Longi Launches Anti-Glare Solar Modules for Airports
Longi, a prominent Chinese solar manufacturing company, has revealed its latest innovation of anti-glare solar modules at an airport in China. These cutting-edge modules are designed to offer superior performance while significantly reducing light reflection.
Last week, Longi announced the successful installation of its new Hi-MO X6 Anti-Glare solar modules at an undisclosed airport in China. The company also hinted at the imminent availability of these modules with anti-glare technology in Australia.
Advanced Technology for Reduced Glare
Unlike traditional solar modules that exhibit intense reflection due to metallic silver busbars and blue cell surfaces, Longi’s Hi-MO X6 Anti-Glare module features a matte black cell and sub-micron small textured surface. These unique properties effectively minimise glare and eliminate the need for front-facing metallic busbars.
Additionally, the solar modules are equipped with a nano-scale anti-reflective coating and specially treated glass to further reduce light reflection.
Stringent Testing and Impressive Results
Longi has subjected the new modules to rigorous testing at Singapore’s SAC-certified OTM lab. The tests revealed that the total solar reflectivity of the modules is a mere 0.9 per cent.
Furthermore, China’s National Center of Supervision and Inspection on Solar Photovoltaic Product Quality (CPVT) conducted tests comparing Longi’s Hi-MO X6 modules with conventional TOPCon modules. The results showed a remarkable 74.5 per cent reduction in reflectivity compared to the conventional modules, with a 99.28 per cent decrease in brightness in the busbar area.
Addressing Glare Concerns
With the increasing number of solar installations worldwide, concerns about the reflectivity of solar modules have escalated. While residential installations may not pose significant issues, solar farms and commercial installations are often situated in sensitive areas where glare could have serious implications for safety.
For instance, the Amsterdam Airport Schiphol had to temporarily close a runway due to glare from nearby solar panels affecting pilot visibility. This incident underscores the importance of mitigating glare from solar installations.
Future Prospects in Australia
Given Australia’s landscape and the proximity of commercial and industrial centres to critical infrastructure, Longi anticipates that its Hi-MO X6 modules will offer a valuable solution for Australian solar installers. These modules are designed to deliver competitive performance while addressing the issue of glare.
Renew Economy has contacted Longi for confirmation on the availability of the new Hi-MO X6 modules in Australia and will provide updates accordingly.
Joshua S. Hill, a seasoned journalist based in Melbourne, has been reporting on climate change, clean technology, and electric vehicles for over 15 years. His work with Renew Economy and The Driven has focused on electric vehicles and clean energy technologies.
