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Abstract: http://ieee-pvsc.org/ePVSC/core_routines/view_abstract_no.php?show_close_window=yes&abstractno=738
Antireflection and SiO2 Surface Passivation by Liquid-Phase Chemistry for Efficient Black Silicon Solar Cells
Hao-Chih Yuan1, Jihun Oh1, Yuanchang Zhang2, Oleg A. Kuznetsov2, Dennis J. Flood2, Howard M. Branz1
1National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Golden, CO, United States
/2Natcore Technology, Red Bank, NJ, United States
We report solar cells with both black Si antireflection and SiO2 surface passivation provided by inexpensive liquid-phase chemistry, rather than by conventional vacuum-based techniques. Preliminary cell efficiency has reached 16.4%. Nanoporous black Si antireflection on crystalline Si by aqueous etching promises low surface reflection for high photon utilization, together with lower manufacturing cost compared to vacuum-based antireflection coating. Ag-nanoparticle assisted black Si etching and post-etching chemical treatment recently developed at NREL enables excellent control over the pore diameter and pore separation. Performance of black Si solar cells including open-circuit voltage (VOC) and short-circuit current density (JSC) and blue response has benefited from these improvements. Prior to this study our black Si solar cells were all passivated by thermal SiO2 produced in tube furnaces. While this passivation is effective, it is not yet ideal for ultra-low-cost manufacturing. In this study we report, for the first time, the integration of black Si with a proprietary liquid phase deposition (LPD) passivation from Natcore Technology. The Natcore LPD forms a layer of 8- to 10-nm SiO2 on top of the black Si surface in a relatively mild chemical bath at room temperature. We demonstrate black Si solar cells with LPD SiO2 with a spectrum-weighted average reflection lower than 5%, similar to the more costly thermally-grown SiO2 approach. However, LPD SiO2 provides somewhat better surface passivation quality according to the lifetime analysis by the photo-conductivity decay measurement. Black Si solar cells with LPD SiO2 passivation also demonstrate higher spectral response at short wavelength compared to those passivated by thermally grown SiO2. With further optimization, the combination of aqueous black Si etching and LPD could provide a pathway for low-cost, high-efficiency crystalline Si solar cells.
_________________________________________________
NRELs record efficiency was 18+%. With the news last week about reduced reflectance to almost nil and the fact that LPD provides equivalent or better surface passivation heres hoping that we can do better than the NREL record.
"Provini said Natcore is ready to start actually making solar cells and has agreements with Chinese and Italian investors."
Ready to start (my understanding)... meaning they just need to turn the key to start the operation...
or
Ready to start... Natcore definition... ready to start researching...
Dmssln,
You posted:
PP info bogus.. Confirmed by Tom this morning.. Article poorly written
Did you happen to ask about Kodak? Is Kodak infact going to manufacture solar panels? My understanding was that Natcore was still seeking a manufacturing partner preferrably in the States from a NR in May. Is Kodak this manufacturer?
Thanks in advance.
Hopefully Lundin's excitement means that cash will start flowing into the company.
I’m happy to report that our work there should pay off dramatically in the weeks ahead.
D theG... they are listed on the TSX-venture exchange (regulated exchange) in Canada.
If you are looking for financials they can be found at www.sedar.com.
Black silicon is a great for Natcore. Just look at the applications suggested by SiOnyx who use a laser to develop the pattern that create the black silicon. We are going to use the wet based etch & LPD which has distinct advantages. Black silicon may work in certain cirumstances but there are applications where the tunability offered through LPD will be required.
Another tool for Natcore to exploit.
http://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy11osti/48772.pdf
Fabrication costs of techniques developed by others to create black
silicon nanoporosity have been high, and the efficiencies of cells without additional antireflection coatings have not exceeded
13.9%. NREL has validated cells using its black silicon alone at 16.8% conversion efficiency
Exclusive
Licenses don't have to be exclusive. IMO, the reason Natcore got it only method to passivate at the moment without destroying the black silicon and fast path to commercialization.
From the NREL website (http://www.nrel.gov/technologytransfer/nonexclusive_exclusive_licenses.html)
Nonexclusive and Exclusive Licenses
NREL's technology licensing agreements with companies are either nonexclusive or exclusive depending on their field of use.
Nonexclusive
The majority of NREL's licenses are royalty bearing, nonexclusive, and contain annual performance milestones. They generally require an upfront, nonrefundable fee and royalty payments based on the net sales of products(s) sold utilizing the licensed technology. The fees and payments vary depending on the business model, market(s), and the number of patents licensed.
