Photovoltaic (PV) module manufacturers are constantly working to find new, more advanced alternatives to improve the efficiency of solar panels. Efficiency can be improved through innovative cell manufacturing techniques, and now there are a few contenders in the solar photovoltaic market.

 

The latest module trends expect market growth to focus on HJT and TOPCon solar cells.

 

The 2022 report from the International Technology Roadmap for Photovoltaics (ITRPV) shows some of the expected trends over the next 10 years:

 

❖ PERC (passivated emitter rear contact) solar cell technology currently leads the market with a market share of approximately 75%. However, it is expected that the share of p-type monocrystalline PERC cells will drop to about 10% in the next 10 years.

 

❖ The market share of N-type TOPCon (tunnel oxide passivated contact) technology will increase from about 10% in 2022 to 60% in 2033, becoming the mainstream silicon wafer type. The largest increase is expected to begin in 2024.

 

❖ N-type HJT (heterojunction solar cells) is expected to increase from approximately 9% (2023) to over 25% in the next decade. The implementation of heterojunction cell technology still faces difficulties due to the high production costs of solar cells and the incompatibility of production lines with existing technologies.

 

 

P-type PERC and N-type TopCon

PERC technology is a cost-effective compromise between efficiency and large-scale production. But improving solar panel efficiency using this approach has been slow. The current efficiency of mainstream P-type modules is about 21.4%, and will increase to 22.75% in the next 10 years.

 

N-type TOPCon solar cells installed in photovoltaic modules look identical to PERC cells. Both P-type and N-type solar cells are made from silicon wafers. The difference between them is the way the wafers are doped with chemicals to increase the amount of electricity generated.

 

Simply put, P-type cells are doped with boron, while N-type cells are doped with phosphorus. In contrast, phosphorus degrades less than boron when exposed to oxygen. In addition, phosphorus doping can add free electrons to the wafer, thereby increasing efficiency.

 

Therefore, N-type based modules can achieve higher efficiency. It is estimated that efficiency, currently close to 22.5%, will increase to around 24% over the next 10 years.

 

The problem with the N-type manufacturing process is that it is still relatively expensive.

 

What are the advantages of TOPCon technology?

1. Manufacturing process

TOPCon modules can be manufactured using almost the same machines as P-type modules, which means that the use of TOPCon cells does not require a large investment by manufacturers.

 

2. Higher efficiency

According to the Fraunhofer ISE institute, efficiency can exceed 25%. The maximum theoretical efficiency of PERC cells is approximately 24%.

 

3. Reduce degradation rate

Compared to PERC panels, TOPCon modules have lower power decay during the first year and 30 years of PV panel life.

 

4. Lower temperature coefficient

TOPCon batteries have better resistance to extreme weather scenarios.

 

5. Double-sided rate

The bifacial coefficient of PERC PV modules averages about 70%, while the bifacial coefficient of TOPCon panels is as high as 85%. They capture more energy from the back than PERC bifacial modules, which is beneficial for ground-mounted utility projects. They are also more attractive from an aesthetic perspective than PERC solar panels.

 

6. Low light performance

TOPcon modules are more efficient in low-light conditions, extending power generation during the day and improving the performance of the installation over time.

Gel battery is a valve-regulated maintenance-free lead-acid battery. Gel batteries are very strong and versatile. This type of battery produces very little fumes and can be used in places without much ventilation.

 

How do gel batteries work?

A gel battery is a valve-regulated lead-acid battery in which a predetermined amount of electrolyte is mixed with silica fume along with sulfuric acid. This chemical reaction produces a fixed, gel-like substance that gives these batteries their name. Gel batteries are virtually maintenance-free because they use a valve that opens in one direction, allowing the gas inside to recombine into the water, so there's no need to check top up with distilled water or monitor the water level. Gel batteries are very strong and versatile. They can be safely installed in places with restricted ventilation as their gas/smoke production is very low (nearly zero) meaning you can even install batteries in your home.

