REC Group has announced the launch of a new series of modules, the first to incorporate n-type monocrystalline cells in a half-cell layout. The company states that production of the new n-peak modules will get underway by the end of June, with the first modules set to roll off the line this August.
Speaking at the company’s booth at Intersolar Europe, REC Group CEO Steve O’Neil stated, “The new REC n-Peak writes the next chapter in our company narrative. We are taking a big step by leapfrogging into advanced n-mono technology, reinforcing our reputation as an innovator of reliable and efficient solar panels. It is one thing to design high-efficiency products on a lab scale, but a totally different one to bring it to mass production.”
The module, according to REC Group, achieves an output of up to 330W, and with the twin panel design – effectively splitting the module into two parts – offers improved performance in shaded conditions. The company plans to offer the module with a 12 year product warranty, and a 25-year 0.5% annual degradation warranty, which translates to 86% of nameplate power after 25 years.
Customer demand
pv magazine also had the chance to speak with REC Group Managing Director, Cemil Seber at Intersolar, who said the module was developed in response to customer demand for high efficiency, whatever the technology. “Module efficiency is the game, more and players will look into driving their module efficiency and their power up,” said Ceber. “What’s happening with n-type is an evolution of what our customers want, and what they are expecting from REC.”
The Norway headquartered company operates 1.5 GW of module capacity at its production base in Singapore. REC Group has traditionally focused on multicrystalline silicon products, with the n-peak representing its first step into monocrystalline production. The company plans to continue working with multi in the future, however.
REC Group states that the new module is designed primarily for rooftop installations, and will be of particular relevance to European markets. “Our focus is residential first, C&I afterwards, utility third,” added Seber. “Of course, a high efficiency, high power density product especially helps in that kind of a market. It’s much more suited on European residential markets.”
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Come on!!! Half Cell technolgy is = double probability of problems. Bad way.