Que: Could you begin by telling us about Zealwe Tech and its presence in India?

Ans: Zealwe Tech was established in 2012 with a clear mission to prevent poor-quality solar modules from entering the market and to ensure that every module maintains high performance throughout its operational life. From the beginning, we have focused on developing reliable testing equipment for photovoltaic (PV) modules, with all our systems designed and manufactured in-house.

Today, our equipment is used by customers across India, Turkey, the United States, and several other markets. In India alone, we have supplied more than 500 testing systems to over 50 customers. We are proud to support Indian manufacturers in building world-class testing laboratories and improving the quality and reliability of their products.

Que: As manufacturers transition to high-efficiency technologies such as TOPCon, HJT, BC and tandem cells, how do you see the role of advanced testing and quality assurance evolving?

Ans: Higher efficiency is undoubtedly the future of the solar industry, and technologies such as TOPCon, HJT, BC and tandem cells are driving significant improvements in module performance. However, efficiency alone is not enough. Reliability remains the most important factor because a high-efficiency module must continue delivering that performance throughout its entire service life.

As technologies become more advanced, manufacturers need equally advanced reliability testing to identify potential degradation mechanisms early. Our focus is on developing testing solutions that help manufacturers validate long-term product reliability while adopting new technologies.

Que: What are the biggest challenges solar manufacturers face in maintaining consistent module quality at gigawatt-scale production capacities?

Ans: One of the biggest challenges is balancing cost competitiveness with product reliability. Manufacturers are under constant pressure to reduce production costs, which often involve negotiating with suppliers or selecting lower-cost materials.

However, if material quality changes without adequate validation, it can directly affect module reliability. At GW-scale production, even a small quality issue can impact thousands of modules every day, resulting in significant financial losses.

Our testing equipment helps manufacturers evaluate materials, components and production processes so they can achieve both cost efficiency and consistent product quality.

Que: As module technologies become more sophisticated, what new testing technologies have emerged compared to five years ago?

Ans: The industry's focus on reliability has led to the development of more advanced accelerated testing methods. One of our latest innovations is the HF+UV testing system, which combines climate chamber testing with ultraviolet exposure in a single platform.

Compared with conventional testing methods, this integrated approach significantly accelerates reliability evaluation and enables manufacturers to assess multiple degradation mechanisms more efficiently.

Que: Your equipment supports international standards such as IEC, UL and BIS. How important is testing standardisation in building confidence among investors and project developers?

Ans: Testing standards are extremely important because they provide confidence that products will perform reliably over their intended lifetime.

For investors and project developers, long-term energy generation determines project returns. If modules degrade faster than expected, investment performance is directly affected. Independent testing based on internationally recognised standards helps manufacturers demonstrate product reliability and enables customers to make informed purchasing decisions.

Que: What were the key testing technologies showcased by Zealwe Tech at SNEC this year?

Ans: Our key highlight at SNEC was the HF+UV testing system. In addition to supporting conventional IEC qualification testing, this platform enables combined testing such as HF, TC, DH, UV, HF+UV, TC+UV and DH+UV within a single system.

The product attracted considerable interest because it offers faster and more comprehensive reliability evaluation, helping manufacturers shorten validation cycles while maintaining high testing accuracy.

Que: India is placing greater emphasis on domestic manufacturing, product quality and traceability. How can advanced testing solutions help Indian manufacturers remain globally competitive?

Ans: Cost competitiveness is important, but sustainable competitiveness comes from delivering reliable products. Manufacturers must optimise costs without compromising quality.

Advanced testing allows manufacturers to select the right materials, optimise production processes and verify product performance before large-scale deployment. This helps them produce modules that are both cost-effective and highly reliable, strengthening their competitiveness in both domestic and international markets.

Que: Through your collaboration with Aster E Technologies, how are you helping Indian manufacturers establish world-class testing laboratories?

Ans: We have worked closely with Aster E Technologies for many years to support India's growing PV manufacturing industry. Together, we provide not only advanced testing equipment but also comprehensive services, including installation, commissioning, training and technical support.

This partnership enables Indian manufacturers to establish testing laboratories quickly and efficiently. During the COVID-19 period, when international travel was restricted, Aster E Technologies' local service capabilities ensured customers continued to receive timely support. This local presence has played an important role in helping Indian manufacturers strengthen their quality assurance capabilities and build globally competitive production facilities.