solar power daily news - oct. 20, 2011 - spi 2011

Michael M.Durot, VicePresident ofMarketing andInventory Management U.S. Wire &Cable, tells us about Anixter, Inc. andits role in the solar power industry.

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

MD: Anixter is a global supplier ofcommunications and security products,

Dean Mathew, NationalTechnical Systems(NTS) Market Director,Power & Energy satdown with Solar PowerDaily News for a chatabout his company.

SPDN: How long has NTS been in thepower and energy space?

DM: NTS has been in the power andenergy space since 1987 when weacquired Acton Environmental Services,

LG Electronics,the consumer elec-tronics giant, ishitting the marketwith its high-per-formance series of solar modules―theMonoX, perfect for homes and business-es with an overall power efficiency of16.2 percent. LG’s MonoX modulescome GridReady®, which means theyare ready to perform. LG has placed itsengineering and design expertise intorevolutionizing how solar panels aremade and installed. As a global leader,

For the third time inless than a year,Schiller Automationhas been chosen toautomate a high valuesolar module fab.Schiller’s innovation is revolutionary in aproduction environment that otherwiserewards the routine.

Like all great ideas, Schiller’s inno-vation seems so simple and addresses allof the key aspects of production in a thinfilm solar fab: flexibility; expandability;and cost. Thin film fabs use a glass sub-

Scott Springer,Renewable EnergyProject Manager forCopper State Bolt &Nut Co., discusses hiscompany’s contributionsto the solar power field.


SS: Copper State Bolt & Nut Co.(CSBN) is a distributor and manufac-

Aztec WasherCompany Inc. COOMatt DeGraan dis-cusses what we canexpect from Aztec inthe future.

SPDN: How would you describe Aztecs’current position in your industry?

MD: Aztec Washer Company, Inc. hassucessfully produced quality pipe flashingsand bonded washers since 1968. We arenow building on considerable successes in

Inovateus Solar isthe integrator ofchoice for a 3.5acre ground-mounted solararray for StermanMasser Potato Farms located inSacramento, Penn. For more than 250years, the sun has helped eight genera-tions of the Masser family grow potatoeson their family-owned farm. Now the sunwill help pay the energy bill to operateone of the nation’s largest potato process-ing facilities with a new one-megawatt

Greg Spudic,Regional VicePresident Market-ing & Sales of Dimerco Express (U.S.A)Corporation, discusses how innovationthrough technology benefits the solarpower industry supply chain.

SPDN: Tell our readers a little aboutDimerco Express.

GS: Surpassing our 40th year in thelogistics arena, Dimerco ExpressCorporation’s vision is to be the most

Adhesives ResearchElectronics BusinessManager DeepakHariharan discussesthe company‘s 50 yearsas a leading developerof adhesives productsused in PV panels.


DH: Adhesives Research (AR) is marking

Solar Power Daily Newsrecently spoke withJochen Marg, CEO ofsonnen_systems, Inc.

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

JM: sonnen_systems, Inc. manufacturesdual-axis trackers that are engineered inGermany and is a division of theKirchner Solar Group (KSG) headquar-tered in Alheim, Germany. With over

Dal las • 10¢Oser Communicat ions GroupThursday, October 20, 2011

Bret Dianich ofFreeWave Technologytalks with Solar PowerDaily News about howthe company’s wirelessdata radio is critical tothe solar power industry.

SPDN: What is FreeWave Technology?

BD: FreeWave radios are used for a vari-ety of applications in the solar industry.Our wireless data radios allow for com-munication from remote locations back

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Solar Power DailyNews presents a conver-sation with MarkSimmons, VP and ChiefOperating Officer ofClearEnergy Inc.

SPDN: Mr. Simmons, will you pleasedescribe your company and product?

MS: ClearEnergy is the US distributionarm for the seven-company Clear EnergyGroup, based in Germany. The Groupwill sell 74MW this year. We supply


NTS POWER & ENERGYMEETS CHANGES IN POWERAND ENERGY MARKETS

SEALING SOLUTIONSFROM AZTEC WASHERCOMPANY

INTRODUCINGLG ELECTRONICSʼMONOX SOLAR PANEL

CLEARENERGYINTRODUCES THE NEWSOLAR PARADIGM

SONNEN_SYSTEMS:DUAL-AXIS TRACKINGMADE EASY

ANIXTER SUPPLIESCOMMUNICATIONS ANDSECURITY PRODUCTS

DIMERCO EXPRESS:ENHANCING THE SUPPLYCHAIN WITH INNOVATION

ADVANCEMENT INCOMMUNICATION FORTHE SOLAR INDUSTRY

ADHESIVE RESEARCHWORKS WITH YOU TOINCREASE FUNCTIONALITY

COPPER STATE DISTRIBUTESQUALITY TO CONTRACTORS,FABRICATORS, ERECTORS

INOVATEUS SOLARPARTNERS ON GROUNDMOUNT SYSTEM

SCHILLERʼS UNIQUE FABAUTOMATION SOLUTIONMATCHES MARKET NEEDS

AN INDEPENDENT PUBLICATION NOT AFFILIATED WITH ANY OTHER ORGANIZATION

Solar Power Dai ly NewsThursday, October 20, 2014

Huck, a division of Alcoa FasteningSystems specializing in engineered fas-teners, is working in partnership withseveral solar manufacturers to developcustomized solutions to joining chal-lenges. With more than 40 years of expe-rience in the design and engineering ofapplication-specific fasteners, Huck iswell positioned to lead the industry in thedevelopment of the next generation ofengineered fasteners for solar applica-tions. These applications include framejoining for parabolic troughs as well asphotovoltaic frames.

The main advantage of Huckfasteners as compared to conventionalnuts and bolts is that every Huck fasteneris engineered, rather than just manufac-tured. Said Huck Senior Design Engineer,Troy Pierce, “There are several key designdifferences that Huck engineers into everyfastener, including blind bolts used insolar applications that make a huge differ-ence in performance when compared tothe competition.” He added, “You canfind knock-offs of our blind bolts, but youwon’t find anything on the market asstrong and vibration resistant as a Huck.

More power. Less work.The next generation of solar.

SolarDock’s patented, lightweight solarmodule mounting system combines ahigh-tilt angle of up to 35 degrees withthe only truly non-penetrating design.With a UL-listing and California DSApre-check approval, the SolarDock solu-tion solves the greatest number of climateand engineering challenges, and:• Maximizes annual kWh power produc-tion—10-20 percent more kWh/year than

low-angle flat mounting.• Dramatically increases installationproductivity—up to 40 percent moreSolarDock in one year than a typicalmounting system.

Installers and end-users get immediateand long-term cost savings through:• Intelligent product design—Standardized parts, few components andsimple assembly result in lower labor andequipment cost.

• Roof-friendly features—protecting thepanel, roof surface and warranty.• Lower maintenance costs—patenteddesign encapsulates wiring, sheds snowand water.

As real estate veterans, SolarDockis able to anticipate and solve construc-tion issues, and customers enjoy com-prehensive support from engineeringdesign to installation. With more than250 successful projects and 20megawatts installed in 30 states andworldwide, SolarDock is recognizedamong leading integrators and distribu-tors as the proven choice in flat-roofsolar mounting systems.

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

Simply put, there is no equivalent.”Specific fasteners already engi-

neered for the solar application includeblind rivets for both the CSP and PVmar-kets. Specifically, the Huck Magna-Lok,BOM, C6L, and next generation BobTailfasteners are ideal for CSP applications,and Magna-Lok and AutoBulb are usedin PV applications.

Advantages that these Huck fasten-ers offer include front-side visual inspec-tions, which means a quick glance is allthat’s needed to ensure the fastener issecure. Another advantage specific to theMagna-Lok is Huck’s proprietary 360ºcircle lock mechanism. The circle lockfeature is a function of the fastener, not

HUCK FASTENERS POSITIONED FORGROWTH IN THE SOLAR INDUSTRY

SOLARDOCKʼS PATENTEDSYSTEM SOLVES CLIMATE ANDENGINEERING CHALLENGES


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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DALLAS AREA IS HOME TOAEG POWER SOLUTIONSʼ NORTHAMERICAN HEADQUARTERSBy Sandra Long

Welcome to Dallas! We hope you enjoyit as much as we do.

If you get a chance to do some sightseeing, here are our recommendations.• Walk over to Reunion Tower, take theelevator to the bar, and enjoy a great view

of the Dallas skyline.• Walk over to the Sixth Floor Museumat Houston and Elm Streets and learnabout the legacy and assassination ofPresident John F. Kennedy.• Take the train (light rail) to the TexasState Fair, the largest state fair in the US.Take the red or blue line trains to the

West End Station and then hop on thegreen line train to Fair Park.

Dallas has a very good solar irradi-ance and a surprising number of solarcompanies in the area. With a friendlybusiness environment and low cost of liv-ing, the Dallas area is fortunate to havetalented people from the telecom,defense, and semi-conductor industriesthat now work in renewable energy.

AEG Power Solutions has design,sales, marketing, and finance in ourPlano office, a suburb north of Dallas. InDecember of 2009, we installed a 50kWPV system on our roof. It’s been a great

way to lower our monthly energy bill anduse the power in our lab.

Over the past 60 years, AEG PowerSolutions has provided mission criticalpower control and power systems toselected end markets such as power gen-eration, oil & gas and the solar energyindustry. This year we are introducingour Protect PV.500 Solar Inverter to theUS. This 500kW inverter with an effi-ciency greater than 98 percent is ideal forutility-scale deployment.

For more information, please stop bybooth 254, call 877-315-4584 or email usat [email protected].

SOLAR REPORT SIMPLIFIESROOFTOP PANEL LAYOUTBob Grant, Executive Vice President,EagleView Technologies talks aboutthe report.

SPDN: What is a Solar Report?

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

SPDN: How does this report benefitinstallers?

BG: There is no longer a need for time-consuming hand measurements or

hours spent creating a drawing inCAD. EagleView’s Solar Report isavailable in a CAD format and featuresa grid overlay of 1' x 1'squares. Thediagrams provide the ability for solarinstallers to accurately calculate mate-rial needs and the overall positioningof solar equipment.

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

BG: The response has been phenomenal.EagleView began providing roof meas-urement reports to the construction andinsurance industries in 2008. With thegrowth in solar popularity, and the addi-tion of many state incentive programs,

our customers began asking for a reportto help with solar installations. Our SolarReport was released in 2010 and has seensteady growth in the market. One of ourgoals is to provide a reliable source ofaccurate information to the contractor.The report not only saves them time, butprovides the critical information theyneed to accurately assess a project’spotential solar value.

SPDN: Does the report offer any addi-tional features?

BG: The reports have turned out to be agreat sales tool for our customers. Inaddition to the CAD files, the report isdelivered as a PDF file and provides theoption for the installer to customize acover page with their logo and contactinformation. This is a powerful tool foruse in the sales presentation to the prop-erty owner. The report has a very profes-

sional appearance and features a 3-Dmodel of the building, five color photo-graphs and diagrams. EagleView alsoincludes a second report specificallymeant to be left with the property ownerfor a lasting impression.

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

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

For more information visit EagleViewTechnologies at www.eagleview.com.


DYNALENE OFFERS EXPERTISEAS A MANUFACTURER OFCUSTOM FLUIDS, SUPPLIER OFLABORATORY SERVICES AND MOREPatrick McMullen, Business Develop-ment Manager of Dynalene Inc.,discusses how the company has grown tobe more than a manufacturer of heattransfer fluids.


PM: At first glance Dynalene Inc. lookssimply like a heat transfer fluid manu-facturer, and it is a major part of whatwe do. However Dynalene has grownfar beyond just heat transfer fluids. Wedeal with laboratory services and nano-materials, as well as custom fluids for

specific application. We are a very ver-satile company with a lot of expertise inmany different areas.

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

PM: Dynalene has a number of chal-lenges due to the overall growth of thecompany. For example: our customerbase and sales have grown to the pointwhere we needed to expand our produc-tion by almost 20 times last year. It is def-initely a good problem to have. This yearthe challenge became developing ourbusiness to the point where we need toexpand again through various avenues,

including our line of heat transfer fluids,lab services and nano-materials, and alsocreating new fluids and additives foremerging industries, such as solar energyand fuel cell.

SPDN: Are you introducing any newproducts?

PM:Yes.We are introducing our renewableDynalene Solar Glycol-XT, which is a newformula for high temperature solar thermalsapplications. It offers a lower viscosity andis made from domestically grown corn. Weare also officially launching our line ofmolten salts for CSP applications:Dynalene MS-1 and Dynalene MS-2.These molten salts can be used for eitherthermal storage or as a heat transfer fluid.

SPDN: Where is your current productemphasis?

PM: Currently Dynalene is movingtoward developing fluids for renewableenergy systems. We have developed the

Solar Glycol-XT, molten salts for solarand GeoGlycol for geothermal uses. Wehave also developed a fuel cell coolant,Dynalene FC.

