifically engineered for maximumsolar reflectance and superior corrosion

resistance. The material is extremelydurable and unlike glass, it will notbreak. The reflective efficiency of thepetal is 86 percent - harnessing every rayof the sun’s solar radiation.

The SolarBeam has been tested in

the harsh, cold Canadian winters toensure high performance and durability.The SolarBeam was engineered to handleany weather condition including high andlow ambient temperature, snow load andeasy snow removal. The system is

designed for 20 + years of low mainte-nance operation. The SolarBeam is man-ufactured in Michigan, USA.

To learn more, visitwww.solartronenergy.com or stop bybooth 7129.

UL (Con’t. from p. 1)

and certification organization, UL facili-tates global adoption by helping manu-facturers obtain the necessary safety cer-tifications to get products to marketquickly. Through its safety, environmen-tal and performance testing, UL verifiesthat PV equipment and systems complywith the industry standards, furtherenabling the solar industry to fulfill itsrole as one of the primary energy sourcesof the future. UL also works with stake-holders to help develop safe and efficientPV infrastructure.

SPDN: How and why has UL expandedits global presence?

JS: According to Renewable EnergyWorld magazine, from 2002 to 2007annual demand for PV productsincreased by 44 percent, compounded

annually, and it’s expected to continueto grow as market adoption becomesmore mainstream. The demand for solartechnology continues to drive manufac-turers to expand capacity and developproducts to meet the needs of the mar-ketplace. To accommodate thisincrease, UL has expanded its presenceboth domestically and internationally,and will open testing laboratories in SanJose, Calif.; Suzhou, China; Frankfurt,Germany; and, a facility opening laterthis year in India. UL also recentlyopened a PV testing and certificationfacility in Ise City, Mie Prefecture,Japan. These new facilities will savecustomers time to market and money,and allow UL to build long-term busi-ness relationships through more effec-tive local service in the same time zone,language and business culture.

SPDN: UL recently launched a UL-EU

Mark as a unified mark for U.S. andEuropean standards. Why did UL launchthis mark, and how can manufacturershave products certified?

JS: The UL-EU Mark was launched aspart of UL’s global strategy to supportmanufacturers with the accelerated glob-al market access to bring safe, qualityproducts to market. The Mark allows PVmanufacturers to demonstrate modulescomply with the European requirements.The Mark gives UL customers sellingtheir products in Europe, Canada and theUnited States a unique opportunity toearn a combined mark with one productsubmittal. The new Mark also allows formore testing efficiencies, cost savingsand global market access to and withinEurope. Manufacturers can obtain theUL-EU Mark either in combination withthe UL Listing Marks for Canada and/orthe United States, the IEC certification or

as a stand-alone Mark.

SPDN: Beyond testing and certifyingproducts, how is UL helping to developsafe and effective solar systems?

JS: UL recently announced a programdesigned to train and certify installers ofPV modules and systems to help improvethe safety and performance of PV sys-tems through a more qualified workforce.The program, led by UL University, willstreamline and standardize the PV mod-ule installations. The training of theinstallers provides the human capitalneeded to continue building upon therapid and upward progress being made inthe field.

For more information aboutUnderwriters Laboratories and/or theGlobal Market Access Program, visitwww.ul.com or stop by booth 5535.


GENTRAN SILENT GENERATORPROVIDES GREEN, CLEANBACKUP POWERWhen consumers and business ownersexperience an extended power outagelike the one from Hurricane Irene that leftmillions of people without power for upto two weeks, they often consider invest-ing in a generator to maintain power tocritical circuits.

For a quick fix, some choose aportable generator to keep the lights onand the food cold, to keep the pipes fromfreezing and the basement from flooding.Portable generators can be an affordablelifesaver in a pinch, but they require anattendant for starting, monitoring and

refueling. For a more permanent solu-tion, many homeowners and small busi-nesses invest in a stationary generatorand an automatic transfer switch forgreater convenience and peace of mind,but at a higher price. Despite their manybenefits, generators are also noisy,require a fuel source and a maintenancecontract, and release hazardous fumes.

GE’s EV Solar Carport―the first-everproject of its kind for the South Bend,Ind., company―providing industry-lead-ing solar power distribution and integra-tion solutions.

“The GE EV Solar Carport Project isan opportunity to deliver a truly sustain-able electric vehicle charging solution,”says Paul Singer, general manager indus-trial technology, GE Energy IndustrialSolutions. “Joining forces with InovateusSolar on the EV Solar Carport helped usdeliver one of the largest carports inNorth America, and we were glad to haveboth their insight and their dedicated staffon hand throughout the constructionprocess.”

“We’re always looking for opportu-nities like this,” says Peter Rienks, proj-ect manager for Inovateus. “To be able to

GE (Con’t. from p. 1) tral New Jersey that covers more than1,300 parking spaces.

Key Inovateus suppliers includedSchott Solar for the PV panels andSatcon for the two 100-kilowatt invert-ers. Inovateus subcontracted the electri-cal work to Power Systems ElectricalContractors of Farmington, Conn.