 

Special consideration should be given when choosing a charger for gel batteries, as they charge at lower voltages. Overvoltage can cause malfunctions and performance degradation. The term GEL battery is sometimes used to refer to a sealed, maintenance-free battery marked as a setting on the charge controller. This can be confusing and can lead to the wrong charger selection or wrong settings while charging. If other charging methods such as alternators are used, an appropriate voltage regulator must be installed to control the charging voltage. Typical charging voltages for batteries range from 14.0 volts to 14.2 volts, and float voltages range from 13.1 volts to 13.3 volts.

Advantages of Gel Batteries

Gel batteries are gaining popularity in solar systems for the following reasons:

 

1.Best for deep cycle applications, typically in the range of 500 to 5000 cycles

2.Maintenance free

3.Spill proof

4.Minimal corrosion and therefore compatible with sensitive electronics

5.Rugged and Vibration Resistant

6.Very safe as there is less risk of sulfuric acid burns

7.Minimum cost per month (cost/months of life)

8.Lowest cost per cycle (cost/life cycle)

 

Disadvantages of Gel Batteries

1.Can't refill in case of overcharging

2.Requires special charger and voltage regulator

 

Do not confuse AGM batteries with GEL batteries

Today, AGM batteries are often mistaken for gel batteries because of their many similarities.

 

1.Both are reconstituted - meaning that the oxygen produced on the positive plate is absorbed by the negative plate. Instead of producing hydrogen, the negative plates now produce water, thus maintaining the water content in the battery. That's why AGM and Gel batteries are valve regulated, sealed, spill proof, maintenance free, vibration resistant and can be installed in any location.

 

2.The notable difference between the two is the difference in electrolytes. The electrolyte used in gel batteries looks like jelly, while the electrolyte in AGM batteries is absorbed in a glass mat that acts like a separator. Due to the properties of the electrolytes used in gel batteries, the batteries lose power quickly at temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, whereas AGM batteries work efficiently at low temperatures.

 

3.Gel batteries are best for deep discharge because they are less acid and protect the plates better than AGM batteries. AGM is more compatible where high current is required

 

Building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) are solar power generating products or systems that are seamlessly integrated into the building envelope and part of building components such as facades, roofs or windows. Serving a dual purpose, a BIPV system is an integral component of the building skin that simultaneously converts solar energy into electricity and provides building envelope functions such as:​

Shingled solar cells are solar cells which are cut into typically 5 or 6 strips.  These strips can be overlaid, like shingles on a roof, to form the electrical connections.  The strips of solar cells are joined together using an electrically conductive adhesive (ECA) that allows for conductivity and flexibility.

Shingled solar cell

 

 

 

Shingled solar cell – end elevation

 

 

This allows the cells to be connected differently to conventional solar panels, in that, there are no busbars (ribbons) required and the solar cells can be joined together resulting in no gaps between the solar cells.

 

Shingled solar modules can also be wired differently to conventional solar panels.  Typically, solar cells in conventional solar panels are wired in a series of strings whereas the solar cells in shingled panels can be wired in parallel configuration.

 

 

What are the advantages of shingled solar panels?

Essentially the three key advantages of the shingled solar panel design are they produce more power, improve reliability and are aesthetically pleasing.

 

1. Increased energy harvest

Higher power per square metre

The shingled solar cells do not require busbars across the top of the cells so more of the solar cells are exposed to sunlight.  The cells do not need to be spaced apart like in conventional solar panels so the solar panel area can produce more energy.

 

Comparison between conventional solar panel and Solaria shingle solar panel

 

Less energy loss due to shading

Conventional solar panels have the individual cells wired in series so when a part of the solar panel is shaded it can have a significant effect on the level of power output.  By configuring the solar cells in shingles, they can be wired in groups and configured in parallel which significantly reduces the losses caused by shading.

Current flow comparison

 

Below are some examples of shading and losses for a conventional solar panel and a shingled panel.  The Shingled panels have greater performance except for the vertical shading example.

 

Outdoor shade testing over a 70-day period has shown that the  shingled solar panel performs between 37 to 45% better than conventional solar panel designs.

 

2. Better reliability

 

Low busbar failures

Shingle solar panels do away with approximately 30 metres of busbar and soldered joints that is required on conventional solar panels, so busbar failures are reduced.