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

PM: As far as our products and themarketplace goes, there are very fewproducts like ours out there. There isthe standard propylene glycol and eth-ylene glycol, but BioGlycol, SolarGlycol-XT, and Dynalene MS-1 andMS-2 are fairly unique products. Thereis a need for renewable fluids forrenewable application, and Dynalene isfilling that need.

Visit Patrick at booth 155, see the otherfine folks from Dynalene at booth 2781,call 610-262-9686 or visit online atwww.Dynalene.com.

KEY STEPS TO RAPID GLOBAL PVMODULE CERTIFICATIONThe photovoltaic industry is rapidlyexpanding and so are the aspirations ofPV module manufacturers, with manylooking to sell their products in multiplecountries and regions around the world.But modules must be certified beforethey can access markets, and the risingnumber of PV products combined with alimited number of accredited testing labshas led to longer certification times.These delays can often lead to cost over-runs, loss of market share, reduced prof-itability and lowered brand ranking.

The good news is that module man-ufacturers can significantly reduce therisk of certification delays by makingsmart choices early in the design of theirproducts. By selecting a testing lab suchas Intertek that is accredited to certifymodules in North America, Europe andthe major Asian markets, a manufacturercan gain access to more than 40 countries

after completing just one set of tests.Using one lab can cut certification timedown to as little as one-third what itwould be when using multiple labs in dif-ferent countries.

Start Early. Begin certifying a newPV module before its design is complete.This ultimately will speed up the time tomarket. Manufactures that wait too longto begin module certification risk delaysand might have to rework some compo-nents after they thought their designswere done. Intertek’s Preliminary DesignReview service is intended to assist man-ufacturers to identify applicable stan-dards and potential design flaws that mayimpede certification. This step in theprocess can help to save considerabletime and money.

Only Use Certified Components.Each component that goes into the finishedmodule must comply with certain stan-

dards. Intertek has found thatone of the most frequentcauses of module non-com-pliance is the use of compo-nents that aren’t properly cer-tified. By working with a labto perform a design review,problems are identified earlyand the eventual certificationtesting can move more quickly.

Select the Right Lab. If you’re look-ing to certify modules with innovativetechnology that’s unlike any productspreviously on the market, a lab with PVexpertise is better equipped to developthe right test plan and apply genericrequirements to that new technology. Inaddition, a lab that is accredited to certi-fy modules under both ANSI/UL require-ments for the US and Canada, and the CBScheme for EU and Asia can offer certi-fication for the two sets of requirementsand significantly shorten your time tomarket. Intertek meets all of theserequirements, and more.

Develop a Smart Test Plan. Anexperienced test lab will help you stream-

line efforts and createefficiencies to get yourproduct to customers,faster. By maintainingmultiple accreditations,Intertek can conductconcurrent testing,often satisfying twoglobal requirements

with one test. Taking advantage of a lab’soverlapping accreditations means fewertests need to be done.

Intertek’s single source solution forthe PV industry provides access to a fullsuite of services, including safety testingand certification for over 40 markets,performance testing and reliability test-ing with custom testing plan options.When combined with Intertek’s techno-logical expertise on the fast advance-ments in the PV industry, these advan-tages lead to rapid global PV module cer-tification.

For more on what Intertek hasto offer, stop by booth 2742, [email protected], or visitwww.intertek.com/solar.

TÜV RHEINLAND PTL RECEIVESOSHA APPROVAL FOR ANSI/UL1703 CERTIFICATIONCertification for key North AmericanPhotovoltaic safety requirement

TÜV Rheinland PTL, LLC, NorthAmerica’s largest solar and photovolta-ic testing company, was approved bythe U.S. Occupational Health andSafety Administration (OSHA) to pro-vide certification for ANSI/UL1703,the required North American solar safe-ty mark. The accreditation is the latestin TÜV Rheinland´s comprehensiveportfolio of testing and photovoltaiccertifications to help clients penetratethe global marketplace.

Worldwide, photovoltaic solar mod-ule manufacturers and the suppliers ofrelated components consider the U.S.A. alarge target market, according to industryanalysts. ANSI/UL 1703 certification is

currently one of the pivotal regulatoryrequirements to launch photovoltaicproducts in the U.S. marketplace.

“We are very pleased by the accred-itation of our North American certifica-tion body from OSHA. The elevation ofstatus as a Nationally Recognized TestLaboratory (NRTL) for TÜV RheinlandPTL will give TÜV Rheinland Groupanother of the key pieces to service ourclients globally,” said RichardBozicevich, North American BusinessField Manager for Solar Services. “Withthis accreditation we can leverage theexpertise and geographic reach of theTÜV Rheinland network to better serviceclients across the globe.”

Around 80 percent of all solar modulemanufacturers have their products testedat TÜV Rheinland to obtain national and

international market licenses.TÜV Rheinland operates testlaboratories for solar mod-ules and systems in six loca-tions worldwide: Cologne, Germany;Shanghai, China; Taichung, Taiwan;Yokohama, Japan; and Bangalore, India aswell as a U.S. facility in Tempe,Arizona atTÜV Rheinland PTL. Nearly 200 expertsspecializing in solar technologies work atthe existing test centers.

About TÜV Rheinland PTL, LLCBased in Tempe, Ariz., TÜV RheinlandPTL, LLC is a leading provider of safetyand performance testing and market cer-tification serving every sector of the pho-tovoltaic and solar thermal marketplace,from the supply chain through installa-tion. TÜV Rheinland PTL is a member ofthe TÜV Rheinland Group, which has thelargest network of solar energy laborato-ries worldwide, with six major laborato-ries on three continents. The lab wasformed as a unique partnership betweenArizona State University, an institutionwith more than 50 years of research on

solar energy andextensive solartesting know-how, and TÜV

Rheinland, a $1.5 billion global providerof independent testing, assessment, andcertification services.

About TÜV RheinlandFounded in 1871, TÜV Rheinland NorthAmerica is a global leader in independentinspection services. The companyinspects technical equipment, productsand services; oversees projects; and helpsto shape processes for U.S. companiesseeking entry to worldwide markets.With 14,500 employees, TÜV Rheinlandmaintains a presence in approximately500 locations in 61 countries. In addition,it encompasses an international networkof approved labs, testing facilities andeducation centers, and its experts trainpeople across a wide range of industries.

For more information, visitwww.tuvptl.com or call TÜVRheinland toll-free at 1-TUV-RHEIN-LAND (888-743-4652).


Solar Boxes for module manufacturersHUBER+SUHNER offers a wide rangeof tailor-made connectivity systems forsolar module manufacturers. These con-sist of pre-fabricated junction boxes withcables and connectors that are fixed tothe rear side of the modules and connectthem to the inverter.

As a result of the diodes’ positive heat-conducting properties, the modules featureoptimum protection from the temperatureincrease that occurs in “reverse mode.”Low-loss connectors and thermal insulationbetween module and box ensure that thepower generated can be used in a more effi-cient manner, thus increasing operating effi-ciency. The high quality of the materials

used and their careful processing ensure thatthe connectivity systems require no mainte-nance for the entire duration of their life-time.All boxes feature a reliable flat design,facilitating simple handling and efficientinstallation. HUBER+SUHNER designsand manufactures the boxes in accordancewith customer requirements, offering opti-mised logistics. HUBER+SUHNERRADOX Solar boxes are the product ofchoice by many of the largest global pro-ducers of PV modules.

Junction boxes certifiedfor global marketsSolar boxes such as the company’s modelRH3 have been developed especially for

high-performancemodules. Thanks to ther-mal insulation between the junction boxesand the modules, constant high power isguaranteed. The junction boxes are charac-terised by a high degree of functional safe-ty over their entire lifetime, as well as byextremely low power dissipation. They aredesigned for both manual and automatedproduction and optimised in accordancewith customers’ requirements.

The RH3 box is designed in anextremely space-saving way; the contactscan be soldered or welded, guaranteeinghigh connectivity quality. The RH3 boxis certified in accordance to both UL andTüV. This dual rating makes it possible touse the same boxes in the American,European, and Asian market.

TÜV, UL, and CSA certifiedfamily of PV InterconnectsAll RADOX solar connectivity systems

offer the renowned and long-establishedproperties of HUBER+SUHNER solarproducts. Their robust design, high qual-ity and tried-and-tested design ensurereliable connectivity over the entire life-time of an installation—even in the caseof harsh environmental conditions.

All HUBER+SUHNER solar productsare developed on the basis of the latesttechnical knowledge and the relevant TÜVand UL requirements. The conventionaland proven RADOX solar cables havepassed the more stringent TÜV re-qualifi-cation requirements and are also ULapproved. The Solar Twist-Lock connec-tors are also certified for NorthAmerica byCSA. Products are developed to ensureconstant high levels of functionality overthe entire lifetime of installations, thussimultaneously ensuring optimum safety.

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

RADOX PRODUCTSCERTIFIED GLOBALLY

The new line of commercial solar thermalproducts from Lochinvar Corporation, aleading manufacturer of high-efficiencywater heaters, boilers and pool heaters,and TiSUN, a global leader and specialistin solar heating technology, combines cut-ting-edge technology and superior qualitywith an outstanding distribution and serv-ice network. The Lochinvar/TiSUN lineof , advanced renewable energy solutionsincludes solar thermal panels, solar ther-

mal storage tanks, a pumping station and awide array of system accessories.

Solar Thermal PanelsThe Lochinvar/TiSUN solar thermal pan-els are available in two options – theCommercial Solar Flat Panel Collector(SCH models) and the Light DutyCommercial Solar Collector (SLH mod-els). Both options feature a laser-weldedabsorber with PVD coating and serpen-

tine heat coil design that allows for opti-mum heat transfer in a forced circulationsolar system.

The high-efficiency CommercialSolar Flat Panel Collector (SCH models)is a versatile, single-piece collectordesigned for both on-roof and free-stand-ing installations. It is available in sizesranging from 65 to 130 square feet,which offer reduced installation costs incommercial applications where multiplepanels would traditionally be used.Designed to withstand harsh outdoorconditions and provide years of serviceunder the sun, the Light DutyCommercial Solar Collectors are easy to

install in either a vertical (SLV models)or horizontal (SLH models) position.

Developed with superior durabilityin mind, the Lochinvar/TiSUN thermalpanels are equipped with an aluminiumframe structure with powder coat finishfor a long service life. In addition, allmodels are SRCC-OG100 certified.

Solar Pump StationsThe Lochinvar/TiSUN Commercial SolarPump Station is an all-in-one solarpumping package, complete with aDifferential Solar Control that offers

LOCHINVAR/TISUN COMMERCIALSOLAR THERMAL PRODUCTS


Solar Power Dai ly News 23Thursday, October 20, 201

the tool, helping to eliminate tooling andoperator errors that can happen withcompetitive fasteners. Also, the Magna-Lok features a built-in under cut designed

to ensure a secure joint, even if hole orsealant imperfections occur.

General benefits that are found in allHuck engineered products include thehighest level of vibration resistanceavailable, unmatched installation speed,

Huck (Con’t. from p. 4) low overall installed cost, superiorfatigue strength, and ergonomicallydesigned installation tooling.

Huck is part of Alcoa FasteningSystems, known worldwide for strongleadership in product quality and customer

support. Alcoa Fastening Systems cur-rently offers the greatest breadth and depthof fastening solutions in the industry.

For more information, visit Huck atthe Alcoa Fastening Systems booth 6513at Solar Power International.

eight different system capabilities andBTU metering. Available in three sizes,the pump station is designed to provideadequate flow through up to 1,000 squarefeet of collector area. The unit features avariable speed pump, flow meter, air sep-arator, flush and fill valves, safety groupand EPP two-piece installation.

The Commercial Solar Pump Station

constantly monitors the collector and tanktemperature; as the tank temperature coolsbelow set-point and the differencebetween the two temperatures reaches afield adjustable differential-point, the con-trol starts the circulation pump. If thevariable speed pump feature is utilized,the differential control adjusts the speed ofthe pump to achieve the highest tempera-ture difference between the collector andthe tank. This large temperature differ-

Lochinvar (Con’t. from p. 18) ence harvests the solar heat in the mostefficient manner possible.

When the constant flow feature isused, the pump operates at a steady speeduntil the tank reaches its desired temper-ature or there is no longer a sufficient dif-ference between the collector and thetank temperature to heat the tank.

Solar Thermal System AccessoriesLochinvar/TiSUN also offers a complete

line of solar thermal storage tanks andaccessories, which help designers to specifya complete commercial solar thermal sys-tem utilizing a single source manufacturer.

For more information aboutLochinvar, contact: Lochinvar Corp., 300Maddox Simpson Parkway, Lebanon, TN37090; Phone: (615) 889-8900; Fax: (615)547-1000; www.lochinvar.com. You canalso stop and meet them at booth 3833 atthe 2011 Solar Power International Show.

