Mitsubishi Electric Introduces New UJ6 Module Series

The demand for higher power output modules has been steadily growing due to an increase in government subsidies making the return on investment for large scale projects more attractive. In addition, high energy prices and cost efficiencies from large scale projects are fueling the demand for higher power output PV modules.

With the introduction of the four-bus-bar cell and a new larger module size, Mitsubishi Electric was able to achieve a maximum power output of 235W per module.  The five new modules sizes introduced in the United States (212, 218, 225, 230, and 235 watts) have been designed for medium and large scale commercial installations.

“The development of our new module series was highly influenced by feedback from customers.  We have improved the power output, efficiency, and safety features in the new modules to respond to the ever changing and growing PV market in the US” said Gina Heng, general manager of Mitsubishi Electric’s photovoltaic division. 

Main Features:

1) Use of four bus bars increases output from each PV cell

By increasing the number of bus bars from two to four, the internal resistance in each PV cell has been reduced, increasing individual cell output by 3 percent compared to those used in Mitsubishi Electric’s previous models. To use four bus bars, however, each bus bar needs to be narrowed so that the cell can collect enough sunlight, which makes it difficult to connect each cell in the tape automated bonding (tab) process. Mitsubishi Electric has overcome this difficulty by developing a high-quality graphic sensing technology that increases the accuracy in tab alignment.

2) Increased module output by expanding module size 

Mitsubishi Electric has increased the number of cells used in each module from 50 to 60, resulting in an increase in output power of up to 27% per module as compared to the Mitsubishi Electric’s 185 watt module.  Due to the improved output, the number of modules needed to build a system is reduced, saving on installation parts and labor costs. As a result, lower total system costs are made possible. 

3) Optimized frame design withstands a load of 5400Pa based on IEC static load test 

The newly designed frame can endure force of approximately double that of Mitsubishi Electric’s previous models. Even with their larger size, the new models have passed the IEC static load test of 5400Pa, which is a standard for PV module performance established by the International Electrotechnical Commission. The new frame has also been designed to facilitate a wider variation of installation methods.

4) 4-layer junction box

Mitsubishi Electric has developed a 4-layer junction box based on the company’s current triple-layer junction box design, increasing the module’s overall safety and reliability. UL V-0 certified potting material, a metal barrier cover, and a plastic resin cover were used to cover the electrified area inside the junction box. In the new design, a 4th layer, an extremely heat-resistant and flame-retardant mica sheet, was added to the inside of the metal cover.

5) 100% lead-free solder

The new UJ6 series modules, like previous Mitsubishi Electric photovoltaic modules, continue to use only 100% lead-free solder, making the modules more environmentally friendly than traditional PV modules. 

The new UJ6 module will be on display in the United States at the Solar Power International 2009 conference on October 27th in Anaheim, California.  For more information please visit www.mitsubishielectricsolar.com or email pv@meus.mea.com . 

About Mitsubishi Electric & Electronics USA’s Photovoltaic Division

Mitsubishi Electric is one of the world’s largest manufacturers and providers of solar power technology.  The company’s eco-friendly photovoltaic systems are used throughout the world to bring clean, reliable energy to residences, businesses, power generation plants, schools, factories and more. For more information visit www.mitsubishielectricsolar.com or call 714.220.2500.