2 June 2011

Global Solar’s PowerFLEX CIGS module awarded IEC and UL certifications

Global Solar Energy Inc of Tucson, AZ, USA, which makes copper indium gallium diselenide (CIGS) thin-film photovoltaic cells and modules, says that its flexible module PowerFLEX BIPV has been awarded IEC 61730 and 61646 as well as UL 1703 certifications, fulfilling the strict requirements of safety, reliability and durability set by the two independent test laboratories (the International Electrotechnical Commission and Underwriters Laboratories).

Founded in 1996, Global Solar Energy’s solar modules are lightweight and flexible, suiting building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) applications and solar power stations or foldable solar chargers. Production facilities in Tuscon have a capacity of 40MW, while the firm’s subsidiary in Berlin-Adlershof, Germany has a production capacity of 35MW (with 250 staff currently employed at the two sites).

The firm says that the low weight of just 3.5kg/m2 of module area makes the PowerFLEX BIPV particularly suited to industrial flat roofs, which are often not strong enough to bear the weight of thick-film photovoltaic installations. Despite having a large format (5.75m x 0.5m) and a high power density (300W), the PowerFLEX module is rolled onto and adhered to the roof membrane, requiring no mounting hardware. The roof membrane is not perforated, and no additional wind load is created. The look of the building is not altered.

Also, with a conversion efficiency of 12.6% in relation to the aperture area, the module is the most efficient flexible module in the market to date (and about 50% more efficient than flexible silicon solar cells), the firm claims.

Global Solar says that certification confirms that the flexible thin-film modules are able to guarantee safe electrical and mechanical operation for the duration of their expected lifetime, and that they are suitable for permanent open-air use. They also meet the requirements of the Prototype Building Regulation (MBO) laid down by the Conference of Ministers of Construction, a working group for urban development, construction and housing of the responsible Ministers and Senators from the 16 German Federal States.

“The UL and IEC certifications represent another milestone in the rapid development of Global Solar Energy. We are already planning several installations in the US and Europe,” says president & CEO Dr Jeff Britt. “Due to its high efficiency and low volume of materials, the new module can be offered at an extremely competitive price, which will help property owners to reach a quick return on their investment and achieve profitability,” he reckons.

Tags: Global Solar Energy CIGS BIPV

Visit: www.globalsolar.com