TRANSFORM SOLAR SHOWCASESDISTINCTLY DIFFERENT MONOCRYS-TALLINE MODULE AT SPI 2011U.S.-based cell and module manufactur-er, Transform Solar, is bringing a newdimension to the solar industry―literal-ly. Transform Solar’s .innovative andunique SLIVER™ technology takes per-formance beyond what’s possible withconventional panel-based solar solutionsand offers game-changing possibilities interms of aesthetics, form factor, weightand system integration.

Unlike conventional crystalline cellarchitecture, which limits the form factorand voltage of its products, SLIVER cells

and subassemblies can be interconnectedin new and different ways, opening thedoor to new architectures (like all-paral-lel designs) and flexible, lightweightapproaches.

The unique SLIVER module designleads to better partial-shade performancebecause there are 70 parallel connectionsin each module compared to just threestrings in a standard module. A high degreeof redundancy built into each module alsomakes reliability significantly better.

How are SLIVER cells made?

more about the many benefits that stemfrom this distinctively different, market-leading monocrystalline technology.

About Transform Solar:Transform Solar is owned equally by twoindustry powerhouses. Micron Techno-logy is a U.S.-based world leader insemiconductor design and manufactur-ing. Micron’s advanced memory andsemiconductor solutions are used in lead-ing-edge computing, consumer, network-ing, embedded, automotive, industrial,and mobile products. Origin Energy is anAustralia-based energy company with a140-year history. Origin is a leader ingreen energy market development, serv-ing more than 4 million customers, and isprobably the largest solar retailer in theworld with over 50,000 installations.

Transform Solar’s novel manufacturingprocess creates ultra-thin (40 micronsthick), perfectly bifacial, monocrystallinecells using 80 percent less silicon thanconventional PV processes. A monocrys-talline wafer is cut through vertically,turning it into 5,000 fully functionalSLIVER solar cells. This innovationcleverly increases surface utilization sothat it only takes two wafers to completea full solar module.

The SLIVER panels are built withstandard solar-module constructiontechniques and are certified to IEC61215, IEC 61730 and UL 1703 stan-dards. And best of all, SLIVER cells aremade in America.

Transform Solar’s SLIVER cells andmodules are being showcased at SPI. Visitthe Transform Solar booth 6809 to learn


MOUNTING AND RACKING SYSTEMSFROM T.R.A.-MAGET.R.A.-MAGE Founder Terry Andersontook a moment from his busy schedule todiscuss his company’s many benefits.

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

TA: Fifteen years ago, as a roofing con-sultant specializing in roof snow man-agement, I saw much property damageand risk to people caused by falling snowand ice. I started a roof snow retention

company with the intent to engineer myproducts from the fail point of the sys-tem, not just the fail point of the product.This concept of engineering an entiresystem made us unique. When webranched out to include solar mountingand rail systems, we followed the samepattern of engineering from the fail pointof the solar mounting system.


TA: This last year, we have been devel-

oping a new EZ MountClamp-on for standingseam metal roofs. Webelieve it is the best on thesolar market because it:

• Attaches to the rib with a carriage boltdesign which means it doesn’t penetratethe roofs surface, the threads won’t strip,and you cannot over torque it• Greater surface area which means notrails are required• Four or more pressure points withmeans added strength and security• Is made of the similar metals whichmeans no galvanic corrosion• Has a unique feature allowing the cop-per grounding wire to attach• Custom built to fit all standing seam rib

types with means it attachesbelow the hem and ensures itwill not pull of the rib• Engineered to the failpoint of the system

• Incorporates a simple solution to allthose wires running everywhere―a hookon the bottom that you can run your wiresthrough (coming soon)

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

TA: We have expert understanding of thesolar industry codes for mounting andracking systems (wind uplift, shear,downforce, etc.) We also understand the

NEW WELDED PATCH FOR SOLARROOFS BY ECOFASTEN SOLARFor use on membrane roofs, the Bulls EyeTarget Patch by EcoFasten Solar isdesigned to provide a versatile newmeans of mechanical attachment using afastener and a welded patch. The fasteneris installed using an increasingly commondetail that the roofing industry accepts asa non-penetrating assembly, thereby elim-inating roof warranty concerns.

Within the commercial roofingindustry there is a procedure whereby aninstaller can bond PVC and TPO mem-branes to specially coated roof deckplates. Using this widely accepted roof-

ing process, the Bulls Eye Target Patchassembly can be bonded to a modifieddeck plate in a controlled factory setting.

Installation of the Bulls Eye TargetPatch is quick and simple. First, theinstaller determines where an attachmentis needed and marks that location on theroof. This area is then cleaned to promotea strong weld between the roof mem-brane and the patch itself. A deck screw(OMG-XHD fasteners used during test-ing) is then tightened down to the thick-ness of our fastener head depth gauge.This will leave a slight gap between the

underside of the fastenerhead and the surface of themembrane. The Bulls EyeTarget Patch assembly slidesonto the shaft of the fastener by means ofa key slot in our custom deck plate. Thisdesign component allows the plate toslide on to the exposed fastener head,creating a structural connection betweenthe roof deck and the Bulls Eye TargetPatch assembly. The installer then weldsthe patch into place around the fastener toseal the roof.

What truly sets the Bulls Eye TargetPatch apart is that failure has been engi-neered into the upper portion of theassembly. This new, pioneering approachto rooftop attachment means that duringextreme weather, or a seismic event, the

top componentscould yieldwithout expos-ing the base

components of the roof to the elements.This facet of the design completely elim-inates the potential for leaks.

EcoFasten Solar and its sister com-pany, Alpine SnowGuards, have been inthe rooftop attachment business fornearly 20 years. Welded membranesolutions have come and gone; the basicconcept is not new. However, whenwelding to the membrane alone, existingdesigns place immense loads on theroofing membrane, creating the poten-tial for catastrophic and expensive dam-




INOVATEUS SOLAR FEATURES NEW GESOLAR-POWERED ELECTRIC VEHICLECHARGING CARPORT AT THE SPI SHOWInovateus Solar Partners with GEEnergy Industrial Solutions on One of theLargest Electric Vehicle ChargingStations in North America; learn more atbooth 831

Inovateus Solar LLC, a national solarpower distributor and integrator, recentlypartnered with GE Energy IndustrialSolutions on the installation of one ofNorth America’s largest electric vehicle(EV) charging stations at the GE facilityin Plainville, Conn. The project is nowposted to the innovative and educationalInovateus Solar PV PowerUp channel onYouTube. The Inovateus Solar PVPowerUp channel on YouTube now fea-tures 22 educational, Inovateus Solarproduct and project videos.

The dedication for the project tookplace on May 26, 2011 with CEO of GEEnergy Industrial Solutions, LuisRamírez, joined by ConnecticutGovernor Dannel Malloy, along with GEand Inovateus Solar contractors andemployees, to unveil the GE Electric

Vehicle (EV) Solar Carport in Plainville,Connecticut.

GE uses solar energy and smart gridtechnology to fully charge up to 13 elec-tric vehicles per day via six Level 2 GEEV Charging Stations. The solar panelson the 216-foot by 40-foot, 40-stall car-port will also power all the lighting in theparking lot to offset an additional$10,000 in energy costs each year.

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

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

“Our objective with this project is toutilize a mix of installation formats to cre-ate a practical on-site ‘lab’ to illustrate arange of design options when creatingthis type of solar system,” says TJ

Kanczuzewski, president ofInovateus Solar LLC. “We areexcited to collaborate withGE on this important alterna-tive energy development andeducation project and lookforward to other future proj-ects. Our joint exhibit of acarport charging station inbooth number 831 at the SPIShow is a harbinger of collab-orations to come.”

The carport incorporatesGE’s infrastructure technolo-gy, utilizing GE EverGold™Safety Switches and GECombiner Boxes along withthe GE EV Charging Stations. GE’s coreAC equipment safely distributes thepower generated from the solar panels.The GE EV Solar Carport connects to thegrid, where it deposits extra energy andwithdraws that energy when needed.

Key Inovateus supplier/partnersincluded Schott Solar for the PV panelsand Satcon for the two 100 kW inverters.Inovateus subcontracted the electricalwork to Power Systems ElectricalContractors in Farmington, Connecticut.

As the general contractor, Inovateushired Solaire Generation of New York toinstall a custom version of its PremiumSolar Parking Power Plant. The

cantilevered roof designprotects vehicles andpeople from the ele-ments while preventingunwanted access to PVpanels and electricalsystems—including sixcharging stations. Thecanopy design also cap-tures and redirects rain-water and snowmeltwith its unique decking,gutter and drain system.

“Inovateus assem-bled an exceptionalgroup of contractors forthis project. Solaire

Generation was thrilled to have beenselected as the solar canopy provider,”says Brian Cuff, director of design andconstruction. “This project illustrates atruly exciting vision―the integration ofGE charging stations, GE power distribu-tion equipment, and solar canopy struc-tures. We believe that it’s a model of inte-gration that may quickly become stan-dard for this type of installation.”

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

SAPA EXTRUDED ALUMINUMCOMPONENTS OFFERUNLIMITED SOLAR SOLUTIONSSapa, 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. Sapa emphasizes its role as adevelopment partner - providing cus-tomer solutions is one of the company’score values, earning it a strong positionamong the renewable energy industry.

Sapa is your single source for PV,CSP and CPV components. With onecall, Sapa can provide what you needwhen you need it, no matter where youneed it. That includes PV moduleframes, racking and mounting system

components, solar thermal equipment,concentrated solar power collectors,inverter housings and components, andthermal management solutions.

With hundreds of thousands of solu-tions developed over nearly 50 years ofbusiness in Europe, North America, andAsia, Sapa shares its expertise with cus-tomers to develop complete and cost-effective answer, from simple solutionsto the most challenging and unique appli-cations. For example, the Sapa SolarFrame offers a cost advantage in reduc-ing frame weight and fabrication costswith quicker assembly time.

Extrusion experts from Sapa are

In North America alone, Sapa’s capi-tal expenditure for 2011 is $50 million.That will provide increased capacity andfurther expand the company’s offerings tothe RE industry. To be a turnkey supplier,investment in high speed productionequipment is being completed in severallocations: two TekFab machines, a JosephMachining Center, high speed PV framecell, long bed machining centers and aJoseph double cut miter saw. In addition,Sapa continuously utilizes the GenesisProduction System (Lean Manufacturing)to optimize production methods thatincrease throughput and product quality.

Using its global footprint, Sapa isexpanding the value chain for supply tocustomers. By working as “OneCompany”, Sapa delivers its combinedexperience and increases the speed of itsproduct solutions to market.

For more information, visit booth5436 or go to www.sapagroup.com/solar.

connected to Sapa customers. As peoplewho understand the applications andadvantages of aluminum profiles, theydevelop a deep understanding of the cus-tomer’s business and their productrequirements. By focusing on “Speed-to-Market,” Sapa goes from print to produc-tion, quickly and economically, becausethe company already understands theproduct solutions it can provide.

Over the past three years, establish-ment of Sapa’s dedicated RenewableEnergy Team has meant significant invest-ments in people. A focus on the RE indus-try allows the company to facilitate thesales and supply process by communicat-ing with customers in their own nomencla-ture. Another resource is the Sapa NorthAmerican Technical Center that works toestablish finished designs for innovativecustom features and improved end-useapplications which help customers to opti-mize the value of their products.

SOLAR SUPPLY ANDDEMAND OUT OF ALIGNMENTBy Michael Barker, Analyst, Solarbuzz

In 2010, excess capacity and aggressivesolar module production led to rapid mar-ket expansion. For many manufacturers,there was an acceptable corporate trade-off between revenue growth and lowermargins. The 2011 story is quite differ-ent, because strong end-market growthhas not been in the equation this year.Only those manufacturers that have beenable to utilize a low-cost base to takemarket share have been able to deliveracceptable bottom line performance.

The 2012 picture looks even morechallenging as the supply/demand situa-tion is likely to remain out of balance,and the margin headroom that existed atthe beginning of 2011 will not be present

at the beginning of next year.Despite weaker than anticipated

shipments in 1H’11, most manufacturershave maintained Y/Y growth guidance ofmore than 30 percent. The most bullishguidance is being offered by Tier 1Chinese manufacturers who, despitemissing guidance in Q1’11 and Q2’11,have maintained their full year 2011 out-looks. This contrasts markedly withWestern module manufacturers who havehad to cut production and shipment tar-gets in the face of declining ASPs andincreasing inventories. Whether manu-facturers can meet their 2H’11 shipmentguidance will primarily depend on thegreater market response to price declinesand the procurement strategies of down-stream companies.

depends as much on regulatory, siting,transmission and electricity rate struc-tures as system price levels.

