Panasonic HIT Premium VBHN235SE10 and VBHN235SJ18 and standard VBMS230AE01 solar panels

Panasonic has announced three new solar panel products for the Australian market. The range features two HIT Premium Solar Panels - the VBHN235SE10 and the VBHN235SJ18 - as well as a standard level VBMS230AE01.

The two HIT Premium Solar Panels are claimed to deliver more energy per sq m, with the VBHN235SE10 featuring 18.6% module efficiency compared to 14-15% on conventional panels. They are claimed to feature high heat performance with the power output reducing by only 0.30% per degree above 25°C, compared with conventional panels’ reduced output of 0.45%.

The HIT panels are small and thin with a subtle black frame, designed to sit lower on the roof for a sleek and stylish addition to any building. The small footprint of just 1.26 m² means the panels require less roof space to do the same job as bigger solar panels and weigh only 15 kg, reducing the load bearing to the roof.

The HIT panels feature three tabs instead of two, reducing electrical loss by making the tab-width thinner to expand the light receiving surface. These panels also feature anti-reflection coated glass, which reduces reflection loss and scattering of sunlight, especially in the morning and evening, when the sun is at a low position.

The standard level VBMS230AE01 delivers 14.1% module efficiency. In addition to reducing carbon footprint, this multicrystalline panel uses lead-free solder and is adjusted to meet the Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive (RoHS), curbing the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment.

The standard panel features a sturdy frame. It can withstand the rigours of the harsh Australian climate, such as strong winds, and passes a mechanical load test of 5400 Pa.