[RE-wrenches] 24V Module Query

[All Solar, Inc.]

Suntech 295's...  Biggin!
Thats about it!
We did get some 72 cell mods from  Oasis Montana (dealer)

We are in the same boat. 14 years of off grid installs!

Jeremy
All Solar
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Allan Sindelar 
  To: RE-wrenches 
  Sent: Thursday, January 24, 2013 12:35 PM
  Subject: [RE-wrenches] 24V Module Query


  Wrenches,
  We have years of installing 36-cell (12V) and 72-cell (24V) modules for battery-based customers. Most of our systems are 24V or 48V nominal. Over the last few years, sources of conventionally-sized 72-cell modules have dried up - as cells have increased in size, most modules and most newer factory production lines have either gone to 60-cell (20V) modules, or 72 cells in 300+ watt ranges. It seems that the formerly common 72 cell, 24V modules in the 150-190 watt range, which are well-suited to integrating into existing systems, are no longer available.

  60-cell modules in the common 220-250 watt range can't be added to an existing system unless run through a dedicated MPPT charge controller that can convert voltage, such as an FM, XW60, Classic or TriStar; the added cost of any of these controllers cancels out the low prices of the modules.

  Who continues to manufacture 72-cell modules? Which distributors carry them?
      I am aware of three options - are there more?
      - Sunpower makes one module in the 245 watt range that can be used negative ground, but it's very high efficiency (and with high Voc/Vmp as well) and very pricey;
      - Sanyo/Panasonic has 225-240 watt modules, but also quite premium and pricey;
      - Ameresco bought the rights to manufacture many former BP modules, and I think they make some. But we had to replace lots of failed BP modules in that size range, and are hesitant to use their technology, fearing that the problems may persist in the continued line.

  Thank you for any discussion and recommendations.
  Allan

  -- 
  Allan Sindelar
  Allan at positiveenergysolar.com
  NABCEP Certified Photovoltaic Installer
  NABCEP Certified Technical Sales Professional
  New Mexico EE98J Journeyman Electrician
  Founder and Chief Technology Officer
  Positive Energy, Inc.
  3209 Richards Lane (note new address)
  Santa Fe, New Mexico 87507
  505 424-1112
  www.positiveenergysolar.com 







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