The 700W Fallacy: More Power or More Problems?

More and more manufacturers are launching 700W+ panels and it sounds tempting: “Less panels, more power”. But before you get excited, you have to analyze the details... and the weight.

Size matters (a lot)A 700W panel measures more than 2.3 m x 1.3 m, while a 450W panel measures around 1.7 m x 1 m. In large projects, such as solar farms, they can be a good option. But on residential rooftops, the drawbacks outweigh the benefits.

The risks of installing giant panels at home

• Difficulty in design: Their size complicates distribution and increases the possibility of generating unwanted shadows.
• Higher weight: They are more difficult to handle and require more effort in installation.
• Need for more anchor points: This may imply additional structural reinforcements and, therefore, higher costs.
• Increased risk of damage: If the structure is not adequate, the panels may deform over time, causing micro-cracking and loss of performance.

Power density is the keyWhat is really important is not the size of the panel, but how much power is generated per square meter. Panels with a smaller capacity range offer competitive power density, are better suited to roofs and do not require modifications to the structure.

Conclusion: Bigger is not always betterFor an efficient and safe installation, it is essential to choose the right equipment. At LUMEK, we design each project to make the most of our clients' space and investment.

Source: Borja Pérez Planells