Exclusive
NREL grants an exclusive license when a review of a field-of-use situation indicates that such a license is the best mechanism for maximizing a technology's market impact. When evaluating an exclusive license request, we consider the technology's:
Stage of development
Likely commercial investment
Interested parties.
When multiple parties are interested, and a nonexclusive license does not meet business needs, we evaluate the interests of all parties. Then, we select a single partner for detailed negotiation.
Upfront fees and royalty payments are typically higher for exclusive licenses because of their higher value and risk. Performance milestones will also be more rigorous than a nonexclusive license.
66.147.242.97/~jimletou/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/289.pdf
66.147.242.97/~jimletou/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/285.pdf
66.147.242.97/~jimletou/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/287.pdf
Great work JB3729!
The fact that Natcore stood behind you is a strong endorsement of your hard work. It also sends the message that you are right on point in terms of the potential of this technology.
Domasselin,
Awesome that you gave us the link for the presentation.
I can't believe there hasn't been any comment on the presentation yet.
Some very bold and exciting statements.
Some info about the semiconductor industry...
This industry features a number of distinct characteristics that position it uniquely in the economy and in the global competitive arena. These include:
* The role of the industry as technology enabler. The semiconductor industry is widely recognized as a key driver for economic growth in its role as a multiple lever and technology enabler for the whole electronics value chain. In other words, from a worldwide base semiconductor market of $213 billion in 2004, the industry enables the generation of some $1,200 billion in electronic systems business and $5,000 billion in services, representing close to 10% of world GDP.
* Continuous growth but in a cyclical pattern with high volatility. While the current 20 year annual average growth of the semiconductor industry is on the order of 13%, this has been accompanied by equally above-average market volatility, which can lead to significant if not dramatic cyclical swings.
* The need for high degrees of flexibility and innovation in order to constantly adjust to the rapid pace of change in the market. Many products embedding semiconductor devices often have a very short life cycle. At the same time, the rate of constant price-performance improvement in the semiconductor industry is staggering. As a consequence, changes in the semiconductor market not only occur extremely rapidly but also anticipate changes in industries evolving at a slower pace. Yet another consequence of this rapid pace is that established market strongholds can be displaced very quickly.
Good question. They are applying the same process (liquid phase deposition) to many industries. What I was trying to get across this morning was that a machine much like the AR box/IPS might be used for some of the other industries.
The AR coating is just one example.
A list of examples where the LPD might be helpful is on the website.
http://www.natcoresolar.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=49&Itemid=54
JB & Dom... I agree that the AR-BOX/IPS will be useful for other batch processes related to LPD. The modular and adaptable nature of the IPS will allow Natcore to commercialize many of its technologies which involve the coating of thin film silicon dioxides.
Here is something I found regarding MX Group S.p.A. I bolded the production capacities for those whom might be interested.
MX Group S.p.A. is an Italian company based close to Milan. With a total nominal capacity of 180 MW in Italy, the company is a leading producer of photovoltaic modules, focused on development along the entire pv supply chain. In addition MX Group has extensive experience in the planning and construction of turnkey pv plants ( EPC Contractor).
Thanks to its technical ability and an innovation focussed approach, the company develops complete solutions of the highest industrial quality standards to lead the movement towards a new model of sustainable energy consumption. The MX Group operates throughout Italy and on the principal international markets.
MX Group’s ongoing development is marked with the opening (Dec. 2010) of a new production facility in Somerset, New Jersey : MX Solar USA. The new factory produces multi-crystalline modules to the high standards seen in all our products and has a nominal production capacity of 65 MW, doubling by 2011. The company is ISO 9001 -2008 and OHSAS 18001:2007 certified and SOA OG9 qualified. Moreover MX Group is TUV Inter Cert certified following the manufacturing inspection. MX Goup is a member of Epia and full member of PV Cycle Association.
The company offers multi crystalline silicon photovoltaic modules, created with a close attention to detail and utilising the leading industrial technologies available to ensure high efficiency and the maximum performance over time for every type of plant.
The modules are supplied with a 10 year guarantee against all manufacturing defects and 25 years for operational efficiency .
As well as the photovoltaic modules for various applications, the company offers a complete range of solar inverters and mounting structures for installations both on roofs and on the ground.
