SolarTown, 11/15/2010
Review of SOLON Solar Panel Model 235/15
This review is for the SOLON 235-watt Solar Module. SOLON solar modules have a reputation for quality manufacturing and verification techniques, resulting in durable, reliable, and good looking solar arrays. Some SOLON modules are manufactured in the United States and may qualify for ARRA funding. The same module is also manufactured in Italy and Germany.
Cell Type – The Solon Black 235/15 is a 60-cell monocrystalline module with square 6.14” (156mm) solar cells.
Efficiency – This module carries a 14.33% efficiency rating at 1000W/m2, which is about average for similar solar panels that we carry at SolarTown. Efficiency reduces with lower insolation (sunlight), but only up to 4% at 200W/m2. The 235/15 modules are a productive low-light panel. Monocrystalline panels typically achieve better efficiency levels than equally rated polycrystalline panels, making a difference over the expected lifetime of the module.
Appearance – These modules monocrystalline cells and all-black components create the popular all-black solar appearance.
Electrical Data – The 235/15 has an STC rated power of 235 watts, ± 3% (7 watts), and a PTC rated power of 200.7 watts. The PTC/STC ratio is 85.4% - lower than other leading solar panels that we carry at SolarTown., but still an acceptable value.
Quality Standards – This is where SOLON stands out: they are UL and UL-C listed (Underwriters Laboratory & UL – Canada), CEC and FSEC registered. The CEC registration ensures these SOLON modules meet the E.U.’s consumer safety, health and environmental requirements. FSEC registration means these modules have met performance requirements defined at the Florida Solar Energy Center. SOLON manufacturing meets ISO 9001 quality management systems as well as ISO 14001, the requirements for environmental management systems. SOLON’s focus on quality separates this module from its competitors.
Warranty – These SOLON’s have a very granular product and power output warranty:
- 10 years materials and workmanship on the module itself
- Guaranteed 95% power output for 5 years
- 90% for 10 years
- 87% for 15 years
- 83% for 20 years
- 80% for 25 years
The strength of the product is reflected in the tiered warranty levels not seen on other panels. The most common warranty is 5 years materials and workmanship, 90% for 10 years, and 80% for 25 years. The fact that SOLON specifies expected output at specific values indicates the focus on quality for these modules – they know what they’re selling so you’ll know what you’re buying.
Glass – Transparent, tempered safety glass, 4mm thick. It meets a 5400Pa wind load according to IEC61215. The modules are also tested for hail impact strength, up to 1.1”in (28mm) diameter at a speed of 53.44mph (86km/h). 2400Pa is a more common benchmark for wind loading, and stronger modules test to the 5400Pa level. If you are concerned about high winds in your area this module is a good choice.
Frame – These SOLON modules are twin-walled aluminum with pressed frames making for a stronger and more durable module – the frames are not screwed together, the most common method for frame construction. The frames are also robotically de-burred, reducing the likelihood of cuts and scrapes during installation.
Weight & dimensions – The module is 64.57”x39.37”x1.65” (1640 X 1000 X 42 mm). It weighs 51.81 lbs (23.5kg) – a bit heavier than other popular panels at SolarTown. The added weight is likely a result of the twin-walled aluminum frame.
Junction Box/Connector Type – The 235/15 has a Tyco junction box with bypass diodes. The 1,000mm (39.37”) cables are size 12AWG and use Tyco Solarlok connectors. 12AWG (4mm) is a standard cable gauge and Tyco connectors compete with MC4 connectors for market share. Both provide reliable, secure module connections.
Cost & Value – These modules are selling at $2.83/watt STC and $3.31/watt PTC. They are more expensive than many SolarTown modules, but they have shown the best output of the panels we compared in our own independent test. You get what you pay for in this module!
Opinion/recommendation – SOLON has done a great job at focusing on quality in their products. Their testing goes beyond the typical UL requirements – one example is their electroluminescence test that reveals cracks in individual cells that would not be detected during the normal STC rating process. SOLON modules have a high power density, robotic frame construction and high class cells to ensure long and productive results. The SOLON modules manufactured in Tucson qualify for American Reinvestment and Recovery Act funding (ARRA). If you take pride in your work and want a reliable, productive array these SOLON modules are a great choice.
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