Scope

Context

The scientific evidence for man-made changes in the earth’s climate as a result of greenhouse gas emissions (in particular CO2) is now generally accepted. In January ’07, the European Commission recommended new targets to cut their collective greenhouse gas emissions by 20 percent from the 1990 level by 2020 with the ambition to go to a 30% cut if other non-EU states are prepared to collaborate. The 27 European Union member governments approved these new targets at the Spring Council meeting of EU heads of government (March 8th ’07)

In January 2008 the European Commission proposed binding legislation to implement the 20-20-20 targets , i.e. 20% less greenhouse gas emissions, 20% better energy efficiency and a 20% share of renewables) with the 1990 level as baseline . This ‘climate and energy package’ was agreed by the European Parliament and Council in December 2008 and became law in June 2009 . Photovoltaic solar energy (PV) is an essential component in the strategy to meet the ambitious EU 2020 targets.

The investment cost for Solar PV installations relative to the electrical output of the modules is a major barrier for large-scale application of virtually all PV technologies. Therefore, module cost (Wp installed) should decrease, power output should increase and modularity, simplicity of installation, flexibility in utilization and system integration should improve.

Concept

SuMMiT demonstrates the manufacturability of a novel PV Module technology that will result in higher efficient PV modules with record power output that are smart, have a record large size, and further incorporate the following features: lightest weight per m² PV, durability, multi-functionality (e.g. PV-thermal), lowest cost, lowest carbon footprint, easy to install (Plug & Play), easy in operation and designed for mass production techniques. This technology is applicable for distributed energy generation as well as for large power plants and has the potential to become the new global benchmark in terms PV conversion efficiency and lowest costs Wp installed.

The simplicity of installation and utilization, applicability, performance and durability will be validated in 5 to 6 field demonstrations.