MX Group also offers tailor made solutions and focuses on developing a product and service line capable of responding to the increasingly demanding requirements of the market.
MX Group relies on an entirely Italian production of the highest quality which services every requirement, capitalising on extensive experience in the creation of plant and has a technical department exclusively dedicated to EPC.
The EPC activity in Italy for the direct construction of photovoltaic plant is carried out utilising the extensive skills of the technical office, with a dedicated team which follows the client through each phase of the process from analysis of the requirements and of the installation site, the management of the bureaucratic process for the authorizations and the incentive grant requests up to the assistance and the specialised technical management of the plant over time.
Productos
http://www.microtechprocess.com/intelligent-process-station.htm
Microtech updated its website. Section on the intelligent process station.
JB3729,
The throughput, if 3000 wafers/hour is reached, is outstanding and first in class.
Natcore has changed the name of the intelligent processing unit to AR-BOX from NIPS. The presidents message has been updated on the website.
Natcore Technology to Locate Solar Research Center in Kodak's Business Park
24 minutes ago - ACQUIREMEDIA
RED BANK, NEW JERSEY--(Marketwire - April 21, 2011) - After a four-month search, Natcore Technology Inc. (TSX VENTURE:NXT)(PINK SHEETS:NTCXF) has decided to establish the Natcore Research and Development Center at Eastman Business Park in Rochester, NY. The Rochester location was selected over several other finalists throughout the country.
Natcore currently conducts its research at three locations: Ohio State University, Rice University, and its joint venture in China. That work will now be consolidated in Rochester, although Natcore will continue its funded joint research program with the Barron Group at Rice. The R&D Center will enable Natcoreto accelerate its development of thin-film solar cells and tandem solarcells using the company's proprietary liquid phase deposition (LPD)technology. The thin-film cells could halve the cost of producing solarenergy. The super-efficient tandem cells could double the power outputof today's most efficient commercial solar cells.
The Natcore Research and Development Center will be staffed initially by eight people. Dr. Dennis Flood, Natcore'sChief Technology Officer, will soon begin to interview chemists andchemical engineers, electrical engineers, materials scientists, andtechnicians to fill those jobs.
Natcore signed alease yesterday for dedicated office and laboratory facilities thatwill comprise two equipped labs, a clean room and administrationoffices. It will also house the first production model of Natcore'sintelligent LPD processing station for growing an antireflective (AR)coating on silicon wafers in the process of manufacturing solar cells.The Natcore Center will be located in Building #82 of the Kodak Research Laboratories at Eastman Business Park. Natcore is funding the Center with the proceeds of a December 2010 private placement.
Natcorecontinues its search for a site and partners to research, develop andmanufacture thin-film solar cells using the company's proprietary LPDprocess. Eastman Business Park is being considered for that facility, as are Chinese and other foreign alternatives. Like Eastman,all have considerable history in the manufacturing of roll-to-rollphoto film. The final decision in this case will rest on theavailability of funding.
Congresswoman Louise Slaughter has been instrumental in attracting the research facility to Rochester. Mrs. Slaughter has arranged a meeting today at which city, county and state officials and business leaders will work with Natcore to assess possible programs to help fund the development of a manufacturing operation at Eastman Business Park. As an alternative, Natcore may seek financing from joint venture partners.
"We chose Rochester for several reasons," said Natcore President and CEO Chuck Provini. "It will give us access to Kodak'sconsiderable prowess in thin-film technology and much of theinfrastructure we will require. In addition, we can tap expertise at Rochester's distinguished universities. And then there was the persistence of Mrs. Slaughter and Mike Alt, who were invaluable partners in our efforts." Mr. Alt is Director of Eastman Business Park.
"We are certainly pleased with Natcore's decision to locate its R&D Center at Eastman Business Park," said Alt. "Our site is a good fit for Natcore from a technology and infrastructure perspective."
"I'm delighted to know that after months of negotiations, Natcore has decided to bring their Research and Development Center to Eastman Business Park,"said Mrs. Slaughter. "I am happy to do everything I can to assist inthis partnership and hope this is just the beginning of green jobscoming to Rochester."
Statements herein other than purely historical factual information, including statements relating to revenues or profits, or Natcore'sfuture plans and objectives, or expected sales, cash flows, and capitalexpenditures constitute forward-looking statements. Forward-lookingstatements are based on numerous assumptions and are subject to all ofthe risks and uncertainties inherent in Natcore'sbusiness, including risks inherent in the technology history. There canbe no assurance that such forward-looking statements will prove to beaccurate, as actual results and future events could differ materiallyfrom those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers shouldnot place undue reliance on such statements. Except in accordance withapplicable securities laws, Natcoreexpressly disclaims any obligation to update any forward-lookingstatements or forward-looking statements that are incorporated byreference herein.
Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider(as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange)accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
different article : Natcore to Deliver Anti-Reflective Coating System to Chinese Solar Maker
By Ehren Goossens - Mar 21, 2011 3:41 PM ET
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Natcore Technology Inc. (NXT), a Red Bank, New Jersey-based solar energy technology company, will deliver its first anti-reflective coating system for testing by the Chinese cell maker Hunan TLNZ Solar Technology Co.
Hunan TLNZ, of Xiangtan, China, is expected to purchase the system if the tests go well, Natcore said today in a statement. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
“If it works they’ll buy that one and buy two or three more,” Natcore Chief Executive Officer Chuck Provini said in an interview today. “We have begun speaking with several other companies in China,” he said.
Natcore said March 15 that MicroTech Process Inc. of Fremont, California, is building the coating systems, which will take eight to 10 weeks to produce.
Natcore’s liquid phase deposition technology, licensed from Rice University, uses a proprietary mixture of chemicals to create a layer of silicon dioxide on solar cells at room temperature. The company says this is less costly than other systems that require high-temperature vacuum furnaces to create an anti-reflective layer.
To contact the reporter on this story: Ehren Goossens in New York at egoossens1@bloomberg.net
In response to copleybmt...
They sell the machine.
Recurring revenues from licensing process and/or selling the chemicals for the machine.
Not sure how much they are going to charge. The equipment is to replace a multi-million dollar oven and would allow the manufacturer to use less energy and create thinner panels. I would figure that they can at least get the same amount that the current ovens go for and hopefully command a significant premium on top of that.
Natcore Technology Signs Agreement for First Sale
Natcore Technology (USOTC:NTCXF)
Intraday Stock Chart
Today : Monday 21 March 2011
Click Here for more Natcore Technology Charts.
Natcore Technology Inc. (TSX-V: NXT); (Pink Sheets: NTCXF) has signed a letter of understanding to sell its first intelligent antireflective (AR) coating processing station to Hunan TLNZ Solar Technology Co. Ltd. (TLNZ) of Xiangtan, China.
Natcore believes its device will revolutionize the way that solar cells are made. It will replace the expensive and environmentally harmful chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method currently used by industry with a liquid phase deposition (LPD), or wet chemistry, process. Exclusively licensed from Rice University, the Natcore LPD process grows an AR coating on solar cells while reducing cost, environmental damage, and energy and raw material requirements.
Natcore began building its processing station on March 15. It is expected that completion of the first production phase will take eight to ten weeks. After extensive testing and adjustments, if necessary, the device will be shipped to TLNZ in China. The sale closing is contingent upon a successful test by TLNZ.
Late last year, Natcore sent several silicon wafers with AR coatings prepared by its researchers to TLNZ for finishing and testing. TLNZ analyzed the composition and quality of the Natcore-supplied films, added metal front and back contacts to the cells, and tested their efficiency. Cell efficiencies as high as 15% were measured for this first-ever test of Natcore's AR coating technology using actual production solar cells. Importantly, the standard deviation of efficiencies for the entire batch of cells was within normal industry acceptance limits. The results demonstrate that Natcore's LPD AR coating technology is completely compatible with standard silicon solar cell production methods and can be easily integrated into existing solar cell manufacturing facilities.
TLNZ also identified the process steps to be included in a commercial production system that would enable cells using Natcore's AR coating technology to routinely reach or exceed 17% efficiency in production.
Natcore is designing its processing station in a modular fashion. Every processing station will have the ability to monitor the coating process throughout and to accurately measure the thickness of the AR coating on a wafer while it is submerged in a chemical bath. Beyond that, however, some will be fully automated, for example, or able to automatically recharge the bath in which the cells are coated. Others will be able to alter the composition and duration of the bath in order to produce cells with greater simplicity and a high degree of precision.
"We have designed this product so we can add and subtract components based on the needs of our customers," says Natcore President and CEO Chuck Provini. "This means that we can build machines across a wide range of complexity, capabilities and price and accommodate the specific needs of individual manufacturers. Some solar cell producers will want the fully automated version whereas others may prefer a version that involves a more manual process, because of availability of inexpensive labor."
