Revolutionary 470W Solar Panel Receives CEC Approval
Chinese solar panel manufacturer Aiko has revealed that its state-of-the-art 470-watt residential rooftop module has received approval from the Clean Energy Council in Australia, making it the first of its kind available in the country. The approval of Aiko’s Neostar 2P signifies a significant milestone in the local solar industry, offering unprecedented power capacity within a standard residential module size.
Smart Commercial Solar’s founder and CEO, Huon Hoogesteger, expressed his enthusiasm for the Neostar 2P, stating, “This is probably the only panel I have actually been excited about in the last 10 years.” The panel not only boasts a power output of 470W but also achieves an impressive 23.6% efficiency, all packed into a compact design measuring just 1757 x 1134mm, similar in size to conventional 430W or 440W panels available in the market.
Shifting Trends in Solar Panel Technology
Rami Fedda, co-founder of Solar Juice, highlighted the significance of Aiko’s achievement, indicating a shift in Australia’s preferred solar panel watt class. While the standard residential rooftop PV module capacity has evolved from 300W to 440W over the years, the introduction of the 470W Neostar 2P marks a notable advancement in the industry.
Previous attempts to introduce higher wattage panels faced challenges due to technological limitations, with many requiring additional rows of cells, resulting in increased panel length and weight. Aiko, however, overcame these obstacles through its innovative N-type ABC technology with back contact design, allowing for a compact yet high-powered solution.
Setting New Standards in Solar Technology
Alex Hang, Aiko’s head of APAC, emphasised the company’s commitment to innovation, stating, “As a technology leader and Tier 1 module supplier, Aiko is setting a new standard in the industry by continually pushing the boundaries of what solar technology can achieve.” The N-type ABC modules not only offer superior shade optimisation technology but have also undergone rigorous testing to ensure durability and performance.
Aiko’s focus on incorporating leading-edge technology into its panels aims to provide customers with a high-performing and efficient solar solution, catering to the growing demand for sustainable energy options. While the premium features of the N-type ABC modules may come at a slightly higher cost, they offer remarkable benefits for those looking to maximise the advantages of solar energy.
Sophie Vorrath, Editor of One Step Off The Grid and Deputy Editor of Renew Economy, shared insights into the latest developments in clean energy, highlighting Aiko’s pioneering efforts in advancing solar technology.