“Inovateus was a great company towork for,” says Kevin Drost, a PowerSystems partner. “They had the knowl-edge and resources to give us the supportwe needed to get the job done. We lookforward to working with them again inthe future.”

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

Photo courtesy of GE Installation atGE Energy HQ in Plainville, Conn.

carport system at other GE sites.As the general contractor, Inovateus

hired Solaire Generation of New YorkCity to install a custom version of itsPremium Solar Parking Power Plant. Thecantilevered roof design captures andredirects rainwater and snowmelt with itsunique decking, gutter and drainage sys-tems. Solaire Generation recentlyinstalled the nation’s largest solar parkingstructure, a 3.6-megawatt project in cen-

work with GE on this project is reallyexciting. In addition to charging batteriesfor vehicles like the Chevy Volt, we con-nected to the power company’s grid.Now the solar photovoltaic (PV) systemcan store energy for later use.”

Rienks says the solar panels on the216-foot by 40-foot, 40-stall carport willpower all the lighting in the parking lot,offsetting about $10,000 in energy costseach year.

Like many other Fortune 100 com-panies, GE is embracing green-energytechnology. Solar carport structures makesense for companies large and smallbecause they are a wise use of existingproperty and help protect the environ-ment. Adding solar panels to existingroofs costs only $4 to $5 per watt forsmall commercial installations, whichshortens the return on investment.Inovateus hopes to duplicate the solar

installation tooling. I say “engineered”because the Huck line is very differentfrom conventional nuts and bolts. Ourfasteners are designed for very specificapplications, delivering high perform-ance, and long life.

SPDN: How has Huck been involved inthe solar industry?

TP: Our success stories start at theground floor – in other words, we findwe’re best able to provide the most effec-tive fastening solutions for companies insolar panel and parabolic trough manu-facturing if we can start working withthem from the beginning.

One example is our association withSkyFuel; we’ve been working with themfor the past three years, providing fasten-ing solutions for parabolic troughs inhigh megawatt fields.

SPDN: Why do you think they came toHuck for fasteners?

TP: I think they wanted to work with usbecause of our stellar reputation for engi-neering. Huck has been proven and isknown world-wide for unmatched clampand tensile strength and vibration-resist-ant properties. And because parabolictroughs must be extremely precise andefficient, Huck fasteners were a naturalfit.

SPDN:Are there specific products Huckdesigns just for the solar application?

TP: Our blind rivets are the fasteners ofchoice for both the CSP and PV markets.Specifically, our Magna-Lok, BOM,C6L, and next generation BobTail fasten-ers are ideal for CSP applications, andMagna-Lok and AutoBulb are used in PVapplications.

SPDN: What is the end benefit forSkyFuel after using this custom fastener?

TP: There are several benefits, actually.SkyFuel’s troughs must withstand at leastan 84 mile-an-hour three-second windgust, and that means there’s no room at

Alcoa Fastening Systems (Con’t. from p. 1) all for fastener slippage. The HuckCHFR, called the Huck SolarRivetTM,provides the no-movement fasteningsolution. Ultimate vibration resistance isanother; because of the way theSolarRivet is engineered, we know thatthe fastener pin isn’t going to come loose.

Another advantage SkyFuel has realizedis reduction in labor costs. Huck fasten-ing systems don’t require highly skilledworkers for installation. They can beinstalled quickly, without the “fumblefactor” you find with two-piece nut andbolt systems, and they can be installedright in the field.

SPDN: Is there a particular benefit tobeing able to install them in the field?

TP: Absolutely. The customer savestransportation costs, because they don’thave to move the assembled solar framesfrom one site to another. And becauseHuck fasteners are so easy and quick toinstall, you save significant installationtime. In fact, SkyFuel estimates that the

use of Huck fasteners will reduce thetotal construction budget portion of thetotal installed cost of the solar field.

SPDN: Why Huck? Can’t other compa-nies do this, too?

TP: You won’t find any other fasteningcompany developing such a uniqueworking relationship with its solar cus-tomers. Huck is actually partnering withthem to provide solutions to problemsthat don’t even exist yet. That’s prettypowerful.

SkyFuel is asking for solutions, andwe’re working hard to provide them.They’re working on the next generationof frames that are much larger than thecurrent frames, so we’re going to have towork just as hard to make sure our fas-tening systems are up to the task.Truthfully, we make fasteners, but solv-ing problems is what we do best at Huck.

Learn more about Huck fasteners at theAlcoa Fastening Systems booth 6513 atSolar Power International.

SOPRAY SOLAR OFFERS SOLARENERGY SOLUTIONS THROUGHGLOBAL APPLICATIONSSOPRAY SOLAR manufacturer is dedi-cated to providing its customers with thehighest quality solar energy solutionsthrough global applications of SOLARmodules. As a solar module manufacture,SOPRAY SOLAR leads the industry with

innovative products which strictly com-ply to UL 1703, IEC 61215, ISO 901,TUV and CE, among other renownedinternational standards. SOPRAY’sannual combined production of MONO-Crystalline and POLY-crystalline solar

cells and modules is 600MW from twofactories in Taizhou and Shanghai,CHINA.

