IBC modules

IBC SOLAR modules convince in Fraunhofer LeTID test

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We frequently report on the in-depth quality tests that our products have to undergo on a regular basis. In addition to internal tests, external institutes also put our products through their paces. In this context, the Fraunhofer Centre for Silicon Photovoltaics CSP conducted a LeTID test on our current IBC SOLAR module types at the end of last year. And this much in advance: all modules of the IBC SOLAR own brand completed the test procedure with excellent results. (more…)

The right time for solar energy

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Even though South Africa is still considered to be the most developed nation on the continent, the country is facing tremendous energy challenges like many other African countries. The Rainbow Nation’s energy provider Eskom is over indebted, operates mostly old generation facilities and struggles with an unstable grid. The utility provider is often not able to meet the country’s electricity demand and regularly implements “Load Shedding” – planned power cuts to avoid a breakdown of the system. In addition, Eskom is likely to implement a rise of electricity prices by 15 percent from July 2021 on after an increase of around 7 percent in July this year already. (more…)

From M0 to M12 – different wafer sizes in the market

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When you talk to the pioneers of the German PV industry, such as Mr. Udo Möhrstedt or the first participants of the symposium at Banz Monastery, one looks back at the early years with a sparkle in the eyes. A specific example is the comparison between the wafer sizes of the past and the present. The “wafer” is the starting material for the production of crystalline solar cells, which is only about 200 µm thick. Although there have been many adjustments over the years, the continuity has unfortunately disappeared. In recent months, countless new wafer sizes have appeared on the market. Something the PV industry has never experienced before. In addition, there is no uniform designation. With this article we would like to shed some light on the topic, and in addition to a review of the history of cell size, we want to compare the current common names. (more…)

Module trends and technologies: Cast Mono

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The photovoltaic market has increased significantly over the last decade. In 2015, the annual PV installation was over 50 GW and the solar cells made with Multi Crystalline Silicon (mc-Si) had a market share of nearly 60 %. This year, however, the majority of European countries noticed a significant switch to Mono Crystalline Silicon with ratios of ~70 % in comparison to 30 % mc-Si. Regardless of the technology, one aspect is absolutely clear: the market is still going the direction where customers worldwide require higher efficiencies. The prices, however, have to stabilise or should get lower. By fulling this demand, cell and solar module producers are required to provide a solution to offer higher efficiencies at the same or lower level of prizing. In Sep 2018 we introduced you to our new module technologies which includes Half Cell, Multi Busbar or optimized cell connector like LRF. This time we want to take a closer look the Cast Mono technology.  (more…)

IBC SOLAR welcomes Scouts

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Treating humans and nature with respect is the ultimate rule for Scouts. It therefore makes sense that they would also want to find out more about photovoltaics and spend a day with a leading industry expert. A young group of scouts based in upper and middle Franconia, Germany grabbed this opportunity with both hands. As part of their theme day “climate”, the young adults visited our competence center in Bad Staffelstein. In addition to an insight into the company’s history, the main focus was of course on solar energy.  What shouldn’t be missing in all this theory? Putting it into practice of course!(more…)