Greentech Lead America: SunPower Corp., a manufacturer of
solar cells, solar panels and solar systems, has started producing its third
generation SunPower Maxeon solar cell (Maxeon). This solar cell delivers
sunlight to electricity conversion efficiency of up to 24 percent.
SunPower’s new Maxeon all-back contact solar cell
measures 160 mm in size and produces more energy per square meter when compared
to conventional crystalline solar cells. The new cell has low reverse-bias breakdown
voltage to deliver better performance in shady and dusty conditions, and better
temperature coefficient for increased energy harvest in hot environments. The
new Maxeon solar cell offers improved aesthetics with a consistent, homogenous,
sleek black look.
“With the new Maxeon solar cells, offering
efficiencies of up to 24 percent, SunPower continues to lead the industry in
technology innovation, delivering to its customers the highest efficiency, most
reliable solar panels for guaranteed performance,” said Tom Werner,
SunPower
president and CEO.
The new Maxeon solar cells are currently being integrated
into select SunPower solar panels that deliver efficiencies exceeding 20
percent. These panels contain up to 128 solar cells per panel and will be
availability in limited quantities in 2012.