SOPRAY is expanding its R & Dcenter with the most advanced instru-ments/equipment from Germany andItaly.

The company’s quality and safetyrecord is stellar:• 25 years power output warranty withChina Pacific Property Insurance Co Ltd.• Power output tolerance guaranteed + 3percent with 3 basbar

• 10 years factory products limited war-ranty

SOPRAY provides many options of long-term financing and a leasing program (ofup to $ 25 Million) for its EPC, integra-tors and installers.

For information, contact the U.S.branch of SOPRAY SOLAR USACORP., 2215 Lee Ave. S. El Monte, CA91733, phone: 626-279-2229, visitwww.sopraysolar.com or [email protected].

And for people in high-rise or mid-rise buildings, condos, apartments, multi-tenant office suites and small medicalfacilities, there hasn’t been an easyanswer to the question of backup power.Until now.

GenTran Corporation, the leadingmaker of generator transfer switches forbackup power applications, recentlyintroduced its Silent Generator[TM]Power System as a green alternative totraditional generators. The Silent



HENKEL CORPORATION: ADHESIVES,SEALANTS AND CLEANERS HELPHARNESS THE POWER OF THE SUNComprehensive line of Henkel productssupport solar cell and module assemblyand installation.

To reduce costs and improve the reliabil-ity of sensitive photovoltaic devices,Henkel Corporation offers a comprehen-sive line of adhesives, sealants and clean-ers for photovoltaic manufacturing andinstallation. These high-tech productscomply with relevant standards of thephotovoltaic industry and are widelyused in a range of applications from sili-con wafer production to installation ofhuge solar arrays.

Henkel products include structuraladhesives, elastomers, thermallyand/or electrically conductive

materials, die attach adhesives, encap-sulants, sealants, molding compoundsand cleaners.

Henkel products for solar productionare offered under the Loctite®, P3®,Teroson®, Multicore®, Hysol®,Macromelt®, Purmelt® and Liofol®brands.

For more information on Henkelproducts for solar cell production, call800-562-8483 or visit www.henkelna.com/solar. A copy of the company’sbrochure on solar products, Solutionsfor the Photovoltaic Industry, is avail-able online at www.henkelna.com/solaror by calling 888-427-3676 or [email protected] andrequesting LT-6101.

SOLARCITY IS HIRING ACROSSTHE COUNTRYLyndon Rive, CEO of SolarCity, dis-cusses the astonishing success of his full-service solar company.

SPDN: What’s new at SolarCity?

LR: A lot is happening. We’re installing anew solar project every 15 minutes of theworkweek. We’ve hired 500 people in thelast 12months andwe need to hiremore.Wehave 150 open positions to fill right now.

SPDN: But I thought green jobs were amyth! How are you able to hire so manypeople?

LR: While most solar companies focus onone thing (financing, installation or supportservices) SolarCity is a full-service solarprovider. We provide a custom design foreach project and local installation from oneof our 24 operations centers. We also pro-vide financing, monitoring and repair serv-ices. On top of our solar service offerings,we also provide energy efficiency evalua-tions and upgrades, and electric vehiclecharging infrastructure. Our customersappreciate a single source for their cleanenergy needs, and that requires a lot of peo-ple, and a lot of hiring.

SPDN: Where are you hiring? What kindof jobs are they?

LR: Our locations are spread acrossArizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii,Maryland, Oregon, Massachusetts, NewJersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Texasand Washington D.C. We’re hiring sales-people, installers, site auditors, and com-mercial and residential project and con-struction managers in most of ourregions. We’re hiring in engineering,finance and accounting, sales and mar-keting, customer care and HR for ourheadquarters in Northern California.

SPDN:What kind of backgrounds do youlook for?

LR: That varies quite a bit by position. I

would encourage anyone interested in a jobto check out www.solarcity.com/jobs, orvisit us in booth 715. You can sort by loca-tion and position. We also have opportuni-ties for military veterans, and wouldencourage interested veterans to contact us.

SPDN: What are some of the projectsyou’re working on right now?

LR: We’re building more than 800 resi-dential solar projects a month. We’reinstalling a project at Joint Base PearlHarbor-Hickam in Hawaii that will pro-vide energy to 2,000 military homes fromseveral hundred rooftop installations. Onthe commercial side, we just expandedour relationship withWalmart with a planto build projects at 60 more stores. Werecently broke ground on projects for theCity of Sacramento, including City Hall,and were selected to put solar on 28 sitesfor the City of San Jose. We’re installingon multiple schools on both the East andWest Coasts as well.

SPDN: What is your financing model?

LR: We provide PPA, lease and purchaseoptions. The customers choose theiroption. We’ve raised more than $1.4 bil-lion in project financing to back ourfinancing options, including more than$700 million so far in 2011 alone.