 

Better mechanical performance

Static and dynamic load tests show that the shingle approach is more resistant to failure due to external forces being applied to the solar panel compared to conventional solar panels.

 

3. More attractive

Shingled solar panels have no visible circuitry which give them clean simple look providing superior street appeal.

 

 

 

In the face of climate change, the world is evolving rapidly, and it comes an urgent need of sustainable energy solutions. One of the innovative solutions to this global problem is Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV). These solar panels not only serve the dual purpose of providing power and generating electricity for house, but also shaping the future urban infrastructure. Let's rearch deeper for why BIPV is not only a viable option for modern construction, but the preferred choice.

 

 

Benefits of BIPV Panels

 

Building-integrated solar panels offer house owners and businesses a unique solution. They are not just additions to the existing structure; they are embedded within the structure itself. Because they act as both a building envelope and an energy generator, no need for a separate solar installation, providing functionality and aesthetics.

 

Space Efficiency

 

 

Building-integrated solar offers unique advantages in urban environments where space is at a premium. By integrating solar panels directly into building facades or roofs, no additional land or space is required to accommodate large solar farms. This efficient use of space is especially beneficial in densely populated areas. By choosing vertical or rooftop solar installations in urban environments, we can leave more land undisturbed. This approach protects natural habitats and supports biodiversity, unlike large ground based solar farms that sometimes damage local eco systems.

 

Resource Efficiency and Environmental Impact

 

Integrating solar panels into buildings reduces the need for additional materials and space. This means fewer resources are used and less waste is produced. By reducing the amount of raw materials required for construction and installation, we minimize our environmental footprint and pressure on natural resources. Additionally, because solar energy is green and renewable, it significantly reduces buildings' carbon footprint.

 

Design Flexibility

 

A building's aesthetics are an integral part of its appeal, value, and ability to blend in or stand out in its environment. Building-integrated solar panels continue to develop not only as functional components, but also as design elements that can enhance the attractiveness of buildings.

 

Thanks to advances in technology and manufacturing techniques, building-integrated photovoltaic systems can be integrated into a variety of building styles, from traditional to contemporary. This ensures that the integration of solar panels does not compromise the building's original design vision, but rather complements or even enhances it.

 

With modern technologies, roof-integrated systems can be customized to match a variety of architectural styles. Whether you want to integrate with existing roof tiles or achieve a seamless look, you have the flexibility to accommodate any design preference.

 

BIPV offers a range of design options. This includes different colors, textures and opacity. Some BIPV solutions even mimic materials like slate or terracotta, allowing architects and house owners to maintain a specific aesthetic while still reaping the benefit of solar energy.

 

While rooftops are a common site for building PV integration, the technology's adaptability means it can also be used on facades, awnings, or even as part of a building's shading system. This broadens design possibilities and enables architects to think creatively about how and where to incorporate solar power into their designs.

 

Photovoltaic Building Integrated Applications

 

1. Awnings and canopies. Outdoor structures such as awnings. Awnings are ideal for building-integrated photovoltaics, capturing sunlight while providing shade.

 

2. Facades. BIPV facades convert building appearance into energy, blending aesthetics with functionality. Large glass curtain wall can be equipped with translucent integrated solar panels that filter sunlight while generating energy.

 

3. Balcony and terrace. Integrating building-integrated photovoltaics into a balcony or terrace.

 

4. Roof installation. Rooftop installations are the most common application of building-integrated photovoltaics, blending seamlessly with the contours of the building. Here, the roof not only acts as a barrier against the elements, but also acts as a solar generator.

Solar bollard lights bring a fresh perspective to landscape design, combining eco-friendly technology with modern elegance. These solar powered outdoor lights are perfect for creating illuminated pathways, cozy garden corners, or vibrant public spaces, all without the hassle of wiring. Their sleek, minimalist appearance effortlessly blends into various outdoor themes, offering a seamless mix of functionality and style.

 

When thoughtfully positioned, solar bollard lights enhance both safety and ambiance. Whether guiding guests along a winding walkway or spotlighting a flower bed, these solar LED lamps provide a gentle, inviting glow. Adjustable brightness settings allow for a range of effects, from subtle accents for intimate spaces to bright, clear lighting for busy areas like parking lots or patios.

