ICS, a Finnish high-tech company specialised in optical solutions, has developed and patented technology that significantly enhances solar energy economics and claims to 'bring solar energy to the front line of sustainable energy solutions on a global scale'.
“We have found a way to capture and very precisely redirect light beams,” explained Kari Rinko, CTO at ICS. “Our SEO film technology is based on embedded cavity optics, which is not exposed to external influences or contamination and therefore lasts as long as the solar panel itself. The SEO film is as effective as if the optics would be mounted on the whole surface of the solar panel.”
The SEO film technology has proven to be more effective than any previously introduced and tested light capturing methodology.
“We found a way to absorb light rays and transmit them very precisely,” explained ICS CEO, Kari Rinko. “Our SEO film technology is based on integrated cavity optics that are not exposed to external influences or contamination, and therefore have the same lifespan as the solar module itself.”
“We use an ultra-thin film produced in a cost-efficient roll-to-roll process” Rinko said. “Thus, our technology is truly scalable and ready for seamless industrial adoption on a global scale. This unique technology platform determines and enables the new sustainable energy goals for the whole photovoltaic industry.”
What kind of film is the technology based on?
“Our current film is made with PET,” said Rinko. “However, it can be made with other material, too.”
ICS’s SEO technology focuses on controlling and redirecting more sunlight into the solar cells – not on the structure of the mono- and poly-crystalline silicon cells themselves.
“The SEO film solution enhances the amount of light that is led into the solar cells,” Rinko explained. “The solar panels will get the immediate benefit, since more sunlight contributes to a more powerful solar panel.”
The SEO solution has been tested by independent third parties like the Fraunhofer ISE. Their tests concur with ICS’ own experiments confirming a boost in the range of 5 – 10 percent for conventional solar modules.
“One distinct feature of the SEO film solution is that the film layer is applied only on the surrounding rims, either onto the top or the bottom glass,” Rinko noted. “Since it does not cover the entire surface of the solar cells, it offers economic benefits given the saving in material costs.
The ICS SEO Film is produced in a highly economical roll-to-roll process.
ICS’ technology platform is based on internal light capture optics that utilises optical micro-nanopatterns embedded inside of the layer or coating.
“We are developing the technology further to enhance the energy boost and value creation potential of the whole platform, with subsequent generations for all types of solar panels and thin films,” Rinko said.
“The SEO film solution comprises multiple benefits, such as a transparent and black reflector with 80% reflectance and 30% energy gain in transparent and translucent solar panels. It is also applicable for flexible thin film solar panels with significant energy gain.”
The priority right now is to launch the initial production of the SEO film and successfully commercialise the product.
The ICS team has led and been the key contributor to multiple successful technology partnerships.
"Now we are ready to move to the next stage on our exciting journey," said Rinko.