Solar module manufacturers are responding to the growing demand for energy by adapting photovoltaic cells. New primary materials, changes in the manufacturing process of semiconductors and optimisation of production costs provide the solar market with larger wafers, which are needed for the production of photovoltaic cells. Even now, total solar module production using the larger wafers and a rated output of 54 gigawatts makes up about half of the module designs available on the market in 2021.

This is what the new generation of 400W modules has to offer

Up to now, photovoltaic cells with an edge length of 166 mm were normally connected as a whole or as half cells in solar modules. The new cell sizes of 182 mm or even 210 mm have a new structure and change the module dimensions.

The new module with 108 half cells

For example, 108 of the new 182 mm half cells are interconnected in modules (M10 wafers) for the home environment. The larger cells make the module slightly wider (approximately 1.14 m). However, fewer cells are interconnected internally than in the previous generations with 120 half cells. Fewer cell gaps mean higher module efficiency as more active area is used. A module with 108 half cells achieves an efficiency of 20.46% with a 400W output (e.g. Suntech STP405S).

The new module with 120 one-third cells

Manufacturers who use cells with an edge length of 210 mm made of so-called M12 wafers take a different approach. For modules in the home environment, these are divided into three equal one-third cells and interconnected again to form 120 one-third cells in one module. The larger cells are structured in a new cell matrix with 5 x 24 one-third cells. Since only 5 strips of cells are then installed, the modules are approximately 1.08 m wide. With a 400W output, the module achieves an efficiency of 21.3% with 120 one-third cells (e.g. Trina Vertex S).

KOSTAL already compatible with the new generation of 400W modules

KOSTAL inverters are already compatible with the new generation of 400W modules. The PLENTICORE plus, PIKO IQ, PIKO 12-20, PIKO MP plus and PIKO CI are already perfectly equipped to handle the larger module currents of up to 13 amps.

KOSTAL’s inverter range includes the right converter and control units for every installation featuring solar modules of the new generation of 400W modules, from a small rooftop area to a larger ground-mounted system.

Why is the choice of inverter so important now?

With the new module cell sizes, the focus shifts to choosing the appropriate inverter. This is because larger but fewer cells on the roof mean a lower voltage per module and at the same time higher current movements, which the inverter must control and process in an optimum manner.

KOSTAL inverters already process the input current of the latest generation of modules with an output of 400 watts and more. This means that the entire module output can be used without the inverter having to limit the current flow – and this applies to all KOSTAL series.

Über die KOSTAL Solar Electric GmbH

About KOSTAL Solar Electric GmbH
KOSTAL Solar Electric: Quality and innovation – smartly combined
KOSTAL-Solar-Electric was founded in 2006 as a separate branch of the KOSTAL Group. Since then, it has stood for intelligent generation and use of renewable energies across all sectors. Solar, hybrid or battery inverters; Energy or battery management: KOSTAL has the perfect solution for every application and every size of system – in both residential and business areas. KOSTAL inverters enable the smart use of solar energy for feed-in, self-consumption, power storage, new heat and e-mobility. They are flexible in combination with components from other manufacturers and have repeatedly received awards for their efficiency. Because quality is just as important to us as the satisfaction of our customers, KOSTAL Solar Electric GmbH develops and produces in Germany. Our claim is the highest quality standards for sustainable, long-lasting products with maximum flexibility in use. Our customers also benefit from more than 100 years of KOSTAL experience as an innovative automotive supplier for electrical and electronic vehicle components.

Firmenkontakt und Herausgeber der Meldung:

KOSTAL Solar Electric GmbH
Hanferstr. 6
79108 Freiburg
Telefon: +49 (761) 47744-100
Telefax: +49 (761) 47744-111
http://www.kostal-solar-electric.com

Ansprechpartner:
Manfred Gorgus
Pressearbeit,Kommunikation & Marketing
Telefon: +49 (0) 8157 9265425
Fax: +49 (0)151 535 18 965
E-Mail: m.gorgus@solar-professionell.de
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