Panasonic Eco Solutions North America announces the availability of the HIT Power 240S and HIT Power 235S solar modules in the United States. The 240S panel offers integrators and installers a cell conversion efficiency of 21.6% and module efficiency of 19.0%, and the 235S with a cell conversion efficiency of 21.1% and module efficiency of 18.6%. Sales of the new panels will begin from the middle of this month.

The shipment of panels marks the first for Panasonic-branded panels to North America. The new HIT Power 240S solar module will be on display at booth 2815 at Solar Power International in Orlando, Florida from September 11 to September 13, 2012.

Panasonic HIT Power panel power generation output is higher than traditional panels because of unique solar cell technology combining two key technologies - high efficiency monocrystalline silicon and ultra-thin layers of amorphous silicon. The monocrystalline silicon is sandwiched between the amorphous-Si for superior conversion efficiency as well as excellent temperature characteristics. The name "HIT" comes from "Heterojunction with intrinsic Thin-layer," an original technology of the Panasonic Group.

"Panasonic HIT Power modules offer our customers 100% of the nameplate rated power and backed with both a limited workmanship and power output warranty," said Koshi Terakawa of Panasonic Eco Solutions Energy Management North America.

Technology adapted through advanced research and development
HIT Power panels are known for their real-world performance ability to generate more energy than traditional panels, especially useful in a limited amount of space. In order to keep this distinction, Panasonic continues to do further research and development to constantly improve its panels, focusing on ways to improve cell efficiency by reducing carrier recombination, optical absorption, and resistance losses.

The new solar panels also incorporate a new tab design, using three tabs, up from the two traditionally used in the company's solar panels. The application of the three tabs allows for reduced electrical loss between the cell fingers and tabs. Also, by making the tab width thinner, the light receiving surface of the solar panel is expanded to generate more energy per installed square foot.

To improve the panel's light capturing capability, the new panels have upgraded the glass used to an anti-reflection glass technology. The new glass reduces the reflection and scattering of incoming light and helps to improve generated electricity levels in morning and evening light conditions.

Quality and Environmental Stewardship Silicon wafers located inside of the HIT solar panels are made in Oregon, and the panels are assembled in an ISO 9001 (quality), 14001 (environment), and 18001 (safety) certified factory. Unique eco-packing minimizes cardboard waste at the job site.