Frequently Asked Questions
What does Skyline Solar do?
Skyline Solar manufactures integrated concentrated photovoltaic (CPV) systems, incorporating industry-proven silicon cells, durable mirrors and single-axis tracking into easy-to-deploy energy solution. Please take a look at our videos and project profiles.
Are Skyline systems available for installation today?
Yes! Skyline has had systems in the field generating power since early 2009 and we are now accepting orders for our new X14 system.
What makes Skyline’s approach unique?
Skyline’s patented architecture is unique in terms of completeness of solution and performance.
Completeness of Solution: Skyline combines at least a dozen different features into a total systems solution. We reduce cost and improve performance in every step of the product life cycle from materials to manufacturing, shipping, installation, operations and maintenance and end of life recyclability. The main parts of the solution include our panel, reflective rack, single-axis tracker and optional remote monitoring.
Performance: Skyline’s X14 systems generate 20 times more energy per gram of silicon, and provides similar energy density and output, when compared to single-axis tracked non-concentrating silicon PV systems.
How does Skyline achieve 20 times the energy from a gram of silicon?
Skyline achieves 20 times the energy from a gram of silicon through tracking and concentration. Our mirrors concentrate sunlight by a factor of 14, and tracking provides the remainder of the performance improvement. Our design also uses a novel convection cooling system on the back of each panel to improve energy output.
If you're concentrating 14 times more sunlight on your solar panels, won't they wear out (or degrade) much faster than solar panels that don't use concentration?
Not at all. Ultraviolet (UV) light and heat are the primary causes of deterioration in solar panel performance. We use an encapsulant (the clear material that separates the solar cells from the top glass) that does not degrade or discolor in UV light. In addition, our systems include cooling fins that remove heat from the back of the PV panels using natural convection. As a result, our cells operate at temperatures similar to those of traditional flat PV panels without concentration. We confidently warranty our systems for 25 years.
Can you tell me what the performance is for each array and how many acres are required per megawatt?
Performance is site specific and is available to potential customers upon request. Energy density is similar to leading single axis tracked silicon PV systems.
Who are Skyline Solar’s target customers?
Skyline is working with developers and installers of grid-connected utility, industrial and commercial systems. Target end customers include commercial, industrial, education, government and utility customers in sunny climates. Ideal locations include California, the US Southwest, Southern Europe, the Middle East, Southern Africa, Australia, Northwest India and some parts of China.
Are Skyline's systems designed for the residential market?
No, our systems are not intended for the residential market.
How much power can a Skyline X14 solar power plant produce?
Skyline’s systems architecture is ideally suited for systems ranging from 100 kilowatts to many megawatts. There is no fundamental limit on how large the plants can be.
How much does the X14 system cost and what is the warranty?
Pricing is available to potential customers and Skyline offers an industry-leading 25 year warranty. |
