It is anticipated that the two holographic systems will
generate more electricity than the conventional photovoltaic
system under all lighting conditions. Prism Solar's
holographic film replaces most of the silicon cells required
in a solar module to result in a module that is about half
the cost of a conventional one.
Prism's Holographic Planar Concentrator (HPC) acts as an extremely
low-cost concentrator, increasing the energy seen by solar
cells by as much as three times, without mechanical tracking
or the need for cooling systems. HPC film also allows
infrared wavelengths to pass through the module, keeping
solar cells operating near their optimum temperature.
Holographic modules can produce 20 to 40 percent more
energy per watt by selecting the most useful wavelengths of
light and concentrating them onto solar cells. Holographic
modules also allow cells to operate near peak efficiency in
low light conditions, which is especially important in
regions like the Northeast.
“Central Hudson is studying this technology to gain a
better understanding of the characteristics and electric
generating capabilities of solar installations using
holographic film, and, from an economic development
prospective, promote a local firm involved in manufacturing
and marketing a product that has the potential to expand the
use of renewable energy,” said James P. Laurito, President
of Central Hudson.
“As an early-stage company, this opportunity to partner
with Central Hudson comes at a critical point for Prism
Solar to meet its manufacturing goals and bring this
game-changing new technology into the photovoltaic market,”
says Rick Lewandowski, Prism Solar's President and CEO. “We
applaud Central Hudson's continued leadership in advancing
the solar industry in New York State.”
The three 2.5 kilowatt solar systems will be installed at
Central Hudson's Coldenham substation in Orange County, N.Y.
in early fall 2010. A weather monitoring station will also
be installed to measure sun and cloud conditions, sun angle
and other factors that can influence electric generation.
Electrical output and weather data will be transmitted to
Prism and used to analyze the relative effectiveness of the
three panels.
This information will be used by Prism to refine and
market their product, and performance reports will be
provided to Central Hudson. The electricity generated by the
three systems will be delivered over the local electric
distribution system for use by Central Hudson customers.
Visit Prism Solar Technologies at
www.PrismSolar.com
