Leading Chinese solar technology manufacturer Aiko is launching its Nebular solar panels for the Australian market, an ultra lightweight module that combines a reinforced standard frame with a glass-free design that is 60 per cent lighter than standard mono-glass modules.
Aiko announced on Monday that its Nebular solar module would be available in the Australian market in an effort to address what it says is one of the biggest challenges in commercial and industrial (C&I) solar – the weight limitations of many rooftops.
Given that traditional solar panels can weigh anywhere between 20 to 25 kilograms, this has meant installing them on older or lightweight structures has been impossible.
Such low-load bearing roofs have in the past needed costly structural reinforcements to chase the benefits of rooftop solar or have been forced to install smaller and less efficient systems.
This has been particularly commonplace for C&I structures including older commercial buildings, lightweight warehouses, and big energy users like cold stores.
Aiko’s Nebular solar module combats these issues, weighing only 8.6kg per panel – as much as 60 per cent lighter than standard mono-glass modules.
Nebular is not the first lightweight solar panel to be unveiled, but Aiko claims that it is the first to combine a reinforced standard frame with a glass-free design that avoids the need for costly adhesives or specialised racking. Aiko’s Nebular solar module can instead be installed using conventional mounting systems.
Nebular also relies on Aiko’s proprietary ABC (All Back Contact) technology and delivers power output of 440W with up to 22 per cent efficiency.
Further, the Nebular panels eliminate front-side busbars, helping to maximise light absorption and ensure optimal power generation.
Aiko’s Nebular solar panels will be able to compete directly with more innovative and immature technologies such as building integrated photovoltaics, or BIPVs.
The company also expects its Nebular modules to open up new possibilities for solar carports, large-scale shade structures, and public infrastructure projects where panel weight has previously acted as a limiting factor.
And, as has been most recently highlighted in Amsterdam – where the operators of the Amsterdam Airport Schiphol were forced to close the Polderbaan Runway during 10am and 12pm in sunny weather due to the glare from nearby solar panels – Aiko has integrated its anti-glare technology into the Nebular solar panels, making it ideal for installations near airports, highways, and urban developments.
Its enhanced fire resistance also ensures that the Nebular panels are in compliance with Australia’s rigorous safety standards.
“Many businesses have been eager to adopt solar but have faced physical and financial barriers due to roof weight limitations,” said Thomas Bywater, head of ANZ for Aiko.
“Nebular eliminates this challenge, making high-performance solar accessible to more businesses, helping reduce energy costs, and accelerating Australia’s transition to clean energy.”