SPDN: Isn’t Google one of your part-ners? Can you tell me how that works?

LR: Yes, Google made its largest invest-ment to date in the clean energy sector tocreate a $280 million fund with us tofinance residential solar projects. Thekey to our financing is that we can enablemany customers to pay less for solar thanthey currently pay for electricity.

SPDN: Thanks, Lyndon!

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


LOCHINVAR/TiSUN SOLARTHERMAL PRODUCTSBill Vallett, Jr., President of LochinvarCorporation, sat down with Solar PowerDaily News to tell us more about how hiscompany became involved in the solarmarket.

SPDN: Since Lochinvar is relatively newto the solar market, can you share somebackground on the company?

BV: Lochinvar Corporation is a leading

manufacturer of high-efficiency waterheaters, boilers and pool heaters. In2010, we partnered with Austria-basedTiSUN to bring new solar thermal sys-tems to the North American commercialmarket.

Our headquarters in Lebanon, Tenn.,which is just outside of Nashville, occu-pies more than 385,000 square feet,including a world-class manufacturing

operation, commercialstorage tank productionplant, engineeringdevelopment lab, state-of-the-art training cen-ter, distribution centerand administrativeoffices. Our team iscomprised of approxi-mately 400 people, thegreat majority of whomwork at corporate headquarters.

SPDN: In addition to corporate head-quarters in Lebanon, Tenn., where elsedoes Lochinvar have facilities?

BV: We also have distri-bution centers inDetroit, Orlando,Tampa, Phoenix,Pompano Beach andDallas.

SPDN: Tell us aboutyour partnership withTiSUN.

BV: The partnership between Lochinvarand TiSUN is a natural fit and has beenhighly successful. By harnessing


improvements in system output havereached a level of diminishing returns. Incontrast, tenKsolar started with a cleansheet to focus on delivering a quantumleap in solar reliability and efficiency inorder to lower the overall cost of energy.We achieved a proprietary breakthroughin the industry by creating a solar PVmodule with a cell-independent designthat is cost-competitive with serial solarmodules.

SPDN:Aren’t higher voltages necessary?Hasn’t that been a path for the industry tofind greater efficiency?

JC: At first, you might think so, but highDC voltages – today 400 to 600 VDC arecommon in the US and up to 1000 VDCin Europe – are lethal and are prone to

arcing. A conventional solar array is theonly electrical system you can install thatcannot be turned off, and we think it’s arisk a building owner should avoid ontheir roof. In contrast, a tenKsolar systemalways operates at a safe low voltage ofunder 60VDC, and when you pull themeter, the system turns off.

SPDN: What markets and applicationsare you addressing?

JC: We’ve been primarily focused on dis-tributed generation for commercialrooftops, but also see our system extend-ing easily to ground mount and carportsolutions. Not only do we have anunmatched value proposition on therooftop: industry leading energy density,low weight, no-roof penetrations andease of install, but our system is also 100-percent safe.

tenKsolar (Con’t. from p. 1) SPDN: Why don’t other solar companiesdo the same as tenKsolar?

JC: What we do looks simple but it’sactually an extremely sophisticated andproprietary system. It all starts within ourmodule’s patent pending technology inthe way the cells are connected and theway we optimize cell level output byembedding redundant microelectronicsinto the panel. Also, our technology is nottied to any one particular solar material.We use conventional poly and mono sili-con because those happen to be thecheapest solar materials available today.

SPDN: You mentioned better reliability –why is that?

JC: Put simply, most of the things thatcause failure and degradation in conven-tional solar panels simply do not exist in

tenKsolar modules. Each cell is inde-pendent; there are no bypass diodes tofail; there are no serial connections to fail;and instead of plastics-based materials,we use solid aluminum as a backsheet.The entire array has redundancy, so anyindividual failure or damage or soiling islimited to the area it affects and does notimpact the rest of the module or array.

SPDN: What’s the practical benefit forinstallers in selling tenKsolar?

JC: By selling a tenKsolar RAISWave aninstaller can sell a system that is betterfor the end customer, giving them a dif-ferentiated solution that produces lowercost of energy, and thus a better opportu-nity for more profits and more business.

Visit www.tenksolar.com or booth 1307for more information.

MEYER BURGERPEAK PERFORMANCEIN SOLAR TECHNOLOGIESTrue system integrator in PVmanufacturing

Meyer Burger stands for leading-edgephotovoltaic technologies. The Swisscompany is the only equipment manu-facturer in the world who owns all keytechnologies in the photovoltaic value

chain - wafer, cell, module, systems.The core competencies and processknow-how of all members in the grouphelp contribute to a sustainable reductionin manufacturing costs for solar systems,which promotes the application of cleantechnology worldwide.

