First modules from Photovoltech

Although the two new modules Hi Line A0154 and A0172 from Belgian cell and module manufacturer Photovoltech use multicrystalline cells, their front side has a uniform blue color as if it was made of monocrystalline cells.    

© photon-pictures.com Upside down: As the name indicated, busbars are soldered on the back side of back contact cells.

The homogeneous appearance of the cell surface is the result of an isotropic etching process. Photovoltech says the efficiencies for its 5 inch square cells reach up to 16 percent, which results in good module efficiencies of 14 percent.

	©  photon-pictures.com No pattern: Though Photovoltech's modules are made with multicrystalline silicon cells, their front remains a uniform dark blue.

The product line comes with modules of up to 180 W using 54 or 72 cells. The smaller module is available with power ratings at 120, 127, and 135 W; the bigger one is rated at 160, 170, and 180 W. The power tolerance for all module types is +/- 3 percent. Since Photovoltech offers its modules solely in Europe, they are tested according to safety class II and IEC 61215 only. The results of both tests are not yet confirmed. Starting in early 2005, Photovoltech will offer its modules with back contact cells, which already will be on display in at the European PV conference in Paris in June.

datasheet

Photovoltech NV SA
Grijpenlaan 18
3300 Tienen, Belgium
phone +32/1/6805-850, fax -905
info@photovoltech.be 
www.photovoltech.be

Karsten Albers
© PHOTON International, May 2004