 

What sets solar bollard lights apart is their commitment to sustainability. By harnessing the power of the sun, they reduce electricity usage and contribute to greener living. Modern designs come equipped with efficient solar panels and long-lasting batteries, ensuring they perform well even on cloudy days. For eco-conscious homeowners and businesses, these lights are a win-win solution.

 

 

Maintenance is another area where solar bollard lights shine. Installation is simple, as there’s no need for digging trenches or dealing with complex wiring. Designed with durability in mind, many options are crafted from weather-resistant materials like aluminum or stainless steel. For those seeking an easy-to-manage, stylish lighting option, solar bollard lights are a smart addition to any landscape design.

 

SLD, Solar Lights Do, is a company that specializes in manufacturing and selling high-quality SLD solar lights. We offer a wide range of efficient and durable solar lighting solutions designed for outdoor use. If you're interested, please visit us at www.solarlightsdo.com. 

The foundation is a critical component of solar ground mounting systems, influencing both the stability and overall performance of the project. For aluminum ground mounting systems, two common options are ground screw foundations (helical piles) and concrete foundations, each with unique characteristics that make them suitable for different applications.

What Are Ground Screws (Helical Piles) in Solar Mounting Systems?

Ground screws are a fast and efficient foundation solution, offering simplicity and adaptability in solar installations.

• Key Features:

✅ Minimal site preparation—piles are driven directly into the ground with specialized equipment.

✅ Faster installation time, ideal for large-scale deployments.

✅ Minimal disruption to the environment, making it easier to adjust or remove if necessary.

 

Why Choose Concrete Foundations for Aluminum Solar Ground Mount Systems?

Concrete foundations are a traditional and reliable choice for long-term stability in solar systems.

• Key Features:
  ✅ Provides superior resistance to wind and snow loads, ensuring durability.
  ✅ Widely adaptable to various terrains and environmental conditions.
  ✅ Standardized installation processes involving site preparation and concrete curing.

 

Key Differences Between Ground Screws and Concrete Foundations

Aspect	Ground Screw	Concrete Foundation
Installation Speed	Quick and efficient	Requires longer construction time
Site Preparation	Minimal requirements	Involves ground excavation or leveling
Resource Usage	Lower material transport costs	Higher demand for materials and labor
Flexibility	Easy to remove and reuse	Better suited for permanent installations

 

Choosing the Right Foundation for Aluminum Ground Mount Systems

The choice between ground screws and concrete foundations depends on your project's unique requirements. Whether you prioritize installation speed, terrain adaptability, or long-term stability, the right foundation will ensure your system's optimal performance.

💡 Have questions or need guidance? Our team is here to support you—feel free to reach out or explore our website for more insights tailored to your needs.

Email: info@winsunsolar.com

WhatsApp :  +86 18805065452 / +86 15005991307

Solar Panel Installations on Metal Roofs: Best Mounting Solutions and Key Challenges

With the rise of renewable energy, metal roofs are becoming a popular choice for solar panel installations in commercial and industrial buildings. However, installing solar panels on metal roofs comes with unique challenges like load-bearing capacity, waterproofing, wind resistance, and more. Let’s explore the best mounting solutions to tackle these challenges for secure and efficient solar panel installations.

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Different Mounting Solutions for Metal Roof Solar Installations

When it comes to installing solar panels on metal roofs, choosing the right solar mounting solution is crucial. Here are four commonly used metal roof solar mounting systems, each designed for different roof types and project requirements:

 

1.Rail-based Mounting Solution

The rail-based mounting solution is widely used for securely installing solar panels on metal roofs. It offers strong load capacity and flexibility, making it suitable for various roof types.

For instance, the L-Foot soalr mounting system ensures even load distribution while maintaining waterproofing with EPDM sealing pads.

The Hanger Bolt solar mounting system, on the other hand, provides enhanced stability by securing directly to the roof’s structural beams, making it ideal for high-load conditions.