Improving efficiency—reducing costsThe Meyer Burger Group has set itselfthe goal of lowering manufacturingcosts throughout the entire photovoltaicvalue chain while improving theefficiency level of solar systems. Basedon its broad process expertise, MeyerBurger is developing integratedsystem solutions which incorporateseveral processes. The group's intensiveresearch and development activities aresetting new standards in productionmethods and are driving the industriali-sation of solar technology forward. Theresulting reduction in manufacturingcosts increases the possibility of active-ly utilising the process of convertingsunlight into electricity worldwide as animportant element of energy production.

Closing the gap—expertise in solarcell technologies from Roth & RauThe friendly take over of Roth & Rau willbe a further important step for MeyerBurger. With Roth & Rau the companywill expand its know-how and its existingservices in the solar business. Due to theincrease in size and expertise in solar cellcoating, the Meyer Burger Group will beable to ensure the further reduction ofcosts per kilowatt hour of electricity.

The German company, Roth & Rau, hasoutstanding technological know-how aswell as the suitable production proce-dures for the processing and coating ofsolar cells. This includes:• Comprehensive know-how in thedevelopment and application of plasmaprocessing systems for surface treatmentin various industrial sectors• More than 10 years of experience in plas-ma technology for solar cell manufacturing• Supply of processing systems basedon plasma and ion beam technology forother sectors such as the semiconductorand optical industries.

Within the enhanced Meyer BurgerTechnology Group, all essential tech-nologies will be combined along the pho-tovoltaic value chain, creating a serviceoffering of completely integrated produc-tion solutions from a single source for thesolar industry. The unification of the twocompanies gives rise to a technologygroup with about 2500 employees.

For more information, pleasecontact: Meyer Burger Technology Ltd.,+41 (0)33 439 05 05, [email protected] or visit www.meyerburger.com.Please visit us at booth 5156.

Wafer process• Highest yieldin the industry• Process andtechnology leader• Setting qualitystandards inphotovoltaics

Cell process• Leading cellcoating andtechnologies• Highest throughput and excellenlayer quality• Outstandinghetero-junctiontechnology

Module process• Leadinglaminationtechnology• Soft touchsolderingtechnology• High-endmodule and celtesting equipment

Integrated systems• PV trackingsystems (WTS)• Process andproduction qualitymanagementsystems (PQMS)• Building-integratedphotovoltaics

Wafer Tracking System WIS

Process Quality Management System PQMS


Market” allows Sapa to go from print toproduction, quickly and economically,because Sapa already understands theproduct solutions that they can provide.

Over the past three years, significantinvestments have been made in peoplethrough establishment of Sapa’s dedicat-ed Renewable Energy Team. A focus onthe RE industry allows the company tofacilitate the sales and supply process bycommunicating with customers in theirown nomenclature. Another resource isthe Sapa North American TechnicalCenter that works to establish finisheddesigns for innovative custom featuresand improved end-use applicationswhich help customers to optimize thevalue of their products.

In North America alone, Sapa’s cap-ital expenditure for 2011will be $50 mil-

lion, providing increased capacity andfurther expanding the company’s offer-ings to the RE industry.

To be a turnkey supplier, investmentin high speed production equipment isbeing completed in several locations: twoTekFab machines, a Joseph MachiningCenter, high speed PV frame cell, longbed machining centers and a Joseph dou-ble cut miter saw.

Additionally, Sapa continuously uti-lizes the Genesis Production System(Lean Manufacturing) to optimize pro-duction methods that increase throughputand product quality.

Using its global footprint, Sapa isexpanding the value chain for supply tocustomers and working as “OneCompany” to deliver its combined expe-rience and increase the speed to market.

For more information, visit Booth5436 or go to www.sapagroup.com/solar.

Sapa (Con’t. from p. 66)

by airports, utility substations, powergeneration plants, public works facilitiesand warehouses.

As there is more push to reduceoperational expenses and increase theefficiency of utility-scale solar plants,operators are looking to wireless technol-ogy to provide real-time metrics, opera-tional data and plant security. This data

can help identify issues before theybecome problematic, assist with diagnos-tics and even recommend preventivemaintenance. Keeping the plant uptimeto a maximum, while making sure powerproduction is maximized, is a great wayto increase the ROI.

For more information contact BretDianich at [email protected]@freewave.com, visit www.freewave.comor stop by booth 426.

FreeWave (Con’t. from p. 34)

install location. Importantly, the trans-portation constraint does not apply to thekey materials that go into a solar module,i.e., the solar cells, which are small, lightand can be tightly packed.

Capital expenditures for a modulefactory are modest in comparison tothe 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 be

decommissioned 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 Spire atbooth 4935 at Solar Power International.

Spire (Con’t. from p. 16)

The people who work at CSBN arewhat make their company unique. Mostof CSBN’s sales representatives havemore than 15 years experience and aretypically considered experts in theirfields. This gives CSBN an advantageover their competition when customersare looking for advice and expertise onproducts. Diversity allows the companyto provide both products and services thatmost of competition cannot provide.CSBN focuses on quality throughout theorganization, including the products thecompany offers, the services provided,and the professional relationships thatCSBN establishes with customers, ven-dors, and employees.

