Manufacturing PowerFilm Solar Panels

We have been manufacturing thin film solar panels for over 30 years.
Take a look behind the scenes into our innovative production process and learn how we turn raw solar film into finished products for companies, the United States military and consumers everywhere.
www.powerfilmsolar.com
Segment produced by Definition Media Ltd as part of the Wicked Inventions series.

[@CanadianPrepper]

Powerfilm is probably the most underrated US company. So many people dont know this tech even exists...

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

Thank you! We appreciate your kind words and support!

[@potencializadordeenergiagr7551]

Brazilian research shows a result impossible to happen due to the law of physics in electric power electricity. It absorbs 35 watts of power and powers the power to 140 watts, consuming only 35 watts of power. kzbin.info/www/bejne/l3bciaCpo56AotE The hope of the world is in our research, who has energy has the power.

[@azazelone905]

That’s probably cuz they don’t need to advertise much. Their biggest client is the US military. Lol

[@dambatta]

Where can one perches these panels

[@jiangsolar1497]

杜鹃花一号 you know too much😀

[@subhasishmajumdar1990]

Beautiful,we are prouded for this type of invitation, thanks sir

[@tangoseal1]

I now own 2 5w 1 10w a 30 w and a 120 w powerfilm. These are great and the customer service they offer is excellent. Trust me sometimes I am a bafoon with solar stuff, but instead of calling me a dummy, PF is patient and worked through all my problems with me, never making me feel like a dummy especially when I thought it was bad panels, but ended up being gear issues on my end when the panels are absolutely golden in performance.... Good job PF!

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

Eric, thanks so much for your comment. Solar can be extremely confusing at times. It's our pleasure to help you make sense of it!

[@OH8STN]

Thank you for sharing this. You have no idea how you've given people more mobility, with the possibility to keep gear and experiments powered up in the field. Thanks again

[@CanadianPrepper]

Nice seeing you here!

[@OH8STN]

Canadian Prepper and you N-. Hope you're well.

[@bagrambill]

Having used this product for over a year it was fun to see how it all came together... Thank you for a great product...

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

Thank you so much for being a customer. We appreciate you!

[@blazeboymilan]

Superb manufacturing technique, i love how the worker passionately built em up. Roll-able solar cell is totally practical especially to counter bad wind situation where you can roll the panel into protective hub and roll out again when the weather is safe. Nice job PowerFilm! All the best for you!

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

Thank you so much! We are passionate about producing reliable portable power solutions!

[@skippyone2769]

if they ever get to the point they can make a sail with these it will be a game changer for sail boating and cruising

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

That would be an interesting application of our solar technology for sure!

[@hadleymanmusic]

Or skin an airplane with.

[@bobreesjr9501]

Tim Nuegent, former President of PowerFilm Solar gave me a tour of the plant in April 2010. He is an investor in my Bubble-Worm, LLC. I used PowerFilm's thin film flexible solar panels on my prototypes for my solar charged laptop and mobile phone invention. My patent applications has pictures of them that were taken by my patent attorney in 2013.

[@drextrey]

Solar charged laptop sounds like a bad Idea, at day its difficult to see anything on the screen which mean you need to crank up the backlight and cost more power and heat. Also most laptop user would prefer to be indoor anyway. But a solar charged portable energy generator might be better, with power sockets, detachable powerbank/batteries and rollable solar cell films. So you can charge it in sunlight and move the batteries/powerbank indoors or use it when needed. This will not limit the specs of the laptop as you can use whatever laptop you wanna use, instead of using Factory specs which often limited and difficult after sales services.

[@PREPFORIT]

Interesting factory. Good to know it's clean and organized. 👍🏼

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

Thank you! Gotta keep it clean!

[@CanadianPrepper]

Nice seeing you here!

[@dre04mach]

That fabric at 3:33... seems like just the right size RV awning I need... :D

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

Absolutely! Our solar material can integrate into a seemingly endless number of materials. Let me know if you have any questions!

