– Utilize high efficiency mono PERC solar cell, up to 24% efficiency – Laminated by tempered glass, rigid, durable and long lasting – Waterproof, scratch resistant, and UV resistant – Customized solar panels for industrial use
Description: 10V 7.5W Solar Panel
This 7.5W solar panel utilizes high efficiency mono PERC solar cells with efficiency up to 24%, to ensure its high output. It is laminated by tempered glass to protect the solar cells inside, making it rigid, durable and long lasting. This custom solar panel is waterproof, scratch resistant, and UV resistant, specially designed for long term outdoor use in any challenging condition.
Applications: Tempered glass solar panels are widely used in IoT applications, marine buoys, wireless sensors, traffic warning devise, GPS devices, asset tracking, electric fence chargers, outdoor lighting systems, weather monitoring systems etc.
Amorphous silicon (a-Si, Amorphous Silicon) solar cells are a kind of thin film solar cells. Compared with traditional crystalline silicon (monocrystalline/polycrystalline) cells, it has good weak light performance, low cost, and flexibility, but the conversion efficiency is low (about 5%-10%). The following are its main application areas:
1. Consumer electronics & portable devices – Solar calculators and electronic watches: The most common application in the early days, using the characteristics of amorphous silicon that can still generate electricity in weak light indoors. – Power bank/solar backpack: Flexible amorphous silicon film can be integrated into portable devices to power low-power devices such as mobile phones. – Wireless keyboard/mouse: Some low-power electronic products use amorphous silicon cells as auxiliary power sources.
2. Building integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) – Photovoltaic glass curtain wall: Amorphous silicon film can be made into semi-transparent or colored components for building facades, taking into account both power generation and aesthetics. – Solar awnings/skylights: Flexible or lightweight design, suitable for curved or special-shaped building structures. – Rooftop solar tiles: Combined with building materials, suitable for low-load bearing or special-shaped roofs.
3. Outdoor & Emergency Power Supply – Solar camping lights/garden lights: Taking advantage of weak light power generation, suitable for outdoor scenes with unstable lighting. – Emergency charging equipment: Such as temporary power supply for disaster relief and power supply for field monitoring equipment. – Solar traffic signs: Provide energy for low-power LED indicator lights.
4. Flexible & Wearable Devices – Flexible solar panels: Used for curved installation scenarios such as tents, car roofs, and sails. – Wearable devices: Such as solar hats and clothes, powering smart watches or sensors (but with lower power).
5. Agriculture & Internet of Things (IoT) – Agricultural sensor power supply: Such as soil moisture monitoring, weather stations and other low-power devices. – Remote monitoring equipment: off-grid applications such as forest fire prevention cameras and wireless communication relay stations.
6. Special environment applications – Aerospace: Some early satellites used amorphous silicon batteries (now mostly replaced by high-efficiency batteries such as GaAs). – High temperature environment: Amorphous silicon has a good temperature coefficient and has less performance degradation in high temperature environments.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Amorphous Silicon Cells
Advantages
Advantages
Good performance in weak light (usable on cloudy days/indoors)
Short life (about 10-15 years, lower than crystalline silicon)
Good high temperature performance
Low power density, large footprint
Future Trends Although amorphous silicon cells are not as efficient as crystalline silicon or emerging perovskite cells, their low cost, weak light adaptability, and flexibility still allow them to maintain a certain market in BIPV, Internet of Things, consumer electronics and other fields. In the future, efficiency may be improved through layering technology (such as stacking with amorphous silicon/microcrystalline silicon) or combining with perovskite.
Posted by Carrie Wong / WSL Solar
WSL Solar has been a quality and professional manufacturer of custom solar panels, solar mini panels, IoT solar panels and solar solution provider in China since 2006.
– Utilize high efficiency mono PERC solar cell, up to 22.5% efficiency – Laminated by tempered glass, rigid, durable and long lasting – Waterproof, scratch resistant, and UV resistant – Customized solar panels for industrial use
Description: 18V 9W Solar Panel
This 9W solar panel utilizes high efficiency mono PERC solar cells with efficiency up to 22.5%, to ensure its high output. It is laminated by tempered glass to protect the solar cells inside, making it rigid, durable and long lasting. This custom solar panel is waterproof, scratch resistant, and UV resistant, specially designed for long term outdoor use in any challenging condition.
