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Solar technology has come a long way in the past twenty years. From the types of solar panels to the various inverters, it’s never been a better time to make the switch to a solar powered home or business. But keeping up on the latest technology is a big part of being able to make a well-educated decision when a solar company comes knocking on your door.
Kelly Curtis, Director of Operations at Solaroo Energy, emphasizes the importance of education when doing research on purchasing a solar system. “It always helps to be ‘in the know’ when you are discussing solar panels. We are big on education not only on the basics of a solar system but on the types of products available to our customers, as well. We also recognize that this language can be a bit confusing, which is why we train our sales staff to be able to speak about the systems and products in an experienced, almost academic way, yet simple for just about anyone to understand.”
Mr. Curtis took some time to introduce these new products and give his insider perspective on the products and how they match up.
Panasonic HIT N-type cell
Panasonic has recently introduced to the Utah market an N-type cell using ultra-thin amorphous silicon layers. What the heck does that mean? Well, it means the following:
Ultra-high efficiency – Panasonic recently broke the record for cell efficiency previously held by Sun Power. It means that you will produce more power in the same amount of space, providing a great solution for roofs with limited productive space.
High temperature efficiency – Heat will make a solar module less efficient. The hotter it gets; the less maximum power your panel will produce. With Panasonic’s double layer of silicone, however, the N-type cell performs better as the temperature gets higher than standard mono or poly cells. Translation: you’ll get more power in the summer when the sun is up the longest.
Light capture – Electricity is made in the solar cell by capturing photons in the sun’s rays. Panasonic’s unique pyramid structure capture’s more sunlight by reflecting the photons inside the cell instead of reflecting them away from the cell, as standard cells do. Translation: you’ll get better production in low light conditions and more photons in normal conditions.
The Panasonic HIT module is definitely top of the line, but also carries a price tag above a standard module as well. The other module new to the Utah market is the Mitsubishi Diamond Premium module.
Mitsubishi Diamond Premium
Although not as efficient as the Panasonic N-type, Mitsubishi boasts new features that are also unique, at a more affordable price tag.
Lowest warranty claims – Mitsubishi has warranty claims on their panels globally at a rate of four panels per million, which is really, really low. Compare that with US made SolarWorld’s rate of 17 panels per million. Also really good, but more than four times the amount Mitsubishi offers.
Quality construction – All you have to do is touch and feel a Mitsubishi panel to see the quality. Anodized and clear coated frame for rust proofing, support bars instead of adhesive, screws instead of clips, more bus bars, sealed and potted junction boxes – it is no wonder that their warranty claim rate is so low.
The details – Mitsubishi does not skimp on the small things – water drainage channels to keep the panels cleaner, split cells for less on panel shading issues and 100 percent lead free solder. Translation: these panels might be the best built in terms of quality of construction in the market.
Mr. Curtis explains that he is really excited about both of these new products. “It’s always really energizing (pun intended) when new products come out, improving the solar world. We love to see growth and improvement and the best part about it is the panels that came out even a few years ago are still have amazing efficiency and value to the homeowner. These improvements just take things to the next level.”
If you would like more information about going solar or the products listed above, please contact Solaroo Energy (801) 826-4888 or go online to solarooenergy.com.
