The development of new module types continues with an emphasis on high aesthetic standards. As a result of this development, Sharp will introduce from August a range of black/black modules, which incorporate both black frames and black back film to reach even higher visual standards and blend harmoniously with the building.
The panels have a module efficiency of up to 14.9 per cent, using three-busbar technology to increase the output yield. Their efficiency is high even with low insolation intensity, and the improved temperature coefficient means that lower output losses are recorded even at relatively high temperatures.
Sharp is manufacturing these high-performance modules in its own solar factory in Wrexham, UK. The plan is to produce from August, though this can be expanded in the event of increased demand. The Sharp black/black module is being launched as a polycrystalline model in the output of 245 watts and will mainly be targeted at residential segment. It will also be available in Sharps PV kits, which were unveiled earlier this summer. These kits are complete customised solutions for residential roof-mounted systems, but will also shortly be available for commercial installations.
The UK production operation will service the demand for the black/black modules on the European market. We are delighted that we are now also able to offer the black/black module in Europe following several months of development and thus expand our product portfolio, said Peter Thiele, Executive Vice President at Sharp Energy Solution Europe. In conjunction with the PV kits and our new finance offer, we are now able to offer our customers a good deal with a tailored offering combining performance and looks.
Last month Sharp announced a joint financing scheme for residential systems with Hitachi Capital. This offer is already available in the UK, but a strategic collaboration is also planned for other European countries.
Sharp unveiled the black/black module at Intersolar in Munich back in June of this year. The positive feedback from customers and installers and the rising demand for completely black modules convinced us to start producing the modules in Europe, concluded Mr Thiele.
As for all polycrystalline Sharp solar modules, a ten-year product guarantee and a 25-year linear power output guarantee are offered as standard.