 

 

2.Mini Rail Solar Mounting Solution

If you’re looking for a more compact solution, the Mini Rail system is an excellent option. Its short rail design reduces material use and transportation costs, making it an efficient choice for many projects. Its cost-effectiveness makes it an ideal choice for companies looking to maximize ROI on solar installations.

This system allows for faster installation and adapts to various roof types. Despite its compact structure, the Mini Rail system is built from durable materials, ensuring long-term reliability and the ability to withstand challenging weather conditions.

 

3.Rail-less Solar Mounting Solution

For projects that require even fewer materials and components, the Rail-less Solar Mounting System offers a streamlined alternative.

This solution eliminates the need for long rails by using brackets or clamps to secure the panels directly to the roof. This reduces both material costs and installation time, making it a practical and efficient choice for many projects.

 

4. Non-Penetrating Solar Mounting Solution

For installations where preserving the roof's integrity is a top priority, the Non-Penetrating Solar Mounting System is an excellent option.

By using clamps that attach to the standing seams or ribs of the roof, this solution avoids the need for drilling or puncturing the roof surface. It minimizes water leak risks and helps maintain the roof's structural integrity, making it a reliable choice for metal roof installations.

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Making the Right Choice

There are many options for installing solar panels on metal roofs. The key is to select the right one based on the roof type and the specific needs of your project.

Have questions about which mounting solution fits your project? Comment below or reach out to us directly—we’d be happy to help. Don’t forget to follow us for more industry insights on solar panel installations.

 

Get In Touch

Email: info@winsunsolar.com

WhatsApp :  +86 18805065452 / +86 15005991307

The continuous rise in global temperatures has made reducing carbon emissions an urgent priority. As the second-largest source of carbon emissions, the green electrification wave has swept through the global transportation industry. Beyond the daily passenger cars of residents, light-duty fleets and heavy-duty fleets account for a larger proportion of carbon emissions.

 

Currently, the market penetration of EV Fleets faces significant challenges. However, from a long-term sustainable development perspective, transitioning to electric commercial fleets is a strategic necessity.

 

Due to their profitability, mission attributes, and organizational operations, the primary reason is that EV fleets face more significant concerns than private passenger cars. At the forefront is range anxiety. Factors such as the timeliness of transportation tasks, long-distance transport, and the large capacity batteries of electric commercial vehicles make range anxiety a major obstacle in the shift to electric vehicles for commercial fleets.

 

Having cost-effective and efficient solutions and EV charging infrastructure to address this concern is a tremendous encouragement for fleet managers and operators. In the long run, it benefits the environment and effectively controls fleet operating costs, which is highly attractive for fleet development.

 

Where does range anxiety come from?

Because batteries power electric vehicles and the battery power entirely determines their range. Therefore, the anxiety and pressure caused by when trying to adopt or use EVs due to the worry or fear that the electric vehicle does not have enough power to support it to reach its destination or a reliable charging station is called range anxiety. It is particularly obvious when long-distance travel is required.

 

However, unlike the flexibility of private passenger cars in route planning, for commercial fleets, fleet managers must ensure delivery time and efficient operation of the entire fleet. Therefore, the challenges brought by commercial fleets' range anxiety will be more, mainly reflected in the following aspects:

· Ensuring the scheduled delivery times and reducing the risk of financial compensation.

· Optimizing transportation route planning before executing tasks.

· Ensuring fleet operational efficiency, reducing the possibility of operational interruptions, lowering operating costs, and increasing profits.

· Reducing the risk of running out of power during service to avoid missing deliveries and lowering customer satisfaction.

Portable EV chargers are flexible, compact, and convenient mobile electric vehicle chargers that do not require installation. Unlike fixed chargers or charging stations, portable EV chargers can be simply plugged into a power outlet to transfer energy to the electric vehicle. In other words, as long as there is a compliant power source, charging can be done anytime and anywhere. They typically include a power plug, control box, charging cable, and a charging connector compatible with them.

 

How can portable EV chargers support commercial fleets?

· Flexibility and Convenience:  Portable EV chargers usually have a user-friendly interface or can connect to mobile apps, and some can even achieve Plug&Charge functionality. For commercial fleets that may face complex situations, they are very easy to operate and can charge vehicles promptly.

