Canadian Solar to intro Diamond Module at 2014 SPI

GUELPH, CANADA: Canadian Solar Inc. will introduce a new, groundbreaking Diamond module at the upcoming Solar Power International (SPI) exhibition.

The Diamond module, also known as the double module, utilizes heat-strengthened glass instead of the traditional polymer backsheet. The Diamond module is PID free with anti-PID cells and encapsulated material. With no metal module frame, the Diamond glass module does not require grounding, thereby eliminating the cause of Potential Induced Degradation (PID).

In addition, the Diamond module has the ability to withstand harsh environmental conditions, including high humidity, high temperature, sandstorm, and ultraviolet (UV) conditions. Furthermore, the module's increased resistance to salt corrosion translates into a more robust and reliable solution for seaside/waterside photovoltaic (PV) system installation.

Rated for 1500V systems, the Diamond module significantly reduces Balance of System (BOS) costs by increasing modules in a string and decreasing the number of combiners, cables, and other system parts. The innovative glass-on-glass cell encapsulation blocks moisture permeability, enhancing long-term system performance reliability. The first year annual power degradation is 2.5 percent and 0.5 percent each year afterwards. With that, module output at the 25th year is maintained at 85 percent versus the current 80 percent.

"Canadian Solar is committed to providing robust, high-performance solar modules to meet the diversified needs of our global customers," commented Dr. Shawn Qu, chairman and CEO of Canadian Solar. "This Diamond Module, which will be officially launched in 2015, essentially enhances our customers' return on investment by decreasing system costs while improving energy yield."

In addition to the Diamond Module, Canadian Solar will be showcasing their innovative string inverters and installation modules in Booth #300 at SPI. More than 15,000 visitors are expected at North America's largest solar tradeshow from October 21-23 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.