An important factor for reducing BOS costs is the bigger size of the new sub-modules They are 1.85 meters high and 1.2 meters wide, with three modules assembled. “This enables a more cost-saving mounting structure with reduced materials and with it reduced variable BOS costs up to 30 percent”, Asali told pv Europe. Negotiations with different structure suppliers are currently under way.
Faster mounting speed
Additionally, BOS costs can be reduced through faster mounting speed, First Solar Technical Director Europe stresses. Though at present he cannot provide figures about that. “But there is a substantial potential”, Asali says. With a share of roughly 40 percent of total system costs reduction of BOS costs is a crucial factor to make solar electricity even more competitive.
Important factor also financing costs
“But we should not forget to consider financing costs when we talk about bringing costs for solar further down”, Asali stresses. They can account for up to 30 percent of the entire costs. Though lending rates are low in many parts of the world, they still differ significantly between different countries also due to the stage of development of the solar market.
Shift from C-Si to Series 5 production
Yesterday First Solar disclosed that it will end production of its TetraSun crystalline silicon solar panels at its Malaysian plant. The fab will be converted and dedicated to its CdTe thin-film Series 5 module assembly requirements and be operational in 2017, the company announced. (HCN)
http://www.pveurope.eu/News/Solar-Generator/First-Solar-presents-its-new-365-W-Series-5-glass-glass-module-at-Intersolar-Europe
https://www.pveurope.eu/solar-modules/neoen-and-first-solar-deliver-solar-electricity-006-kwh-zambia
