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Report: Sunpower Maxeon Performance 3 Series.

Collaborative by Collaborative
April 29, 2022
in Reports, Modules
0
Home Reports

The Maxeon brand (formerly Sunpower) has an illustrious reputation for not doing anything by halves. With such a reputation often related to pushing the limits of module efficiency boundaries, what options exist if ultra-high efficiency isn’t necessary for your instance? Welcome to the Maxeon Performance 3 series. The shingled cell solar panel designed to reach a broader market yet still retain the Maxeon advantage through qualities other than industry-leading efficiency.

Model:  

Sunpower/ Maxeon Performance 3 series.

Variants:

Performance 3 AC;  370-385 W.  

Performance 3 BLK (Black);  315-335 W.  

Performance 3 BLK (Black);  365-390 W.  

Performance 3 COM;  405-420 W.  

Performance 3 UPP;  475-500 W.  

TLDR: 

With a track record of innovation, the shingled cell technology used within the Maxeon Performance 3 series sets a standard of protection against environmental stresses such as shading, temperature swings, and high humidity. The shingled cell technology lowers shading effects, ensuring better day-to-day performance when compared to conventional modules.

Related: 

THE SUNPOWER MAXEON SOLAR PANELS SET TO DOMINATE 2022.

The following detailed product analysis for the Maxeon Performance 3 series should be used as a guide only. Individual circumstances and compatibilities must always be taken into account when selecting the ideal solar module. This content comprises the Solar Analytica Assessment Criteria (solar modules) based on available product specifications at compilation (refer to post date). 

Video; Sunpower Maxeon Performance 3 series preview.

1. Design: 87/100

It’s the classification that ultimately defines the overwhelming appeal of the Maxeon Performance 3 series. Visually seamless variants assist in captivating a broader cross-section of residential admirers. At the same time, the improved economic viability of industry and utility-scale module designs appeal to large project developers seeking a reputable, long-standing brand.

But what about the design specifics? An overall design that no-doubt appeals to the astute researcher, the Maxeon Performance 3 series design can be considered unique compared to conventional solar modules. Enhanced with no front surface busbar obstruction and interconnected via conductive adhesive cell contacts in a native shingled cell design, the Maxeon Performance 3 series boasts numerous outstanding Design features. However, unlike alternative Maxeon modules and to improve viability, a P-Type monocrystalline cell structure forms the foundation of this overall superior solar module design.

Sub-Category
Characteristic
Reference
Class.
Rank
Cell Type
Monocrystalline
Performance 3 data sheet section; Operation Condition & Mechanical Data, Solar Cells.
Above Avg (Cat2)
70
Formation
Shingled Cell
Performance 3 data sheet.
Above Avg (Cat5)
100
Contact
Conductive adhesive
Performance 3 data sheet.
Above Avg (Cat5)
100
Enhanced
No busbar obstruction, PERC – Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell.
Performance 3 data sheet section; Operation Condition & Mechanical Data, Solar Cells.
Above Avg (Cat5)
100
Encapsulate
High-transmission tempered anti-reflective superstrate. WITH manufacturer specified Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate laminate substrate.
Performance 3 data sheet section; Operation Condition & Mechanical Data.
Above Avg (Cat3)
80
Certifications
TÜV.
Performance 3 data sheet section; Tests And Certifications.
Above Avg (Cat5)
100
Awards
General Recognition; Sunpower Wins Solar Industry Sustainability Award.
Press release.
Above Avg (Cat1)
60
Design Overal
Maxeon Performance 3 series
Above Avg (Cat3)
87/100

Sub-Category: Product asset which compiles the category. Characteristic: Scoring characteristic/gauge of the Sub-Category.  Reference: Reference material from which the sub-category Characteristic has been derived. Class.: Solar Analytica classification of the nominated score range. Points: Solar Analytica ranking points nominated per solar module property attributing toward an individual sub-category (excluding overall row). Overall (row): combined average of each Sub-Category. 

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2. DURABILITY: 86/100

Entering the Durability classification, it becomes apparent why the Maxeon Performance 3 series is a popular choice for many. Durability sub-classifications are predominantly outstanding and contribute towards the overall elite, Above Avg (Cat4), Durability rating. Front/ Rear wind loading and Hail impact resistance remain in line with industry average specifications ensuring the Maxeon Performance 3 series can thrive in diverse global environments.

Sub-Category
Characteristic
Reference
Class.
Rank
Positive loading
Test load – 5400 Pa, min10% coverage ratio, temp. 25 ±5°C, max humidity 75 %, ±5 % load uniformity, 3 cycles of 1 hr applied load.
IEC 61215-2 MQT16 (reference documents).
Above Avg (Cat2)
70
Negative loading
Test load – 2400 Pa, min10% coverage ratio, temp. 25 ±5°C, max humidity 75 %, ±5 % load uniformity, 3 cycles of 1 hr applied load.
IEC 61215-2 MQT16 (reference documents).
Average
50
Damp heat test
6000 Hrs – Test Temp: (85 ± 2)°C, Relative humidity: (85 ± 5)%.
IEC 61215-2 MQT13 (reference documents).
Above Avg (Cat5)
100
Thermal cycle test
800+ (2000+) Cycles – Temp range: (-40 ± 2) to (+85 ± 2) °C.
IEC 61215-2 MQT11 (reference documents).
Above Avg (Cat5)
100
Potential induced degredation
Resistant.
(IEC TS 62804) PID determined by MQT 13, MQT 15 & MQT 01 of IEC 61215-2 & Clause 5.5 Voltage stress test (reference documents).
Above Avg (Cat5)
100
Salt mist resistance
Severity 6 – CX Offshore, ToW (N/A).
IEC 61701 (reference documents).
Above Avg (Cat5)
100
Amonia resistance
1 cycle = test section 1 + test section 2 = 24 h, Total test duration = 20 cycles (480 h).
IEC 62716 (reference documents).
Above Avg (Cat5)
100
Sand and dust resistance
LC1 (6h+): Speed: 20m/s ±2m/s, Duration: 120min for front side / 120min for rear side.
IEC 60068-2-68 (reference documents).
Above Avg (Cat5)
100
Hail impact resistance
Diameter: 25mm ±5%, Mass: 7.3-grams ±5%, Speed: 23m/sec ±2%,.
Base, IEC 61215-2 & 61646 (reference documents).
Average
50
Durability Overall
Maxeon Performance 3 series
Above Avg (Cat4)
86/100

