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Efficient Sun HarvestingINKOSOLARSTARTEDOUTasamanufacturerofingotsandwafers—thebuilding CREDIT: © UNION OF CONCERNED SCIENTISTS 2014; WWW.UCSUSA.ORG/SEALEVELRISE
blocks of solar panels. This approach gave the company an advantage when Making the Most. The Eagle MX module from
they began manufacturing whole panels, says Jeff Juger, director of business JinkoSolar is a good choice for roofs that are
development for JinkoSolar. partially shaded or that have less than ideal
southern orientation.
“Many manufacturers specialize in cells and modules, and purchase the ingots
Jand wafers from a third party,” says Juger. “To me, it has been a natural progression
to focus on the quality of the building blocks first.”
Though JinkoSolar entered the solar panel market later than some of its peers, the company
is making up for it with robust growth, both in the U.S. and globally. In 2012, the company sold
10 megawatts worth of panels in the U.S.; in 2015, the number jumped to 1,000 megawatts,
or 1 gigawatt.
JinkoSolar’s products showcase several
technologies that make their panels
among the most efficient and reliable.
Here are a few of them:
Optimized Modules. Each 60-cell MX
module includes three cell optimizers,
which allows optimal Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) on each cell string. In practical
terms, this means that if one part of the module is soiled or shaded, the rest of the module
can still perform optimally.
A PERC for Solar. Some of JinkoSolar’s modules feature Passivated Emitter Rear Contact, or
PERC technology. This technology enables a higher conversion efficiency by reflecting light
that has passed through the cell back through it again, where it can generate more electrons.
The Power of One. JinkoSolar grows its own monocrystalline ingots. These ingots are more
difficult to grow, but are capable of higher efficiencies. Combining this with PERC technology
has enabled JinkoSolar to develop their most efficient solar modules yet.
www.jinkosolar.com
resistant barrier. Durable fiber cement siding from Allura finishes Learning Curve. Applying spray foam and exterior finish materials to
the exterior in those areas. the curved structure of The Arc House presented some challenges.
The combination of spray foam, polyiso and the acrylic roof
coating creates a superior envelope that minimizes air leakage and
thermal bridging and achieves an insulation value of R-40. Super-
efficient R-5 windows from Alpen complete the envelope.
Because of its long form, and the fact that one of the long walls
includes much of the glazing, The Arc House can be oriented to take
advantage of passive solar gain. Built-in awnings keep the home from
overheating in the summer.
All other things being equal, The Arc House has an advantage
over larger homes, as a small space requires less energy to heat
and cool than a larger space. Efficient HVAC and appliances also
contribute to lower energy demand. The HVAC system relies on
an efficient ductless mini-split heat pump from Carrier. Ceiling
fans from Emerson can help distribute air during both the heating
and cooling seasons, for more efficient use of conditioned air. The
fans also help create better airflow when using natural ventilation.
Featuring Emerson’s EcoMotor, these fans are extremely energy
efficient, requiring a maximum of just 33 watts to operate. The quiet
and durable DC motor is capable of six speeds.
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