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SAINT-GOBAIN SOLAR INTRODUCES LIGHTSWITCH™ PORTFOLIO OF SOLUTIONS FOR PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES
Solutions provide photovoltaic module manufacturers with cost-effective, efficient, and long-lasting options
Worcester, MA (September 6, 2010) – Saint-Gobain Solar, a leading manufacturer of sustainable materials and engineered renewable energy solutions, introduces its new LightSwitch™ portfolio of solutions, including LightSwitch Frontsheet, LightSwitch Encapsulant, and LightSwitch Frontsheet Complete, as well as a design program for photovoltaic (PV) module manufacturers. A high-performance and durable alternative to conventional materials, LightSwitch film products provide PV module manufacturers with enhanced performance, durability, and a reduction in total systems cost. The LightSwitch design program was developed to assist module manufacturers in bringing a lightweight PV product to market.
“The LightSwitch family of solutions, from innovative materials to design and support services, was created to meet growing PV module manufacturing needs,” according to Julia DiCorleto, Business Manager, Photovoltaics & Extruded Films, Saint-Gobain Solar. “As renewable energy becomes a global priority, we continue to develop high-quality, cost-effective products and services that help our customers utilize lightweight fluoropolymer plastics easily, and achieve grid parity.”
LightSwitch Products
LightSwitch Frontsheet is a melt processable fluoropolymer providing superior weatherability and UV resistance, ideal for flexible and lightweight solar modules. Tough and reliable, these highly transparent films provide frontsheets weighing as low as 0.1 kg/m2 that offer outstanding resistance to chemicals and weathering, low flammability, stress crack resistance, and insulating properties. In addition, LightSwitch Frontsheet is surface-treated to ensure superb adhesion to LightSwitch Encapsulant.
LightSwitch Encapsulant provides cushioning and structural support to solar cells and circuitry, while maximizing transmission of sunlight for energy conversion. With outstanding weathering properties, it protects the solar module throughout its lifecycle. LightSwitch Encapsulant is suitable for both flexible and rigid modules, with excellent adhesion to other PV module components.
LightSwitch Frontsheet Complete, a pre-laminate combining Frontsheet and Encapsulant, features all the performance benefits of both with improved production efficiencies, including reduced wrinkles and precise alignment. LightSwitch products can help module manufacturers achieve lowered systems cost with reduced packaging and shipping costs.
LightSwitch Module Design Program
The portfolio also includes the LightSwitch Module Design Program and expert engineering design services for PV module manufacturers. Saint-Gobain Solar offers LightSwitch customers the combined experience and expertise of its design engineers and materials science experts, developing lightweight modules that meet exact customer specifications.
LightSwitch Services
Saint-Gobain Solar also offers testing capabilities, providing its customers access to a state-of-the-art R&D laboratory, as well as manufacturing and service support.
“As part of Saint-Gobain, one of the earliest industrial leaders in engineered material production, we are committed to working closely with our customers as a strategic partner,” says DiCorleto. “Our design and customer service programs allow us to deliver a unique and cost-effective combination of quality and performancefor solar module manufacturers.”
About Saint-Gobain Solar
A worldwide leader in solar energy services, Saint-Gobain boasts a long and successful history in the construction materials market. Nearly 350 years of history, marked by technical revolutions and commercial successes, has made Saint-Gobain an ever-present industry player. Today, Saint-Gobain is combining its traditional field of expertise, housing and construction, with its solar technology know-how. The company's commitment to continual innovation aims to people’s lives more comfortable, economical and sustainable throughout the world. Saint-Gobain Solar reaffirms the company's commitment to making solar energy a springboard of growth and innovation. For more information, please visit
Contact Details
For more information, contact:
Julia DiCorleto
Manager, Photovoltaics & Extruded Films
Tel:+1 (508) 595-3084
E-mail:
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