Caterpillar introduces high-tech solar panels to local market

By Zahara Zuhair 
Caterpillar, a company that provides power generation solutions, introduced its new state-of-the-art advanced technology solar panels to the local market, through its Sri Lankan dealer 
UTE recently.
The product that was introduced has been built using Cat Solar Thin Film technology, which expects to produce more energy than currently available solar solutions.
UTE President Prasan Fernando said that due to Sri Lanka’s location in close proximity to the equator, they are ideally suited to harvest solar energy. He said that they are firmly committed to harnessing this renewable energy with the emphasis on new technology. 
It was noted that the new product is manufactured using Cadmium Telluride instead of the conceptional silicon-based cells, resulting in the Caterpillar panel generating an additional 10 percent specific annual energy yield.
In his presentation, Caterpillar Electric Power Division Asia Pacific  Microgrid Manager Adrian Constable said that CAT Thin CdTe PV Modules has lowest temperature de-rate coefficient and superior spectral response.
Further, it was noted that the panel is fabricated from seamless toughened glass offering a higher strength, durability and 
better aesthetics. 
Built in an environmental-friendly way, it also expects to reduce fuel expenses, lower utility bills, decrease emissions and increase energy efficiency in even the most challenging environment.
Renewable Energy Product Manager Murad Jayah said, “For larger companies, this will be a great opportunity to reduce their costs and become carbon neutral. They can earn an income by renting out their roof space or even investing in solar power generation similar to mini hydros and selling the energy produced to the government,”
The product portfolio of UTE, a company which provides engineering solutions formed in 1947, also includes Cat Diesel Power Generators, marine and industrial engines and related engineering services.