Applications: Tempered glass solar panels are widely used in IoT applications, marine buoys, wireless sensors, traffic warning devise, GPS devices, asset tracking, electric fence chargers, outdoor lighting systems, weather monitoring systems etc.
Choosing a custom solar panel for an IoT device involves several considerations to ensure optimal performance, efficiency, and compatibility. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you select the right solar panel:
1. Determine Power Requirements
Calculate Energy Consumption: Measure the power consumption of your IoT device in watts or milliwatts (mW). Consider both active and sleep modes.
Daily Energy Needs: Estimate the total energy required per day (watt-hours, Wh) by multiplying the power consumption by the number of hours the device operates.
Battery Storage: If your device uses a battery, determine the battery capacity and how much energy the solar panel needs to recharge it daily.
2. Assess Sunlight Availability
Location: Consider the geographic location where the IoT device will be deployed. Areas with more sunlight will require smaller panels compared to regions with less sunlight.
Sunlight Hours: Determine the average peak sunlight hours per day for the location. This will help in sizing the solar panel correctly.
3. Select Solar Panel Type
Monocrystalline: High efficiency and space-efficient, ideal for small IoT devices.
Polycrystalline: Slightly less efficient but more cost-effective.
Thin-Film: Flexible and lightweight, suitable for unconventional surfaces but generally less efficient.
4. Determine Panel Size and Output
Power Output: Ensure the solar panel can generate enough power to meet the daily energy needs of your IoT device. Use the formula: [ \text{Panel Size (W)} = \frac{\text{Daily Energy Needs (Wh)}}{\text{Peak Sunlight Hours}} ]
Physical Size: Consider the physical dimensions of the solar panel to ensure it fits within the design constraints of your IoT device.
5. Voltage and Current Requirements
Voltage Matching: Ensure the solar panel’s voltage output matches the input requirements of your IoT device or charge controller.
Current Output: The panel should provide sufficient current to charge the battery or power the device directly.
6. Efficiency and Durability
Efficiency: Higher efficiency panels generate more power per unit area, which is crucial for compact IoT devices.
Durability: Choose panels with robust construction to withstand environmental conditions like temperature fluctuations, humidity, and mechanical stress.
7. Integration with Power Management
Charge Controller: If using a battery, ensure the solar panel is compatible with a charge controller to regulate charging and prevent overcharging.
Power Management IC: For direct powering, ensure the solar panel’s output is compatible with the device’s power management IC.
8. Customization Options
Shape and Size: Custom solar panels can be tailored to fit specific dimensions and shapes required by your IoT device.
Connectors and Mounting: Ensure the panel has the appropriate connectors and mounting options for easy integration.
9. Cost and Supplier Reliability
Budget: Balance the cost with the performance and durability requirements.
Supplier: Choose a reputable supplier with experience in custom solar panels for IoT applications.
10. Testing and Validation
Prototype Testing: Test the solar panel with your IoT device in real-world conditions to validate performance.
Long-term Reliability: Ensure the panel can maintain performance over the expected lifespan of the IoT device.
By carefully considering these factors, you can select a custom solar panel that effectively powers your IoT device, ensuring reliable and sustainable operation.
Posted by Carrie Wong / WSL Solar
WSL Solar has been a quality and professional manufacturer of custom solar panels, solar mini panels, IoT solar panels and solar solution provider in China since 2006.
Choosing a custom solar panel for an IoT device involves a comprehensive evaluation of various factors related to the device’s power requirements, environmental conditions, and the solar panel’s specifications. Here is a detailed guide to assist you in making an informed decision.
Understanding Power Requirements
Determining the power requirements of your IoT device is critical. This involves assessing the device’s functions, such as data processing, acquisition, transmission, and user interaction. It’s essential to measure the current draw in different operational states, including active and sleep modes, to estimate total power consumption. This understanding will help you calculate the required power output of the solar panel to ensure uninterrupted operation.
