PPG Industries (NYSE:PPG) has introduced Solarphire PV glass, a product designed to maximize solar energy transmission for photovoltaic modules.
A proprietary glass formulation gives Solarphire PV glass greater clarity than leading competitive products in its class, which allows it to transmit more solar energy and, thereby, increase the energy efficiency of solar cells.
Because of its exceptional clarity, Solarphire PV glass delivers enhanced transmittance in the ultraviolet/visible portion of the solar spectrum, between 350 and 1100 nanometers, where crystalline photovoltaic cells are most responsive to the sun’s energy. This clarity is the result of a proprietary glass formulation that allows Solarphire PV glass to transmit more solar energy than leading competitive products, which increases the energy efficiency of solar cells.
Victoria M. Holt, PPG senior vice president, glass and fiber glass, said Solarphire PV glass exemplifies industry initiatives that protect the environment and promote alternative forms of energy. “By creating products that help to keep homes cooler and to improve the energy efficiency of commercial buildings, PPG is committed to making glass an integral part of America’s ongoing sustainability efforts,” she said.
“Solarphire PV glass represents another major advance because it makes the collection of solar energy more efficient, thereby reducing the cost of solar power and making solar technology more attractive to power companies, investors, government entities and other stakeholders.”
Solarphire PV glass is the cornerstone of a series of photovoltaic glass products PPG will be introducing to the solar power industry. To complement Solarphire PV glass, PPG will continue to offer Solarphire glass in its original cerium-inclusive formulation, which maximizes the service life of solar components by reducing UV light transmission.