Japanese electronics giant Kyocera now leads the world in terms of PV module production

Assisted by a buoyant home market - a direct reflection of strong government commitment to, and support for, PV technology - Kyocera's production rocketed from just over 15 MWp in 1997 to almost 25 MWp in 1998. Output from the company's Yohkaichi manufacturing facility could exceed 35 MWp this year.

The firm is demonstrating it's confidence in its own products by offering long-term warranties on its latest generation 'KC' power modules. This guarantees performance at or above 80% of rated power for a period of up to 25 years, otherwise the unit will be repaired or replaced.

The company recently moved into a brand new 'environmentally friendly' headquarters in Southern Kyoto: the building incorporates many energy-efficient concepts, but the most striking feature is the PV-façade which extends almost the full 95 m height of the south wall. The 1 392 façade integrated modules, which are tilted at 75 degrees (15 degrees of vertical) to maximize energy capture, together with a further 504 roof-mounted panels have a peak power of 214 kWp. This is equivalent to 112,5% of the building demand. The system is expected to generate nearly 183 000 kWh/year, avoiding almost 100 tonnes of CO2-emissions when compared to petrol fuelled generators. This facility is one of the participants in the PV Field Test Programme for Industrial Use.

Information

• Kyocera Solar Energy Division
  Fax: +81 75 604 3475.

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