Declining prices increase corporatepain in the short-term, but will be highlybeneficial to the survivors. With moduleASPs approaching $1/W in many mar-kets, solar PV is being reexamined as anaffordable option for on- and off-gridenergy generation. Regional marketssuch as Southeast Asia, Latin Americaand Africa have seen an uptick in solaractivity. Lower prices mean that attentionis paid to locations where high electricityprices are making solar a compellingsolution, rather than sales strategies thathave primarily been directed toward fol-lowing the most generous incentive poli-cies.This article is based on theSolarbuzz Quarterly report.

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

Meanwhile, production capacitygrowth in 2012 is forecast to remainstrong. Should production levels follow asimilar utilization path as this year, totalglobal production would be more than 37GW in 2012, an approximate 50 percentincrease over the expected 2011 level. Asignificant part of the capacity incrementis being financed by the Chinese govern-ment and development banks, which willincentivize more production than mightotherwise be pursued through a strictassessment of end-market needs.

A persistent oversupply situationinto 2012 will maintain the downwardpressure on prices and margins to thepoint where even the lowest cost pro-ducers could see negative bottom linesnext year. Companies will be tested bytheir ability to rapidly access the unde-veloped demand potential that willemerge as some regional market seg-ments reach grid-parity. However, thepace of end-market growth now


AN OVERVIEW OF BUREAU VERITASʼCODE COMPLIANCE SERVICESBureau Veritas is a global company spe-cializing in the fields of quality assur-ance, health, safety, and environmental(QHSE) services. Bureau Veritas is pres-ent in 140 countries through a network of1,000 offices and laboratories. It hasmore than 48,000 employees and a clientbase of more than 300,000. With over2,400 QHSE professionals in over 80offices across North America, BureauVeritas develops solutions that contributeto risk prevention and performanceimprovement to help organizations createlong-term value through our technicaland regulatory expertise.

The Bureau Veritas Group has beenproviding building safety and code com-pliance services to a broad range ofclients since 1976. To date, we haveserved more than 1,000 clients, providingthem with the experience and servicesneeded to deliver projects that meet allrequired codes.

The company’s safety monitoringprogram has set the industry standardfor comprehensive, client-focusedsolutions to real estate-related environ-mental liabilities, employee health andsafety concerns, and regulatorycompliance issues. The firm has grown

needs, BV has strategically locatedoffices nationwide. BV’s efforts for theclients are augmented by a qualified staffof other professional architects and engi-neers, building officials, certified inspec-tors, certified plans examiners, andadministrative personnel.

The entire staff of BV is totally com-mitted to providing the most timely,highest quality, and most cost-effectivesafety and fire protection services for thebuilt environment. Bureau Veritas willadapt its staff and approach for optimumservice and supply all material and laborrequired in a manner as further directedby the client.

For more information, visitBureau Veritas in booth 6311 at SolarPower International or online atwww.us.bureauveritas.com.

into the largest independent providerof integrated Quality, Health andSafety, Environmental and SocialAccountability (QHSE-SA) consultingand laboratory services in the U.S.

Bureau Veritas has also served thequality assurance, testing and expedit-ing needs of the electric power genera-tion and distribution industry world-wide. Working in concert with vendors,owners and program managers, BureauVeritas has developed and tailored itsoperating procedures to meet the strin-gent needs of its clients in this market.Its experience involves in-process fab-rication inspection and witness testingservices for large mechanical and elec-trical components.

To optimize client service relation-ships and maximize response to clients’

JETIN SOLAR USABEGINS PRODUCTION

underlying theme of customer service,which is a crucial facet for its success.

The production process at the U.S.facility will follow that of its parent com-pany. “It is a continuation of our corpo-rate mantra of owning and controlling themanufacturing of all our products frombeginning to finish. We want to guaranteethe extremely high standard we have setout for our modules and accompanyingcustomer service,” says Fehr.

Jetion Solar USA’s production plansalso to help the Charlotte community, its

ated by Jetion Solar ChinaLtd., a multinational manu-facturer of PV solar mod-ules and provider of com-plete power systems thatemploys more than 2,000

people worldwide. It is the company’sfirst effort to serve the U.S. market as astand-alone operation. The U.S. facilitywill be the final point of assembly for A-grade PV solar modules ready for finalinstallation. Along with assembly, theU.S. team will also warehouse, sell, deliv-er and service the company’s product lineas it is brought to the market place.

Visit Jetion at booth 6255 at SolarPower International or online atwww.jetionsolarus.com.

home base, by gen-erating job oppor-tunities. In thiseconomic environ-ment, this is a greatboast. As a PVsolar manufacturer, Jetion Solar USA’santicipated growth will help enhance andpromote the city’s desired position as“the energy hub.”

Juergen Fehr is working on a specialproject with city officials and dignitariesthat will educate the public to the advan-tages of solar power usage. The wholeidea is to advocate the benefits of renew-able energy both here and throughout thecountry.

Jetion Solar USA is owned and oper-

SONALI SOLAR TAKES ADVANTAGEOF GOVERNMENT INCENTIVESSonali Solar, an up and coming player inthe high-efficiency module manufactur-ing arena, recently signed a 200 CroreMOU (equivalent to $45 Million US)with the Indian government for a solarpanel production facility. Its 25MWman-ufacturing capacity will double thismonth, and by next year Sonali plans tobe at 75MW annual capacity in its new

facility. This assembly line includes afirst of its kind electroluminescencetester in India and also has the ability toproduce glass to glass modules for bipvapplications.

Sonali recognizes the unlimitedpotential in India’s market, where theeconomy is growing incredibly quicklyand a large percentage of households cur-

our product quality will greatly benefitfrom the addition of the new testing equip-ment. As always, our focus will be onbuilding high-quality, low cost modules.”

Sonali manufactures photovoltaicmodules from mono and poly-crystallinesilicon cells. Its product range is current-ly 80W to 300W. Sonali product is UL1703 certified for the US and Canada andbacked by a 25 year warranty. Sonaliships product globally and has readystock in the US.

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

rently do not have access to energy.Thanks to India’s National Solar Mission,which has set a 20 GW solar energy gener-ation goal for 2022, Sonali was able to signa 200 Crore MOU with the Indian govern-ment earlier this year and begin work on itsnew manufacturing facility. This facilitywill undoubtedly service India’s growingdemand as well as the global market.

Sonali CEO Pankaj Desai said, “Weare thrilled to receive support from theIndian government and take part in theNational SolarMission. Ourmanufacturingcapacity will be significantly improved and

SPIRE PRODUCES SUPER-SIZEDMODULES FOR COST REDUCTION OFUTILITY-SCALE PV INSTALLATIONSBy Eric Tobin and Roger Little,Spire Corporation

The solar utility PVmarket is experiencingsignificant growth that will continue forthe foreseeable future. Utilities are expect-ed to add over 20-GW of solar PV to theirgeneration portfolios by 2020. The rapidgrowth in market demand is driving devel-opment of utility-scale solar projects suchas grid-tied solar farm systems of 25 to200-MW. These farms will consist prima-rily of crystalline silicon (x-Si) modulesdue to utility demands for reliability, highefficiency, a proven track record, anddemonstrated 20-year life span, as well asoverall cost considerations.

Despite significant recent declines inmodule pricing, cost still remains a majorprohibitive factor for large-scale devel-

opment of solar projects. Balance of sys-tem (BOS) and installation costs mustnow be reduced to sufficiently loweroverall system costs. The utilization ofsuper-sized (1 kW+) modules manufac-tured on-site at a “solar breederh factoryis a promising approach for significantlyreducing systems costs to levels that willdrive expansion of the industry and per-mit utilities to meet increasingly strin-gent renewable portfolio standard targets.

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,

transported short distances from the factoryto the 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 module fac-tory are modest in comparison to the over-all expenses associated with a solar farminstallation. The building expenses arequickly offset by savings realized from thelarger module design. Furthermore, at thecompletion of the project, the factory canbe decommissioned and the equipmentrelocated to another solar farm site to con-tinue production. Module manufacturingequipment required to produce super-sizedmodules is similar in design and cost tothat used for conventional modules.

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

For more information, visit Spireat 4935.

provide significant cost savings by low-ering materials, BOS, and installationexpenses. Total predicted savingsapproach $0.50/watt. This cost reductionwould translate into billions of dollars incost savings over the next decade for therapidly growing utility market segment.In particular, super-sized modules offer:• Faster installation• Fewer field failures/Higher reliability• Fewer DC connections and groundingpoints• Reduced wire management• Reduced handling• Significantly fewer mechanical fasteners• A single DC/DC power conditioner orDC/AC inverter

Due to their size, it is more difficult andexpensive to transport very large modulesover long distances. This provides an incen-tive for local module manufacturing at thesolar farm site or at centralized locationswith multiple customers nearby. For on-siteproduction, a module factory would be situ-ated adjacent to or within a solar farm site.Solar cells would be delivered to the site,and modules would be manufactured and

Jetion Solar USA will launch its produc-tion operation this fall. The manufactur-ing process will incorporate final assem-bly of PV solar modules, having themthoroughly tested and documented andready for installation, before leaving thecompany’s facility. “This is an importantphase of our business model,” saysJuergen Fehr, President of the company.“It all comes down to providing where,what and how the customer wants theorder to be handled.” The statementemphasizes the Jetion Solar USA’s


TENKSOLARʼS RAIS WAVE SYSTEM –A COMPLETE SOLUTION FORYOUR ROOFTOP PROJECTSThe tenKsolar RAIS WAVE™ systemwith its revolutionary RAIS® PV Moduleand Light-Smart reflectors generatesmore energy and is a complete solutionfor your rooftop projects. Comparingrooftop to rooftop, total energy output isup to 60 percent greater per square foot.

The versatility of the RAIS moduledesign and the use of reflectors to createthe self-supporting RAIS Wave producea roof-friendly solar deployment. Thesystem requires no additional racking ormounting equipment and is self-ground-

ed, eliminating the need for a separateground wire.

Wind tunnel testing has verified thata RAIS WAVE array of sufficient size iscapable of resisting uplift and slidingforces created by wind loadings on thesystem, eliminating the requirement forroof penetrations.

Because the modules are connectedin parallel, there is added efficiency andflexibility in the RAIS Wave systemdesign and layout compared to conven-tional solar systems. Branches of modules

Another key feature of the RAISWAVE system is the built-in safety moni-toring in each and every RAIS PV module.A tenKsolar RAIS Wave system does notoperate until it’s connected to a complete,and safe, circuit and instantly shuts offwhenever disconnected. Because the sys-tem operates below 60VDC, it also meansthere is zero practical risk of lethal shock.Firefighters responding to a fire know theycan safely do their jobs if the buildingemploys a tenKsolar RAIS Wave system.

The RAIS module also offers addi-tional protection from undetectable lowcurrent ground faults as each module isequipped with a ground fault detectioncircuit to compliment the inverter’sground fault detection circuitry.

Visit tenKsolar at Booth 1307 or atwww.tenksolar.com.

are conveniently connected to the adjacentdistributed inverter system creating short-er DC runs. Energy density is increased bythe continuous placement of modules andreflectors on the roof, thereby eliminatingthe space required between rows of tradi-tional solar panels. Increased roof utiliza-tion is also created because the shade tol-erant RAIS Wave system can be placednear roof obstructions, such as vent pipesand HVAC equipment, where traditionalsolar PV systems cannot be located. TheRAIS WAVE also sheds snow significant-ly faster than traditional low-angle solarPV racking systems.

The RAIS Wave’s proprietary reflec-tor design features a 3M™ Cool MirrorFilm that minimizes added heat and min-imizes UV ray exposure in the light itadds to the solar modules.

INDEPENDENT REVIEWSAND ASSESSMENT OFLARGE SOLAR PROJECTSAs solar projects increase in size andcomplexity, more elements of projectdevelopment and project constructionbecome material to make financial deci-sions. For smaller projects, the chal-lenges faced by large utility scale proj-ects are many times non-issues. Thetypical challenges for large projectsinclude, but are not limited to, permit-ting, access to transmission and technol-ogy risks, which encompasswarrantyand production guarantees. With small-er projects, there is typically no per-formance guarantee, no need to accesstransmission since many are behind themeter and permitting issues are oftenlimited to local jurisdictional electricalor building codes. For larger projects,

the issues can grow exponentially fromthose already mentioned to constructionrisks, supply chain management, opera-tions & maintenance, contracts, multiplesubcontractors, warranty and technolo-gy risks, to name just a few. The needfor an independent review and assess-ment of project risk is amplified basedon the complexity of these issues andthe risks associated with each.

An independent review, which isoften referred to as an independent engi-neering review, provides an investor,potential investor, developer or otherparty the opportunity for an objectivethird-party to assess the attributes of aproject. The specific focus of the reviewor analysis is on the aspects of a project

variability can lead to unexpected highor low energy production periods.These are only a portion of the factorsused by an experienced analyst to bestcharacterize the resource and energypotential at a project site.