Hunan TLNZ Solar Technology Co., Ltd. is a high-tech solar energy enterprise with facilities covering 133,000 square meters and a total investment of 800 million Yuan (about US$122 million). The company has plans to expand from an initial production rate of 25MW to 200 MW. Located in the Photovoltaic Industry Park within the Xiangtan State High and New Technology Development Area, Hunan Province, it stands as the first enterprise of its kind in the park. TLNZ is situated in the center of Changsha, Zhuzhou and Xiangtan economic development circle. Natcore has formed a joint venture in Zhuzhou to build its intelligent AR coating processing stations.
Statements herein other than purely historical factual information, including statements relating to revenues or profits, or Natcore's future plans and objectives, or expected sales, cash flows, and capital expenditures constitute forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on numerous assumptions and are subject to all of the risks and uncertainties inherent in Natcore's business, including risks inherent in the technology history. There can be no assurance that such forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on such statements. Except in accordance with applicable securities laws, Natcore expressly disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements or forward-looking statements that are incorporated by reference herein.
Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Contact: Chuck Provini732-576-8800Info@natcoresolar.com
SOURCE Natcore Technology Inc.
I do believe that Natcore has made an excellent move working with equipment developer Microtech to develop its first turnkey unit. A controlled system with quality being monitored during production is not only useful for the AR system but will be essential for tandem cell production. I believe this step is foreshadowing things to come.
I was also happy to learn about the 3,000 wafers/hour rate. I do believe Provini's statement that our LPD-AR can fold into any manufacturers line. LPD has been around since it was developed by RCA - it was a slow process and likely not used because it would not be economical. Barron has discovered how to speed it up.
Here is something from spire's website... their turn-key lines generate up to 2,400 wafers/hour.
http://www.spirecorp.com/spire-solar/solar-cell-and-wafer-lines/index.php
Fully Automated High Efficiency Cell Lines
Industry Leading Solar Cell Efficiency
Spire’s solarcell turnkey lines provide lowest cost of ownership and produce highestefficiency solar cells. The solar cell factories retain a throughput of2,400 wafers per hour which reduces the overall operating cost of afactory. The operating cost of the factory is lowered significantly by:
* Fully-automating each cell factory
* Decreasing utility consumption rate utilizing equipment with lower utility consumption rates
* Reducing wafer handling through automation which enhances overall production yield
* Optimizing equipment utilization through automation
* Placing cell inspection at each automated loader/unloader
Good luck to all.
Second Deadlock article. Need to register to view.
http://www.cantechletter.com/2011/02/natcore-technology-next-in-solar/
slaughter kodak video link - no comments from journalists - 3:15 in length
An endorsement....
http://www.stockhouse.com/Bullboards/MessageDetail.aspx?p=0&m=29337893&l=0&r=0&s=NXT&t=LIST
Leading Tech Stock Analyst
Makes Natcore A Top Pick
Natcore Technology Inc. (TSX-V: NXT; NTCXF.PK) has been named a top pick by widely-followed small-cap analyst Danny Deadlock of MicroCap.com.
Mr. Deadlock has a remarkable track record: In the year ended November 30, 2010, he picked 42 stocks. Of those, 40 stocks gained an average of 93%. (His two losers averaged 18%.)
As Mr. Deadlock reports, Natcore Technology is a small publicly traded company with an independently-verified technology that holds the potential to completely change the economics of solar energy.
In his February 22 issue (reprinted below) he stresses that Natcore has two value-triggers that could quickly elevate the company to a much higher valuation.
1. The first of these triggers is actually twofold. As he notes, "...the strong endorsement from [U.S. Congresswoman Louise] Slaughter is what we needed for third party validation. [And] If Kodak comes onboard (at any point in the future), (Natcore's) level of credibility and world class potential goes through the roof."
However, on the day that this issue was released, Natcore was already meeting with Kodak and other local and national officials. Here's a link to one of the five television news stories that reported on this meeting:
http://rochester.ynn.com/content/top_stories/534333/slaughter-trying-to-bring-green-jobs-to-rochester/
2. The second value trigger: Mr. Deadlock reported that "Natcore's current technology solution is very viable BUT if they can produce a 'Tandem' cell, this will be a huge home run."
Natcore continues to make great strides on this front as well. For the latest developments on Natcore's super-efficient tandem cell research and their other technologies, click below for a full report.
