OPES Solutions, a leading independent grid provider of off-grid solar modules, has teamed up with the Fraunhofer Solar Photovoltaic Power Generation Center (CSP) to develop the ultra-light solar module O-Lite Plus.
While traditional crystalline solar modules weigh about 60 grams per watt, the O-Lite Plus weighs only about 20 grams per watt, which equates to a two-thirds reduction in weight.
Not only that, the cost of new frameless O-Lite Plus modules in mass production is comparable to the cost of traditional modules.
According to reports, the back of the module made of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) laminated (single or polycrystalline solar cells laminated on) is mainly responsible for weight reduction.This proven material is also used Rotor blades for the wind industry as well as shipbuilding and automotive engineering and are particularly cost-effective due to their high throughput.
Robert Händel, Founder and CEO of OPES Solutions, said: 'Our partners, Gaugler & Lutz, will benefit from the material know-how and years of experience that we have achieved compared to alternative lightweight substrates such as fiberglass or PCB The PET material used is lighter and the O-LitePlus module is also extremely durable due to ease of processing and similar CTE to solar cells. '
Owing to the possibility of producing curved modules and their light weight, the O-Lite Plus module is particularly suitable for weight-sensitive applications such as vehicles, boats and small equipment, which also places high demands on durability.
The concept of this module was developed in collaboration with the Fraunhofer CSP, which also provides advice on material selection and is responsible for product and durability testing.
Robert Händel went on to say, 'In order to develop O-LitePlus, we combine the research and development capabilities of the Fraunhofer CSP with off-grid and production experience. Only through this partnership will we be able to develop new, ultra-light, durable and attractively priced new The generation of solar modules, which are now shared by suppliers and manufacturers of cars, are the lightest modules in the world to our knowledge.