· In emergencies: Such as unexpected power depletion or unplanned route changes, portable EV chargers can serve as a backup charging method.

· In remote areas lacking charging facilities: Portable EV chargers can increase range timely, ensuring the fleet meets scheduled delivery times.

· Providing solutions anytime, anywhere: Portable EV chargers provide the necessary conditions for vehicles to charge during temporary stops. The flexible solution increases the possibilities for route planning, improving operational efficiency.

· Benefits for fleet operations: With charging capability always available, driver range anxiety is reduced, enhancing service responsiveness and smoother fleet management.

 

As a professional R&D and manufacturing technology company with over ten years of experience in EVSE manufacturing, Workersbee offers a variety of portable EV chargers designed to meet the different needs of commercial fleets. From product design and development to manufacturing and production, from testing and certification to global localized services, we adhere to innovation, breakthrough, efficiency, and reliability to ensure that we provide customers with the best charging solutions.

 

Workersbee's range of portable EV chargers includes the FLEX CHARGER series, ePort series, Soapbox series, and the newly launched DuraCharger series.

We are very confident that we can provide the following benefits to commercial fleets:

1. High-Efficiency Charging: Various high-power options are available, enabling fast energy transfer, effectively increasing fleet vehicle service time, and reducing downtime.

2. Enhanced Safety: Adherence to safety standards, with chargers featuring multiple safety measures such as real-time monitoring, overheating protection, and overvoltage and overcurrent protection, reducing accident risks.

3. Flexible Operation: With a portable EV charger in the vehicle, the fleet can charge vehicles anytime, anywhere, maintaining high operational efficiency.

4. Cost-Effectiveness: Eliminates excessive investment in charging infrastructure, significantly reducing installation and maintenance costs without sacrificing operational efficiency.

5. Customized Professional Charging Solutions: Our charging experts can provide targeted, efficient, and sustainable charging solutions based on your business characteristics (e.g., daily mileage tasks, service area characteristics, existing charging infrastructure) and other needs.

 

Conclusion

Portable EV chargers play a crucial role in alleviating range anxiety for commercial fleets. They allow for more flexible and convenient fleet operations, reducing dependence on fixed chargers and enabling vehicles to charge in different situations and locations. This effectively enhances fleet reliability and operational efficiency, leading to smoother, more efficient operations, higher customer satisfaction, and greater profits.

 

Workersbee is committed to providing cutting-edge charging solutions that meet the evolving needs of commercial fleets. We sincerely invite fleet operators and managers to explore the advantages of our portable EV chargers and look forward to integrating them into your fleet operations, helping you experience efficient and flexible fleet management while eliminating range anxiety.

 

Contact us immediately at info@workersbee.com to learn how our portable EV chargers can transform your fleet operations and enhance overall efficiency.

Last year in OSAKA PV EXPO, we received numerous inquiries about our carport solutions. Among them, one design has stood out as the crowd favorite - the One-Legged Solar Carport.

 

 

 

True to its name, this carport is supported by a single leg, unlike conventional four-legged or W/N-shaped structures. Crafted from high-quality steel, it boasts exceptional strength and durability, putting all concerns to rest.

 

 

But what sets this design apart? Let's explore its remarkable benefits:

1. The sleek and elegant design ensures a visually appealing addition to any environment.

2. With its space-saving footprint, it maximizes the number of vehicles that can be accommodated, increasing usage efficiency.

3. With its simple structure, setting up this carport is a breeze, enabling you to enjoy its benefits with minimal hassle.

4. The versatile design allows for vehicle entry and exit from various directions, providing utmost convenience.

With the rise of electric vehicles, we understand the growing importance of convenient car charging. Imagine having an all-in-one solution that not only safeguards your vehicle but also harnesses the power of the sun for efficient charging, wouldn't that be incredible?

Whether you own an industrial parking lot or have a parking space at your home or office, we invite you to explore the possibilities of installing our state-of-the-art Solar Carport. Don't miss this opportunity!

Feel free to reach out to us for more information or to discuss your unique needs. We look forward to serving you with the finest solar carport solutions available.