Lightweight photovoltaic modules based on plastics leads to upto 60% weight reduction when compared to a glass-glass module same size. Sunovation GmbH in collaboration a MAGE SunFIXINGS GmbH has developed a module with a size of 6m2 and a maximum power of 880W, weighing only about 80 kg- a 60% weight savings compared to a glass-glass module same size. The record-module features a size of 1.58m x 4m (roughly 62” x 157”). With a U-value of < 1 W/m2K, the module comes with excellent heat insulation properties. The carrier sheet of the hybrid-module consists of a polycarbonate fivefold sheet and the upper sheet consists of the new – specially designed for solar applications. Due to state-of-the-art combination of these high performance plastics, the module offers optimum parameters. It comes with outstanding structural properties, can withstand high mechanically applied loads and excels with its durable highly transparent and scratch-proof surface. Between carrier sheet and upper sheet the module bears 216 mono crystalline 6” cells from Q-Cells, with an efficiency of ~17.2 %. The specially developed Sunovation-technology brings the components into a permanently elastic interconnection. This lightweight high-tech-module is integrated into a frame structure from Mage SunFIXINGS, the international specialist in the field of high quality mounting systems for façades and roof constructions. The low weight of the SUNOVATION® Module allows a delicate and self supporting architecture. Reduced structural requirements regarding the under-construction eventually lead to cost-reductions. Due to the flexibility of this technology regarding weight, shape, colour and design, lots of new possibilities for the integration of solar modules will arise. Other developments for photovoltaic module manufacturers include: Saint-Gobain Solar has launched a new ‘LightSwitch’ portfolio of solutions, as well as a design program for photovoltaic module manufacturers. A high-performance and durable alternative to conventional materials, these film products provide PV module manufacturers with enhanced performance, durability and a reduction in total systems cost. The LightSwitch design program was developed to assist module manufacturers in bringing a lightweight PV product to market. It offers PV module manufacturers new materials that retain performance criteria for long-life and also enable new products to be developed to meet different applications. LightSwitch Frontsheet Complete is a pre-laminate that incorporates two Saint-Gobain Solar products -- LightSwitch Frontsheet ETFE and LightSwitch Encapsulant EVA -- in one convenient package. Frontsheet Complete delivers on the benefits of its two components, as well as improvements in productivity and reduced cost. LightSwitch Frontsheet is a melt processable fluoropolymer providing superior weatherability and UV resistance, ideal for flexible and lightweight solar modules. Tough and reliable, these highly transparent films offer improved resistance to chemicals and weathering, low flammability, stress crack resistance, and insulating properties. It is also surface-treated to ensure superb adhesion to LightSwitch Encapsulant. LightSwitch Encapsulant provides cushioning and structural support to solar cells and circuitry, while maximizing transmission of sunlight for energy conversion. With outstanding weathering properties, it protects the solar module throughout its lifecycle. It is suitable for both flexible and rigid modules, with excellent adhesion to other PV module components. Combining the latest innovations in materials science with manufacturing expertise, LightSwitch fluoropolymer films provide a viable alternative to conventional materials. Using films, module manufacturers can significantly increase production efficiencies and achieve total system cost reductions, moving closer to grid parity. Inherently durable, fluorpolymers provide excellent life-cycle performance and efficiency. DuPont offers the DuPont Teflon film. The film is used in the making of solar panels for portable applications and grid-connected systems. The Teflon ETFE and FEP fluoropolymer films are strong and lucid thermoplastics and can be conveniently used as protective front covers for the solar modules. The inherent features such as light weight, durability, flexibility, increased power output quality and easy to clean facility made the films more suitable for protecting the solar PV sheets. Teflon films are considered as viable alternative for traditional glass protection materials. The film offers increased level of light transmittance to match the operating frequency range of solar cells for increased power output. The flexible film is less delicate than glass and continues to work without changes in the power output level for a longer duration. The light weight Teflon film when used over a 1600mm x 800mm module weighs less than 150 gm in comparison with a glass front sheet weighing more than 10 kg. The thin Teflon film offered by DuPont remains flexible without corner chipping and sharp edges and allows easier installation. The Teflon FEP film has inherent fire resisting nature and lower combustion features to stop spreading of fire and protects the solar panels. The ETFE films are surface treated by utilizing a unique patented process for increased bonding to EVA. The increased dielectric strength of the films makes them efficient insulators. The Teflon film offers increased protection against moisture penetration for increased power generation. The FEP films are available in 2, 3 and 5 mm thickness and the ETFE materials are available in 2 mm 5 mm thickness. Its inherent weathering characteristics make Teflon® a good substitute for glass in the frontsheet of photovoltaic modules. It brings a very high level of light transmittance in the operating wavelength range of the solar cells. It is lighter and less fragile than glass and shows very little degradation over a long period of time. It also offers excellent mechanical strength, reliability, and flexibility to conform to non-standard shapes - while maintaining its structural integrity. Teflon is lighter and less fragile than glass, has high level of light transmittance, less degradation over long periods of time, excellent mechanical strength and extreme flexibility.