Microcap.com
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Natcore Technology (NXT.V
.93)
www.natcoresolar.com
I started coverage of Natcore Jan 10th at
.72 and have issued several updates since - so I assume most of you are familiar with the company. Tonight's update is to bring you up to speed on what has happened Tuesday. In my last update two weeks ago I discussed the potential alliance with Kodak. This update elaborates on that.
At the open on Tuesday, there were three orders for approx. 100,000 shares at $1.03 - complete disregard for price as it closed at
.86 on Friday. It traded down on the day as the rest of the market sold off. The buying may have been a coincidence but it was also the same day they were touring the Kodak facility in Rochester, N.Y.
I have discussed the involvement of Congresswoman Slaughter who carries significant clout in Washington. She is trying to attract big business to her region and has been courting Natcore along with Obama and the Department of Energy. On Friday Natcore officials met with Slaughter and nine public and private sector officials. They toured the Eastman facility which is a world class manufacturing center with its own power plant and extensive infrastructure.
Kodak for obvious reasons has seen its photography business drop dramatically. They need diversification and one belief is that their world class expertise in manufacturing film can be applied to Natcore's technology to produce one of the world's most effective (and low cost) solar solutions.
I have been discussing this technology in updates, but the strong endorsement from Slaughter is what we needed for third party validation. If Kodak comes onboard (at any point in the future), that level of credibility and world class potential goes through the roof.
It would mean (in theory) that Natcore has what the world has been waiting for in solar energy production. Low cost and high efficiency. The big game changer (on a global scale) comes (IF) they can produce a tandem cell (discussed on the Natcore website). Right now it is far more than theory but still a ways from being commercially viable. Natcore's current technology solution is very viable BUT if they can produce a "Tandem" cell, this will be a huge home run.
A hint of that potential is discussed in the media below. Natcore and Congresswoman Slaughter believe the market would be so large, they could create 2000 to 4000 manufacturing jobs - in particular if they can partner with Kodak.
POTENTIAL VALUATION
To get to the stage they're at, Natcore has done an exceptional job managing their share structure. With the recent $3 million financing at
.75, the company has 30 million shares outstanding.
Until they sign larger contracts or go into full scale production, it is extremely difficult to try and assign a value to companies like this. Current market cap is close to $30 million and maybe that is more than fair. If they sign on with someone like Kodak, that valuation then jumps - but to where we wouldn't know. These high growth (and high risk) companies often carry pie-in-the-sky valuations.
The only thing that I think is a fair assumption is the following:
1) If they were to partner with Kodak, it validates the technology and the potential so fair value may be $50 to $100 million.
2) If they were to develop a commercially viable Tandem Solar Cell, the picture changes dramatically. A company that may revolutionize the solar industry on a global scale (and be first to market), is likely sitting on a valuation worth several hundred million dollars or more. Obviously if they manage their share structure properly, that could mean a double digit share price within 1 to 2 years.
For now I think we should target a double from here at some point in 2011 and if they hit targets, we can just re-value as we go along.
The advertiser featured in this Stockhouse Publishing Ltd. Alert has paid a fee in cash or stock not exceeding $4,500 to have their corporate information featured. The information shown is solely the responsibility of the advertiser [Natcore Technology], not Stockhouse Publishing Ltd, whose only function was as a supplier of media facilities. Any information provided is not to be construed as a recommendation or suggestion or offer to buy or sell securities. Your information is shared only with the advertiser featured in this Alert and will not be sold or rented to any other third party. The advertiser may contact you from time to time with updates. You opted in to receive this Alert, which are sent on a request-only basis. To advertise, please contact us at sales@stockhouse.com.
A post of the letter of request from Rep. Slaughter.
http://www.stockhouse.com/Bullboards/MessageDetail.aspx?p=0&m=29252849&l=0&r=0&s=NXT&t=LIST
http://www.rbj.net/article.asp?aID=186542
Article about Natcore and Kodak
http://www.b-tv.com/media/CEONatcoreTech.wmv
video link.. Charles Provini speaking about Natcore
http://www.cleanenergyauthority.com/solar-energy-news/natcore-lowering-pv-cost-111310/
Interesting article... posted yesterday - the good stuff is near the end.
If you look at the powerpoint, the indication was to research controls for the LPD process in terms of laying down the quantum dots or the patterning & then immediately move to the prototype. if 18 months is a conservative estimate for commercial release of the tandem cells I imagine that we should be seeing a prototype within the next year.
Good luck to all longs.