CSBN’s current marketing strategyfor the solar industry is to team withother companies with a strong focus onquality. CSBN believes that if quality isnot one of a company’s primary focuses,that company will not last long in thesolar business. As a distributor it is oftenhard to “pick your customer,” but CSBNintentionally solicits those companiesknown to be focused on delivering aquality product to their customers.

Aside from being a fastener distribu-tor, CSBN is also a fastener manufactur-er. With full A2LA- accredited laboratory

facilities, CSBN can also test productsthat have been imported or obtainedthrough another domestic source toensure that each product meets its speci-fication. CSBN is certified ISO 17025,and currently seeking ISO 9000:2008accreditation. The company is also NQA-1compliant as an ML1-4 nuclear facilitysupplier.

The warehouse and distribution oper-ation is really what separates CSBN fromthe current market. Since CSBN is a man-ufacturer of fasteners, CSBN takes greatpride in packaging and assembly.Whether CSBN acquires the productdomestically or imports from overseassources, the products and packaging mustmeet a very high standard. Customersappreciate that their pallets of material areorganized and labeled, making them easyto read and interface with most radio fre-quency scanners. CSBN understands thatno one needs to waste time handlingpenny parts and strives to make handlingmore efficient for customers.

CSBN is here to serve you.Competing on cost and quality customerservice, CSBN can meet all of your fas-tener needs.

For more information, visit CopperState Bolt & Nut Company in booth 3912at Solar Power International or online atwww.copperstate.com.

Copper State Bolt & Nut (Con’t. from p. 4)

TiSUN’s two decades of experience inthe solar market and combining thatexpertise with Lochinvar’s support todesign engineers, distributors, contrac-tors and end users; this advanced line isoffered by two manufacturers knownthroughout the world for superior quality,energy-efficient products.

SPDN: Why did Lochinvar decide toenter the solar thermal market?

BV: We recognize the need to develop arenewable energy strategy for our com-pany. Commercial solar thermal repre-sents the greatest opportunity to capital-ize on this sector by offering our high-efficiency water-heating and hydronic-heating systems integrated with supple-mental solar energy. We feel supplemen-tal solar is the way to go because puresolar has too long of a payback.Our partnership with TiSUN allows us touse our expertise in solar applications toassist engineers with the design of their

efficient space-heating and water-heatingsystems. Our focus is on commercialapplications because there’s so muchattention now on residential.

SPDN: What do you see as Lochinvar’sgreatest accomplishment or most distin-guishing feature?

BV: Lochinvar’s greatest accomplish-ment is the fact that we’re a sales-and-marketing-based company that is com-mitted to innovation and new productdevelopment. Our most distinguishingfeature is our people. We have a greatteam of people who buy into the compa-ny’s success. We continue to train andeducate them to ensure that all employeescan be effective in their responsibilities.

For more information about Lochinvar,contact: Lochinvar Corp., 300 MaddoxSimpson Parkway, Lebanon, TN 37090;Phone: (615) 889-8900; Fax: (615) 547-1000; www.Lochinvar.com. You can alsostop and meet them at booth 3833 at the2011 Solar Power International Show

Lochnivar (Con’t. from p. 97)

Tigo Energy, the market leader in mod-ule-level DC power electronics, hasannounced the introduction of twohigher-powered products in theirMaximizer line. The 350-wattMaximizer (MM-ES) can be used withmodules up to 350 watts, while the600-watt Maximizer (MM2-ES) canprovide Maximium Power PointControl for two modules at once. Bothproducts are compatible with TigoEnergy’s industry-leading MaximizerSystem, which offers unmatched effi-ciency, cost and reliability.

As module power continues togrow, power electronics must supportcorrespondingly higher power levels.If not, the electronics will clip powerwhen the modules are producing attheir peak—which not only sacrifices

power, but also generates additionalheat behind the module. Modules oftenproduce higher power than their name-plate capacity (particularly with cloudedge effects, when light intensity canbe 1,200 w/m2), so it is best to leave abuffer between the power rating of themodule and the power rating of theelectronics.

Tigo Energy’s ability to offer higher-power products is due to its patentedImpedance Matching technology, whichachieves an industry-best 99.5-percentefficiency, and can easily scale to anypower level necessary. In contrast, micro-inverters have much lower power limits,typically around 215 watts.

For more information, visit TigoEnergy at www.tigoenergy.com or [email protected].

For several years, North American utili-ties and Engineering, Procurement andConstruction (EPC) firms have resistedthe newer 1000 volt over legacy 600 voltsolar farm designs due to the lack of 1000volt utility grade UL 1741 tested solarinverters on the market. Most firms arereluctant to use solar inverters above 600volts that are not witness tested to thisUL standard by a national laboratory.

WithAETI’s 1MWsolar inversion sta-tion becoming the first system witness-test-ed to UL 1741 at 1000 volts, financiers,developers, utilities and EPCs are able tobuild utility-grade solar farms with higherROI when designing with higher voltage1000 volt UL tested photovoltaic panels.Yet, they are able to retain all of the electri-cal safety and lifetime reliability benefits oflegacy 600 volt UL tested systems.

