Photovoltaic modules have been manufactured for the mass market for decades, but there has never been a standard for their external dimensions. Currently, modules in the 400 watt peak power class are approximately 1.70 m long and 1.10 m wide, with exact dimensions depending on the manufacturer. However, nine major Chinese manufacturers, including Astronergy, Canadian Solar, and Trina Solar, have agreed to set new external dimensions as the standard: 2382 × 1134 mm. The manufacturers also plan to establish a standardization committee called the “Photovoltaic Module Dimension Standardization Seminar Group” to convince other manufacturers to adopt these dimensions.
The main justification for the new large-format modules is the dimensions of current wafers, which are the starting products for modules. Larger modules can help reduce waste and production costs. Additionally, the new dimensions are practical for transport, as two of these modules can fit side by side and five can fit behind each other in a 40-foot container.
In Germany, modules with a length of over 2 meters are already on the market and are used mainly in open space systems due to German construction law. The regulations in Germany stipulate that modules with mechanically held glass cover surfaces with a maximum individual surface area of up to 2.0 m² can be used without further approval. However, with the new larger formats, this would no longer be possible. The German Institute for Building Technology has proposed an amendment to increase the limit to 3 square meters, and this change is expected to be implemented soon.
Despite the standardization of larger modules, there will still be a market for compact modules in the 400-watt class with a length of around 1.7 m. These smaller modules are more suitable for residential rooftops as they can better utilize limited roof areas. Manufacturers will continue to offer a product line for private households, often in a full-black design, while the larger modules are primarily targeted towards industrial and commercial roofs and open space systems.