Guiltedge, review this post by Naterey... he nicely summarizes the supply problems of exotic substances in the production of solar cells if done so on a large scale.
http://www.stockhouse.com/Bullboards/MessageDetail.aspx?s=NXT&t=LIST&m=28582635&l=0&pd=0&r=0
Someone posted a reference to a UK company called Pure Wafer this AM on Stockhouse...
I ended up finding a link between the two companies.
http://www.purewafer.com/solar/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&layout=blog&id=35&Itemid=70
Pure Wafer Solar signs commercial agreement with Natcore Solar (NXT.V)
Thursday, 06 May 2010 10:24
Swansea-based photovoltaic product manufacturer, Pure Wafer Solar – a division of Pure Wafer International has signed a long-term commercial agreement with Natcore Solar (NXT.V) following the successful conclusion of solar product development activities. Under the agreement, Pure Wafer Solar will look to support Natcore’s manufacturing needs for a range of solar energy products.
Natcore has developed a number of novel technologies that are dedicated to increasing solar cell efficiency to the point where it matches or out-performs conventional energy sources.
Pure Wafer Solar produces monocrystalline solar cells and panels from recycled semiconductor silicon, utilising an advanced manufacturing process, established in conjunction with Swansea University.
Pure Wafer International CEO Mr. Peter Harrington, said he was delighted that the agreement had been signed adding that Pure Wafer Solar were looking forward to a long and successful partnership with Natcor.
___
My suspicion tells me that Purewafer might be helping Natcore will reclaimed solar panels for their nanoshades.
Would love to hear other theories.
Good points JB3729, the faster process will lead to increased throughput. The passivation does work synergistically with the process and could lead to further revenue.
From the AR process I stated $11.00/per panel from $22.00/panel which saves 50% on the AR. I do not believe that incorporates the gains from the reduced silicon (from Natcore website).
If 1500 metric tons translates to 100 000 000 watts... that means 0.015kg/watt of silicon. Prices during shortage were up to $450/kg which is about 10X the normal. So lets assume solar silicon stays at $45/kg... it costs about $0.675/watt or ~$100.00/150 watt panel. I think the current solar silicon price is $25/kg ($60 per 150 watt panel) at the moment which might explain the trend for vertical integration going on for silicon stock producers who are converting into solar producers. If Natcore's process actually reduces the silicon stock requirement by 2/3 as the company continuously states by getting rid of the heat then you have a huge savings. Bigger savings if the market encounters another shortage (from articles re: solar silicon)
I hope my math is right and this information helps.
From the 2009 powerpoint...
Natcore projected $25 million in revenue based on 10% of market share. The market has grown and so a smaller % market share may generate the same revenue.
Natcore projected $5.00 revenue to it per 150 watt/panel. The cost of AR on a 150 watt panel was projected at $22.00/panel. They figure they could cut it in half for a producer to $11.00/panel. The producer could also gain the benefit of being able to use thinner panels which would translate to much larger gains for the company as it is the most costly part of the production of a panel.
I hope that helps.
The first speculated customer is Chuangke Silicon which produces about 1600 tons of polysilicon a year for others. If they keep that production to themselves, they are capable of well over 100 MW of energy production/year. If LPD allows 1/3-2/3 savings in polysilicon needed the MW produced can be projected to increase accordingly.
Natcore Unveils First Commercial Application
New Subsidiary, NanoShade Solar, to Market Solar Energy Collectors in 1Q11
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RED BANK, N.J., Sept. 28 /PRNewswire/ -- Natcore Technology Inc. (TSX-V: NXT; NTCXF.PK) today introduced NanoShades, solar energy collectors that can be mounted on vertical surfaces of new and existing buildings.
(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20100928/NY72329 )
(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100928/NY72329 )
Each NanoShade™ comprises a set of angled slats or flat strips fixed at regular intervals in an aluminum frame. The 6"-wide slats are aluminum extrusions to which solar cells are affixed. The slats are positioned at the optimum angle to maximize solar exposure at the building's latitude. The silicon-based solar cells can be fashioned in a variety of shapes and sizes.
Initially these systems will employ conventional solar cell technology. They will incorporate advanced solar cells made possible by Natcore's proprietary Liquid Phase Deposition technology when they become available.
NanoShades showcase the company's ability to integrate solar panels onto a variety of shapes and architectural surfaces. Although they can be sized to fit any configuration, a typical NanoShade unit will be about eight feet high and five feet wide. Current designs call for nine slats within each frame.
