Lighter, cheaper solar modules

A European consortium has just received €1.3 million from the EU, to support the research project LIMES - Light Innovative Materials for Enhanced Solar Efficiency.

The consortium will develop glass and new coatings to improve the physical properties of the cover material of PV modules (photovoltaic solar cell modules).

Furthermore, novel toughening techniques of thin glass will be investigated, and prototypes will be assembled.

There is a global drive to lower the cost of solar generated electricity. Currently, 3mm glass is the predominant cover of solar modules and it implies 30% of the price.

Reduction of encapsulant materials can help to minimise the foot print of the solar panel by reducing costs over the whole chain from raw materials to installation.

LIMES aims at promoting excellence in research and innovation in order to enhance the competitiveness of the European industry and increase the energy produced by sustainable solar power in the future.