Why Aiko Solar Panels Are Gaining Popularity – Hype or Reality?

Aiko Solar, a Chinese solar manufacturer, launched in Australia in March 2024 and has quickly gained attention for its high-efficiency, shade-tolerant panels. With a Melbourne office for direct warranty claims, Aiko is offering a compelling alternative to more established solar brands. But are they really as good as the hype suggests?

Key Benefits of Aiko Solar Panels:

• High Efficiency: Aiko panels boast impressive efficiency, ranging from 22.1% to 24.4%. The Neostar series, which is commonly installed on residential roofs, has a maximum efficiency of 23.8%.
• Excellent Heat Tolerance: These panels perform well in higher temperatures, with a lower output reduction compared to standard panels. Aiko panels only lose 0.26% efficiency per degree above 25°C, which provides a slight but valuable boost in performance during hot weather.
• Strong Warranties: Aiko panels come with a 25-year product warranty for Neostar series and a 30-year performance warranty, promising only a 1% reduction in efficiency in the first year and a gradual 0.35% annual decline after that.
• Hail Resistance: Certified to withstand hail up to 40mm in diameter, Aiko panels are durable and designed for tougher weather conditions.

ABC Technology – Aiko’s Edge in Solar Efficiency: Aiko solar panels feature ABC (All Back Contact) technology, which improves efficiency by eliminating the fine wires (busbars and fingers) on the front of solar cells. This design helps reduce shading losses, as there are no parts blocking sunlight. It also increases panel reliability by minimizing components that can be damaged over time.

While Aiko claims better shade tolerance with this technology, real-world tests show only a modest improvement compared to conventional panels. Still, it offers an advantage in partial shading situations.

Aiko Solar Panels in Australia:

• Neostar, Comet, Stellar Series: Aiko offers three main series: Neostar, Comet, and Stellar. Neostar panels are the most common choice for residential installations due to their smaller size, making them easier to handle and fit on roofs. The Comet and Stellar panels are larger and better suited for commercial installations.
• Shade Tolerance: Aiko’s ABC cells provide better shade tolerance compared to traditional panels, but the improvement is small. They still perform well in partial shading, but don’t expect a significant edge over other brands.
• Australian Support: Aiko’s Melbourne office ensures customers can make warranty claims directly, providing additional peace of mind.

Pricing Comparison: Aiko panels are priced slightly higher than more established brands like Jinko, Trina, and Longi, but they are still more affordable than premium brands like REC. This makes them a competitive option for homeowners looking for quality panels at a reasonable price.

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Pros & Cons:

• Pros: High efficiency, excellent heat tolerance, strong warranties, hail resistance, innovative ABC technology.
• Cons: Limited track record in Australia, only modest improvements in shade tolerance, slightly higher cost compared to some other reliable brands.

Conclusion: Despite being a newcomer to the Australian market, Aiko Solar panels are gaining popularity thanks to their high efficiency, innovative ABC technology, and strong warranties. While they may not be the best choice for every situation, they offer solid performance and durability, making them a worthwhile option for homeowners looking for reliable solar solutions at a competitive price.