Solar

Six solar PV manufacturers join forces to standardize 700W+ module

Six solar PV manufacturers join forces to standardize 700W+ module
(Trina Solar’s 210mm n-type i-TOPCon cells roll off production line. Credit: Trina Solar)

Six solar PV manufacturers have set up the 700W+ Photovoltaic Open Innovation Ecological Alliance after launching a joint initiative on standardizing and applying the design of 700W+ PV modules.

The initiative calls for all PV companies to promote the standardization of module dimensions and the industrialization of ultra-high-power and ultra-high-efficiency modules. Those in the alliance include Trina Solar, Astronergy, Canadian Solar, Risen Energy, TCL Zhonghuan, and Tongwei.

The manufacturers said the newly upgraded alliance can provide opportunities upstream and downstream, enhance supply chain efficiencies, boost production, and lower costs throughout the industrial chain.

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Based on the standard dimensions of 700W+ ultra-high power modules, alongside the “T/CPIA 0003-2022 Technical Specification for Crystalline Silicon Terrestrial Photovoltaic Module Dimensions and Mounting Holes” document issued by the China Photovoltaic Industry Association, the six manufacturers have proposed that 700W modules in all PV companies should adhere to existing agreed industry dimensions:

  • Module size: 2384mm x 1303mm
  • Module long-side vertical hole distance: 400mm/1400m

Additionally, a hole distance of 790mm has been added to the standard.

Reducing the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) through enhancing module efficiency and power output has become an inexorable trend in the industry, the companies said. The PV industry entered the 600W+ era about three years ago, but the power output of PV modules has since been upgraded from 600W+ to 700W+ with the application of n-type high-efficiency cell technology and G12 (210mm) large-format wafer technology.

Trina Solar, a major Chinese manufacturer, recently announced it will build a more than 1 million square foot solar photovoltaic manufacturing facility in Wilmer, Texas. The company is investing more than $200 million in property and equipment. When completed, the facility will provide 1,500 local jobs, produce 5 GW of modules, and source polysilicon from the United States and Europe. Starting in 2024, the facility will produce large power output Vertex modules using 210mm large-size wafers.