Do you know that shading can have a detrimental effect on the energy output and the life of a panel?
During the daytime, solar panels utilize solar energy to the maximum and ensure better energy output. While the same performance decreases if a part of the panel is exposed to shade. A standard solar panel has a number of cells that are wired together into a series circuit, so even if 1/4th part of the panel is in the shade, the performance of the entire system will be affected.
In addition to that, partial shading also contributes to overheating in the panels. If one part of the panel is generating less amount of electricity as compared to the non-shaded part, it causes overheating and hotspots in the panel. Hotspots hamper the power output of panels and make them less durable. Moreover, the installation sites do not receive sunlight in the same proportion throughout the day, and practically, it is next to impossible to avoid shading. So, to combat that issue, manufacturers brought a new PV technology i.e. Twin cell solar panels. As per the International technology roadmap of PV, twin cell solar market share is expected to increase from 18% in 2018 to 40% by 2028.
Twin cell or Half-cut technology
The upgraded version of the conventional solar panel is called half-cut or twin cell solar PV panel. In these panels, the solar cells are cut into half, meaning that the standard 60 and 72 solar cell panels become a 120 and 142 solar cell panels while keeping the same design and dimension as conventional panels. It divides the internal current in the system and improves its performance, longevity and shade tolerance. As power loss is proportional to current, half-cut solar panels reduce the power loss by a factor of 4 which increases the power output.
Superior price performance
It not only cuts the cells in half but also slashes the overall cost of a solar system, ensuring lower LCOE (Levelized Cost of Energy). panels with half-cut solar cells have the potential for quicker payback periods as compared to any traditional counterparts. Particularly for sites where shadow cast and limited area are the main constraining elements, it makes the installation even more worth the upfront cost. It is a cost-effective solution where you do not have to compromise on the quality and output.
Shade Tolerance
In standard panels, a shadow cast can significantly jeopardize the output of the entire system. But, in twin cell panels, the bypass diodes restrict the loss of power from the shaded portion instead of the entire panel. It creates a substitute path for the current to travel in the unshaded part and avoids the current to pass through the shaded part. It reduces the effect of shading and increases its performance in partial shadow conditions. The separate junction boxes reduce internal resistance and improve heat dissipation.
More cell strings
Half-cut panels have twice cell strings as compared to the standard ones – divided into top strings and bottom strings. The 6 strings strengthen the performance of the entire system by making shading less severe.
Less hot spots
Heat dissipation can induce hotspots that can develop cell cracking, melting of soldering and cell degradation. The PERC cells in half-cut panels aid in increased generation of electricity by improving cell efficiency and by reducing heat. Lower heat production indicates more panel longevity and less hot spots.
Reduced power loss
Resistive losses are one of the reasons for the power loss in the solar system. To fight this issue, twin cell panels enhance the current transport in the panel. The 5-bar bus design restricts the movement of electrons in the circuit, which intensifies the transmission and weakens the power of internal resistance. Because of this, the rate of resistive losses is way too low.
All things considered
The intention behind continuous technology advancement in the solar industry is to formulate a solution that will help produce more energy, save more money and achieve more sustainability. This technology benefits sites with limited space as with Twin cell solar panels, only a few panels required to generate the same amount of energy. It results in quicker installation and needs fewer components, which dramatically reduces the overall cost of the system.
With that, if you are looking for durable reliable and long-lasting solar panels, explore Novergy’s high-performance panels. Our twin cell solar panels promise high efficiency of more than 21%, ensuring more energy (up to 60% higher) with low degradation. Our crystalline silicon panels are supremely efficient, made of top-quality raw materials and ensure exceptional manufacturing standard.
These solar panels are available in different wattages reaching up to 350w and with various cell configurations such as 72 cells, 60 cells, 36 cells. The panels come with anti-reflective coatings (ARC) on the front glass to help absorb more solar radiation. Behind the solar panel is a waterproof and dustproof IP67 junction box. The junction box has integrated bypass diodes to reduce the effect of shading or dust. Our solar panel has strong mechanical strength and is certified to withstand high wind loads and snow loads while being extremely responsive in low light conditions. These panels are backed by a 25 years linear warranty resulting in a more stable performance assurance and ensuring complete peace of mind for the customer.
We are a one-stop solution for everything related to solar, we guarantee the timely execution of a project with our highly-skilled engineers. We take care of the full cycle of a project – from designing a site plan to commissioning. Visit novergysolar.com and switch to solar with great convenience.