[@katokirizesitomumusunbires1259]

Thank you my teachars

[@adayinthelife5496]

Great product! I hope it unlocks a new market.

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

Thanks so much for the kind words! We are excited for the future as well.

[@QUADBOYification]

Seems the choice of fabric is the main headage. For military applications it is obvious but as a really foldable and flexible lightweight sheet, they gotta change it to something much thinner.

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

Thanks for the comment. We work with all different kinds of encapsulations and substrates. You are correct that the encapsulation/substrate is essential in achieving the thinnest possible panel that's also protected from the elements.

[@jerzyszustakiewicz6193]

Thanks,/ respect.

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

Our pleasure!

[@yalcndurmus6423]

❤❤❤❤

[@ajipowerinnovation5202]

very nice product

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

Thanks so much!

[@nafisahmed1944]

im very excited

[@massimomarcato2535]

Hello, thank you for sharing this video! Are you using ETFE film as durable and flexible frontsheet?

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

Thanks so much for the comment. Yes! We often use ETFE film.

[@massimomarcato2535]

Thank you! I am getting in touch because we do produce ETFE films!

[@jerbearnone2012]

I can not understand why they are so expensive.the more I research about solar cells. I should just visit them since I live a state away.

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

A lot has to do with the fact that the manufacturing is being done exclusively in the United States and we aren't producing the same volume of solar material as say, SunPower. If you are ever in the area please feel free to reach out to Marketing and Communications Manager, Seth Hansen at: [e-mail] to set up a tour!

[@jerbearnone2012]

PowerFilm Solar that is probably what I’ll do.

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

Sounds good. Have a good rest of your day.

[@JonathanoQo]

Well China is talking all the credit now since they're Mass producing these things films & solar roof shingles made of this tech. maybe they bought the patent or something, these ideas that benefit us should be supported more & given government subsided just to boost this tech overall. It's what they're doing.

[@diggydice9041]

My 1st impression is a good one.... lol, but idknow very much as I'm just researching the solar arena. I don't mind paying more for a quality product. Gotcha bookmarked.

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

Thanks so much. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions at all!

[@diggydice9041]

@@PowerFilmSolarEnergy ~ yes, my design idea is centered around a mobile truck/trailer system. I envision having the panels on a roof of the RV but because of the nice thin solar material I think I can make a slide out array of panels. Thin material is a plus in my book. Does your company have a Store/link to see the product line or is it all a "made to order" business? ty for responding .... many don't.

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

​@@diggydice9041 you can see our standard products as well as our custom capabilities by visiting our website: www.powerfilmsolar.com we specialize in custom solutions and helping folks just like you take a product to market. If you'd like to continue the conversation please send me an email: [e-mail] and we can go from there. Thanks!

[@robinmukesh3379]

Hello Can we apply it on Building Glass Façade ? if yes, i need some samples for testing it and do the feasibility study

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

Robin, thanks so much for reaching out. The applications we focus on are primarily portable. Would this be a building integrated solution? If you could email me at [e-mail] with more details I can share more information about the material. Thanks!

[@mustaphaaitbaali8614]

👏👏👏👏😉👍🏿

[@marcmacbeth]

I am interested. May I ask how much would it cost as well as its power rating. thank you.

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

Marc, sorry it took a few weeks to get back to you. We offer many different products that you can see here: www.powerfilmsolar.com/products/foldable-solar-panels/ if you take a look at that web page and let me know if you have any questions I would love to assist you.

[@rinardsilvosainnovativesol2272]

I need bare cells for my project. How can I make order in a convenient way? Can you at least provide us a link where to make orders? Thank you so much!

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

Rinard, thanks so much for reaching out! If you could send me an email at [e-mail] and tell me a little more about what your needs are I can direct you to the best place to make a purchase. Thanks!

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

Rinard, were you able to reach out? I haven't received an email from you.

[@Sruthiprathi]

Do u guys have international market? Any feedback available from the users?

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

We do international business, yes. Are you looking for a specific application type that we've had success with? Feel free to email me at: [e-mail] and we can talk further. Thanks!

