Photovoltaic (PV) Panel Technical Specifications

Photovoltaic (PV) panels are the core of any solar power system. Understanding key specifications will help you compare quality, performance, and long-term reliability across different brands and technologies. This guide explains the most important technical terms so you can make an informed solar investment.

🔋 Rated Power Output (Wattage)

This is the maximum electrical power the panel can produce under Standard Test Conditions (STC). Common ratings include 410W, 450W, 550W, and higher.

• STC: 1000W/m² solar irradiance, 25°C cell temperature, and 1.5 air mass
• Actual output will vary depending on sunlight, orientation, and temperature

⚡ Voltage & Current

• Open-Circuit Voltage (Voc): Voltage when no load is connected
• Maximum Power Voltage (Vmp): Voltage at which the panel produces peak power
• Short-Circuit Current (Isc): Current when the panel is shorted
• Maximum Power Current (Imp): Current at peak power

These values determine how panels should be connected in series or parallel to match inverter voltage and current ranges.

☀️ Efficiency

Panel efficiency measures how much sunlight is converted into electricity. Typical ranges:

• Monocrystalline: 19% – 22%
• Polycrystalline: 16% – 18%

Higher efficiency panels generate more power in limited space, ideal for rooftops.

🌡️ Temperature Coefficients

Indicates how panel performance is affected by temperature. Look for:

• Pmax Coefficient: Power output drop per °C rise (~ -0.30%/°C typical for mono panels)
• Voc Coefficient: Voltage loss with heat (affects inverter input range)

Panels with lower temperature coefficients perform better in hot climates.

🛡️ Durability & Certifications

• Frame Material: Anodized aluminum (for corrosion resistance)
• Glass: Tempered, high-transparency glass (typically 3.2mm)
• Protection: IP68-rated junction box, bypass diodes to reduce hot-spot risk
• Load Ratings: Wind (2400 Pa) and snow (5400 Pa) resistance
• Certifications: IEC 61215, IEC 61730, ISO 9001/14001/45001

🔧 Dimensions & Weight

Panel size affects handling, roof fit, and mounting requirements:

• Standard 410W panel: ~1722mm × 1134mm × 30mm
• 550W+ panels: Larger formats (commonly 2.2m × 1.1m or similar)
• Weight: Typically 20–30kg depending on wattage and frame design

🕒 Lifespan & Warranty

• Product Warranty: Typically 10–15 years against manufacturing defects
• Performance Warranty: 25–30 years; typically guarantees ≥80–84% output at 25 years

📌 Important Note

Detailed technical datasheets and model-specific specs are available on our Solar Panels collection page. Please refer to each product page for downloadable spec sheets, test data, and compliance documents.

📞 Need Help Choosing Panels?

Contact our technical team at technical@thesunpays.co.za or call 012 734 0915 for expert advice on sizing, inverter matching, and installation best practices.