Wuxi Suntech & Taiwan Carbon Nanotube Technology Developed World's First Carbon Nanotube Photovoltaic Module Frame

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Apr 16, 2015, 07:59 ET

HONG KONG, April 16, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Wuxi Suntech Power Co., Ltd. (Suntech) announced today that in partnership with Taiwan Carbon Nanotube Technology Corporation (TCNT), it has successfully developed the world's first low-cost and highly reliable carbon nanotube photovoltaic module frame. Suntech and TCNT have partnered together, merging Suntech's high-quality and high-efficient photovoltaic modules with TCNT's high-strength carbon nanotubes to deliver a new high-end, cost-saving technology to the solar industry.

The carbon nanotube photovoltaic module frame, co-developed by Suntech and TCNT using high-strength carbon and glass fiber composite materials weighs half that of the traditionally-used aluminum module frames. In addition, the new module frame possesses unique properties, such as flexural strength measuring 339MPa. The integrated plastic components provide the carbon nanotube photovoltaic module frame with the ability to resist corrosion and eliminate potential induced degradation (PID) problems, which has long been a challenge for photovoltaic power plants. The carbon nanotube photovoltaic module frame not only delivers a great cost-saving advantage over the traditionally-used aluminum module frames, but its non-reflective black module frame provides a wider scope of use and a distinct advantage under extreme weather conditions. The modules have already passed numerous testing criteria including the IEC61215 standard testing, IEC61701 salt mist corrosion testing, and a high-strength mechanical load test up to 5400Pa at minus 40 degrees Celsius.

Mr. Xiong Haibo, President of Wuxi Suntech said, "together with TCNT, we have successfully developed a new type of carbon nanotube photovoltaic module frame -- a revolutionary innovation from traditional metal frame modules. The research and development of these modules required us to overcome significant technical challenges, but through the integrated partnership of the two teams, we developed this breakthrough product. We are very pleased to be able to provide customers lightweight, cost-effective photovoltaic modules with greater reliability and no PID problems, once again fully reflecting Wuxi Suntech's competitiveness in core innovation as well as market demand-oriented business strategy. "

Mr. Eric Luo, CEO of Shunfeng International Clean Energy Limited (SFCE), the parent company of Suntech said, "I am proud to celebrate this major accomplishment between Suntech and TCNT, introducing a new and more efficient photovoltaic module frame. Suntech remains a global leader in the solar industry and this new product demonstrates how we continue to develop new technologies that help us maintain that position. SFCE is committed to expanding its solar product lines as part of its service offerings to deliver low-carbon energy generation, transmission, distribution, sale, and smart application. SFCE has diversified its business through the acquisition and integration of major global clean energy brands, expanding and integrating its solar, wind, ocean power, and ground source heat pumps businesses. In combination with additional capabilities in energy storage and smart micro grid technology SFCE has become a leading global player in EPC operation and maintenance services as well as integrated clean energy solutions."

Mr. Eddy Tsai, CEO of Taiwan Carbon Nanotube Technology Corporation (TCNT) said, "We are honored to establish a partnership with the world's best solar company, Wuxi Suntech, providing it with aerospace grade carbon nanotube technology. We jointly developed leading global technology and product advantages which can further meet market needs, and enhance the value of the PV industry."

About SFCE

Shunfeng International Clean Energy Limited (SFCE) is committed to becoming the largest low-carbon, integrated, clean energy generation provider globally. Through strategic acquisitions and integration, SFCE owns a number of well-known product and technology brands in the industry. SFCE fosters a continuous improvement in energy generation including in solar, wind, ocean power and ground source heat pumps, combined with energy management and storage capabilities. SFCE aims to provide clean energy solutions to large scale public and commercial users such as business facilities, data centers, hotels, large scale public facilities, industrial enterprises, office buildings, schools, hospitals, sports stadiums and households. SFCE's energy solutions can achieve energy cost reductions of 50% - 70%, creating energy generation choices for its customers to reduce both carbon emissions and energy costs.

About Wuxi Suntech Power Co., Ltd.

Wuxi Suntech Power Co., Ltd., a company incorporated in the PRC in January 2001, produces industry-leading solar products for residential, commercial, industrial, and utility applications. Suntech has delivered more than 30 million photovoltaic panels or 9 GWs of installed capacity to more than 1 thousand customers in more than 80 countries. Suntech's pioneering R&D creates customer-centric innovations that are driving solar to grid parity against fossil fuels. Suntech's mission is to provide reliable access to nature's cleanest and most abundant energy source.

About Taiwan Carbon Nanotube Technology Corporation

TCNT, located in the Hsinchu Science Park in Taiwan, is one of the most professional nano carbon materials production and application company. It provides 30 tons of carbon nanotubes, and is the world's largest company with production capacity of 250 tons of graphene. TCNT Composite Materials Division developed the world's strongest carbon nanotube, carbon fiber and glass fiber composite materials. It can now supply photovoltaic module frame composite components 2GW annually, and in 2016 its capacity will be enhanced to more than 5GW of composite components.

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SOURCE Wuxi Suntech Power Co., Ltd.