Assessing Environmental Conditions
The solar panel’s performance is significantly influenced by the environmental conditions in which it will operate. Consider the availability of light, both natural and artificial, as this will affect the solar panel’s energy harvesting capability. It’s essential to evaluate the sunlight exposure at the location of installation, determining the average hours of sunlight per day, and accounting for potential obstructions or shading that may impact performance.
Specifications of the Solar Panel
When selecting a solar panel, key specifications to consider include:
Output Voltage and Current: Ensure that the solar panel’s output voltage and current align with your IoT device’s requirements. For instance, a panel might have outputs of 4VDC, 5VDC, or 12VDC, depending on the application.
Efficiency Rating: Higher efficiency solar panels convert a greater percentage of sunlight into usable energy, which is beneficial in limited light conditions. As of 2024, solar panels typically range from 19% to 24% efficiency, with some premium options exceeding this thresholdand.
Size and Form Factor: The physical dimensions of the solar panel must suit the design and constraints of your IoT device. Custom solutions may need smaller or more uniquely shaped panels that fit within the device’s enclosure.
Durability and Environmental Rating: If the IoT device will be exposed to harsh conditions, selecting a solar panel that is weather-resistant or has an IP rating (e.g., IP67 for waterproofing) is critical.
Integration and Connectivity
Consider how the solar panel will connect to the IoT device. Look for specifications on connector types and compatibility, ensuring that the wiring can support the necessary current without loss. Furthermore, efficient energy management systems may be required to control the charging and discharging process, which includes the use of power controllers that prevent overcharging and ensure operational safety.
Cost and Return on Investment
Lastly, it is essential to evaluate the cost of the solar panel against your budget and the potential return on investment. While higher efficiency and custom features may demand a higher upfront cost, they can lead to significant savings in energy and maintenance over time. Consider the long-term benefits such as reduced reliance on traditional power sources, lower operational costs, and enhanced sustainability.
By considering these factors carefully, you can select a custom solar panel that meets the specific needs of your IoT device, ensuring efficient and reliable operation in its intended environment.
WSL Solar has been a quality and professional manufacturer of custom solar panels, solar mini panels, IoT solar panels and solar solution provider in China since 2006.
In recent years, with the improvement of people’s environmental awareness and the deepening of energy reform, coupled with the reduction of industrial chain costs and the rise of various household station construction models, more and more families have begun to consider installing photovoltaic power generation systems on their roofs. According to data from the National Energy Administration, as of the end of March 2024, China’s total household photovoltaic installed capacity will be 122.94GW. The cumulative number of installed households has exceeded 5 million.
Although household photovoltaic installations have grown rapidly in the past two years, overall, the penetration rate of household photovoltaic market is still low. According to data from Sepu Consulting, the penetration rate of household photovoltaics in 2023 is only 8%, which means that there are at least 60 million roofs to be developed. There are still many people who do not know enough about rooftop photovoltaics or have misunderstandings. Today, let’s talk about household photovoltaics.
1. What is household photovoltaics? Household photovoltaic is a type of distributed photovoltaic, that is, by installing solar photovoltaic panels on the roof or courtyard of the house, solar energy is converted into electricity for household use, and the excess electricity is sold to the grid (self-generation and self-use, surplus electricity is connected to the grid), or the generated electricity is directly sold to the grid in full to obtain electricity fee income (full access to the grid).
2. What are the benefits of household photovoltaic? Economic benefits: By installing household photovoltaic systems, families can use solar energy to generate electricity, reduce dependence on grid electricity, and thus reduce electricity bills. Excess electricity can also be sold to the grid for additional income.
Environmental protection and energy saving: Photovoltaic power generation is a clean energy that does not produce pollutants such as carbon dioxide. It helps to reduce carbon footprint, protect the earth’s home, do a little to slow down global warming, and leave a safer and more livable home for future generations.
Increase the utilization rate of roofs/courtyards: Roofs and courtyards usually have large vacant areas. Installing photovoltaic panels can make full use of these spaces, and increase the value per unit area without affecting normal use, that is, increase the utilization rate.
Energy independence: Photovoltaic systems enable families to achieve energy independence to a certain extent, especially in areas with unstable power supply or high electricity prices. Improving the safety and stability of electricity is of great significance to improving people’s lives.