AETI has shipped more than oneGW of power distribution and conversionsystems into the world’s harshest environ-ments during its 65 years in the energyindustry. Its power conversion expertisein multi-megawatt power conversion sys-tems is key to the design of the industry’sfirst 1 MW Integrated Solar InversionStation (ISIS) tested to the UL1741 year2010 standard at 1000 volts.

Underwriter’s Laboratory (UL)developed UL 1741 Standards 2000, 2005and 2010 as an independent witness test-ing organization, which has been writingand testing products to their electricalcompliance and safety standards for morethan a century. The United StatesOccupational Safety & Health


AETI LAUNCHES 1 MW 1000 VOLTINVERTER WITNESS TESTED TO UL 1741

TIGO ENERGY ANNOUNCESTWO NEW PRODUCTS


tional solar energy market for long-termsolutions, greater efficiency, and lowerplant installation costs, by offering atruly innovative package of specific solu-

tions and products, giving installers max-imum operating flexibility and the guar-antee of technological competitiveness

For more information, visitwww.radius-gefran.com or stop by booth7055.

Gefran (Con’t. from p. 66)

Administration (OSHA) and CaliforniaEnergy Commission (CEC) today approveof few Nationally Recognized TestLaboratories (NRTLs) to perform UL1741 testing for solar inverters. As a glob-

ally recognized NRTL, TUV Rheinland isable to provide a test report that validatesAETI’s 1 MW ISIS meets all UL 1741year 2010 standard criteria, which are farmore rigorous than the earlier year 2000and 2005 UL 1741 standard test criteriathat legacy solar inverters currently meet.

AETI (Con’t. from p. 100)

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

Stop by booth 831 and visitInovateus Solar at Solar PowerInternational.

policies are now being driven byRenewable Portfolio Standards (RPS),requiring electricity providers to use orobtain a minimum percentage of theirpower from renewable energy resourcesby a certain date. Having already beenenacted by 29 states and Washington DC,state RPS policies were the reason behindcompletion of the 45 MW Avenal SolarGenerating Facility in California, the 20MW Roadrunner Solar GeneratingFacility in New Mexico, and the 20 MWCopper Crossing Solar Ranch inArizona.They also drove numerous residentialand commercial systems in many statesto meet RPS distributed generationrequirements.

Just two years ago, the U.S. on-gridmarket was fueled almost solely by state-level policies. However, more recently,the U.S. federal government has played acritical role in the U.S. solar marketplace,providing investment tax credits (ITC),cash grants, depreciation bonuses, andloan guarantees as vehicles to make PVmore financeable. While the eliminationof federal cash grants by the end of this

year is not good news, there are enoughcompanies with strong balance sheetsthat can ride this wave, just by utilizingthe 30 percent in investment tax credits.

Large-scale PV projects will befinanced and installed in phases, takingadvantage of the scalability of PV.Declining state or utility-based incen-tives will not curtail growth in residentialand commercial segments, as decliningmodule costs, rising electricity rates, andavailability of third-party financing pro-vide growth.

With prices now on a rapid down-ward path, state regulations need to bestreamlined and standardized, specifical-ly, permitting and interconnection agree-ments. In addition, stakeholders in theU.S. PV industry need to invest inimproving the grid infrastructure. TheU.S. PV industry still looks like that tor-toise, but its current path indicates that itwill win the race.

This article is based on the SolarbuzzUnited States PV Market report.

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

Solarbuzz (Con’t. from p. 82)

great grandfather Mathias Masser knowthat more than 250 years after he broughthis special knowledge of potato farmingtoAmerica, German ingenuity from com-panies like Schott Solar and Schletterwould help his descendants carry on thatfarming tradition.

Inovateus Solar (Con’t. from p. 39)

Generator is a battery-powered backupsystem for use when backup power isrequired and a regular combustion-engine generator is not practical orallowed.

GenTran’s Silent Generator PowerSystem provides 4.000 watts of instanta-neous power ideal for office computersand servers, refrigeration, medical equip-ment, aquariums and other applicationswhere reliable power is critical. Whenconnected to AC power, the SilentGenerator is constantly recharging so it’s

ready for the next power disruption. Itworks indoors, releases no harmful emis-sions, and is portable so you can take itwith you when you move. Additionally,the Silent Generator can be rechargedwith most any renewable power sourcesuch as solar, wind or hydro and qualifiesfor up to a 30 percent federal tax credit ora Section 1603 grant in lieu ofRenewable Energy Tax Credits, signifi-cantly reducing the initial investment.

Visit GenTran in booth 539 at SolarPower International or online atwww.gen-tran.com, or call toll-free at 1-888-GEN-TRAN.

