Unlocking the power of solar

Innovative new technology is helping to provide greater levels of solar generating efficiency, says specialist importer and distributor of solar and photovoltaic (PV) products and solutions SOLARWORLD Africa. The company asserts that the entry of Qcells and Q.ANTUM DUO Z technology presents a significant shift towards maximising the cost-saving benefits of solar power.

SOLARWORLD Africa MD Gregor Kuepper says: “From the start, SOLARWORLD has committed to ongoing innovation in the PV space, and has only partnered with manufacturers that understand our markets, offering solutions that meet and exceed expectations and seek long-term benefits and not just for the immediate future. The technology we see in Qcells is testament to this.”

The company explains that Q.ANTUM DUO Z technology is central to the Q.Peak Duo range of PV panels and is said to be the culmination of an evolution in design. Q.ANTUM first integrated a power reflector into the cell design, to give a 7% increase in electricity generation, and then Q.ANTUM DUO halved the cells to pack more into less space to gain an extra 4% in generation. In its final form, Q.ANTUM DUO Z reduces the gap between cells (the Z stands for zero gap) to provide even greater cell density, helping to maximise the gains over the lifecycle of the technology and add a further 3% electricity generation gain.

The zero gap is also achieved by using round wires instead of flat solder, reducing busbar shading and allowing for better generation when the sun is flatter on the horizon. This layout is said to boost module efficiency above 20% across the full range.

“With regards to the Qcells solar modules and technologies, our partners are confirming that Qcells products are outperforming the calculated yields, as well as the real performance of other products they used for installations in Southern Africa,” says Kuepper.

Qcells panels offer solutions for rooftop and ground installations, presenting three key benefits:

Better use of space: Higher density of more efficient cells means more electricity generation from a smaller panel. This smaller footprint reduces overall storage and transport costs, and offers more installation flexibility.

Higher performance and wider performance range: Round wire connections and the integrated power reflector increase internal reflection and reduce the impact of shade, so that the sun’s energy is used more effectively. Reduced shade also widens the performance range by allowing for better use of flatter rays when the sun is closer to the horizon in the early morning, later evening and during autumn and winter.

Better power/price performance: Qcells technology has evolved over time and does not introduce expensive new substrates. By maximising efficiency within established manufacturing processes, the panels save costs throughout the value chain.    

The panels are backed by a 12-year manufacturer warranty on the product, and a 25-year warranty on the linear performance. Qcells expect units to deliver 86% of its stated power for up to 25 years. Combined with extreme weather ratings for wind and snow, SOLARWORLD Africa asserts that Qcells are a sound investment for long term electricity generation.