[@redfish7302]

What is the efficiency of the panels?

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

In general, amorphous is between 5-7% efficient. We specialize in lightweight solutions where a user has to carry their power source with them.

[@InnovativeSustainableSolutions]

Is there any data available on how these hold up over time? I'm sure your aware that thin flexible solar panels get a bad reputation for being very unreliable over time. At $10/watt it needs to have superb output AND reliability to be a competitive product. Having said that I am interested.I use flexible PVs to power my EV

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

Great question. We have panels that are in the field anywhere from 10-20 years. The key factor for longterm performance is encapsulation. If it's going to be outdoors and exposed to the elements daily we would select an encapsulation that would be able to weather those conditions. Here's a post we wrote on the importance of encapsulation for solar panels: www.powerfilmsolar.com/about-us/the-horizon-blog/2018/03/09/sealing-the-deal-why-encapsulation-matters If you have more specific questions I'd love to help answer those for you. You can send me an email at: [e-mail]

[@theodoreroberts3407]

I'm interested! Flexible solar, yes. Now, cost and contact.

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

Thanks so much for reaching out! Our flexible material is roughly $10/Watt. Please feel free to email me at: [e-mail]

[@theodoreroberts3407]

@@PowerFilmSolarEnergy I have copied all information provided by you. Thanks for getting back to me.

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

@@theodoreroberts3407 absolutely! Please let us know if you need anything at all. We are here to help.

[@florindagonzalez5700]

Which solar panel do I need to get close to 200 watts that works for the eb70s from bluetti?

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

Thanks so much for your comment. I would suggest our 160W Crystalline Foldable Solar Panel: www.powerfilmsolar.com/products/foldable-solar-panels/160-watt-crystalline-foldable-solar-panel

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

Please let me know if you have any additional questions. I am happy to assist.

[@florindagonzalez5700]

Thank you for your reply. I've made a purchase. :)

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

Please let us know if you ever need assistance!

[@florindagonzalez5700]

Hello, powerfilm. So, I ordered the 120 foldable panel. What is the connector called that fits the port in order to connect it to a bluettie battery?

[@stevenlawhon3695]

Any way to weatherproof your panels or cables?

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

Absolutely! We offer waterproof versions of our products that are IP67 rated. Are you interested in a specific panel size/power?

[@stevenlawhon3695]

@@PowerFilmSolarEnergy When i can afford them i will be buying the 120watt model with the inergy flex system, glad to know there weatherproof.

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

@@stevenlawhon3695 our Foldable series is water-resistant, but if you were to get the panels wet, just hang them to dry completely before folding and storing them. Please let me know if you have any additional questions!

[@stevenlawhon3695]

@@PowerFilmSolarEnergy Many thanks good to know

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

@@stevenlawhon3695 Absolutely. Please let us know if you have any other questions. We are happy to help!

[@glenbartholomew1058]

What happens to the reject cells?

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

My apologies for not getting back to you sooner. We recycle as much as possible and also will sell panels that aren't up to spec at a discounted rate at tradeshows we attend. Please let me know if you have any additional questions.

[@glenbartholomew1058]

@@PowerFilmSolarEnergy What tradeshows do you attend?

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

The best place to see what tradeshows we will be attending is the upcoming events portion of the website: www.powerfilmsolar.com/about-us/upcoming-events/

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

@@glenbartholomew1058 you can see all the upcoming events we will be attending here: www.powerfilmsolar.com/about-us/upcoming-events/

[@doubt-go4wx]

well interesting solarizing lives,wish i can be one f the solarizers

[@AtlasReburdened]

What's done with the panels that fail check?

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

That's a great question. We do our best to ensure that the overwhelming majority pass spec, but there are always those that don't. Many times if it's an OEM module it is scrapped but if the panel has been built into a finished product (i.e. 120 Watt Foldable Solar Panel) we will sell that product at a trade show for a discount with the understanding that it is either slightly low electrically or there is a cosmetic issue. Thanks so much for the question!

