Glasstec 2008 to Focus on Photovoltaics and Solar Thermal Energy

Solar energy will be a major topic at glasstec 2008, the international trade fair that will be held October 21–25 in Düsseldorf, Germany.

In addition to the traditional exhibitor segments such as laser technology, functional coatings, technical glass, bent glass and special glass, this year’s glasstec will be devoted to the themes of photovoltaics and solar thermal energy. Already, the number of exhibitors from these sectors has doubled compared to the last time the event was held, in 2006. Among the companies set to exhibit are Centrosolar, Solarwatt, Scheuten Solar and Schott Solar. Exhibitors from the mechanical engineering sector include Grenzebach, Reis Robotics, Lenhardt and Bystronic.

The theme of solar energy will also be covered in a seminar program which will be held in conjunction with the fair. For the first time, two of the five conference days will exclusively deal with photovoltaics and solar thermal energy. The themes discussed will include solar glass, solar modules and methods of building integration.

The glass industry is expected to present numerous new solutions concerning solar energy. The focus will be on thin-film modules for photovoltaic systems that offer a very promising alternative to conventional silicon solar cells as they consist of a layer of just a few thousandths of a millimeter. This saves material and allows fast and cost-effective production processes.

The solar energy industry is also an extremely interesting market for glass machinery manufacturers, since glass is used for the permanent protection of functional surfaces in both solar energy and photovoltaic systems (for example, ultra-white special glass ensures increased efficiency of the solar modules).

For the cell, module and primary product manufacturers in the solar energy sector the application of powerful, efficient and reliable production technology is of special significance due to the growing number of providers worldwide. Trend-setting, future-orientated concepts from the machinery and plant manufacturers help to proactively counter cost pressure, increase efficiency and reduce product rejection quotas in the long term. Technology thus becomes a key for securing competitiveness on the solar energy market.

CLICK HERE for more information about glasstec 2008.

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