3M Anti-Soiling Technology Helps Increase Power Output in Photovoltaic Modules

3M will introduce an innovative new coating for photovoltaic (PV) modules and concentrated solar power (CSP) mirrors at Solar Power International, September 10-13 in Orlando, Fla. 3M™ Anti-Soiling Liquid is an easy-to-apply coating designed for aftermarket use that helps solar modules stay cleaner, longer. The product significantly reduces dry dust accumulation that often occurs on sun-facing surfaces. This helps increase light transmission to the photovoltaic cells and improve overall power output. Data has shown that modules coated with the 3M Anti-Soiling Liquid generate five to ten percent more energy than uncoated modules.

Designed for use during regular cleaning and maintenance operations, the liquid is easily applied with hand tools, is water-based, and is safe for both the environment and for workers with recommended application techniques.

“3M has performed extensive testing on this product — not just in the lab, but in the field as well. Customers will see that it delivers results in real-world conditions,” said Dr. Dan Chen, business development manager, 3M Renewable Energy Division. “We are proud to offer this pioneering product to the solar industry.”

For more information, please visit: www.3M.com/Solar

3M captures the spark of new ideas and transforms them into thousands of ingenious products. Our culture of creative collaboration inspires a never-ending stream of powerful technologies that make life better. 3M is the innovation company that never stops inventing. With $30 billion in sales, 3M employs 84,000 people worldwide and has operations in more than 65 countries. For more information, visit www.3M.com or follow @3MNews on Twitter.

3M has been a full-solutions provider to the Renewable Energy industry for decades with advanced materials that spawn products that work. The company’s comprehensive portfolio of solutions for the renewable energy market range from pioneering energy-saving and safety and security window films for residential and commercial buildings and for the automotive market; next-generation PV and CSP solar films that can reduce cost per watt; as well as tapes, adhesives and coatings for the wind market. For a record setting eighth consecutive year, 3M received the 2012 ENERGY STAR Sustained Excellence Award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy for its comprehensive worldwide energy conservation efforts.