When you start to look into solar panels you’ll hear a lot of terms like M10R or G12. What do these words really mean? And do they really influence your choice?
Yeah, they do impact the efficiency and overall performance of your solar setup. These labels basically point to the cell structure, plus the physical layout of the solar panels. With that said, you can estimate how much power your system is likely to crank out, and whether it’s really fit for what you need it for.
In this post, we will help you understand the differences between M10R, G12R, and G12 solar modules, and how you can choose the right solar module technology for your needs. If you need assistance, Sunora Solar is here to help you find the perfect panel for your solar system.
Why Are Solar Modules Important?
The solar module is the power producing element of a solar panel. They are small interconnected silicon photovoltaic (PV) cells. When sunlight hits these cells, the solar module converts the sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity. An inverter converts the DC to AC.
The solar module efficiency determines the solar panel sizes. The higher the efficiency, the smaller the panel will be. In the last few decades, there has been significant research on improving solar modules to increase solar efficiency.
There has been a surge in domestic production of solar modules due to government incentives. Thus, higher efficiency solar panels become more affordable in India.
When it comes to the latest high-efficiency solar module technology, M10R, G12, and G12R are the top choices available in the Indian market. Let’s understand what each of these modules means.
What Is The M10R Solar Module?
The M10R solar panel module is a rectangular variation of the classic M10 solar module. In the M10R solar module, the wafer is cut into a rectangular shape to maximize the energy conversion. M10R solar panels can be made using the M10 solar tool, leading to a very small increment in production cost.
- M10R solar module shape: Rectangle
- M10R solar module size: 182 mm x 183 mm
- M10R solar module power: 580-660 W
- M10R solar module efficiency: more than 23%
The M10R solar panels can be manufactured with PERC, TOPCon and HJT technology. The best options in India as it can be used with M10 manufacturing tools and is very diverse. These solar modules are available for commercial and utility scale projects.
What Is The G12 Solar Module?
The G12 solar panel module is made using square silicon wafers with a size of 210mm. These are the large solar modules to maximize sunlight conversion, leading to higher output from a single solar panel. Its classic design makes it the perfect fit for utility and industrial-scale projects. They are widely used for ground-mount projects. When you use a G12 solar module, you can use fewer panels, reducing the cost of installation.
- G12 solar module shape: Square
- G12 solar module size: 210 mm x 210 mm
- G12 solar module power: 650-710 W
- G12 solar module efficiency: more than 23%
What Is The G12R Solar Module?
The G12R solar panel module combines the benefits of both M10 and G12 solar modules. The classic G12 solar cells are cut in a rectangular shape (182 mm x 210 mm) to reduce the space wastage and increase the electricity production. It is widely used with N-type TOPCon solar panel technology to maximize solar output.
- G12R solar module shape: Rectangle
- G12R solar module size: 182 mm x 210 mm
- G12R solar module power: 600-720 W
- G12R solar module efficiency: more than 23%
G12R solar panels are suitable for residential and utility-scale projects due to their size. High efficiency modules reduce the number of panels in the system, which dramatically reduces the system cost.
Difference Between M10R, G12, And G12R Solar Modules
Let’s look at a side-by-side comparison of M10R, G12, And G12R solar modules:
| M10R | G12 | G12R | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Module shape | Rectangle | Square | Rectangle |
| Module size | 182 mm × 183 mm | 210 mm × 210 mm | 182 mm × 210 mm |
| Module power | 580–660 W | 650–710 W | 600–720 W |
| Module efficiency | At least 23% | More than 23% | More than 23% |
| Compatibility | PERC, TOPCon, HJT | PERC, TOPCon, HJT | TOPCon and HJT |
| Application | Commercial and utility projects | Industrial and utility projects | Residential, commercial, and utility projects |
| Cost | Good | Excellent | Good |
How To Know Which Solar Module Technology Is Good For You?
The following are a few of the most important factors that you must consider when choosing a solar module:
Define the scale of your project.
When choosing the right solar panel, you need to determine how much solar you need. Calculate your average daily and monthly consumption. From this you can select the solar modules which can produce that output within your budget. M10 and G12R are ideal for residential and commercial projects, G12 is ideal for industrial and utility scale projects. Sunora Solar can help you define the scope of your project. Get in touch to learn more.
Determine your budget
Higher efficiency solar panels with G12 or G12R modules reduce the total number of panels in your system. This can reduce the solar panel installation cost. If you’re deploying a large system, the upfront premium for a higher-wattage format often pays back quickly through reduced installation and hardware costs.
Mounting structure
Not all mounting structures are compatible with all solar panels. Therefore, you need to choose a module based on the overall cost of the solar system, including the mounting structure. M10R panels are compatible with the widest range of inverters and racking systems. G12 panels may require specific high-current inverters and reinforced mounting structures.
Solar panel systems are a large investment for commercial and utility-scale projects. So, we understand, you might have questions about what is the best solar module for your project. We can give you expert advice so you can choose the right option for you, within your budget, without the guess work. Contact us today for a consultation!
Conclusion
The solar module is the basic unit of solar energy generation. There are different types of solar modules available with different outputs. The most popular ones are the M10R, G12R and G12. M10R is your solution for residential and small commercial projects where manageability is important. G12R is the power-packed middle ground for industrial and commercial applications. G12 is the utility-scale workhorse designed for maximum output, minimum panel count. Searching for the perfect solar module for your installation? Get professional advice by contacting the Sunora Solar Team today.
FAQs
What is a solar module, and why is it important?
The solar modules are the energy-generating components of the solar panel. These are silicon wafers, cut into squares and rectangles to maximize the production of solar energy. High efficiency solar module technology lets you get more energy from less panels. Therefore, choosing the right solar panels can help you to reduce your installation cost and maximize the generation of solar energies.
What is the difference between G12 and G12R solar cells?
Both G12 and G12R are based on the same large 210mm silicon wafer, but they differ in cell shape. G12 cells retain the full 210mm × 210mm square format, while the G12R are cut into a rectangular shape with 182 mm x 210 mm format. The G12 solar module is suitable for utility-scale projects and G12R can be used for residential and commercial projects.
What is the difference between G12R and M10R?
The key difference lies in the wafer base size. M10R panels are built on a 182mm wafer, while G12R panels use a 210mm wafer. Because the G12R wafer is larger, G12R solar panels generally produce more watts per panel.
Can I mix different types of solar panels?
Technically, it is possible to mix different modules in a panel configuration. However, it’s not generally recommended to mix different solar panel formats, wattages or cell types within the same string. When panels of different specifications are connected in series or parallel mismatches in voltage, current and power output can pull down overall system performance.
