Dubbed the NU-JC320B, the half-cut cell PERC module offers a two to three percent higher module performance compared to standard full cell panels, providing design-oriented customers with an efficient and reliable solution for residential and commercial installations, Sharp claimed.
The NU-JC320B delivers a power output of 320W with 120 monocrystalline half-cells and Sharp’s positive power tolerance of up to five percent which makes it pretty useful for installers. The module has a black frame and back sheet for style conscious commercial customers and homeowners.
The new panel features Sharp’s half-cut cell technology – full cells are cut into two equal parts, which means the electrical current generated per cell is halved and resistance losses are reduced to one quarter, ultimately increasing the power output for the user.
The halved current produced in the modules significantly decreases the temperature in the cells, reducing the risk of hot spots and increasing the lifespan of the module. The half-cells also have three small junction boxes instead of one, each fitted with a single bypass diode, which transfers less heat to the cells above and boosts the longevity of the panels, improving the overall performance of the system.
The new module can be mounted in portrait, which is beneficial for shaded conditions such as tilt-mounted roof installations, as unlike full cells, the half-cut cells can still generate a 50 per cent performance with the upper half of the module, even when the lower half is shaded.
The PV panel is equipped with industry recognised MC4 connectors from Stäubli and anti-reflective front glass coating from DSM, which reflects 1.2 per cent less light compared to other AR-coatings. The selection of high-quality components used on the NU-JC320B play a crucial role in preserving longevity and power output of the module.
The safety, quality and durability of the module has been recognised with IEC seals (IEC61215 and IEC61730). The modules are robust in product design and have been rigorously tested for compliance with international standards and endurance under extreme conditions, passing tests for ammonia, salt mist, sand and PID resistance.
Peter Thiele, President of Sharp Energy Solutions Europe said: “We are pleased to expand our half-cut cell portfolio to offer our style conscious customers reliable and proven technology in an all-black design. We continue to ensure our customers can always rely on Sharp, with local support teams and services offered across Europe that enable our customers to get the best from Sharp’s technology and products.”