AESOLAR has introduced its Meteor Gen 3 TOPCon modules, which are based on quarter-cut cell technology
The new series delivers up to 670 W power and 24.80% efficiency, with gains of up to 40 W over the previous generation
The modules feature a -0.26%/°C temperature coefficient, 85±5% bifaciality, and a 30-year performance warranty
Germany-based solar module manufacturer AESOLAR has launched Meteor Gen 3, a new series of n-type TOPCon solar modules featuring quarter-cut cell technology. It includes three models: CMEQ-66BDS, CMEQ-48BDE, and CMEQ-48BDS, targeting utility-scale, commercial and industrial (C&I), and residential applications. The modules deliver up to 670 W power output and 24.80% efficiency.
Meteor Gen 3 is the third generation of the company’s Meteor module series. The first generation, CMD, introduced n-type TOPCon technology, while the second generation, CMER, adopted rectangular G12R cells to improve module area utilization. The latest CMEQ series divides each solar cell into four smaller sections to reduce electrical losses and increase power output without changing module dimensions.
According to AESOLAR, the CMEQ-66BDS delivers up to 670 W, a 40 W increase over the previous CMER-132BDS module, while retaining the same dimensions of 2,382 × 1,134 mm. Module efficiency has increased from 23.34% to 24.80%. The smaller CMEQ-48BDE and CMEQ-48BDS models offer power gains of 35 W and 25 W, respectively, compared with their previous-generation counterparts, while maintaining dimensions of 1,762 × 1,133 mm.
The quarter-cut design reduces the current flowing through individual cell sections. Since resistive losses increase with the square of the current, halving the current reduces these losses to one-quarter for a conductor section with the same resistance. This helps reduce heat generation in the cells and interconnections, allowing more of the generated electricity to reach the module output, the company explains.
The power temperature coefficient has improved from -0.29%/°C in the previous generation to -0.26%/°C in Meteor Gen 3, indicating lower power losses at higher operating temperatures. AESOLAR further adds that the smaller cell sections also reduce mechanical stress and limit the impact of microcracks to a smaller area of the module.
The Meteor Gen 3 series offers 85±5% bifaciality and features a 30-year performance warranty. According to the company, higher power output within the same module dimensions could reduce the number of modules required for a given project capacity and help lower the levelized cost of energy (LCOE).
Meteor Gen 3 expands AESOLAR’s existing module portfolio, which includes the higher-power Meteor CME-132BDS rated at up to 730 W. According to the company, the initial production batch of the new series has already been allocated to project partners.