A proof-of-concept system has been tested at Rice University in Houston, Texas, where it has been collecting data since April 2010 under the supervision of Prof. Andrew R. Barron and Dr. Dennis Flood, two of Natcore's founders. Preliminary engineering and design work for a commercial system has been accomplished, and vendors have been sourced. Two patent applications relating to these systems have been filed, and NanoShade is constructing a prototype for independent testing and bonding requirements in preparation for initial production.
To examine efficiencies at a more northern latitude, NanoShade will conduct research at the University of New Haven in West Haven, CT, during the current academic year. Researchers there will also examine reliability, weatherability and endurance of the units. Ali Montazer, professor and Associate Dean of Engineering at UNH, will oversee the testing.
NanoShade expects its devices to help builders qualify for LEED (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design) certification. Developed by the U.S. Green Building Council, LEED is intended to provide building owners and operators a concise framework for identifying and implementing practical and measurable green building design, construction, operations and maintenance solutions.
To produce NanoShades, Natcore has formed NanoShade Solar, a wholly owned subsidiary incorporated in Delaware and headquartered in Red Bank, NJ. "We created a new company to market NanoShades because we don't want to distract from Natcore's primary business--the development of super-efficient solar cells with twice the output of conventional ones," says Chuck Provini, Natcore's president and CEO. Provini will initially hold the same jobs with the new subsidiary, but design, production and marketing functions are being overseen by consultants with experience in architecture and construction.
NanoShade has already been asked to bid on new projects. Says Provini, "To show just how green we are, we're actually using recycled solar cells for some of our initial units. We've been approached by various companies to do this since they want to be at the front of the line when our super-efficient solar cell technology is developed."
NanoShade Solar expects to start accepting orders and shipping NanoShades in the first quarter of 2011.
About Natcore Technology Inc.
Natcore Technology is the exclusive licensee, from Rice University, of a thin-film growth technology enabling room-temperature growth of various silicon oxides on silicon wafers in a liquid phase deposition (LPD) process. Although the implications of this discovery for semiconductors and fiber optics are significant and wide-ranging, the technology has immediate and compelling applications in the solar sector. Specifically, Natcore's LPD process could enable silicon solar cell manufacturers to significantly reduce manufacturing costs and increase throughput, and has the potential to allow, for the first time, mass manufacturing of super-efficient (30%+) tandem solar cells with double the power output of today's most efficient devices.
Having been independently tested and verified by one of the world's most respected science and technology laboratories, Natcore's technology is now in the process of being commercialized.
Statements in this press release other than purely historical factual information, including statements relating to revenues or profits, or Natcore's future plans and objectives, or expected sales, cash flows, and capital expenditures constitute forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on numerous assumptions and are subject to all of the risks and uncertainties inherent in Natcore's business, including risks inherent in the technology history. There can be no assurance that such forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on such statements. Except in accordance with applicable securities laws, Natcore expressly disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements or forward-looking statements that are incorporated by reference herein.
Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Contact: Chuck Provini
732-576-8800
info@natcoresolar.com
SOURCE Natcore Technology Inc.
Someone asked what ROI would a solar company get from switching to the Natcore process... This was the answer I came up with and thought I would post it.
It reduces the energy intensity of the process of making solar cell. One of the key factors is energy payback - how long does it take before the solar panel will produce as much energy that went into it.
So from using an AR that does not require a furnace at 1800C - less energy goes into making the panel. However, the bigger ROI will be from being able to produce thinner panels. To resist warpage during the production process a panel needs to be thick enough to withstand the production temperature. The amount of silicon can be reduced by using the lower temperature process. The NR from last week that discussed the new passivating process should not be taken lightly as it will be synergistic with the AR process and again replaces a high temperature process. Passivating improves efficiency and allows for even thinner panels. Silicon is the largest single cost in the production of a solar panel. Solar silicon production also requires the most energy of the entire process that goes into making a silicon solar panel.
So the ROI is two-fold - reduced energy intensity/panel (likely a mild-moderate cost savings - a few % per watt) and reduced thickness requirement (likely significant cost savings - 10-20%/watt).
This improves margins and can help protect margins of the silicon panel producers during periods of solar silicon shortage.
The AR alone produces savings over current processes. The passivating alone produces savings and improves efficicency over current passivating processes. The synergy between the two application will help drive market peneration of the LPD process for solar silicon.