New Generation Solar Modules Deliver Significant Improvements in Yield, Performance & Quality

Hanwha SolarOne (South Korea), a global photovoltaic (PV) manufacturer of high-quality, cost-competitive solar modules, today introduced its new HSL S Series PV modules at the Solar Power International exhibition, taking place in Las Vegas, USA. The event marks the worldwide roll-out of the new product series, of which the first deliveries have just been completed. The new HSL S modules feature significant improvements in yield, performance and quality, and are available in both 60 and 72 cell models.

“The new HSL S Series solar modules are a perfect melding of South Korean quality with Chinese cost efficiencies,” said Mr. Seong-woo Nam, chief executive officer of Hanwha SolarOne. “A new and slimmer frame will offer real savings in shipping and warehousing costs, while the improved performance and overall quality offer great value and return on investment.”

The biggest technological advancement in the new module is a four busbar cell architecture. Moving from a three to four busbar design results in shorter current distance and less resistance loss within each cell, yielding greater energy efficiency and higher module power output. Rated power of the 60 cell HSL S module is 260 - 270 Wp, the 72 cells module is offered in power classes ranging from 305 – 315 Wp.

The new modules also boast industry leading performance of two important features: temperature coefficient and weak light performance. The improved temperature coefficient reduces efficiency loss in high temperature climates, improving from -0.43 % / °C to -0.41 % / °C for the HSL S Series. The weak light performance at 200 W/m2 in relation to 1000 W/m2 improves to at least 97 %, which translates into more energy on a cloudy day.

The HSL S Series is a new frontier in quality and reliability for Hanwha SolarOne. The new modules will be produced entirely on automated lines, ensuring consistent and uniform quality. The advancement in quality is underscored by an increase of the first year power warranty from 97% to 97.5%. The new module generation is equipped with a slimmer frame, made from a highly resilient aluminum alloy. With a 5.400/4.000 Pa mechanical load resistance, extended durability is maintained even under challenging conditions.