BioSolar Inc. has started high-volume production and sales of a less inexpensive and more environment-friendly protective backing for photovoltaic solar modules. Santa Clarita-based BioSolar makes its backsheets from a durable polyamide resin made from castor beans as a replacement for expensive and environmentally hazardous petroleum-based backsheets. “This day has been four years in the making,” BioSolar CEO Dr. David Lee said. “We have finally completed the development of the world’s first commercial grade green backsheet and are ramping up production and are able to accept and fulfill orders.” The single-layer “green” backsheet also has the advantage of eliminating inter-layer delamination, a common problem in conventional laminated backsheets, the statement said. “A backsheet that is made from green sources and costs less is good for business, and good for the solar industry,” Lee said. Jessica Selva
