Materials-by-design approach to nanotechnology coatings optimise energy generation and prevent surface contamination
Cambridge, UK 7th November 2017 Opus Materials Technologies Ltd, industrial coating specialists, together with TWI Ltd, global leaders in nanotechnology engineering and research, are in the advanced stages of developing a ground-breaking anti-soiling, self-cleaning & durable industrial coating for application onto solar panels.
Branded as Solar Sharc
Senior representatives from Opus were invited to showcase their material-by-design approach to the coating development at the first global workshop on the subject, hosted by DEWA (Dubai Electricity and Water Authority) research and development centre and NREL (the National Renewable Energy Laboratory). The PV anti-soiling workshop ran alongside the world-acclaimed WETEX exhibition, which took place at the Dubai World Trade Centre from 23-25 October.
According to industry reports, surface contamination of solar modules leads to a significant loss in solar irradiance, which can reduce their total power output by up to 50% per month. Such large energy losses have a direct impact on O&M costs, energy security as well as reduce the perceived benefits of investing in solar energy.
Solar Sharc
Solar Sharcl ageing.
Opus Materials Technologies are already in negotiations with major players in the renewable energies industry, and a beta trial is underway at the DEWA Solar Test Facility of Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park in Dubai.