[@AtlasReburdened]

Thank you for the response. I like that you guys sell finished products that sub spec at discount, that's pretty nice of you, but I accidentally said panels when I meant cells or modules. You mentioned those get scrapped if they fail check and I understand that with laminated technologies repair is an improbable topic, but do you think a skilled technician could get some of those cells operational, and if so is there any way I could acquire some for cheap to play with?

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

Thanks for your message. Do you have a specific application in mind? We might be able to provide samples.

[@AtlasReburdened]

Well, if they're modules that are rejected for simply not producing at spec I can imagine them still being viable for many lower power applications like micro weather stations, keeping a trickle charge on stored lead acid batteries, or perhaps even powering nodes on mesh net style communications networks, and I would be eager to test that out because they seem like they would still be environmentally robust due to the quality of the manufacturing and materials. If they're ones that failed as nonoperational, then my interest is purely in exploring the failure modes and testing procedures to restore limited operation. What can I say, I'm a field repair tech at heart, and the thought of useful tech falling to waste makes my skin crawl just a little. I would be more than happy to record and report any substantive findings.

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

What's a good email for you? We can chat there directly.

[@nightlightabcd]

The production method of this will do for initial production but would never fill a big demand rate!

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

I appreciate your comment but respectfully disagree. We have a track record of fulfilling different order sizes both large and small. You can prototype with our design team and ramp-up to full-scale production when you are ready. Please don't hesitate to reach out should you ever need a custom solar design.

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

@Will Swift Will, thanks for the comment. Automation can be incredibly powerful, and we are always interested in optimizing our efficiency. We appreciate the feedback!

[@SolarizeYourLife]

Do you use transparent aluminum?

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

We do not, but thank you for the question!

[@LucknowEventFriends]

What's the cost of this manufacturing set up ? Are you open to licensing the manufacturing ? N why a human being to solder the panels, why isn't that automated ?

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

Thanks so much for reaching out. We are always open to new ways of utilizing our manufacturing capacity. Please send me an email at: [e-mail]. As for hand-soldering, the majority of the work we do is very custom and smaller runs. Look forward to speaking with you!

[@muhamadhabibi9484]

Where is can i buy this item?

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

Thanks so much for reaching out. You can learn more about our products here: www.powerfilmsolar.com. Please let me know if you have specific questions that I can answer!

[@muhamadhabibi9484]

PowerFilm Solar actually, im interesting to sell in my country, Indonesia. Do you can sent us a sample this item. Im ready to be a distributor or agent in Indonesia. Because, Indonesia is The Big Market Potential for solar energy. Especially flexible solar. Thanks

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

Muhamad, please send Marketing and Communications Manager, Seth Hansen, and email at: [e-mail] and he will get you more information on what it takes to be a distributor.

[@muhamadhabibi9484]

PowerFilm Solar Thank you for your information.

[@researchair7693]

Are bare cells available for experamental applications?

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

We have a full line of OEM panels that are available for purchase visit: www.flexsolarcells.com to learn more.

[@vannakeo6602]

How can we order this solar panel ?

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

You can see the different panels we offer and where to purchase them on our website: www.powerfilmsolar.com. Here is a link to our distributors: www.powerfilmsolar.com/explore/how-to-buy/distributors please let me know if you have any additional questions. I am happy to assist you.

[@bikramchoudhary8724]

Might chaya ketna ma mela ga

[@CPatwal]

oonki wedsite padho aur dekho kitna mey padegaa !

[@innovationindia6130]

I wants to purchase diler cell in india give me quotation minimum quanto minim prisease

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

Apologies for my late reply. What product are you interested in?

[@mrblack9791]

if over stock airsoft unaprov is this line

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

Thanks for your comment, but I'm not sure I understand what you mean. Is there anything I can do to assist you?

[@tohirincupaxkreatif4791]

Bisa untuk topi....kipas mini

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

Is there anything I can do for you?