GenTran (Con’t. from p. 87)

provider throughout the Asia-PacificRegion and North America, with particu-lar focus on the greater China market.Dimerco has continually met andexceeds its customers’ expectations bystaying true to its core competences: (1)flexibility, (2) teamwork, and (3) profes-sionalism. This approach is supported bythe beliefs and adherence to the DimercoCorporate Culture: (1) the spirit of serv-ice and concept of cost, (2) internal andcustomer communication, (3) market-ori-entated marketing strategy and operation,(4) responsible instantaneous actions,and (5) modest self-expression.

By adhering to the DimercoExpress Core Competence andCorporate Culture, Dimerco has main-tained a proactive role in the ever-evolv-

ing solar energy transportation andlogistics market. With this in mind, thecompany is committed to the continuoussearch for excellence that offers effi-cient and effective total solutions.Dimerco dedicates itself and itsresources to meet the diverse needs ofits customers with flexibility in a cost-conscious and professional manner.

A forerunner in energy conservation,with a corporate green policy that guideshow it performs business, DimercoExpress understands your need to sourceglobally and deliver on time. >From PVmaterials to solar thermal collection,Dimerco Express customizes logisticsolutions to handle your solar energysupply chain efficiently and effectively.

To learn more about DimercoExpress, please stop by booth 4932 andvisit its website: www.dimerco.com.

Dimerco (Con’t. from p. 71)

TÜV RHEINLAND PTL:A SOLAR LEADERBased in Tempe,Arizona, TÜV RheinlandPTL® is a partnershipbetween Arizona StateUniversity, with its morethan 30 years of solar energy researchand testing, and TÜV Rheinland, the $1.5billion global provider of independenttesting, assessment and certification serv-ices.

Founded in 1992 and operated by itsCollege of Engineering and AppliedSciences, ASU’s Photovoltaic TestingLab (PTL) was the only major NorthAmerican test facility and was instru-mental in the development of many of themajor standards in the marketplace today.

In 2008, ASU and TÜV Rheinlandentered into a joint venture to create TÜVRheinland PTL, adding the world’s mostcomprehensive, sophisticated, state-of-the-art facility to the largest network ofsolar energy laboratories worldwide.

Approximately 80 percent of allsolar module manufacturers have theirproducts tested at TÜV Rheinland toobtain national and international marketlicenses. TÜV Rheinland operates testlaboratories for solar modules and sys-tems in Tempe and five other locations

worldwide, including Cologne,Germany; Shanghai, China; Taichung,Taiwan; Yokohama, Japan; andBangalore, India.

TÜV Rheinland PTL provides itsclients with state-of-the-art technology,global expertise and the advanced testingsolutions required to ensure safety, relia-bility and performance of solar powertechnologies.

TÜV Rheinland PTL is an ISO17025 accredited facility by theAmerican Association for LaboratoryAccreditation (A2LA,) and performstests of many critical standards requiredto bring products to international mar-kets, including IEC 61215, IEC 61646,IEC 61730, IEC 62108, ANSI/UL 1703,EN 12975., EN 12976, ENV 12977, ISO9806, ISO 9459, SRCC Standard 100-08,SABS 1210, PowerMark, CaliforniaEnergy commission and others.

TÜV Rheinland PTL employs morethan 40 experts working in a modern40,000 square foot facility—the largestof its type in the world. The laboratoryalso performs many tests outdoors in amulti-acre secured location, takingadvantage of Arizona’s average of 325days of sunshine per year.

NTS POWER & ENERGY: THE ENERGYPRODUCTS OF THE FUTUREWhat happens when a50 year old engineer-ing services and test-ing company focusesits expertise andresources on excitingopportunities in thefield of power andenergy? New solu-tions emerge. Newsolutions that enable companies design-ing the energy products of the future tomove from the design stage to marketdominance without skipping a beat. NTSprovides complete product life-cyclesolutions for the power and energy indus-try, starting with design phase consultingservices, followed by product testing andcertifications and rounded out with awide range of supply chain managementservices. Together, this comprehensivearray of service offerings enables NTScustomers to rapidly execute new con-cepts, validate them through testing andbring them to market quickly and effi-ciently. NTS knows that good ideas don’thave time to wait around so the compa-ny’s purpose is to help you increase thevelocity between concept and execution,

because helping youachieve your goals is howNTS achieves its owngoals.

Operating the largestnetwork of commercialtest laboratories in NorthAmerica, NTS has thetechnical infrastructure inplace to address a broad

array of different engineering challenges.The company has expertise with large-scale solar energy capture, storage andtransmission systems, covering every-thing from product design consultation toperformance and compliance testingservices. As anA2LA-accredited test lab-oratory NTS is also authorized to issue abroad array of product certifications tohelp its customers meet the regulatoryrequirements in virtually any marketwhere they intend to sell their products.

As the field of solar energy contin-ues to evolve, so too do the services andsolutions that NTS offers its various cus-tomers in the power and energy markets.

For more information please [email protected] or visit NTS online at:www.nts.com/energy.

solar power daily news - oct. 18, 2011 - spi 2011

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