September 18, 2009

Thalheim, Germany: Q-Cells Raises Polycrystalline Cell Efficiency

The Q-Cells technologists in the Solar Valley Thalheim have succeeded in designing a module with an efficiency of 15.9% using the next generation of polycrystalline cells.

The module, which has an output of 249 W, has already been tested and certified by an independent institute, the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems in Freiburg. It was created in Q-Cells’ own module test centre in Thalheim, where a team has been researching the interaction at the interface between the solar cell and the module for almost a year.

In 2008, Q-Cells invested around €50 million to construct a pilot plant, the so-called “Technikum”, in which the module test line was set up. The findings obtained there were bundled and provided to the customers. As a result, the customers can further benefit from the potential contained in cells manufactured by Q-Cells, thus increasing the competitiveness of cell and module manufacturers. Q-Cells is therefore adding another significant component to its existing range of services, which is already distinguished from competitors by a unique after-sales service.

With an efficiency of up to 17%, the cells, produced in Q-Cells' existing production lines, are among the best polycrystalline cells currently available. The high-performance cell is expected to be launched on the market in 2010 after the development phase has been finished. Q-Cells foresees further increases in the efficiency rating by then.

“The efficiencies already achieved are only the beginning. We are of course delighted with this achievement, which is after all a world record. Particularly in such difficult times as the present, this is evidence that we should continue to focus strongly on technology. demonstrates the technological capabilities and advantages that we at Q-Cells and more generally in a country such as Germany have, which are increasingly important to ensure competitiveness, and especially compared to more commoditised producers using standard technologies in low-cost countries. We intend to build on these advantages going forward”, commented Anton Milner, Chairman of the Executive Board at Q-Cells SE.

Further details about: Q-Cells