Bigger modules, bigger headaches?
The debate continues over whether super-sized, high-power solar modules are a good thing for the industry and they appear to be here to stay. Vicente Parra and James Whittemore, from Enertis Applus+, consider the pitfalls to avoid when designing high-power solar projects.
JinkoSolar, Longi, JA Solar claim 182mm modules offer lowest LCOE for utility scale solar
In a white paper, the three Chinese module manufacturers have reiterated the well-known refrain “bigger is not always better.” Experts from the three companies compared the BoS costs of 182mm-wafer-based modules and 210mm products, and found that the former have a slight advantage in racking, foundation, and land costs.
Trina launches tracking system for high-power modules
The tracker has a length of 72 meters, which the company says allows for 120 modules per tracker. The new product was conceived as a multi-drive, dual-slewing system that is claimed to have improved overall stability compared to other products and to show a reduced aeroelastic effect.
PVH launches tracker for high-power modules
The new solar tracker from PVH was specifically designed to be compatible with large-format modules and was developed in static and aeroelastic wind tunnels.
Tigo launches optimizer for high-power modules
The IEC certified product has a maximum wattage of 700 W, a maximum current of 15 A, and a maximum voltage of 80 V.
JA Solar unveils 415 W solar module with 21.3% efficiency
The module can be used for residential and commercial PV projects. It is available in five versions with power outputs claimed by the company of 390-415 W and reported efficiencies of 20.0-21.3%.
Guide to help installers detect hidden costs in high-power modules
Spanish PV product distributor Techno Sun has published a report analyzing the consequences of high-power modules for installers and distributors. The guide provides a method to calculate the additional costs of large solar panels from different points of view.
