Trinasolar, a global leader in smart solar products and energy solutions, joined industry leaders at pv magazine USA Week 2025. Ethan Ely, product manager at Trinasolar US, presented “Conquering the Elements: Bankable Shield Module Technology” during the event’s opening day.
Ely’s presentation focused on strengthening PV solar project resilience against extreme environmental risks by using Trinasolar’s Vertex N Shield module, which delivers 620W power output, 23% efficiency, 0.4% annual degradation, and a 30-year warranty. He explained how Vertex N Shield’s extreme mechanical strength meets severe loading requirements and delivers excellent resistance to hail, wind, snow, and fire while reducing system cost. These reliability attributes are key contributors to project bankability, minimizing risk and maximizing long-term performance. Trinasolar’s proven track record as a BloombergNEF (BNEF) Tier 1 manufacturer and the Vertex N Shield’s durability reinforce investor confidence and maximize long-term returns for stakeholders.
The Shield module’s 2.5/2.5mm fully tempered glass withstands hailstones up to 55mm without tracker stowing and up to 75mm at a 45-degree stow angle, significantly reducing the risk of hail loss. The module’s uneven snow load capacity of 6600Pa demonstrates durability in real-world loading applications, capable of withstanding up to 7.2ft of uneven snow load in a fixed-tilt position.
With a high-wind load capacity of +8000Pa/-6000Pa and a tracker-mounted strength of +3600Pa/-3000Pa, the Vertex N Shield’s enhanced structural integrity correlates to shorter purlins and lower tracker costs. Additionally, the Vertex N shield passed the UL 61730-2 Type 30 (Class A+A) fire rating, far exceeding the industry’s fire performance standard.
The module’s superior reliability has earned it the recognition of “Overall Highest Achiever” in RETC’s PV Module Index with minimal degradation and a “Top Performer” in the Kiwa PVEL PV Module Reliability Scorecard.
Ely presented a case study analyzing a hypothetical 100MW, 30-degree fixed-tilt installation in a frequent-hail zone in western Texas. Compared to a system using standard dual-glass modules, the Vertex N Shield reduced losses by ~60%, resulting in savings of around $1.72 million.
Ely emphasized that the Vertex N Shield module uses the same n-type TOPCon advanced technology platform as other Trinasolar Vertex N modules, delivering the high efficiency and power output for proven lower levelized cost of energy (LCOE) that the solar industry knows and trusts.
Trinasolar is proud to participate in pv magazine USA Week 2025 to discuss advanced PV technology, critical insights, and long-term partnerships that are driving the country’s solar industry forward and powering a net-zero future.
Click here to view pv magazine’s USA Week 2025 series on demand.
Trinasolar was founded in 1997. As a leading global provider of photovoltaic (PV) modules and smart energy solutions, Trinasolar delivers PV products, applications, and services to promote sustainable development for the benefit of all humanity. By the end of June 2025, Trinasolar has shipped more than 292GW of solar modules to customers across the globe. Trinasolar has obtained extensive technical and brand recognition from renowned independent institutes worldwide, demonstrating the PV market's strong confidence in Trina’s product value, technological innovation, and financial performance. Trinasolar is a BNEF Tier 1 manufacturer for both PV modules and energy storage. Trina has been named “Overall Highest Achiever” by RETC five times and awarded “Top Performer” by PVEL for 11 consecutive years.
Trinasolar’s global business footprint has delivered clean energy to more than 180 countries and regions. With its mission of “Solar energy for all,” Trinasolar is committed to working with others to create a net-zero future. For more information, please visit www.trinasolar.com.
