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Issues Facing The German Solar Industry: 10GW Backplane Aging Problem

Nov 15, 2023Leave a message

Germany has long been known worldwide for the development of its solar industry and its sustainable energy policies. Recently, however, a worrying issue has emerged in this leading solar market, namely backsheet aging. This article takes an in-depth look at this challenge to understand the causes, impacts, and solutions.

Background on backplane aging issues

The backsheet of a solar module plays an important role in protecting and supporting the solar cells. However, some German solar systems have experienced aging issues with their backsheets, particularly those using three-layer polyamide backsheets that were widely deployed between 2010 and 2013. These backsheets become brittle and prone to cracking, resulting in reduced solar module performance.

potential impact

It is estimated that about 15% of Germany's solar capacity, equivalent to 10GW, may be affected by backsheet aging issues. Not only does this lead to high replacement costs, it also poses serious safety risks. Affected solar modules may create electrical shock hazards in wet weather and be more likely to cause fires.

Detection problems and solutions

To address this issue, scientists have conducted extensive testing and plan to release a new standard for solar module safety later this year. This standard will help identify, classify and evaluate backplane defects and track changes in these defects. Detection methods include visual inspection and the use of advanced techniques such as non-destructive spectroscopic analysis.

Early detection and necessary repair and replacement measures are critical for affected solar systems. However, the issue is not just detection, but also addressing warranty and reimbursement issues. Some manufacturers may avoid warranty liability, necessitating legal action to resolve disputes.

Glass - Advantages of Glass Components

Some people choose to replace damaged components with glass-to-glass components because damage to these components is easier to detect during shipping and use. In addition, glass-to-glass components typically have longer lifespans and lower performance degradation rates, resulting in greater returns for long-term operations.

in conclusion

The backsheet aging problem faced by the German solar industry not only poses a threat to the energy industry, but also involves safety risks. Early detection and repair measures are critical, as well as enhanced legal protections to ensure reasonable compensation for repairs and replacements of affected solar systems. Going forward, investors should carefully select component types and negotiate warranty and compensation terms in contracts with manufacturers to reduce potential risks.

Solving this problem requires an industry-wide effort to ensure the sustainability and safety of solar power systems. The German solar industry needs to face this challenge and take the necessary steps to ensure that it continues to lead the renewable energy sector.

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