SunEdison has announced new zero white space (ZWS) solar module technology. The technology can increase solar module power output by up to 15%, effectively decreasing the total system cost by up to 8%.

"SunEdison's ZWS technology is a major achievement that will significantly reduce the cost of solar energy," said Dave Ranhoff, president of solar materials at SunEdison.

"Most high efficiency solar modules rely on expensive solar cells, but ZWS technology boosts performance by optimizing the solar module itself. Our R and D centers in St. Peters, Missouri (US) and Bengaluru, India, developed module prototypes which delivered a 10% increase in peak power output, using commercially available PERC cells - and this is just the beginning of where ZWS can take performance."

ZWS technology works by reducing the unused area on the front surface of the solar module not directly involved in electricity production.

Specifically, ZWS utilizes the area between cells, eliminates losses due to bus bar shadowing, and reduces electrical losses. A reduction in losses and an increase in active area results in higher power output.

Ranhoff added: "This technology is particularly well suited for area-constrained residential installations. By increasing efficiency without adding cost, we can increase the economic value of solar - in many cases by thousands of dollars. And as an added benefit, ZWS technology creates a beautiful black finish which is highly valued by homeowners."

Using proprietary solar module technology, SunEdison is currently capable of producing 350 watt peak modules in a 72 cell format. ZWS technology will first be utilized to transform these modules and boost the performance up to 400 watts. High volume manufacturing is expected to begin in the second half of 2015.