We need to take care of our planet. Governments and other organizations have tried to increase public awareness of global warming and energy issue. As we all need to focus on renewable energy, companies are using the technology to help our planet.
For example, the focus of the Automotive World trade show in Paris (aka Mondial de l'Automobile 2010) is clearly green. Almost every manufacturer is going to present its latest "green invention". I was especially impressed by the latest Chevrolet Volt which vehicle's wheels are always driven electrically by an electrical drive unit.
Solar Cells rocks!
If we think in using less energy or cleaner energy we also have to think about how to produce it. One of the ways to produce green energy is to use solar cells. Yes, I know, some of you will say that producing enough energy for all of us would take a lot place. Well, yes and no actually. For instance, you can place solar cells on the roof of your house or your car. Some countries are already using it for standalone devices like parking meters, etc.
For sure this type of systems is going to get more and more attention from everyone and not only to save the planet but also to save money.
Big companies already providing energy like Total and GDF are well aware of that. They support Photovoltech, a spin-off of IMEC (Interuniversity Microelectronics Center). Total owns 50% and GDF the other 50% (through Electrabel (47,5%) and Soltech (2,5%)).
Growing to produce more energy
Photovoltech has already finalized a new factory and started up a new fully automated production line. They will be able to host over time a capacity of up to 500MWp. From now on, the capacity is already 155 MPWp/year.
In order to control this new production and be more efficient they are going to use Intercim software solution to ensure optimal performance. They will be able to control in real time the wafer characteristics, while they are being manufactured.
These tools will enable them to create better operating conditions to increase the solar cell performance and adjust the parameters during production if, for example the raw materials change, without having to change the manufacturing process specifications.
Don't hesitate to share your personal or professional experience with "green" energy in the comments section.
Alexandre