PHOTON International The Photovoltaic Magazine

Shell presents two new module series using quadratic mono cells

In the fall, Shell Solar GmbH introduces two new module series with monocrystalline cells. Whereas the SQ70, SQ75, and SQ80 modules have nominal powers of 70 W, 75 W, and 80 W respectively, the SQ140-C, SQ150-C, and SQ160-C modules have powers between 140 and 160 W. The modules have a power tolerance of +/- 5 percent, and their efficiencies lie between 10.6 (SQ140-C) and 12.7 percent (SQ80).

	© Shell Solar GmbH
Cell square: The nearly quadratic shape of the monocrystalline cells makes higher module efficiencies possible – shown here, Shell's SQ80 module (left) and its SQ160-C module.

The new series are slated to gradually replace Shell's SP series, which have efficiencies that are around 1 percentage point lower than that of the new modules. The increased efficiency is due to the greater packing density of the cells, which have a nearly quadratic shape. Most monocrystalline solar cells available on the market are still pseudo-quadratic with rounded corners. In few cases, the original, completely round shape of the ingot is used for the cells.

The new modules with aluminum frames contain two or three bypass diodes. The three larger modules are equipped with MC connectors. The company has applied for IEC 61215 and class II certification for its products. Shell offers a power guarantee of 10 years on 90 percent of nominal power, and a 25-year guarantee on 80 percent of the module's minimum power. The modules are distributed worldwide.

The data for the two new module series, says Michael Henne, communications manager at Shell Solar, are »still preliminary.« The data, which were accumulated during pilot production, will be re-examined during serial production.