Global Solar™
GSE Solar Power Modules - 6 Watt
CIGS Glass Solar Panels

The GSE Solar Power Module uses high efficiency thin-film Copper Indium Gallium DiSelenide (CIGS) solar cells encapsulated in advanced polymers. This is the next generation of solar panels intended for off grid applications needing reliable lower wattage power designed to last for years.

Product Features:

GSE Solar Power Modules use Copper Indium Gallium diSelenide (CIGS) technology:

• High efficiency thin-film technology
• Cell efficiency increases after outdoor exposure
• Highest daily energy yield per rated watt
• Proven outdoor reliability
• CIGS technology has no light-induced degradation
• CIGS technology is superior under low light level conditions
• Operating voltage designed for optimal charging of lead-acid batteries
  

Physical Features: Lightweight design including frame Standard frame for easy installation Low iron tempered glass for maximum light transmission and weather resistance Sealed junction box with lead wires for easy installation in the field Highly rated lead wiring to prevent premature aging of covering and insulation

Performance Warranty: GSE Solar Power Modules performance warranty provides: - 1 year limited warranty on workmanship and materials - 10 year limited warranty on power output

Specifications Electrical Characteristics* Thermal Characteristics Dimensions and Weight Maximum Power 6 W Power (%/C) -0.5 Length 17.88" Current at Operating Voltage 0.38 A Voltage (%/C) -0.5 Width 9" Operating Voltage 15.8 V     Thickness .83" Open Circuit Voltage (Voc) 23 V     Weight 2.8 lbs Short Circuit Current (Isc) .45 A         *Data at Standard Test Conditions (STC) STC: irradiance level 1000W / m2, spectrum AM 1.5 and cell temperature 25o C

CIGS cells are self-repairing, say researchers

Researchers at Israel's Weizmann Institute believe they have solved the mystery of why CIGS (copper indium gallium diselenide) solar cells are so stable and long-lived, even when subjected to the rigours of extreme radiation in space - they repair themselves. New Scientist (28 August) reports that David Cahen and his colleagues used intense X-rays to probe CIGS and CIS (copper indium diselenide), which have similar properties. They found that some of the chemical bonds can be broken quite easily, freeing copper atoms to wander through the crystals.

The material repairs itself, Cahen believes, because of the natural tendency of the copper atoms to distribute themselves evenly and at great speed. They spread into damaged spots in the crystal, where their presence fixes the problem. Cahen finds it remarkable 'that you can have a high-quality electronic material with these atoms running around.'

CIGS cells have a higher efficiency than other thin films. Self-repairing cells should last much longer than other materials, greatly enhancing their use in certain applications, particularly long-term space applications. At least one simulation suggests they could keep on working for hundreds of years. Cahen and colleagues' findings are published in Advanced Materials (vol 11, page 957)