JA Solar and ECN Join Efforts to Introduce High Efficiency Photovoltaic Modules

Modules can be assembled in a fully automated process with Eurotron equipment. This technology allows handling of thin solar cells at high throughput and yield. ECN has recently successfully manufactured high-efficiency MWT solar modules, achieving a world record efficiency in 2009 of 17.0 percent (aperture area) for photovoltaic modules with multi-crystalline silicon cells.

"We are very pleased to be working with ECN to develop the next generation MWT solar cell technology for high efficiency solar modules," said Yong Liu, senior VP of Manufacturing and CTO of JA Solar. "The MWT technology can effectively increase photovoltaic module conversion efficiency with the benefit of higher power output and it allows further reduction of material costs, lowering the cost of solar electricity," he said.

"A crucial element in ECN’s mission is to bring technology to application," said Ton Hoff, managing director of ECN. "We are therefore very happy that ECN’s technology is going to be industrialized in cooperation with a leading innovative partner like JA Solar."

"We are excited that the largest cell manufacturer intends to produce MWT cells," said Bram Verschoor, commercial director of Eurotron. "This opens up an enormous market potential for our MWT module manufacturing equipment. We are very pleased with ECN’s support to bring our technology to the market," he said.

JA Solar Holdings Co., Ltd. is a leading manufacturer of high-performance solar power products. The company sells its products to solar manufacturers worldwide, who assemble and integrate solar cells into modules and systems that convert sunlight into electricity for residential, commercial, and utility-scale power generation.

The Energy research Centre of the Netherlands (ECN) is a leading institute in the Netherlands for energy and environmental research and policy advice. ECN develops high-quality knowledge and technology for the transition to sustainable energy management. ECN introduces this knowledge and technology to the market. ECN’s focus is on energy conservation, sustainable energy and an efficient and clean use of fossil fuels.

Eurotron is a company, specialized in powerful equipment for module manufacturing. A team of dedicated employees invents and produces handling equipment in order to address tomorrows PV needs today. A pro-active attitude and a strong orientation on customer demands have been key factors for Eurotron’s success.

www.eurotron.nl/

www.ecn.nl

www.jasolar.com/