KYOCERA ANNOUNCES LAUNCH OF MONOCRYSTALLINE SOLAR MODULES FOR RESIDENTIAL USE IN JAPAN

In the Japanese residential market, there is strong demand for high-output solar modules in order to generate electricity efficiently on limited rooftop spaces. In an effort to respond to these needs, Kyocera has been conducting R&D in monocrystalline solar modules, which feature higher power generation efficiency compared with polycrystalline modules, and plans to raise the conversion efficiency of its monocrystalline cells from 19% to more than 22% within the next few years. Having established the technology to ensure high quality and long-term reliability, the company will begin fully supplying monocrystalline modules in addition to its current polycrystalline modules.

In addition, Kyocera has succeeded in developing polycrystalline silicon solar cells with a conversion efficiency of 18.6%*, exceeding the company’s record (17.8%) by 0.8%. The company began the world's first mass production of polycrystalline silicon solar cells in 1982, and in December 2011 achieved a conversion efficiency of 17.8%, an industry record at that time. The new conversion efficiency of 18.6% was achieved through the enhancement of crystal quality, improvement in the electrode process and reduction of carrier recombination. Sales of the further enhanced polycrystalline silicon solar cells will commence this summer in Japan.

Kyocera will become the only company carrying out mass production of both monocrystalline and polyicrystalline solar modules from the manufacture of cells in Japan. The new modules will allow the company to further meet customer needs and enhance production techniques by applying its expertise between monocrystalline and polycrystalline module productions.

At the moment, the new modules will only be available on the Japanese market.

* Conversion efficiency for mass-produced polycrystalline silicon solar cells

For more information about Kyocera: www.kyocerasolar.eu