An independent review is best com-pleted by those with experience in thefield and expertise in solar resource andenergy assessments. Conducting thisthird-party review can uncover hiddenrisks associated with projects or confirmconfidence in the project. This can trans-late into a more accurate assessment ofthe return on investment, a higher likeli-hood of project success and satisfiedstakeholders.

Marie Schnitzer is the SeniorDirector of Investor and Solar Services atAWS Truepower, an international leaderand innovator in renewable energy con-sulting and information services provid-ing solutions that support the full projectlifecycle. To learn more, contact us [email protected].

which could result in lower revenues fora multitude of reasons and therefore thereturn on investment risk. An experi-enced third-party will review the projectfor technical and commercial robustness.Many aspects of the project will beaddressed to ensure the cash flow overthe project life. However, the solarresource itself is often overlooked as acritical component of this review.

A solar resource assessment willevaluate the quality of meteorologicaldata used to characterize the projectsite. For larger projects, a properlymanaged, on-site measurement programfor a minimum of a year will increaseconfidence, thereby decreasing theuncertainty of energy production fromthe project site. The quality of the long-term data set used in an assessment, beit modeled or measured, and its proxim-ity to the actual project site are otherfactors which influence uncertaintyaround energy projections. Poorlycharacterized seasonal and inter-annual

MERSEN TO SHOWCASEEXPANDED HELIOPROTECTIONFUSE AND FUSEHOLDER LINEMersen (formerly Ferraz Shawmut) ispleased to showcase the industry’s firstUL 2579 listed range of dedicated pho-tovoltaic fuses―the HelioProtection®

fuse line, which includes the HP6M,HP10M, and HP6J, and also theindustry’s first UL 4248-18 range ofphotovoltaic fuseholders.

The HelioProtection photovoltaicfuse line provides superior overcurrentprotection at the combiner box andinverter levels and has been expandedto include ratings from 1 to 600A,600VDC, and 1000VDC. The enhancedfuse construction of the HelioProtectionseries makes it ideal for continuous

temperature and current cycling with-stand adding to system longevity. Lowminimum breaking capacity capabilitiesof 1.35 times the fuse-rated currentvalue allows for safe circuit interrup-tion under typical low-fault current con-ditions produced by PV arrays.

The new HelioProtection photo-voltaic fuseholder line was designed foruse with Mersen HelioProtection fuses.With ratings of 1000VDC, 600A or less,Mersen is the first manufacturer to offersuch breadth of product solutions.Fuseholder wire terminal ratings of 90degrees celsius allows customers tosave on material and design costs

tive products and unsur-passed technical support. Itsproduct line includes cur-rent-limiting fuses and

accessories, fuse blocks and holders,power distribution blocks, low voltagedisconnect switches, overvoltage pro-tection, high power switches, thermalmanagement and more. Amp-Trap®

High-Speed Class J (HSJ) fuses,TPMOV® Technology, the SmartSpot®

open-fuse indicator, and Fabfin®

heatsinks are a few of the company’slatest innovations.

Learn more about Mersen’s newHelioProtection products at: http://us-ferrazshawmut.mersen.com/solarpower.For more information about the compa-ny’s full range of circuit protectionsolutions, stop by booth 625, visitu s - f e r r a z s h a w m u t . m e r s e n . c o m ,email [email protected], or call1-978-462-6662.

increasing the overall easeof use of the system.

The conversion of solarenergy to electricity is a reli-able process, as long as it’s properly pro-tected. In addition to its new photovolta-ic fuseholder line and expanded photo-voltaiv fuse line, Mersen offers a dedi-cated range of protection componentsspecifically designed for solar powergeneration and distribution including,fuses, fuseholders, wire managementsolutions, disconnect switches, coolingand surge protective devices.

About MersenMersen, formerly Ferraz Shawmut, is aglobal leader offering electrical protec-tion solutions. Drawing on a century ofexperience―and an ongoing commit-ment to critical research in electricalsafety―it provides industrial, commer-cial, and OEM customers with innova-

roofing manufacturer’s requirements tomaintain warrantees. What makes usunique and successful is that we put ourexpert knowledge of these two areastogether to provide our customers withsolutions that will not only meet code,but will keep the roofing manufacturer’s

warrantee in effect.

We provide the strongest engineeredmounting solutions; roof mount solutions,ground mount solutions, ballasted solu-tions, elevated solutions and single axistrackers for the best installed pricebecause our systems use a one-tool assem-bly. This saves considerable time and

T.R.A-Mage (Con’t. from p. 34) labor which translates into saving money.

Our association with our sister companyfrom Austria, Mage SunFixings, has beenproviding solar rails and mounts for all ofEurope for many years, which contributesto our credibility as a company that will behere to help customers for many years tocome. And because we are a worldwide

company with a far-reaching network ofproduction and development, you can trustthat TRA-MAGE’s Solar Mounting linesubscribes to strict USA quality standardswhile also being easy-to-use for both com-mercial and residential installations.

Visit www.tra-mage.com or stop by booth7045 for more information.


ENTEGRIS: BRINGINGTECHNICAL EXPERTISE TOPHOTOVOLTAIC INDUSTRYEntegris Vice President, Energy, StuartTison shares what his company brings tothe solar power market.

SPDN: Tell our readers a little aboutyour company. What’s your main line ofbusiness?

ST: Entegris is a worldwide developer,manufacturer and supplier of productsand materials used in the processing andmanufacturing of electronics and otherhigh-technology industries. For the pho-tovoltaic industry, our products maintainthe purity and integrity of critical materi-als used in the polysilicon and cell man-ufacturing processes. For other high-technology applications, our productsand materials are used to manufacturesemiconductors, flat panel displays,high-purity chemicals, photoresists, gaslasers, optical and magnetic storagedevices, fiber optic cables, fuel cells andcritical components for aerospace, glassmanufacturing and biomedical applica-tions.

SPDN: What would you say makes yourcompany unique?

ST: Entegris is focused on bringing inno-vative material-enabled solutions allow-ing companies to be more productive andefficient. This is achieved by the combi-nation of applications expertise, coretechnologies and meeting specific cus-tomer requirements for innovative solu-tions to manufacturing challenges. Inparticular, we have been able to applythis technical and design expertise in the

development of point of use purifica-tion/filtration capabilities, and substratehandling solutions for high temperatureand ambient operating conditions in thephotovoltaic industry.

SPDN: What do you anticipate to be thegreatest challenges for the industry in theyear ahead?

ST: Rapid industry growth is beinginfluenced by a number of factorsincluding the economy, the price of tra-ditional energy and government pro-grams. In general, the outlook is posi-tive with the industry continuing tobridge the gap in energy cost—wattparity—with traditional energy andtechnology continuing to improve boththe cell efficiencies and manufacturingcosts. Entegris is contributing to theindustry by providing yield-improve-ment solutions in the cell manufactur-ing processes via elimination of impu-rities. These impurities can poisoncells and decrease solar conversionefficiencies. Utilizing high puritygraphite and silicon carbide compo-nents for substrate handling, coupledwith the purification of incomingprocess fluids, provides companiesoptimum processing environments toachieve maximum cell efficiencies.

SPDN: How do you see the next year interms of technology and product evolu-tion for silicon cell manufacturing ?

ST: The industry continues to needincreases in productivity and technical

liquid phase and in the gas phase to thesubstrates without the introduction ofcontaminates. This, in turn, improves cellefficiencies and in many cases “toolthroughput.” Many of the process stepsinvolve high temperatures where highperformance materials such as siliconcarbide or graphite are used for crucibles,chamber components or substrate fix-tures. Entegris designs custom solutionsfor companies to address their specificapplication needs. Entegris POCO®graphite has the most uniform electricalproperties in the industry and is availablewith a variety of coatings to improvechemical compatibility.

SPDN: What new products is Entegrisbringing to the photovoltaic market forthe coming year?

ST: Entegris continues to expand offer-ings in key product solution areasincluding substrate handling with cellshippers, carriers and process cassettes.Our full line of contamination-controlsolutions for both liquids and gasaddresses the industry needs for con-tamination control in critical applica-tions such as wet etch and clean, textur-ing and diffusion applications. This yearwe are releasing the new Savana™ fil-tration products for high-particle loadapplications, particularly applicable tothin film applications. These productsremove particulate contamination whilemaintaining the chemical stoichiometry.We are also extending the flow range ofour gas purification systems to meetneeds above 5000 liters per minute,which is often required in ingot manu-facturing. We are excited to engage withour customers in development of uniquetechnologies for their particular applica-tions throughout the photovoltaic sup-plier chain from polysilicon manufac-turing to cell production.

innovation to become more competitivewith traditional energy sources. Siliconcell manufacturing companies are driv-ing improved efficiencies through theadoption of new interface materials tothe active conversion layers which seekto minimize current losses through var-ious mechanisms. In particular, selec-tive emitter technology is being imple-mented on a wider scale with a varietyof methods which range from “implant”type techniques to traditional diffusionwith subsequent lithographic steps.Entegris is working with leading origi-nal equipment manufacturers in opti-mizing these processes with our knowl-edge of contamination control. We arealso working with cell manufacturers tobring production cell efficiencies closerto those obtained in research institutesthrough production-capable, high-puri-ty, material delivery solutions. Theseinclude the use of cell process carriersdesigned to provide uniform processconditions to the cell surface, imple-mentation of contamination control forincoming process fluids, and optimiza-tion of fluid handling systems (gas andliquid) to ensure uniform and purechemical delivery.

SPDN: Thin film based photovoltaicsare becoming more prevalent in theindustry, is Entegris also active in thismarket segment?

ST: Yes, Entegris has and continues towork with leaders in the thin film-basedphotovoltaic market to enable them toaddress the specific challenges they face.In this segment, many of the cell manu-facturers also produce their own equip-ment and rely on expertise from criticalsuppliers in overcoming manufacturingchallenges. We have solutions whichenable manufacturers to uniformly deliv-er critical active materials both in the

OAI: A LEADER IN THEGENERATION, CONTROLAND MEASUREMENT OF LIGHTOAI President Dr. Charles Turkdiscussed his company’s efforts in thefield of solar simulator and I’V testermanufacture.

SPDN: Dr. Turk, OAI Solar Simulatorand I-V tester sales continue to increase.Can you tell us why this has been such agood business for OAI?

CT: For almost 40 years, OAI has been aleader in the generation, control andmeasurement of light. We are well knownin the semiconductor, MEM’s, sensor, andbiosensor industries. We have taken ourexpertise in controlling light and appliedit to solar simulation and I-V testing.Withthis expertise behind our product devel-opment, we have produced reliable, preci-sion systems that have been very wellreceived in the PV/Solar industry.

SPDN: Solar simulation and test is a verycompetitive field. What distinguishesOAI’s products?

CT: OAI’s philosophy is to use standard

modules with proven technology in asmany of our exposure systems as possi-ble. Our Solar Test Systems have ease ofuse, long-term reliability and have thevery best performance among all ourcompetitors. As a result, we have beenable to offer Class AAA Solar Simulatorswith superior specifications at very com-petitive prices.

SPDN: I understand your increase insales is not only domestic but also in for-eign markets. What accounts for yourexport success?

CT: Again, the reasons are our superi-or specifications, outstanding perform-ance and competitive pricing.However, I also believe that the growthin both export and domestic sales isvery much related to OAI’s strong rep-utation for customer support and serv-ice. Remember, OAI has products inthe field that, in some cases, are over20 years old. Our ongoing field sup-port and our attention to customerservice is a major contributor to our

tor and I-V test line. This includes 50mm, 156 mm, 200 mm and 300 mmsolar simulators. The new 350 nm to1800 nm Class AAA solar simulatorwas developed in conjunction with cus-tomers doing multi-junction research.We are just beginning the production ofthis model in response to a very positiveinitial demand.

SPDN: What additional products can weexpect to be introduced in 2011?

CT: The main product that will be intro-duced in the fall of 2011 is our newConcentrated Photovoltaic (CPV)Simulator. We worked with our cus-tomers to define their requirements fora CPV simulator in 2013. Therefore,OAI’s CPV simulator will have someadvanced specifications that will meetthe future needs of our customer base.We have also identified a panel testerand a panel array tester that have beenvery successful in Japan. OAI begandistributing this product in the U.S.A.in August. This summer OAI intro-duced a Solar Power Meter with refer-ence cell for both Flash and Continuoussolar simulators.

For more information please visit OAIemail [email protected] or online atwww.oainet.com.

increase in solar test system sales.

SPDN: Do your solar simulator salesinclude I-V testers?

CT: About 40 percent of OAI’s salesinclude an integrated I-V tester. Many ofour sales also include calibrated refer-ence cells, test fixtures, and Solar PowerMeters.

SPDN: How does your relationship withcustomers drive new product develop-ment?

