SOLARAWARDS2011 WINNERS
In Detail
Upsolar ensures premium module output via its vertically- integrated “Excellence at Each Step” manufacturing philosophy. The process begins at Upsolar’s Test and Development Centre in Shanghai, where a team of PV experts performs meticulous testing on all module components before selecting the top-tier performers as its suppliers.
The next level of testing evaluates prototype modules ability to withstand extreme environments, including temperature variations, high moisture exposure and subjection to ultraviolet rays to optimize both performance and durability. When these prototypes are confirmed to operate at a level consistent with Upsolar’s high standards, the company then proceeds with commercial-scale production.
Employing an “asset-light” model with scalable resources, Upsolar can adapt its products in a short timeframe without extra capital expenditure when new technologies are introduced. Manufacturing is kept lean and efficient, as Upsolar works closely with trusted partners around the world. The company stations quality control experts at its satellite manufacturing facilities to provide assistance and oversee each step of production. After one final round of sample testing, Upsolar’s modules are dispatched worldwide.
Innovation
Whereas many module producers focus primarily on lowering the cost of their products, Upsolar’s objective is to bring down costs without compromising on quality. The Upsolar team works closely with its component suppliers and manufacturing platforms to oversee the quality of its products at every point in production. Resources allocated to exceeding standard quality requirements represents an unyielding commitment to the end- product and therefore, the end-user. “Excellence at Each Step” simultaneously brings down costs and increases quality, while leaving adequate flexibility to absorb innovations into the final product.
When Introduced
Upsolar has used this process since it was founded in 2006. Customer Benefits
In addition to the best quality/cost ratio available in the industry, customers express satisfaction in Upsolar’s continual product development. Development of products with power output, aesthetics, performance maximization and mounting designed based on the needs of different markets allows Upsolar to pass on its expertise on optimal module performance customers worldwide.
Note from the Judges: The majority of module manufacturers can be placed into one of two categories: Low-cost/low-quality, or high-cost/high-quality. This leaves a considerable gap for customers looking to implement quality solar systems at
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www.solar-pv-management.com I Issue IX 2011
a reasonable cost. When the solar and PV industries are discussed much of the attention is on the top end of the market and often fails to acknowledgment the breadth of opportunities available.
Whereas many module producers focus primarily on the cost of their products, the winning company works closely with its component suppliers and manufacturing partners to oversee the quality of its products at every point in production while keeping an eye to cost as well and has developed vertically- integrated, precise manufacturing processes that rigorously tests each step ensures its customers receive high-quality modules at competitive prices.
Turnkey Supplier Award
Technology and System Capability
M+W Group globally covers the complete added value chain for Photovoltaics with consulting, design, construction and project management, from poly silicon plants to cell and module factories as well as PV power plants. The scope includes the turnkey design, build and technical set-up from smaller pilot lines through to large-scale PV plants, be it c-Si or thin film technology. Currently the scope has been extended to the design of float glass lines with emphasis on the specific requirements of the PV industry.
With more than 10 GWp manufacturing capacity designed and built M+W Group is a global market leader in this sector. With a staff of more than 6,000 people spread throughout five continents. M+W Group is able to keep pace with the clients growth strategies and to offer localized expertise around the world. M+W Group had the honour of providing continuous design/build services and accompanying their PV customers on their way from start-up companies to the top ten list of PV players. The high amount of repeat customers emphasizes clients’ satisfaction with M+W Groups work.
Challenge: The main challenges for high volume PV manufacturing sites are: - Reduced running costs by advanced engineering as well as by energy saving and recycling technologies. - Smart design to ensure minimum investment. - Using a smart logistic concept to reduce working capital. - Fast track approach to reduce time to market. - Meeting and exceeding EHS and quality standards. - Smart phasing concepts towards multiple GW sites Thanks to its global network of engineers and specialists, M+W Group can make available its
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