Sharp, the renowned Japanese electronics conglomerate, has introduced four cutting-edge photovoltaic (PV) modules designed specifically for rooftop solar applications. Among these modules are two bifacial variants, capable of generating an impressive output of up to 450W. This latest offering from Sharp demonstrates their commitment to advancing the efficiency and performance of solar technology in the industry.
Among the recently unveiled modules are the bifacial NBJG445R and NBJG450R models, as well as the sleek black NBJG435B and NBJG440B variants. These modules feature G12R half-cells and showcase an impressive maximum power conversion efficiency of 22.52%. Additionally, they exhibit a temperature coefficient of -0.29% per degree Celsius and are projected to maintain a performance level of “at least” 87.5% even after 30 years of continuous operation.
Andrew Lee, the Vice President of Commercial Operations at Sharp Energy Solutions Europe, expressed that there is a significant market demand for dual glass modules designed for on-roof solar systems. Lee emphasized that the launch of their new bifacial modules is a testament to their dedication to sustainable energy solutions. By offering products that excel in both performance and aesthetics, Sharp aims to provide pioneering solutions to their customers in the renewable energy sector.
Sharp highlighted that its latest modules will be manufactured at a plant located in Hamburg, Germany. This expansion of manufacturing capacity within the European solar industry comes as a positive development amidst a series of setbacks in the sector. Recent challenges, such as Meyer Burger’s restructuring and job cuts following the closure of a German factory, have cast a shadow over the industry. Sharp’s investment in production facilities in Germany is a welcome boost for the region’s solar sector.
Sharp made headlines in August when it revealed an impressive 200MW photovoltaic (PV) project pipeline exclusively in Germany. The recent launch of their new product line aligns perfectly with the increasing demand for rooftop solar installations in the country. According to data from Germany’s federal network agency, the Bundesnetzagentur, rooftop solar capacity additions in the first four months of this year surged by a remarkable 81% compared to the same period in 2023. This surge in interest further emphasizes the timeliness and relevance of Sharp’s entry into the rooftop solar sector in Germany.
In a notable development, the German solar association, Bundesverband Solarwirtschaft (BSW), discovered that more than half of the 450 companies surveyed towards the end of May this year expressed intentions to integrate a solar system into their operations within the next three years. Subsequently, in July, the Bundesnetzagentur granted close to 260MW of rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity. Moreover, the agency plans to significantly increase the upper limit on tendered rooftop solar capacity to over 550MW in the upcoming months.