CT: OAI continually works with itscustomers to develop new products. Inthe last six months after workingclosely with customers, OAI has intro-duced an advanced 350 nm to 1800 nmClass AAA Solar Simulator ideal formulti-junction solar cell testing, a highcurrent I-V tester and a solar powermeter. In all cases, the specificationswere a joint collaboration withcustomers and combined needs andmarket requirements.

SPDN: Is your sales increase mainly inyour new products or in the standardproducts?

CT: Right now, the bulk of our salesincrease is in the standard solar simula-


electrical and electronic wire andcable, fasteners and other small com-ponents used in applications fromcommunications and security networksand data centers to industrial facilitiesand utility and power generation proj-ects. With more than 100,000 cus-tomers and locations in 50 countries,Anixter specializes on delivering com-plete, tailored solutions that meet thechanging needs of its customers. Withsolutions for a diverse marketplace,Anixter provides customers withindustry-leading solutions and expert-ise for its sourcing, logistics, inventorymanagement, deployment and productenhancement needs.

SPDN: What distinguishes you from thecompetition?

MD: Anixter’s value lies in the depth andbreadth of its inventory, its application-specific technical and product knowl-edge, and its value-added supply chainofferings all delivered consistently across

the world. Through a combination ofunique products and services, Anixter hasbecome the largest global distributor inthe markets it serves. Anixter buildsvalue for its customers through globaloperational consistency. By using thesame global systems, process and servic-es supported by local personnel familiarwith local languages and currencies,Anixter can optimize its supply chain toreduce customers’ overall costs.


MD: As a distributor, Anixter does nothave any proprietary products. Instead,Anixter provides an efficient and con-sistent channel to market for manyindustry-leading manufacturer part-ners. Anixter carries a wide and deepoffering of products used in a varietyof applications. With more than 7,000suppliers and over $1 billion in inven-tory, Anixter has ready access to theproducts customers need. Anixterdelivers these products through aninnovative supply chain that relies on a

ANIXTER (Con’t. from p. 1) variety of value-added services tospeed deployment, mitigate risk andlower costs in project deployment.

With such a large base of products,Anixter provides technical training andexpertise to help customers choose theright solution for their needs. Through itsAssured program, Anixter assists cus-tomers in extending the life cycle of theirinfrastructures to ensure security net-works and data centers provide maxi-mum performance levels and efficiencyin the foreseeable future.

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

MD: Anixter’s goal at the show is to helpcustomers drive efficiencies in their solarproject deployments from both a productand supply chain perspective. Anixter’sbest-in-class products and technicalresources coupled with our supply chainsolutions have a proven track record ofreducing customers’ costs, installationtime and errors.

Below are examples of some of the serv-ices offered by Anixter that can help youimprove your deployment process:• Cable cut to length, tagged andshipped on chambered reels withpulling eyes pre-installed to reduceinstallation time, waste and storagerequirements• Just-in-time delivery to help with on-site material management• Package reduction and removal fromproject site to reduce waste managementcosts.• Kitting of cable, connectors, combinerboxes, fasteners, and related supplies toreduce installation costs and complexity.Anixter has an in-depth understanding ofthe products used in solar applicationsand can make knowledgeable recommen-dations for standards-based products aswell as suggestions for a cost-effectiveproduct deployment.

To learn more about how Anixter canpartner with you on your solar projects,contact 800.ANIXTER or visit their web-site at www.anixter.com. Or, you can visitthem at booth 454.

to the host for utility scale photovoltaic(PV) systems. Additionally, they are usedfor E-stop functions and to facilitate posi-tioning of concentrated solar power(CSP) type devices. FreeWave radios arealso becoming popular with invertermonitoring applications.

SPDN: What are some key criteriasolar operators and decision makersmust use when looking for a communi-cation system?

BD: There are two primary criteria. Thefirst is reliability. The radio manufac-turer must have a proven track recordfor being reliable, even in difficult envi-ronments. The second is security. Thesystems need to defend themselvesagainst attacks and have a toolkit on-board that will allow a user to be confi-dent that these systems are resilientagainst communications attacks.

SPDN: What makes FreeWave’s wireless

FreeWave Technologies (Con’t. from p. 1) data radios stand out from its competi-tors? What are its key benefits?

BD: Again, reliability and security areboth critical for a successful communica-tions system. FreeWave radios have beenproven reliable in harsh environmentseven with no` line-of-sight capabilities.Our technology has been proven to workin both short-range and long-range situa-tions. FreeWave also offers the onlysecurity suite in this class of radios on themarket today. Finally, choosing a systemalmost always comes down to affordabil-ity. For an operator, the best choice isn’talways which system is least expensiveto install, but which offers overall life-time savings. FreeWave radios offerexcellent long-term cost savings becausethey are proven, reliable and secure.

SPDN: What are the latest advancementsin wireless data radios for solar power?

BD: The biggest advancement we areseeing in the industry is a lot of featuresassociated with security and managing a

network. Some radio manufacturers, likeFreeWave, have developed a layeredapproach to security and we’ve also addedsome tools that allow for more flexibilityin managing the network as it’s beingdeployed and once it’s up and running.

SPDN: What is the importance of securi-ty in a communications network?

BD: Security is critical at remotely locat-ed facilities. One of the biggest issues isDenial of Service (DoS). If a system issusceptible to a denial of service attack,the operator no longer has control of thesystem. This can be very costly as itrelates to the organization’s PowerPurchase Agreement. The other risk asso-ciated is actual damage to the equipmentwhich also can be a major expense.

SPDN: When it comes to communica-tion needs, how has the solar power mar-ket changed since SPI 2010?

BD: We are seeing an increase in accept-ance of wireless technology. It wasn’t

always embraced or understood to anindustry that had trusted fiber-optic cablefor a long time. The jury’s still out onwhich choice is best, and it really comesdown to each individual organization’scommunication and plant operatingobjectives. When cost savings and relia-bility is an important objective,FreeWave wireless data radios make agood choice.

SPDN: Where do you see communica-tion technologies for solar power headingin the future?

BD: I think it’s going to be all aboutfunding. If there is significant fundingavailable, design engineers may leantoward fiber-optic cable. If the avail-able funding calls for high reliabilityand significantly lower cost, then wire-less data radios, like FreeWave’s, willbe a great choice.

Visit FreeWave Technologies, Inc. inbooth 426 at Solar Power Internationalor visit online at www.freewave.com.

ClearEnergy Inc. (Con’t. from p. 1)

equipment to developers and integratorsacross the US. We educate integrators inwhat we call the New Solar Paradigm―acombination of energy efficiency prod-ucts, to bring the end-user’s electricityusage and peak demand down, with spe-cific solar PV products at competitiveprices. The combination gives our deal-ers a strong competitive edge and theircustomers a great return on investment.The core of our product line is Sovellomodules. I have successfully sold proj-ects to Hertz Corporation andOppenheimer Funds, plus hundreds morecommercial and residential systems,using the combination.

SPDN: Will you be introducing any newproducts at SPI this year?

MS: Yes, we are introducing Sovello AGmodules to the United States. Sovellomodules fit perfectly between cheap

Chinese panels and overpriced “highefficiency” products.

SPDN: What is unique about Sovellomodules?

MS: Sovello cells are string ribbon tech-nology, developed at MIT. Swiss andGerman investors bought EvergreenSolar’s European manufacturing plant afew years ago, renaming it Sovello AG.Sovello bought the IP rights and now isthe sole manufacturer of string ribbontechnology. They kept the R&D goingand the modules are superb.

SPDN: What makes string ribbon tech-nology so unique?

MS: Sovello’s patented string ribbonwafers are made with 50 percent less sil-icon than traditional silicon wafers.Because of the way the cells are pro-duced and modules configured, includinganti-reflective glass and a nanotech sur-

facing, Sovello modules deliver 6-8 per-cent more production than standard mod-ules. They collect ambient angles of lightearly or late in the daytime.

Best of all, Sovello modules have nearlyzero cell degradation over time. Theengineers say it better than I could: “Oneof the main culprits causing the degrada-tion of ingot modules is the build-up ofmetal boron oxygen compounds as aresult of diffusion. These compoundsthen form imperfections, which inducethe recombination of free charge carriers.The oxygen here comes largely from cru-cibles used for the ingot installations.String Ribbon uses other materials ascrucibles (graphite), which do not addany oxygen to the melt. This means thatSovello wafers contain hardly any oxy-gen, significantly reducing the build-upof the aforementioned compounds in theString Ribbon material.”

Your ROI goes way up when you model

for six percent more production and near-ly zero degradation.

SPDN: How will ClearEnergy MarketSovello Modules in the US?

MS: Sovello modules are the perfect cen-terpiece for ClearEnergy’s New SolarParadigm. Our goal is to help our Dealerssell more solar projects. By gaining bigsavings with energy efficiency equip-ment, then adding Sovello modules,Kaco new energy inverters and S:FLEXracking systems total cost system is lowand return on Investment is optimized. Ihave seen commercial projects pay forthemselves in under two years.

Note that we are selling Sovello modulesto distributors also. We welcome every-one to the New Solar Paradigm.

ClearEnergy and Sovello AG will beexhibiting at SPI, in booths 6229 and6339.


The building integrated photovoltaic(BIPV) market is one of the fastest grow-ing segments of the solar industry.According to industry research firmNanoMarkets, the sector will be worth$6.1 billion worldwide by 2016. In part,this is because BIPV has opened uptremendous new options to the buildingindustry. It offers both aesthetic and func-tional value beyond power generationwhile also lowering costs from adesigned-in approach to PV.

Global Solar Energy, the leadingmanufacturer of high-efficiency CopperIndium Gallium diSelenide (CIGS) solarmaterial and flexible BIPV roofing mod-ules, recognized that the building indus-try has not been able to fully optimize thereal estate on the rooftop with solar solu-tions that were currently available. Inresponse, the company worked closelywith commercial and industrial roofingprofessionals in designing their break-through flexible module: thePowerFLEX™ BIPV.

PowerFLEX BIPV replaces heavy,rigid glass modules and metal rackingstructures that often can’t be applied tocommercial rooftops because of

weight limitations. The lightweightdesign of the PowerFLEX BIPV meansit can be applied directly to a roofingsurface—requiring no mounting hard-ware, creating no roof penetrations andno additional wind load—helping tomaintain the integrity and aesthetics ofa building structure.

“Traditional glass solar modules andamorphous silicon laminates, which arelimited by low efficiency, have been theonly options available until now,” saidJean-Noel Poirier, Senior Vice Presidentof Marketing and Business Developmentfor Global Solar Energy. “Global Solarflexible modules are lightweight andachieve cost-effective, high-performancesolar power. This makes them extremelyattractive to integrators and roofing com-panies from both functional and aestheticvalue viewpoints.”

The 12.6-percent aperture efficiencyof the PowerFLEX BIPV makes it themost efficient flexible solar module in theworld. Its large format (5.75m x 0.5m) andhigh power density (300W) enables it tooutperform other solar roofing solutions


Collaboration will enable thousands ofnew solar installations and create a newclean energy investment model forAmerican companies

SolarCity® and Google (NASDAQ:GOOG) have created a $280 million fundto finance residential solar projects. TheGoogle-backed fund is the first collabora-tion between the Internet giant and thenation’s leading solar power and energyefficiency service provider, and representsGoogle’s largest investment to date in theclean energy sector. The fund is SolarCity’slargest project financing fund and thelargest residential solar fund created in theU.S. SolarCity has now created 15 projectfunds with seven different partners tofinance $1.28 billion in solar projects.

“Google is setting an example thatother leading American companies canfollow,” said Lyndon Rive, CEO ofSolarCity. “The largest 200 corporationsin the U.S. have more than $1 trillion incash on their balance sheets. Investmentsin solar energy generate returns for cor-porate investors, offer cost savings forhomeowners, create new local jobs forjobseekers, and protect the environmentfrom polluting power sources. If morecompanies follow Google’s lead, we candramatically reduce our nation’s depend-ence on polluting power.”

The SolarCity/Google fund willextend solar lease (SolarLease®) and powerpurchase agreement (SolarPPATM) optionsto customers who desire to have solar pan-els installed on their homes, but do not wishto make the larger upfront investment topurchase the systems. SolarCity serves

Arizona, California, Colorado, the Districtof Columbia, Maryland, Massachusetts,New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania andTexas, and has more than 15,000 solar proj-ects completed or underway. More than12,000 of those customers have chosenSolarCity’s financing options, while 3,000have purchased their systems.

“Google has made a series of invest-ments in renewable energy because theymake business sense and help deploy arange of solutions that can help move ustoward a clean energy future,” said RickNeedham, Director of Green BusinessOperations at Google. “Now, through thispartnership with SolarCity, we’re excited tobe making our first investment in distrib-uted residential solar, making it easier andmore affordable for consumers across thecountry, including our own employees, touse renewable energy at their own homes.”

Google has now invested more than$680 million in a wide range of cleanenergy technologies. This marks Google’sfirst investment in residential solar.

