AIKO Sets the New Standard in Hail Resistance for Solar Panels
August 16th, 2024
At AIKO, we engineer solar panels to thrive under real-world conditions, including the challenging weather patterns of the Pacific. Given the occasional yet intense hailstorms in this region, designing panels that can resist significant hail impact is a cornerstone of our engineering process. The result is more resilient cells, a cleverly designed frame and solid 3.2mm thick glass front side. Which is why we are proud to share that AIKO’s strategic enhancement of hail-resistant solar modules marks a significant leap in solar technology, addressing hail damage to solar panels globally.
Beyond the Standard: Engineering Solar Panels for Maximum Hail Resistance
Most legacy solar module manufacturers adhere to the IEC 61215 standard, an old and easily passed test that uses relatively gentle 25mm diameter hailstones to simulate typical hail impacts. However, this basic standard falls short of addressing the more extreme conditions that can occur, including larger hailstones that cause significant damage. In a move to transcend conventional industry benchmarks, AIKO has adopted the Swiss Hail VKF HW4 standard for our residential panel testing protocols.
AIKO Neostar panels were the first in the world to pass this test at independent test lab TUV Rheinland. This rigorous testing involved AIKO high-efficiency ABC modules facing 40mm diameter hailstones, which are substantially larger (compared to the ice balls in the standard tests) and generate an impact energy of at least 11.1J across 16 impact points, with each shot similar in intensity to that of an air-rifle. This superior standard of testing ensures AIKO’s panels are equipped to withstand much harsher conditions than those covered by typical industry standards. Competing panels built from 1.6mm thick glass can’t pass this test. At AIKO, we think our customers deserve the best possible panel we can provide them.
Securing Your Investment with AIKO’s Hail-Resistant Solar Panels
1. Enhanced Durability and Reliability:
- AIKO’s solar panels are engineered to handle impacts from larger hailstones, likely during severe weather events, meaning significantly less risk of damage, reduced need for repairs or replacements, and prolonged panel integrity.
2. Cost Efficiency Over Time:
- Investing in panels that can withstand more severe conditions allows businesses and homeowners to avoid the financial burdens associated with frequent panel replacements or extensive repairs after hailstorms, leading to considerable savings in hail-prone regions.
3. Increased Energy Security:
- The outer glass shell of AIKO panels is more resilient to hail than most panels on the market, but importantly, after the AIKO cells have been stressed, they continue to perform well due to their inherent flexibility. Older PERC and basic TopCon panels that happen to survive hail will suffer a greater reduction in output by comparison with advanced back contact cells.
4. Safety and Compliance:
- By surpassing standard testing requirements, AIKO’s solar panels enhance safety standards, minimizing risks such as electrical shorts or fire hazards from damaged panels, which are vital for maintaining compliance and operational safety.
AIKO’s commitment to advanced testing and quality assurance reflects not just an innovation in product development but a forward-thinking approach to customer satisfaction. As a leader in solar technology, AIKO continues to innovate, supported by over 1,000 patents, offering robust solar solutions that stand as the best option for businesses looking to invest in reliable and safe renewable energy. AIKO’s panels don’t just meet the standard—we redefine it, ensuring that businesses equipped with AIKO solar solutions are prepared for whatever the weather may bring, backed by the best solar panel hail protection available.
For more information, please contact marketing@aikosolar.com.