Beautiful: Modern photovoltaic panels are beautifully designed and can be perfectly integrated with the roof to enhance the appearance of the house.
3. Precautions for installing household photovoltaics Before deciding to install a household photovoltaic system, you need to pay attention to the following aspects:
Roof conditions: Make sure the roof structure is stable, has enough space and a good orientation, and is not blocked by trees or other buildings.
System design: According to the family’s electricity demand and roof conditions, choose the appropriate photovoltaic module array and inverter to ensure the best performance of the system.
Policy support: Understand the local power grid’s open capacity, grid connection requirements and power companies’ photovoltaic grid-connected electricity prices, etc. These policies may affect the return on investment and the benefits obtained.
Professional installation: Choose a qualified and experienced installation company to ensure the quality and safety of the system installation and avoid later maintenance and safety hazards.
4. Answers to common problems Many families may encounter some problems during the installation and use of photovoltaic systems. The following are common problems and their answers:
1）How long is the life of a photovoltaic system? Generally speaking, the service life of a photovoltaic panel is about 25 years, while the life of an inverter is 10 to 25 years. Regular maintenance and care can extend the service life of the system.
2）Can the photovoltaic system still generate electricity on cloudy or rainy days? Although the power generation efficiency of the photovoltaic system will decrease on cloudy or rainy days, it can still generate a certain amount of electricity. Therefore, this situation is usually taken into account when designing the system to ensure the stability of power supply throughout the year.
In addition, some new solar cell technologies can even generate electricity at night or on rainy days. These technologies generate electricity by storing the energy of visible and near-infrared light that is not absorbed and releasing this energy at the appropriate time.
3）How much does it cost to install a photovoltaic system? The installation cost depends on the size of the system and the choice of components. Generally speaking, the initial investment is large, and the payback period is usually around 5 to 10 years, which varies depending on the region and the system design. For details, please consult the relevant power station construction companies.
4) Is it difficult to maintain the photovoltaic system? The maintenance of the photovoltaic system is relatively simple but highly professional. The daily work mainly involves regular cleaning of photovoltaic panels, checking the operating status of the system and handling faults. Most installation companies will provide a certain period of warranty and after-sales service.
5) Is there a radiation problem with photovoltaic power stations? Radiation can be divided into two types: ionizing radiation and non-ionizing radiation, and ionizing radiation is harmful to the human body. Photovoltaic power generation is non-ionizing radiation. Photovoltaic power generation mainly converts solar energy into electrical energy. Compared with daily household appliances, the radiation of the photovoltaic system is negligible, so it can be installed and used with confidence.
In general, installing a photovoltaic power station on the roof not only helps save electricity bills and protect the environment, but also improves asset utilization, and has become a new “green fashion”. However, before installation, it is very necessary to fully understand the characteristics of the photovoltaic system and related precautions to ensure long-term and stable returns.
WSL Solar has been a quality and professional manufacturer of custom solar panels, solar mini panels, IoT solar panels and solar solution provider in China since 2006.
This 12V 3W solar panel is built with high-efficiency PERC solar cells, delivering up to 21% efficiency. It not only has stable output power, but also has good low light performance. This custom solar module is encapsulated with tempered glass, which makes it durable and long service life. This 3W solar panel is also waterproof, UV resistant and scratch resistant.
Features:
– Built with high efficiency PERC solar cell, upto 21% efficiency – Tempered glass encapsulation, durable, long service life – Positive tolerance power, consistent appearance – Waterproof, UV- and scratch- resistant – Excellent performance under low light environments
Applications: This custom solar module is widely used in wireless sensors, IoT devices, marine devices, traffic signs, LED lights and other small electronics etc.
Item No.: FYD-CS005 Technical Details Output: Peak Power (Pmax): 3W Voltage at Pmax (Vmp): 12V Current at Pmax (Imp): 250mA Open Circuit Voltage (Voc): 14V Short Circuit Current (Isc): 270mA Power Tolerance: ±5% Solar Panel Size: 150x150x4.5mm Cell Type: High Efficiency Mono Solar Cell Number of Cells: 24 pcs Construction: Tempered glass / EVA / Solar Cell / EVA / Back sheet (TPT) Product Warranty: 5 Years Storage temperature: -20°C ~ 45°C Working temperature: -40°C ~ 65°C Standard Test Conditions (STC): 1000W/m2, 1.5AM, 25°C Cell temperature
Custom solar panel design and wire soldering service are available.