“As American consumers betterunderstand the consequences of their ener-gy choices, demand for affordable cleanpower is increasing,” said Benjamin Cook,vice president of project finance atSolarCity. “This collaboration with Googlewill enable us to provide solar power tothousands of homeowners at or below thecost they currently pay for electricity.”

More information about the residen-tial financing options enabled by the part-nership is available at www.solarcity.com/google-fund. For more informationabout SolarCity, call 888-765-2489 orstop by booth 715.

GLOBAL SOLAR ENERGYʼSPOWERFLEX BIPV

GOOGLE PARTNERS WITH SOLARCITYTO CREATE $280 MILLION FUND FORRESIDENTIAL SOLAR PROJECTS,NATIONʼS LARGEST TO DATE


a equipment supplier for nuclearpower plants. We are constantly evolvingand adapting to changes in the powerand energy markets, either throughorganic growth or through corporateacquisitions, such as our recentacquisition of an engineering servicescompany (Medtronic Solutions) and alightning testing and shielding company(Lightning Technologies Inc.). So,whether you are developing solutions fornuclear applications, building clean ener-gy solutions via solar or other renew-ables, creating efficient energy storagesystems, or designing products for smartgrid deployment, NTS Energy has abroad range of services and solutions tohelp you get from point A to point B.

SPDN: What do you expect to see withregard to the growth of solar energy inthis difficult economy?

DM: I think the solar space will remainsteady through the slower economy.Obviously, we all see the tremendouslevel of focus, innovation and invest-ment going into renewable energy gen-eration, particularly in the solar space.The development of new technologiesin CPV, PV or CSP, tax incentives,grants and cost reductions are rapidlychanging the dynamics of the solar mar-ket. The broad and growing internation-al focus on solar power throughoutNorth America, Asia and Europe hasincreased competition tremendously inrecent years, and this is driving thestakes up higher for innovation, cost

NTS (Con’t. from p. 1) reduction and reliability. At NTS, wehelp our customers uncover value ineach of these three areas.

SPDN: What services does NTS offerspecifically for solar energy companies?

DM: We have various forms of integrat-ed engineering services as well as testingand certification capabilities for compa-nies in the solar space, including a solarradiation test suite, grid tie-inverter, solarmodules and solar module efficiencytesting. In addition to testing solar powerproducts for standards compliance/con-formity, we also offer a wide array ofcustomized evaluation and testing servic-es to help our customers build betterproducts from the ground up. Every cus-tomer is different, so we tailor our

resources and capabilities to meet theirspecific needs.

SPDN: Why are you attending PowerInternational 2011 and what do you hopeto accomplishat the show this year?

DM: SPI is a great show for the solarpower industry, and we see it as an excel-lent platform to connect with new cus-tomers and communicate some of ournew service offerings in this marketspace. We expect to have a steady flow oftraffic through our booth (#6813), and Ilook forward to meeting new people andhearing about the interesting solar powertechnologies that they are working on.

Visit NTS at Solar Power Internationalbooth 6813.

strate and flow through a series ofprocess tools that create the cell and thenflow into the back end where the sub-strate is finished into a module.

The front end (cell creation) is wheremost of the cost battle is won or lost andthe competitiveness of the final productis defined. Clearly, the technology that ischosen for the cell and the electrical con-version efficiency it can produce are pri-mary factors to cost. But it is increasing-ly clear that the fab operation andautomation scheme play a major role. Itdefines the ability of a thin film solar fabto grow in capability over time instead ofbeing stuck in its initial ramp settings.

Schiller (Con’t. from p. 1) there are fewer articulating multi-axisrobots required, even for high volumefabs of hundreds of megaWatts. Thiskeeps the cost to a minimum eventhough functionality is increased.

Operational winners and marketleaders already know about theBackbone and its benefits, since 10 fullhigh-volume fabs are already deliveredwith this scheme. Schiller Automationhas quietly emerged as the leader inautomating solar production the old fash-ioned way―by innovating and providingwhat the market needs most to continueto drive its costs down.

For more information, visitwww.schiller-llc.com or stop bybooth 4750.

buffer space so there is always plentyin the area of need, and these spacesare shared automatically without oper-ator involvement―a process calleddynamic buffering.

But the benefits of the Backbone gofar beyond. For example, it is easy toadd a process tool or step, even if it doesnot fit into the area of production whereit belongs. The Backbone will bring thesubstrates out to the tool and returnthem to their proper place in the flow.This allows an ability to expand andtake advantage of future innovations―acertainty in this market. Additionally,the Backbone is extremely space effi-cient. It generally maintains substratesin their natural plane of orientation so

Too many automation schemes “hardpipe” the fab together and prevent futurechanges without a significant cost.

Schiller’s innovation is to create acentral handling system called theBackbone™ that is connected to eachprocess tool in the front end. TheBackbone allows for several keyimprovements to fab design. First, it is acentral location for buffering of eachstep. It is impossible to know in advancehow much buffer space is needed, so anestimate is made―if too many slots areinstalled the scheme is very expensive,but if too few, the line can stop com-pletely with a down system―a cata-strophic problem.

Backbone allows for a sharing of

they are advancing the world of solar bymanufacturing well designed, modulesthat are easy for installers to work with,and that offer performance, durabilityand quality to its owners.

The MonoX features a uniqueframe construction designed to work inany weather condition without affectingits power output. All LG photovoltaic

LG (Con’t. from p. 1) to perform. LG’s product range consistsof residential, commercial and utility-grade modules that are tested beyondcompare and lead the way in alternativeenergy solutions the world needs. World-class engineering, design and manufac-turing from one great brand.

For more information about LGSolar’s GridReady® panels and to findout more about its MonoX line, visitthem at booth 2627.

MonoX modules are backed by a strongwarranty and are endorsed andacknowledged by ÜV Rhineland andUnderwriters Laboratories Inc.

At LG quality-assurance is a top pri-ority, that’s why its solar panels are creat-ed using the most technologicallyadvanced processes available. The com-pany’s state-of-the-art manufacturingfacilities are designed to produce highperformance cell panels that come ready

modules can withstand a maximum loadof 5400 Pa, are lightweight and are builtwith slim, durable glass. These panelsare available in 260, 255, 250, 245wattages. The MonoX delivers maxi-mum efficiency while offering superiordurability. By utilizing all of theresources available, LG has createdremarkable solar modules designed todeliver long-lasting power, efficiencyand reliability for years to come. Its

age. The hybrid design of the Bulls EyeTarget Patch has transferred these loadsto an industry accepted deck plate mech-

anism. This provides the end user withmechanical attachment, an easy installa-tion, consistent engineered failure, andthe assurance that the device will notultimately damage the roof.

EcoFasten Solar (Con’t. from p. 34) For more information write to 289Harrel Street, Morrisville, VT, 05661 orvisit www.ecofastensolar.com to reviewthe Bulls Eye Target Patch ProductGuide. Be among the first to see the Bulls

Eye Target Patch, and Eco Fasten Solar’sother mounting systems, GreenFasten™Quik Foot, Simple Seal, Eco-44 andSolar Snow Fence, at Solar PowerInternational booth 4453.

HISCO INC.ʼS LONG-LENGTHTAPE DELIVERY FORMAT FORHIGH-VOLUME PHOTOVOLTAICMANUFACTURINGTapes are a mission-critical componentof many solar modules. Foil tapes areemployed for charge collection andbus bar applications; dielectric tapesare used for electrical isolation; foamtapes are employed for junction boxbonding; and there are a variety ofadditional applications unique to spe-cific module and PV technologydesigns. Sometimes different types oftape are combined to create applica-tion-specific constructions. Hisco hasthe capability to convert all types oftape into a usable format for solar

manufacturing processes.Tapes can be converted into discrete

die-cut parts such as “L” or “T” shapes.Often, foam tapes are converted into a“window frame” gasket shape for bond-ing a junction box to backsheet materials.

Another tape delivery option isplanetary rolls. These rolls can be slitinto just about any width required by thecustomer design. Planetary tape rolls arecompatible with many types of manualand automatic tape application equip-ment. They are often used with high-volume taping robots for frame- or rail-

and manufacturing requirements.Hisco is a leading distributor and

converter of materials for the photo-voltaic manufacturing industry inNorth America. For more than 40years, Hisco has delivered value tocustomers through quality products,process solutions and local inventory.Today, the international branch net-work includes 33 stocking locations—24 in the United States (includingPuerto Rico), nine operated by theHiscoMex subsidiary in Mexico andone operated by HiscoCan in Canada.Four Precision Converting facilitiesprovide value-added fabrication andcustom repackaging. Hisco also offersvendor-managed inventory programsand specialized warehousing for chem-ical management, cold storage andlogistic services.

Please contact Hisco at or [email protected].

bonding processes.For high-volume manufacturing,

level-winding (sometimes referred to astraverse winding or spooling) may bethe most desirable delivery format.Level-winding provides long lengths oftape on a single roll. These rolls can beup to 10 times as long as planetary rollof the same diameter. This additionalmaterial per roll drastically reduces theamount of equipment down time associ-ated with the roll changeover process.Producing consistent and high-qualitylevel wound rolls requires a advancedmanufacturing expertise combined withspecific heavy-duty converting equip-ment designed to output high precisionlevel-wound product.

Hisco has the materials expertise,manufacturing experience and equip-ment capabilities to provide solar man-ufacturers with the optimal tape, in thebest delivery format, for their design


various industries with innovations thatsupport solar (both hydro and electrical)installations. Aztec remains a leader inthe building and construction industriescreating a reputation for innovative,dependable, quality products. Our MasterFlash® pipe flashing has become verypopular in solar applications due to theirhigh UV resistance, solid weather protec-tion, and sealing capabilities. Now,we’ve expanded those offerings to bettersolve the unique needs and requirementsof solar installations.

SPDN: How do you see your productlines meeting the needs of the emergingsolar industry?

MD: We’ve developed several newproducts to meet the various chal-lenges in the solar industry. OurMulti-port designs utilize a single bootwith the ability to accommodate multi-ple penetrations for all types of roofs.We’ve released our P-36 SaddleWasher earlier this year, and it’sproven to be an ideal solution formounting brackets utilized in solarpanels on metal roofing. Plus, anentirely new line of residential flash-ings for shingle or clay tiles givesAztec a real advantage to helping con-sumers solve leak-related problemsand will make Aztec a clear choice.

SPDN: What makes Aztec a preferredmanufacturer for these products?

Aztec Washer (Con’t. from p. 1) MD: As a family-owned and operatedmanufacturing operation, we have theability to provide hands-on attention forour customers and treat every customerlike family. Our focus enables us to solveproblems quickly and insure that every-one’s needs are met.

It’s from this foundation that we builtAztec. Just like our ISO statement says,our first objective is to meet and exceedour customer’s expectations. Thisrequires constant development of newproducts, without sacrificing quality, tomeet their evolving needs. An on-sitelab allows us to formulate and developnew and improved products for todayand tomorrow. Additionally, our salesteam is incredibly proactive in schedul-

ing and shipping to reach critical dead-lines and get products out in the fastestpossible way.

Aztec prides itself in a commitment toexcellence through quality, character andcustomer service. If you want to be agreat company, you not only need greatpeople but you need them to admire thecompany they work for. A company thatfeels like a team is a team. This is aninvaluable part of what makes a greatcompany and it doesn’t happen by acci-dent, it needs to be created. That’s whyAztec remains a leader.

For more information, visit Aztec WasherCompany, Inc. in booth 5438 at SolarPower International.

250 employees and $170 million inannual revenue, sonnen_systems inNorth America has a bulwark of supportbehind it. Since KSG operates many ofits own solar parks, we place a strongemphasis on reliability combined withlow operating costs. The system designfocuses on four main areas: sturdy con-struction, accurate control mechanism,the safety feature safeguard andreal-time communication.

SPDN: Last year saw a surge in interestin the market for single-axis tracking. Doyou foresee the same interest for dual-axis tracking?

JM: Absolutely! The time for dual-axistrackers in the U.S. has come.Customers here are beginning to under-stand that the production increase of up

to 45 percent and the possibilities thatour multi_use™ design opens up ismaking dual-axis tracking a very soundfinancial investment.


JM: SPI ’11 is the ideal place for intro-ducing the track_app™, our newestdevelopment. Since the initial conceptu-alization of the sonnen_system dual-axistracker, we have emphasized ease-of-use,and with that especially the ease of moni-toring our systems. The track_app hits themark in this endeavor, by combining thecustomer’s ability to have control overtheir investment with popular, state-of-the-art technology built around our inter-connected world. Streamlining the track-er control with such a favorite device likethe iPad really hits the spot by reducingO&M costs while having a continuous

sonnen_systems (Con’t. from p. 1) flow of full-system information.

SPDN: Where is your current productemphasis?

