Q-Cells has launched a high-efficient, high-yield CIGS technology-based thin film module called Q.SMART modules for the photovoltaic market in the North American region.
Q.Smart roof-top installation in Westerweld, Germany
Q.SMART is developed to optimize power output and profit on investment in distributed solar production. It owns the world record conversion efficiency of 14.7% for thin film modules in mass production since 2009. Unlike other thin film solar technologies, Q.SMART’s innovative CIGS technology does not degrade initially in the first few years of operation.
Q.SMART combines light-soaking effect to produce on an average 2.5% more power than nominal power under normal test conditions when installed in the field. Its performance also exceeds that of competitive products in various environments, including high-heat conditions and low-light periods of the day.
Q-Cells offers its Q.SMART modules with the Q-CELLS YIELD SECURITY seal of quality, which includes the light soaking effect and an additional power boost that increases yield by up to 15% via positive sorting. It also offers 360° efficiency via flexible deployment in shade, in diffused light environments and at difficult angles.
Uppsala University’s Angstrom Solar Center in Sweden developed the Q.SMART technology in 1983. Solibro commercialized the technology in 2006 and Q-Cells acquired the technology in 2009. Q-Cells produces Q.SMART modules at is own plant located in Thalheim, Germany. The company had produced 135 MWp of Q.SMART modules at the end of 2010. It has already installed Q.SMART modules outside North America in both residential and commercial projects.