Bila Solar Introduces Revolutionary 520W Glass-Free Solar Panel

In a significant advancement for the solar energy sector, Bila Solar is set to introduce a revolutionary 520-watt glass-free solar panel at the upcoming RE+ event in Anaheim, California. This innovative panel, boasting a 19.3% module efficiency and weighing only 24.47 pounds, represents a major leap forward in solar technology.

The new panel, which will be manufactured in Indiana and available for sale in early 2025, offers a range of features that address key challenges in the solar industry. Its lightweight design, at just 0.825 psf, makes it one of the lightest panels on the market, opening up new possibilities for installation on low load-bearing roofs and curved surfaces where traditional solar panels cannot be used.

Mick McDaniel, Bila's VP & U.S. General Manager, emphasized the panel's versatility, stating, "This latest product enables a wide range of installation methods for all types of commercial rooftops, including quick-bonding and removable mechanical mounting – plus it is pre-integrated with mounting hardware and brackets." This flexibility in installation methods is expected to significantly expand the potential applications for solar energy in commercial and industrial settings.

The panel's advanced features include a patented composite material that reduces light reflection and enables new assembly options, ensuring long-lasting performance. It guarantees at least 84.8% of nominal output power after 25 years, addressing concerns about long-term efficiency and durability in solar installations.

With 144 half-cut monocrystalline cells, the panel delivers high power output in a compact and sturdy design. Measuring 88.4 in x 48.31 in x 1.59 in, it includes a composite frame and IP68-rated junction box for enhanced durability. The panel's ability to operate efficiently in extreme temperatures, ranging from -40°F to 185°F, with a temperature coefficient of -0.34% per Fahrenheit degree, ensures consistent performance across various climates.

The introduction of this panel coincides with the opening of Bila Solar's fully-automated manufacturing facility in Indianapolis, scheduled to begin production in December. At full capacity, the facility will produce one gigawatt of innovative glassless, frameless solar modules annually, equivalent to around 5,000 modules daily. This local production capability is expected to support both sustainable energy goals and contribute to local economic growth.

The unveiling of this groundbreaking solar panel at RE+, North America's largest clean energy event, underscores its potential impact on the renewable energy landscape. As the industry continues to seek more efficient and versatile solar solutions, Bila Solar's innovation represents a significant step towards making solar energy more accessible and practical for a wider range of applications.

With its combination of high efficiency, lightweight design, and versatile installation options, this new solar panel has the potential to accelerate the adoption of solar energy in sectors previously limited by traditional panel designs. As the world increasingly turns to renewable energy sources, innovations like this play a crucial role in overcoming technical barriers and expanding the reach of solar power.

The Bila Solar 520W glass-free panel, with its UL certification and made-in-America credentials, is poised to make a significant impact on the U.S. solar market and beyond. Its introduction marks a new chapter in solar technology, promising to transform how we harness and deploy solar energy across various architectural and industrial landscapes.