Larger and lighter solar panels reduce costs

The new batch of N-type glass-glass solar panels from Taiwanese manufacturer URECO are no longer equipped with square solar cells, but with larger rectangular solar cells. As a result, although the panels are slightly larger, they are a lot lighter because the glass thickness has been adjusted from 2.00 millimeters to 1.6 mm. This reduces both production and logistics costs.

Wholesaler 4blue, which is bringing them to the Netherlands, says there are many advantages for the installer, and ultimately the consumer, in this new generation of panels. 'Due to technological development in the production of silicon rods, it is now possible to use more of the edges of these rods to make solar cells. Traditionally, mainly the central parts of the rods were used, leading to more waste. With rectangular solar cells, more of the material can be used effectively, which provides cost optimization on the production and logistics side.'

URECO's N-type solar panels are characterized by rectangular cells. By enlarging these solar cells, the size goes from 1722 x 1134 to 1762 x 1134. And the output goes from 425/430 Wp to 440/445Wp.

Lower costs

URECO informs that the production of the rectangular modules requires a lightweight double-glass design, which is more challenging for production and yield. But through "advanced automated production processes, carefully chosen product designs and materials, and a strict quality control team, the reliability of each batch of products delivered to customers can be guaranteed. They have made the entire production process more efficient, which ultimately reduces costs. The new form also cuts logistics costs, reducing overall costs.

Two variants

The new solar panels come in two variants. The first is the URECO 440 Black. These are all-black glass-glass solar panels, including the spaces between the cells. These panels can be used for residential installations or flat-roof installations where aesthetics play an important role. The other variant is the URECO 450 WP White, which offers a slightly higher output. This variant is suitable for SME installations where the focus is on maximum yields.