Midsummer to offer CIGS-based building integrated photovoltaics
Partnership with Clix Steel Profile AB to provide complete solution for metal roof systems
Midsummer, the Swedish provider of equipment for making flexible CIGS solar cells, has announced the launch of a complete solution for building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) metal roof systems with the Swedish company Clix Steel Profile AB.
Midsummer has developed a rapid process for the production of flexible thin film solar cells using sputtering of all layers of the solar cell. This allows for scalable and cost-effective manufacturing of thin film solar cells.
Midsummer has teamed up with Clix Steel Profile AB, which has developed a metal roof system that is certified for slopes as low as 5°. The system is said to have a unique fixing principle for its steel sheets and competitive pricing for DIY or professional use.
"We can now offer certified BIPV products with great aesthetics. The roof plates are produced with integrated lightweight flexible panels using any type of coated steel. The lightweight, flexible panel from Midsummer is integrated already at the factory, thereby reducing installation time and cost. All connectors are well protected for snow and ice and easily accessible if necessary", said Sven Lindström, CEO of Midsummer.
Each panel is mounted on the roof plates using elastomeric butyl adhesive tape. The tape is designed to provide tack and adhesion under outside condition in the field.
The standing seam roof is then installed by linking the roof plates together in one step. Finally, the PV-modules are connected to a system with standard connectors. All connectors and junction boxes are hidden under the ridge capping and well protected for snow and ice. It can easily be accessible if necessary. There is no visible connectors, cables or junction boxes when the roof installation is complete, according to the company.
Midsummer continues to develop its unique way of manufacturing flexible thin film CIGS solar cells on individual stainless steel substrates. The company's DUO deposition tool is now a proven commercial product and its R&D focus has been on increased cell efficiency, lightweight flexible modules and integration of these modules into roofing elements.
