One of the leading producers of advanced cadmium telluride (CdTe) thin-film photovoltaic (PV) modules in the world, Abound Solar has started to manufacture 82.8 W modules at its PV plant located in Longmont, Colorado, U.S.
The 82.8 W module denotes an aperture efficiency of 12.2%, which is being confirmed by National Renewable Energy Lab (NREL) of the U.S. Department of Energy.
In January 2012, the first 82 W was produced by Abound Solar using the existing manufacturing equipment. Mass production of 82 W PV modules is expected to start in the latter half of 2012 and 85 W modules in 2013.
The President and CEO of the company, Craig Witsoe stated that this manufacturing milestone highlights the remarkable abilities of CdTe thin-film product for use in competitive, consistent US-made solar power. The research and development team of Abound Solar continues its innovation in the field, and works to improve the PV module performance and efficiency. Witsoe also added that the thin-film technology will soon surpass other types of PV in terms of cost-efficiency.
The company has manufactured its one-millionth thin-film module in December 2011. It has planned for further manufacturing expansion in the U.S. in 2013. Abound Solar employs a robust, continuous and commercial-scale manufacturing process to produce high-quality and inexpensive modules. These PV modules deliver enhanced performance in diffuse light and high-heat conditions.