17 December 2010

Avancis’ PowerMax CIS PV module obtains MCS certification for UK market

Avancis of Torgau, Germany (a subsidiary of Saint-Gobain of Courbevoie, France since autumn 2009), which makes thin-film photovoltaic modules based on copper indium selenide (CIS), has completed key certification assessments for its PowerMax product line to ensure entry into the UK market.

The modules have been awarded the MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) certificate, after having also recently passed salt water and salt spray certification tests. The panels are thus certified as being suitable for use in systems along coastal areas and are provided with incentives under the UK feed-in tariff system, the clean energy cash back scheme.

The MCS certificate has been awarded by the British Standards Institute (BSI), certifying that the panels comply with all approval conditions for sale in the UK. The British certification mark is an independent, internationally recognised symbol of product quality and safety. In addition to strict product tests, the certification process also involved inspection and certification of the production facilities themselves.

Before obtaining BSI certification, the PowerMax panels passed the German certification body TÜV Rheinland’s salt spray test in compliance with IEC 61701, meaning that they are specifically suitable for use in coastal areas, as they offer particularly effective resistance to salt water and salt spray.

“Thanks to its favourable performance in weak light conditions and the superior sensitivity spectrum of CIS technology, PowerMax offers British PV system operators optimum energy efficiency and high yields, even at low levels of sunlight and under diffused light conditions,” says quality director Dr Tom Clarius. “The MCS certificate and the particular suitability of our modules for use in coastal areas ensure that we are ideal candidates for the British market as well as for other countries with coastal regions,” he adds.

PowerMax panels are also certified in compliance with IEC standards 61646 and 61730 and are approved according to the strict requirements of the American UL 1703 standard. The CIS panels are also designed for areas exposed to high wind and snow loads, and are able to withstand 551kg/m.

Avancis also works with a large number of distributors who market PowerMax panels in the UK.

Tags: Avancis CIS PV module

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