Game-changing series 5 PV module

The next-gen 365-watt solar module, which is 1.85m high and 1.2m wide, will be available in Europe by the third quarter of 2017. It builds on the performance and reliability of First Solar’s currently available Series 4 product. The glass-glass Series 5 module features an integrated steel dual-back mounting rail assembly which reduces Balance of System (BOS) costs and installation times. First Solar’s high performance thin film modules already offer several performance and reliability advantages over c-Si panels.

“The Series 5 module offers all the benefits of First Solar’s high performance thin film technology, in a convenient form factor. The module is designed with the customer’s needs in mind, offering world-class reliability and performance at competitive prices,” said Christopher Burghardt, Vice President of Business Development for Europe, First Solar. “We believe that the new module will shatter the myth that low cost solar cannot be delivered with high performance technology. In fact, we firmly believe that this module and its future iterations will play a significant role in driving forward Europe’s energy transition.”

The module’s low labour requirements make it ideal for markets with high labour costs, such as Europe; the modules can be installed either manually by two people or mechanically. First Solar currently has an installed capacity of over 4GW in Europe.

“Our new Series 5 module is a direct response to industry needs. Power plant owners, operators, developers, and EPC (engineering, procurement and construction) companies will find immediate value in our Series 5 offering,” said Karim Asali, Technical Director for Europe, First Solar. “Eliminating the need for clips by using a back-rail, and the new form factor will lead to significantly reduced BOS costs to a point there will be a negligible difference between First Solar modules and conventional crystalline silicon panels. And with the reduced installation labour costs and fewer electrical connections per Watt compared to the company’s current modules, the full advantage becomes quite clear.”

First Solar will also showcase its comprehensive Energy Services offering a suite of products designed to fit the needs of utility-scale power plant owners and operators at Intersolar. Each solution addresses a specific business model, from owners looking for turnkey operations and maintenance (O&M), to organisations who self-perform O&M but need the technology to improve efficiency and fleet performance. Visitors will also be able to experience First Solar’s state-of-the-art Operations Center.

First Solar will present its new module on 22^nd June, 2016 at Intersolar at 5pm at booth #158 in Hall A1.