JM: Our main focus is reliability in allareas of our operations. If everything wedo works reliably, be it the sturdy con-struction, the highly accurate control orthe impeccable real-time communica-tion, we can truly lay claim to offeringthe highest quality tracker product onthe market.

SPDN: What distinguishes your productsfrom the competition?

JM: Seven years of experience with dual-axis tracking has resulted in a technolog-ically mature product that is exceptional-ly easy to install and operate.

SPDN: What kind of end-user do you see

making use of the sonnen_system and thetrack_app?

JM: The single-pole design of our track-er makes it an ideal tool for what we callmulti_use: generating power alongsideother, perhaps more traditional, revenue.Dairy farms, vineyards, or parking lotsare all ideally suited to house the non-invasive power generation asonnen_systems tracker offers whilebenefiting from the variety of net-meter-ing options that are out there. The easyand fast installation on a large scale andan output advantage of 45 percent overfixed-mount systems makes dual-axistracking a natural choice for utilities.We also see a huge potential in chargingstations for the electric vehicle revolu-tion currently underway.

For more information, visit www.sonnen-systems.com or stop by booth 5150.

competitive global transportation andlogistics provider throughout the Asia-Pacific Region and North America, withparticular focus on the greater Chinamarket. Dimerco is constantly growingwith its customers and partners by pro-viding time-defined international freightforwarding services as well as designingand implementing customized logisticsmanagement solutions. By foreseeingglobal trends, we have positioned our-selves as “Your China LogisticsSpecialist,” entering the China market-place in 1991. Today, Dimerco operatesnearly 80 offices in the greater Chinamarket place.

SPDN: What’s your main line of business?

GS: Dimerco provides global supplychain transportation services includingair, ocean, and warehousing. WithinChina, Dimerco offers trucking anddomestic air/road transportation services.All of these services are supportedthrough our state of the art IT platform –Dimerco Value Plus System®.Additionally, Dimerco can provide cargoinsurance brokerage, customs brokerage,inspection services, charter service, proj-ect cargo services and supply chain man-

agement consultancy.

SPDN: Describe your current marketingstrategy.

GS: In view of current global economicconditions, Dimerco has taken an aggres-sive approach in terms of investment anddevelopment of technology and expand-ing our global network. Both of these ini-tiatives allow us to exceed our customerexpectations concerning global coverageand visibility at all levels of the supplychain. By then focusing in key industrialsectors, such as solar power, we havepositively positioned ourselves for long-term success.

SPDN: Can you expand on the wayDimerco has enhanced itself from thetechnology standpoint.

GS: Dimerco views technology and sys-tems development as a core businessstrategy and strength in business. We con-tinuously invest in technology and cen-trally develop and maintain our systemsrather than purchasing or outsourcingthese vital functions. On August 1, 2009,we successfully deployed web 2.0 basedDimerco Value Plus System (Value +), alogistics artwork of the 21st Century. Thisserves as an operation, management and

Dimerco (Con’t. from p. 1) service tool, and platform for operationalefficiency. Known as Value +, the systemhouses an information and knowledgebank to help build Dimerco ExpressGroup as the most competitive globaltransportation and logistics serviceprovider, integrator, and consultant.

SPDN: How will the deployment of theDimerco Value Plus System benefit thesolar power industry?

GS: The visibility our customers haveinto their supply chain provides themgreater efficiency in terms of planning,resources (people and materials), accura-cy, cost, and commitment. Real-timeinformation allows our customers themost innovative means to succeed inmanaging their supply chain globally.

SPDN: How does Dimerco see itselfpositioned within the solar industry?

GS: The China market has taken on anincreasingly dominant position in thesolar industry. Certain fundamental con-ditions are already in place within Chinafor the large scale development andexploitation of solar energy. Between ourvast network of wholly-owned DimercoExpress offices throughout China and ourtechnology, we are positioned correctly

to continue along the path of solar devel-opment, regardless of the origin or desti-nation of inquiry or the need within ourcustomers’ solar supply chain.Additionally, our positioning within theU.S.A. allows us to assist all supplychain channels.

SPDN: What is the message Dimercowants to project at the Solar PowerInternational 2011 Convention?

GS: Following our corporately imple-mented Green Policy Program, we prideourselves as one of the leaders in energyconservation. Dimerco Express under-stands the need to source globally anddeliver on time. From PV materials tosolar thermal collectors, DimercoExpress’ customized logistic solutionhandles the solar energy supply chainefficiently and effectively. The messageis simple: Based on our familiarity,tenure, network, and technology provid-ed within the solar power industry,Dimerco Express is positioned to handleall of your supply chain requirements.

For more information about DimercoExpress, please stop by Solar PowerInternational booth 4932; send an e-mailinquiry to [email protected] visit the website www.dimerco.com.

currently on the market, with twice thepower per module than the current amor-

phous silicon standard, and lower installa-tion and balance of system (BOS) costs.

“Whether you are a PV integratorlooking to put PV where weight is a con-

Global Solar Energy (Con’t. from p. 89) straint, an architect looking to roll renew-able energy into your designs, or a roof-ing manufacturer looking to differentiateits product offering, the Global Solar

PowerFLEX BIPV offers a unique andaffordable approach to creating buildingsthat bring sustainability to a new level,”said Poirier.


its 50th year as a leading developer ofcustom pressure-sensitive adhesive tapes(PSAs), specialty coatings, films and lam-inates, to meet the diverse needs of cus-tomers in a wide variety of industries.

With manufacturing facilities in the U.S.,Ireland and Colombia, as well as salesoffices in Europe andAsia,AR’s PSAtech-nologies are used around the world in solarphotovoltaic panels, wireless telecommu-nication, electronics, displays, medicaldiagnostic devices, pharmaceutical devicesor products, transdermal drug deliverydevices, window fabrication, packagingand the pulp and paper industry.

SPDN: What distinguishes your prod-uct(s) from the competition?

DH: Adhesives Research’s core compe-tency revolves around working closelywith our customers to meet their unmetneeds in creating products with greatercapabilities and functionality.As a pioneer

in the photovoltaic market, AdhesivesResearch works directly with PVmanufacturers to develop electrically con-ductive and specialized PSA bondingtechnologies to advance the functionalityand performance of crystalline and thinfilm PV modules. We have a very robustproduct development process with cross-functioning teams.With scientists, processengineers, operation engineers and qualitymanagers, we work as a unified team todevelop unique solutions.

SPDN: Did your marketing strategy inthe past year provide you the overallposition you had projected?

DH: Adhesives Research’s success isdirectly tied to the strength of our rela-tionships and our reputation within theindustries we serve. During the pastyear, we added webinars and lunch andlearn seminars, allowing us to meetdirectly with our customers. We arepleased to say the response has been phe-nomenal. We will continue to build onthese efforts as we introduce new ways to

Adhesives Research (Con’t. from p. 1) collaborate with our customers.

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

DH: Last year saw one of the mosttumultuous times in recent history in spe-cialty chemicals. Economic conditionsforced many manufacturers to closedown plants, consolidate product lines orraise prices. Market forces did not permitus to adjust prices, and this resulted in adifficult situation for Adhesives Researchand others in the industry.

SPDN: What is the nature of your distri-bution?

DH: We deal directly with the originalequipment managers (OEMs) and do notwork through distribution. Distributionmay be brought into the picture if the cus-tomer requests it; however, direct contactis always maintained. Our flexible manu-facturing capabilities in multiple loca-tions, combined with the attention from

our global sales managers, assures ourcustomers of uninterrupted delivery in atimely and economical manner.

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

DH: Adhesives Research’s success overthe past 50 years is tied directly to ourcustomers and our ability to work closelywith them to develop a precisely tailoredadhesive technology for their project.It’s through our consistent businessmodel and our ability to build upon thecompany’s extensive “technology tool-box,” that includes hundreds of uniquepolymer and adhesive formulations, thatwe are able to continue to meet the needsof manufacturers who turn to us. WhenAR started in 1961, our goal was to bethe best in our industry, not necessarilythe biggest. We are proud to say, thatgoal is still in place today.

For more information, visit AdhesivesResearch at booth 4743 at Solar PowerInternational or call 717-235-7979.

turer of fasteners, industrial and con-struction products, cutting tools andabrasives, power tools, fluid sealingproducts, and related items. CSBNprovides products and service in sup-port of mining, industrial, construction,utilities and telecommunications, auto-motive, maintenance and repair, OEM,and government accounts.

CSBN’s operations include nearly 400employees throughout 21 locations inArizona, Texas, Colorado, NewMexico and Nevada, with productionfacilities in Phoenix, Ariz. We have aMexican subsidiary supporting theborder region and mining propertiesthroughout Mexico.

SPDN: Did your marketing strategy inthe past year provide you the overallposition you had projected?

SS: Not only did CSBN obtain projectedposition, we exceeded it. We learnedearly on that in order to supply productseffectively in the solar market place, wehad to shape ourselves into a distributorwith a strong focus on project logistics tomeet the unique requirements of solar

projects. Because of the scale and pace ofthe projects we have served, we learned itwasn’t enough just to have parts avail-able in stock. The parts needed to beuniquely packaged, labeled and oftenassembled for use on the job site.

SPDN: Describe your current marketingstrategy.

SS: Our current marketing strategy forthe solar industry is to team with othercompanies with a strong focus on quality.I believe that if quality is not one of acompany’s primary focuses, that compa-ny will not last long in the solar business.As a distributor it is often hard to “pickyour customer,” but we intentionallysolicit those companies that we know arefocused on delivering a quality product totheir customers.

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

SS: Since the world economy ground to ahalt over the past couple of years, wehave reduced our production on manyitems and have seen other manufacturesreduce their production as well bothdomestically and overseas. Keeping upwith production as demands spike will be

Copper State Bolt & Nut Co. (Con’t. from p. 1) the biggest challenge we will face overthe next year. Our purchasing and logis-tics team is currently trying to address the“How High is Up” issue so they can sup-port our sales needs as the economyrebounds. Since there are no firmanswers to this unknown, we are plan-ning on shooting to the high side of ourinventory equation.

SPDN: What distinguishes your prod-uct(s) from the competition?

SS: Aside from being a fastener distrib-utor, we are also a fastener manufactur-er with full A2LA-accredited laborato-ry facilities. This allows us to provideboth products and services that most ofour competition cannot provide. Wecan also test products that we import orobtain through another domestic sourceto ensure that the product meets itsspecification. If you can’t test the prod-uct, the best you can do is hope it meetits specification.

SPDN: Compare the position of yourproducts and their technology against thecurrent market.

SS: Our warehouse and distributionoperation is really what separates us

from the current market. Since we area manufacturer of fasteners, packagingand assembly is an area which we takegreat pride. Whether we make theproduct or are importing the productfrom overseas sources, we insist theproducts and packaging meet a veryhigh standard. Our customers appreci-ate that our pallets of material areorganized and labeled so they are easyto read and interface with most radiofrequency scanners. We understandthat no one needs to waste time han-dling penny parts.

SPDN: Who are your target end-users?

SS: Types of end users that we are tar-geting are EPC companies (utility-scale CSP and PV), turn-key PV solarmounting and tracking systems(ground mount and roof top), generalcontractors, electrical contractors,steel and aluminum fabricators anderectors, aluminum extrusion, residen-tial solar installers, concrete contrac-tors, and roofing contractors.

For more information, visit Copper StateBolt & Nut Company in booth 3912 atSolar Power International or online atwww.copperstate.com.

Vogel, project manager for InovateusSolar, “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 contractorof choice,” says Keith Masser. “Weselected them because they were cooper-ative, and we were able to negotiate amutual contract with ease. We liked theirconnections with Schneider Electric andSecco. Their relationships and knowl-

edge of this type of project have made itgo smoothly.”

When Keith’s great, great, great,great grandfather Mathias Masser cameto America from Germany in 1754, hebrought along his special knowledge ofgrowing potatoes. Little did he know thatmore than 250 years later German inge-nuity from companies like Schott Solarand Schletter would help his descendantscarry on the tradition.

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.

ground-mount solar project.The decision to go solar was a nat-

ural evolution for Keith Masser,Chairman and CEO of Sterman MasserInc. The company earned an EPAaward in 1998 for implementingIntegrated Pest Management practiceson the 4,600 acres of farmland where itlimits chemical use, employs erosioncontrol and crop rotation. Masser alsocompacts and recycles discarded pack-aging material. Workers store, wash,size and package 300 million poundsof potatoes each year at theSacramento plant and at a sister facili-ty in White Pigeon, Mich.

“In 2009, Pennsylvania Power &Light was deregulated, and we knew we

were 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 Penn. and possibly in Ohio. Heexpects his first solar project, whichbroke ground in October and was com-pleted in late May, to pay for itself with-in five to 10 years.

Inovateus Solar supplied the engi-neering, procurement and constructionfor the project on land only marginallysuitable 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 Nathan

Inovatus Solar (Con’t. from p. 1)

solar power daily news - oct. 20, 2011 - spi 2011

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