Solar PV Panel Manufacturer Plans Series of High Efficiency Frameless Solar Modules for the Smart Grid

Lake Mary, FL, November 2, 2010 – Advanced Solar Photonics (ASP), a leading manufacturer of mono-crystalline PV modules, solar generators, and racking systems for residential, commercial, and utility applications, today announced the development of its SmartModule™ series, a new solar technology featuring a thin glass bi-facial PV flat PV module that generates greater energy harvesting and higher efficiencies.

The Smart Modules feature a lamination of laser cut, high efficiency glass layers resulting in a lighter, more elegant design capable of generating electricity from the direct sun as well as defused sunlight. The product design is a frame-less glass-to-glass PV module that is optimized for use in utility grade applications. They are designed to withstand weather extremes such as snow, hail, and wind while being more cost effective than traditional framed modules.

Smart Module Technology overcomes all energy losses generating up to 15% more energy while resolving other conventional solar PV system drawbacks.

“The Smart Module series is the next generation of photovoltaic (PV) modules designed for the Smart Grid. It supports a 21st century electric system that can connect everyone to abundant, affordable, and reliable electric power, anytime and anywhere” said Lawrence Hefler, spokesman for ASP.

Bi-facial crystalline semiconductor technology performs well in high temperature, direct, diffused, and low light situations. It dramatically increases the energy harvesting over the lifetime of a solar project, driving the cost of energy production down and generating incremental revenue for solar farms. ASP Smart Modules are undergoing rigorous safety and reliability testing to achieve the major certifications in safety, performance, mechanical, and wind load parameters. They will be in production in the first quarter 2011.

Advanced Solar Photonics (ASP) is manufacturer and R&D center of mono-crystalline PV modules and solar generators for residential, commercial, and utility applications. Based on the latest cell efficiency, light transmission, and encapsulation technologies ASP PV modules are among the most advanced and efficient industrial solar energy generating devices available. ASP focus is high power PV modules ranging from 250 watts to 800 watts. Located in a 220,000 square foot facility near Orlando, Florida, ASP is one of the few manufacturers of US-made mono-crystalline silicon PV modules suitable for the Buy America Act.