DAS Energy, an Austrian lightweight and flexible PV module maker, participated in this year’s Intersolar Europe exhibition with its latest HYBRID 20 × 2 series product, among others.
According to the product datasheet, this lightweight and flexible PV module can be characterized by 3 key aspects – performance, installation friendliness, and reliability.
Performance
This glassless and frameless PV module, comprising 40 M10-size PERC half-cells, can deliver a power output of up to 140 W. The company didn’t disclose the rated efficiency of this 20 × 2 cell layout-based product. Crafted with multi-encapsulation layers on both sides and measuring 2,000 × 400 mm (L × W), this module weighs 4.55 kg. The module utilizes multi-layer encapsulation, rather than glass covers, which helps make this 5.69 g/m² lightweight module flexible enough to install over curved surfaces, claims DAS Energy.
Installation Friendliness
According to the datasheet, this product can be fixed to curved surfaces with adhesive bonding, without the need for a metal subsystem mounting or a ballast-based system. The junction box (JB), featuring bypass diodes, can be integrated on the front or rear side of the module, depending on the application. As a BAPV (Building Applied Photovoltaic Module) product, it is suitable for installation on standing seam roofs, trapezoidal sheets, or facade. Upon request, the module can be equipped with a 1.6 mm ultra-thin glass plate on the rear side, enhancing the module’s stability. According to the datasheet, this feature ensures the module can be reliably used in BIPV (Building Integrated Photovoltaic Module) applications, such as roof, ceiling, and wall constructions in commercial & industrial (C&I) buildings.
BAPV modules are attached to the exterior of a building after its construction, whereas BIPV modules are integrated into the building's design and construction, often replacing traditional building materials such as roofing or siding.
Reliability
Inferring from the product datasheet, this glassless and frameless flexible PV module, laminated with multiple encapsulation layers, can prevent potential risk of cell microcrack generation due to external forces. The front side in matte finish, ensures no reflection of incident sun rays, aligning with optical characteristics desired for BIPV and BAPV. Without disclosing the details, the company claims that it can endure long-term UV rays and resist salt-mist degradation, both detrimental to module reliability, particularly in coastal settings.
It is offered with a 10-year product warranty for BIPV and BAPV applications, while the performance warranty is for a maximum of 25 years.
