SolarTown, 11/10/2010
Sharp NU-U235F1 235W Panel Review
Sharp has made well-engineered products for 50 years and is a global leader in solar electricity. According to its literature, Sharp powers more homes and businesses than any other solar manufacturer. We have not independently verified this claim. Sharp says that its modules qualify for American Reinvestment and Recovery Act (ARRA) funding, but you need to check this as rules can change.
Appearance – The Sharp NU-U235F1 is a 235 watt black monocrystalline module with a silver frame and white back sheet giving it a classic solar look. It is targeted for ‘multi-purpose’ installations – meaning you may see this on commercial, residential, or ground mount arrays. Silver framed modules may stay slightly cooler in hot climates, with less black material to heat up in the sun.
Cell Material – This module is comprised of 60 monocrystalline solar cells wired in series (positive to negative) to achieve a 37-open circuit voltage (Voc) value. Electrical Data – The NU-U235F1 has a 235 watt STC rating and 211.7 watt PTC rating. STC/PTC rating is 90.90%. The average STC/PTC ratio for panels over 215w is 89.3%, so this Sharp panel is slightly above the average. The F1 has slightly lower voltage level and a higher current value than its sister – NU-U235F3. The other STC values are:
- Open circuit voltage (Voc): 37.0V
- Max power voltage (Vmp): 30.0V
- Short circuit current (Isc): 8.60A
- Max power current (Imp): 7.84A
These modules have a power tolerance is +10%/-5% of maximum power (Vmp), or +23.5/-11.75 watts at STC. The temperature coefficient is -0.485% of Vmp. The NU-U235F1 is also compatible with Enphase micro-inverters. The efficiency of NU-U235F1 is 14.4%. The average efficiency for similar wattage panels is 14.3%, so Sharp is right in the middle.
Qualification – The NU-U235F1 is UL1703 listed and has a Class C Fire Safety Classification.
Warranty – These modules carry a 25 year power output warranty – 90% power output for 10 years, and 80% power output for 25 years. The warranty for material defects and workmanship is 1 year from the date of purchase.
Glass – The NU-U235F1 has tempered glass to protect the solar cells, reduce reflection and increase efficiency. The glass is sealed with ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) lamination to provide good clarity, cell protection, and temperature resilience for the life of the module. These modules also have a weatherproof back skin for additional module protection.
Frame –Sharp Modules withstand a load of at 2400Pa (50 lbs./sq.ft.). They are durable in both wind and snow. Weight & dimensions – The NU-U235F1 is 39.1 x 64.8 x 1.8 inches (994mm x 1640mm x 46mm), or 17.54 square feet (1.63 square meters) and 44.1lb (20Kg). These measurements put it right in the middle of similar wattage panels on the market today. .
Junction Box/Connector Type – The NU-U235F1 uses 12 AWG interconnect cables with MC4 Locking Connectors. It also has a safety lock clip (Multi Contact part number PV-SSH4) to ensure cables remain connected.
Cost & Value – The NU-U235F1 is slightly more expensive per watt than similar wattage panels, but these modules are readily available and extremely reliable.
Opinion/recommendation –Sharp modules qualify for ARRA funding – ensuring your investment helps build our economy! Sharp is a well-known brand and you can rest assured that the company will stand behind its products. Although it is slightly more expensive than similar wattage panels, it has a slightly higher efficiency rating. It is very similar to the NU-U235F3 in its electrical and mechanical specifications – but if you are looking for a traditional solar aesthetic, the F1 is a good choice.
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