Solar Frontier has expanded its portfolio of CIS (Copper, Indium selenium) thin-film module-based ‘PowerSets’ for residential rooftops, introducing the new ‘PowerSet Mini’ and ‘PowerSet Maxi’ to supplement its ‘PowerSet Turbo’ product offering. By expanding its PowerSet product line, the company is addressing growing demand for standardised PV systems that better suit various roof and system sizes.
Problem
CIS thin-film modules have the ability to operate in low-light conditions and can be less susceptible to shading issues, typical in residential rooftop installations. Providing installers complete system kits reduces system design, lowers installation times and potentially provides a better optimized system.
Solution
PowerSets consist of high-performance Solar Frontier CIS modules and matching electronic components. This includes the smart CIS Turbo inverter and the new Kostal PIKO inverter, which are optimised for each set size. The new PowerSet Maxi covers system sizes ranging from 4.8 kWp to 9.9 kWp, using a 3-phase PIKO inverter from Kostal Solar Electric with two MPP trackers. Thanks to its second MPP Tracker, PowerSet Maxi provides a highly flexible and easy-to-install system solution that also reduces planning and installation time. In contrast, the new PowerSet Mini is specially designed for smaller roofs. It has a system output of 2.0 kWp, consists of 12 modules and comes with a matching single-phase CIS Turbo ‘Mini’ inverter.
Applications
Solar Frontier’s PowerSets for residential rooftops are suited for roof sizes of 15.6 m² or larger. Thanks to their wide range of ways in which they can be configured, they can be installed on various roof layouts and inclines.
Platform
The new PowerSet Maxi covers system sizes ranging from 4.8 kWp to 9.9 kWp, while the new PowerSet Mini is specially designed for smaller roofs. It has a system output of 2.0 kWp. All PowerSets come with a 10-year system guarantee and offer free monitoring, enabling owners to view their system’s yield data online at any time. Because of their performance advantages, Solar Frontier’s CIS modules are claimed to produce higher electricity yields (kilowatt-hours per kilowatt-peak) than conventional crystalline silicon solar panels in real-world conditions.
Availability
April 2016 onwards.