Solar-Fabrik AG

Core Business and Operating Model

The central mission of the company is to manufacture, market, and sell high-quality solar modules, along with the technical products and components required to efficiently employ and convert solar energy. Solar-Fabrik's philosophy centers on delivering "Premium solar power solutions," emphasizing German quality standards, high energy efficiency, and long-term reliability.

Historical and Modern Context: * The original Solar-Fabrik AG, headquartered in Freiburg im Breisgau, was recognized as one of the world's most experienced solar companies. Its Freiburg factory was notable for being one of the few worldwide to adopt a CO2-neutral, "zero-emissions" approach since 1998, with production fueled by renewable resources. This entity provided full system solutions globally until its operations ceased in 2015 following insolvency proceedings. * The brand was successfully acquired and re-launched in 2016 as Solar Fabrik GmbH, a family-run company now based in Laufach, Bavaria. This new entity functions as a manufacturer and wholesaler of photovoltaic products, upholding the tradition of German quality and offering a German warranty. * The company is actively committed to strengthening domestic production, with plans announced for the construction of "Factory One" in Hösbach, Aschaffenburg, to manufacture solar modules using N-Type TOPCon and heterojunction technology, which underscores a belief in a German manufacturing base for the industry.

Products and Services

Solar-Fabrik offers a comprehensive portfolio focused on crystalline photovoltaic technology, primarily serving specialist solar companies, distributors, and installers across various countries, including Germany, the Netherlands, Denmark, Poland, Austria, and Italy.

1. Solar Modules (Photovoltaic Modules)

The core product offering is a range of high-performance solar modules suitable for both residential and commercial applications, including roof-mounted, roof-integrated, open-space, and agricultural photovoltaic (Agri-PV) projects.

• Current/Modern Module Series:
  • Mono S4 BC Full Black: Utilizes advanced N-Type TOPCon technology with a Back Contact (BC) design for high efficiency (up to 23.3%) and superior aesthetics, with power classes reaching 475???480 W.
  • Mono S4 Trend Series: Includes options like Mono S4 Trend Black and Mono S4 Trend Full Black, with power outputs of 445???450 W.
  • Mono S5 Installer Series: Offers a different format for specific system requirements, such as 315 W modules.
  • Mono S4 Innovation Powerline & Mono S4 Black White: Modules featuring N-Type/TOPCon cell technology.
  • Project Modules: Robust and durable modules designed for utility-scale solar parks and large commercial roof systems, meeting the strict requirements for bankability.
• Historic/Legacy Module Series (from Solar-Fabrik AG):
  • Premium L poly, Premium L poly black.
  • Premium L mono, Premium L mono black.
  • P series and B series modules.

The modules are known for their quality, demonstrated by features such as compliance with German quality standards, T??V Nord certification, excellent mechanical load capacity (up to 8,100 Pa for snow load), and fire protection class A certification for double-glass modules. The company provides extensive German warranties, with up to 30 years on both product and performance for residential and glass-glass modules.

2. Complete System Solutions and Components

Solar-Fabrik provides the full component set for a functioning solar power plant, encompassing more than just the solar panels.

• Inverters and Storage Systems:
  • In the past, the company supplied the convert T range of inverters (manufactured by Kostal Industrie Elektrik) with outputs from 3 to 10 kilowatts (kW).
  • Currently, they partner with manufacturers like Solplanet to offer a suitable range of inverters and storage systems as complementary components to their modules.
• Mounting Systems:
  • The company provides proprietary and patented assembly systems, such as the Profilink mounting system, along with various installation accessories.
• System Monitoring:
  • An essential service is the monitoring of energy yields, historically offered through its own system monitoring web portal, which allows customers to track the performance of their solar power plants.

In summary, Solar-Fabrik's business revolves around the entire value chain of a photovoltaic system, from manufacturing core components like high-efficiency modules to supplying the necessary system technology and support services for sustainable, high-yield solar energy generation.