Suntech’s 250W ‘BlackPearl’ module offers 10% more power than conventional modules

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  Suntech Power will introduce the STP250S-20/Wd+ ‘BlackPearl,’ a new generation high-efficiency module, at Intersolar Europe 2011.

Suntech Power will introduce the STP250S-20/Wd+ ‘BlackPearl,’ a new generation high-efficiency module, at Intersolar Europe 2011 (Booth A2.380). Powered by a new generation of crystalline silicon cells, the BlackPearl modules achieve up to 15.2% conversion efficiency. This is approximately 10% more power than conventional polycrystalline products.

Problem

There is a need to offer cost competitive conventional polycrystalline modules but with higher efficiencies to meet residential rooftop rates of return on investment, especially in a period of declining feed-in tariff rates. Advanced cell and module designs give higher performance but are more expensive to produce and increase the up-front purchase cost for consumers.

Solution

The BlackPearl 250W product is a 60-cell module comprised of 6-inch black square cells that delivers one of the highest power-per-weight ratios in the industry. The module features a +0 to +5% positive power tolerance and exceptionally low oxygen content leading to strong resistance to light-induced degradation. All Suntech BlackPearl modules also feature an antireflective surface trapping the sunlight into the cells combined with a hydrophobic self-cleaning surface structure. In addition, the modules are built to withstand all weather conditions including 3.800 N/m² (~270 km/h) wind load and 5.400 N/m² (~55 kg/m²) snow loads, well above IEC standard requirements.

Applications

The product is ideally suited to rooftop installations where weight, power, and aesthetics are key customer considerations.

Platform

Utilizing different technology than Pluto products, the BlackPearl module is comprised of 6-inch square cells that contain minimal oxygen content and achieve 18% conversion efficiency at cell level.

Availability

Suntech will start shipping the new products to Europe starting in June 2011.