
Eco-friendly
Mitsubishi
Electric photovoltaic modules reflect a proactive approach to
environmental regulations, and the determination to supply outstanding
environmentally-friendly products. As a large-scale manufacturer with
a keen awareness of their responsibility to the environment,
Mitsubishi Electric is committed to the development of cleaner, more
efficient manufacturing methods, and actively takes a leadership role.
For example, in January 2003 they became the first among Japanese
crystalline silicon photovoltaic cell manufacturers to begin volume
production of solder-less cells and modules with lead-free solder.
Lead-free solder
Mitsubishi
Electric has made a commitment to protect the environment. They're are
proud to be the first photovoltaic (PV) manufacturer to use lead-free
solder in our modules. While traditional lead-solder modules use about
860 grams of lead, Mitsubishi Electric modules have 0 grams of lead.
Solder-less Cells
Using
newly developed silver electrodes that offer superior weatherproofing,
Mitsubishi Electric has perfected a technology for producing
photovoltaic cells that does not require solder coatings. They've even
achieved higher PV module conversion efficiency, taking advantage of
the new product’s ability to more uniformly reflect the sun’s rays.
Traditionally,
lead-solder coating has been required to ensure that PV modules are
weatherproof and remain moisture-resistant for years on end. By
developing environmentally friendly composite materials and
manufacturing processes for silver electrodes used on the surface of
crystalline silicon photovoltaic cells, Mitsubishi Electric has
succeeded in producing cells that do not require a solder coating.
Five percent energy reduction during manufacturing
They have simplified their manufacturing methods in ways that create a better product while increasing productivity. Reliable, lead-free fabrication techniques that do not use solder coating improve the power efficiency of each individual cell. They also reduce work steps to provide for greater manufacturing yield. Overall, this realizes a five percent reduction in energy use during the manufacturing process.
Eco-factory
Mitsubishi
Electric’s photovoltaic product manufacturing plant is certified under
the ISO 14001 environmental standard, and also features comprehensive
water-conservation and recycling measures. They are advancing
production operations with meticulous care for the environment. In
addition, They use recyclable steel pallets to transport their modules
instead of wooden pallets that break and end up in landfills.
At Mitsubishi Electric, They understand that the key to protecting our planet while improving our lives is to use clean renewable energy, the way nature intended.