This 4V 3W solar panel is built with high-efficiency PERC solar cells, delivering up to 21% efficiency. It not only has stable output power, but also has good low light performance. This custom solar module is encapsulated with tempered glass, which makes it durable and long service life. This 4V solar panel is also waterproof, UV resistant and scratch resistant.
Features:
– Built with high efficiency PERC solar cell, upto 21% efficiency – Tempered glass encapsulation, durable, long service life – Positive tolerance power, consistent appearance – Waterproof, UV- and scratch- resistant – Excellent performance under low light environments
Applications: This custom solar module is widely used in wireless sensors, IoT devices, marine devices, traffic signs, LED lights and other small electronics etc.
Item No.: FYD-CS004 Technical Details Output: Peak Power (Pmax): 3.4W Voltage at Pmax (Vmp): 4V Current at Pmax (Imp): 850mA Open Circuit Voltage (Voc): 4.8V Short Circuit Current (Isc): 930mA Power Tolerance: ±5% Solar Panel Size: 230x90x4.5mm Cell Type: High Efficiency Mono Solar Cell Number of Cells: 8 pcs Construction: Tempered glass / EVA / Solar Cell / EVA / Back sheet (TPT) Product Warranty: 5 Years Storage temperature: -20°C ~ 45°C Working temperature: -40°C ~ 65°C Standard Test Conditions (STC): 1000W/m2, 1.5AM, 25°C Cell temperature
Custom solar panel design and wire soldering service are available.
This 5V 1W solar panel is built with high-efficiency monocrystalline solar cells. It not only has stable output power, but also has good low light performance. This custom solar module is encapsulated with tempered glass, which makes it durable and long service life. This 1W solar panel is also waterproof, UV resistant and scratch resistant.
Features
– Built with high efficiency monocrystalline solar cell – Tempered glass encapsulation, durable, long service life – Positive tolerance power, consistent appearance – Waterproof, UV- and scratch- resistant – Excellent performance under low light environments
Applications: This custom solar module is widely used in wireless sensors, IoT devices, crafts, toys, LED lights and other small electronics etc.
Technical Details
Output: Peak Power (Pmax): 1W Voltage at Pmax (Vmp): 5V Current at Pmax (Imp): 200mA Open Circuit Voltage (Voc): 6V Short Circuit Current (Isc): 220mA Power Tolerance: ±5% Solar Panel Size: 90x90x4.5mm Cell Type: High Efficiency Mono Solar Cell Number of Cells: 10 pcs Construction: Tempered glass / EVA / Solar Cell / EVA / Back sheet (TPT) Product Warranty: 5 Years Storage temperature: -20°C ~ 45°C Working temperature: -40°C ~ 65°C Standard Test Conditions (STC): 1000W/m2, 1.5AM, 25°C Cell temperature
Custom solar panel design and wire soldering service are available.
– Utilize high efficiency mono PERC solar cell, up to 22.5% efficiency – Laminated by tempered glass, rigid, durable and long lasting – Waterproof, scratch resistant, and UV resistant – Custom solar panel for IoT application
Description: 18V 8W Solar Panel
This 8W solar panel is designed for long term outdoor use in any challenging condition. It utilizes high efficiency mono PERC solar cells with an efficiency of up to 22.5%, ensuring high output. This custom solar panel is laminated by tempered glass, making it rigid, durable, and long-lasting. Additionally, it is waterproof, scratch-resistant, and UV resistant. Perfect for sustainable energy solutions in tough environments.
Applications: Tempered glass solar panels are widely used in IoT applications, marine buoys, wireless sensors, traffic warning devise, GPS devices, asset tracking, electric fence chargers, outdoor lighting systems, weather monitoring systems etc.
or milliwatts (mW). Consider both active and sleep modes.
Custom Solar Panel 