SolarTown, 10/18/2010
Canadian Solar Solar Module CS5P-240M Review
Cell Type – Monocrystalline, with 96(8 x 12 cells) cells in a module.
Appearance – The Canadian Solar 240w has a black monocrystalline look and is available in a silver anodized aluminum frame.
Electrical Data – The STC rating is 240w, and the PTC rating is 218.7w. The STC/PTC ratio is 91.9%, which compares favorably to many other home solar panels that SolarTown carries. For home solar panels with a nameplate rating over 210w that we carry at SolarTown, the average is 89.3% The power tolerance is ±2.5% or + / - 5 watts.
Compatibility with Enphase Micro Inverter - Remember that some Canadian Solar panels are not compatible with the Enphase micro-inverter. The Enphase D-380 requires normal voltage between 22-40 volts. This particularl Canadian Solar solar panel has a 48.1 volt maximum, too high to connect with the Enphase D-380 micro inverter.
Quality Standards – IEC 61215, IEC61730, UL 1703, CEC Listed, CE, ISO9001: 2008: Standards for quality management systems, ISO/TS16949:2009: The automotive quality, management system QC080000 HSPM: the Certification for Hazardous Substances Regulations. This module should perform well in either warm or cold conditions – temperature coefficients are industry average at 45%/ºC
Warranty –Both 230w and 240w solar panels are warranted for 6 years for materials and workmanship and a power output of 90% for 10 years, and 80% for 25 years.
Glass – These modules are protected by tempered glass, which is much better than modules that use plain glass because tempered glass is stronger and reduces the reflection of incident rays to the glass and improves efficiency. Canadian Solar modules are known for strong hail (impact) resistance.
Frame – Strong framed module, passing mechanical load test of 5400Pa to withstand heavier snow load. Anodized aluminum alloy.
Weight & Dimensions – 41.8 x 63.1 x 1.57in, 18.32 square inches, 44.1lb. The average of panels is 17.34 square inches and 43.75 lb. This module requires more area than other home solar panels that we carry.
Junction Box/Connector Type – This panel is connected by MC4 with a solarlin2 locking system.
Cost & Value – This panel is a strong value, costing only $2.77 per STC watt—about 10% lower than comparable solar panels.
Opinion/recommendation - We recommend the Canadian Solar 240w panel as it is a good value for an array using a central string inverter. We think that the fact that it is not compatible with the Enphase is a drawback to this particular model. Used in an array which has little or no shading, central inverters are the only choice and this monocrystalline panel is great in a series configuration. The higher voltage levels will turn on a central inverter sooner than similarly powered (but lower voltage) panels.
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