Vikram Solar modules among the top performers of 2017

The quality of the photovoltaic modules manufactured by Vikram Solar has convinced the authors of the PV Module Reliability Scorecard Report 2017. Vikram modules were ranked among the best products in three of the five categories tested in the report. The report is published by the leading global certification body DNV GL.

The DNV GL Module Reliability Scorecard Report has been published for the third time. This year’s edition saw products from 22 module manufacturers undergo comprehensive testing in five categories. The report aims to deliver well-founded information on the long-term reliability of solar modules.

Vikram modules scored above average in highly accelerated stress tests of dynamic mechanical load and damp heat at high ambient temperatures, as well as under humidity freeze tests which represent frosty conditions in regions of Europe, North America and Asia. Such aggressive tests can have a detrimental effect on the lifespan of solar modules. Damp heat prevails in many of the sub tropical countries where Vikram markets its solar modules. Similarly, dynamic cyclic loads are often caused by wind or snow, and can lead to cell cracks and other damage in extreme cases, especially in high windy regions of the world.

“Long-term functionality of solar installations is becoming more and more important in order to create differentiation with our competitors. Optimal manufacturing operations without defects and malfunctions helps to guarantee that every module that comes out of our factories have the same class leading reliability features as demonstrated by the modules tested in DNV GL labs. With our modules, customers can be confident their solar power plants will run for a long time without any problems. It is clear that our investments in state-of-the-art production technology and our quality strategy are really paying off,” says Ivan Saha, BU Head - Solar Manufacturing of Vikram Solar.

The machinery consists of DESERT production machines for high-efficiency DESERT solar modules built specifically for extreme hot climate, such as can be seen in deserts or in tropical areas. Made solely in Germany and built using the latest in DESERT and TROPIC module production, the systems inlcudes all cutting-edge technology.

Certified DESERT solar modules, DESERT containers, DESERT power plants and DESERT manufacturing machinery built using pioneering DESERT and TROPICS technology are now fully set up, and ready to perform. But powering on the machinery has been a long time coming. Up until recently, this advanced piece of equipment had been waiting for clearance at a port in Brazil. Now that the formalities have been dealt with, both J.v.G. Thoma and its customer in Brazil can get production under way.

J.v.G. Thoma GmbH is a company whose vision has always been to harness the infinite power of the sun and convert it into an inexhaustible supply of energy. But a vision such as this requires global reach, and this project has opened new doors. Brazil is not only a gateway to South American cooperation, but also the launchpad to international reach and expansion.

Following the delivery of this initial order, J.v.G. Thoma GmbH will be looking forward to an ongoing collaboration with the Brazilian company. From setup and initial training to setting the scene for a ramp up, J.v.G. Thoma will be there to provide expertise and assistance. Moreover, the company will be jointly responsible, along with the client, for the successful integration of the DESERT solar module factory.

In the future, bigger DESERT power plants will be set up on Brazilian soil, and together with existing turnkey production systems, they intend to take up a large share of the products and assets this sector will possess locally. J.v.G. Thoma plans to build up a local network of sales agents that can extend a premium offering to neighbouring countries in South America. Eventually, the company hopes to be able to expand its customer base to clients in North America.

Hans Thoma, general manager from the Thoma-group, is eager to acquire a substantial market share in Brazil, a growing country with tremendous potential for solar energy output. Having complied with local official procedures (Inmetro, TÜV, Fraunhofer CSP) and cleared the way for future business collaboration, he expresses his hope that the solar industry will henceforth expand quickly.

”Being able to introduce Brazil to the infinite opportunities of a solar industry is a privilege for J.v.G. Thoma GmbH, and one that we are extremely grateful for. At the same time, this placed the ball squarely in our court, and the pressure to get the ball rolling quickly was high. Now that the lengthy initial formalities are out of the way, we can focus on making this project a success.“

The first DESERT solar module production in BRAZIL! Let

Source: Vikram Solar