[@tohirincupaxkreatif4791]

@@PowerFilmSolarEnergy the first to see sollar cell film,my be in Indonesia nothing yet

[@sammy5576]

i heard they produce 1/4 the power

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

Hey, Samuel. Amorphous silicon is between 5-7% efficient compared to 15-23% for crystalline silicon. So you are correct in many cases. The biggest benefit of our amorphous silicon thin-film material is durability, weight, and shade performance (check out this video to see how shade can affect different solar panels: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fILWpoJ3pNSYgaM) If you are looking for higher efficiency, something like our line of Soltronix panels would be perfect (www.powerfilmsolar.com/products/soltronix-solar-panels/). These are crystalline silicon solar panels backed on fiberglass with integrated charge controllers for easy connection to batteries. Please let me know if you have any questions. Happy to help!

[@sammy5576]

@@PowerFilmSolarEnergy Hi thanks for the reply .i guess the selection of material strongly depends on the application this technology is quite amazing on that note could you recommend a reputable retailer for flexible solar film preferably in a tape form thanks

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

@@sammy5576 we manufacture flexible panel with adhesive backing if that would work for you? Send me an email and we can talk about different options. My email is [e-mail] Thanks!

[@gurpreetsinghgill7228]

❤multi🎉,janctiton.❤jangal❤,books😊

[@krishangopal7045]

Hi sir, I'm starting my new business for that i,m searching a good solar panel film. Searching all over the internet I found about your product. Can me help me out where I can buy this

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

We can absolutely help you! If you would send me an email we can get the process started. My email is [e-mail]

[@Emptiness-]

Frank sounds a bit like Bill Gates

[@8Jory]

Not trying to bash them here, but they really need to improve their production efficiency. Far too many humans need to do too much of the process. I'm not saying this to suggest getting rid of people's jobs. I'm trying to say they should make even more solar panels with the same number of people.

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

We appreciate the feedback and agree that automation is crucial. We are always looking for ways to improve!

[@8Jory]

@@PowerFilmSolarEnergy My hope is that one day your products can become so ubiquitous and inexpensive that portable solar setups just get called PowerFilms. Like Kleenex for tissues, and Dumpster for garbage bins. I would apply for a job with you guys if I lived close enough, though I have more experience in health and safety than I do in lean manufacturing. 13 years of kaizen events have made me look at everything from an efficiency perspective, sometimes to my detriment... 😖

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

​@@8Jory becoming that ubiquitous is the dream!

[@kalyaniaditya2225]

But, does this technology works on par with other cristalin technology being used by other companies through out the world. This point may be clarified. Bye.

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

Great question! Amorphous silicon is more flexible, durable, and portable than crystalline but is less efficient (between 5-8%). If you are looking for an ultra-light solution, amorphous is an excellent option. If you were looking for something more efficient, and weight and portability aren't significant concerns, crystalline options are ideal.

[@sarahjrandomnumbers]

Shame they're so expensive, that people go with cheaper tech instead.

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

We are always trying to increase our efficiency, but you are correct. If cost is the primary driver for a person we most likely won't be a good fit. Thanks for the comment!

[@spencermeyers2158]

Very interesting video! I love how flexible they are, what do they cost? Where do you get your plastic components? www.clarkrandp.com/ ?

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

Thanks so much for your comment. Cost is going to be dependant on what specific product you are looking for. You can see all our products here: www.powerfilmsolar.com/products I'm not sure about plastics but can check if you let me know what specific product you are interested in. Thanks!

[@user-zq6kg9qp5m]

Китайцы вас опустили.

[@joseangelseverino8113]

Too many words and informative propaganda on KZbin, what I need is cost of this flexible photovoltaic technology for home. Everyone says it costs less, so what is the cost per watt?

[@joseangelseverino8113]

[e-mail]

[@PowerFilmSolarEnergy]

Thanks so much for reaching out. Our technology is not intended for use on rooftop installations and is ideal when the power / weight ratio and portability are important. As a general rule we are about $10/watt We also offer crystalline solar modules with integrated charge controllers that are still portable but less expensive: www.soltronixsolar.com Please let me know if you have any additional questions.