Sub-Category: Product asset which compiles the category. Characteristic: Scoring characteristic/gauge of the Sub-Category.  Reference: Reference material from which the sub-category Characteristic has been derived. Class.: Solar Analytica classification of the nominated score range. Points: Solar Analytica ranking points nominated per solar module property attributing toward an individual sub-category (excluding overall row). Overall (row): combined average of each Sub-Category. 

3. Efficiency: 70/100

The Maxeon Performance 3 series exceeds Average international solar module Efficiency ratings. We’ve simply come to peak expectation with the Efficiency specifications attached to most modules delivered by the Maxeon brand (formerly Sunpower). However, this particular classification assists the economic viability of a Maxeon solar module option for a given project where an outstanding Efficiency requirement isn’t a limiting factor. What must be considered, there are certain Efficiency swings between Maxeon Performance 3 series models, which affect the overall solar module ranking and Efficiency classification (continued below).

Sub-Category
Characteristic
Reference
Class.
Rank
Module efficiency (max)
P3; 19.9%. P3 COM; 20.4%.P3 UPP; 20.9% (80).
Performance 3 data sheet section; Electrical Data, Panel Efficiency (reference documents).
Above Avg (Cat2)
70
Temperature coefficient (Pmax)
-0.34%oC
Performance 3 data sheet section; Electrical Data, Power Temp Coef. (reference documents).
Above Avg (Cat2)
70
Power tolerance (max)
0~+5%
Performance 3 data sheet section; Electrical Data, Power Tolerance (reference documents).
Above Avg (Cat4)
90
NOCT power density (max)
P3; 148 W/m2.P3 COM; 152 W/m2 (60).P3 UPP; 155 W/m2 (70).
Calculated, input source; Performance 3 data sheet; Module Power STC, NOCT, Temp Coefficient, Dimensions (LxW) (internal post).
Average
50
Efficiency Overall
Maxeon Performance 3 series
Above Avg (Cat2)
70/100
Efficiency Overall
Maxeon Performance 3 COM
Above Avg (Cat2)
73/100
Efficiency Overall
Maxeon Performance 3 UPP
Above Avg (Cat3)
77/100

Sub-Category: Product asset which compiles the category. Characteristic: Scoring characteristic/gauge of the Sub-Category.  Reference: Reference material from which the sub-category Characteristic has been derived. Class.: Solar Analytica classification of the nominated score range. Points: Solar Analytica ranking points nominated per solar module property attributing toward an individual sub-category (excluding overall row). Overall (row): combined average of each Sub-Category. 

Industry (commercial) and utility-scale Maxeon Performance 3 series modules benefit from an Efficiency boost when the overall size of the solar module increases. Such a result re-classifies the Performance 3 UPP to an Above Avg (Cat3) superior Efficiency ranking.

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4. PERFORMANCE: 78/100

Ahead of the market average, Maxeon Performance 3 series solar modules factor a minimal 2% degradation in year 1. Subsequently, degrading at no more than 0.45% per annum the following 24-years from installation. Such a result guarantees the power output should be no less than 87.2% of the nominal output value (at Standard Test Conditions) by year 25. As with all Maxeon solar modules, Performance guarantee assurance is comprehensive, covering; parts, service and transport should the Performance 3 series not meet performance expectations over the nominated period.

IMPORTANT: The Maxeon Performance 3 series performance guarantee should be interpreted in conjunction with the entire Warranty for Performance PV Modules / SPR‐P3 Residential (or SPR‐P3 Commercial) document February 1, 2021, or that of which succeeds it. Listed below are the Solar Analytica data point indicators for ranking analysis only and are not a substitute for interpretation of the performance guarantee.

Sub-Category
Characteristic
Reference
Class.
Rank
1st-year degradation (max)
2.0%.
Warranty for Performance PV Modules/ SPR-P3 Residential, Feb 1 2021, section 1. Limited Warranty (reference documents).
Above Avg (Cat3)
80
Annual degradation (max after year-1)
0.45% p.a.
Warranty for Performance PV Modules/ SPR-P3 Residential, Feb 1 2021, section 1. Limited Warranty (reference documents).
Above Avg (Cat2)
70
Performance guarantee period
25-year.
Warranty for Performance PV Modules/ SPR-P3 Residential, Feb 1 2021, section 1. Limited Warranty (reference documents).
Above Avg (Cat1)
60
Performance guantee assurance
Parts, service and transport
Warranty for Performance PV Modules/ SPR-P3 Residential, Feb 1 2021, section 2. Claims Process and Coverage (reference documents).
Above Avg (Cat5)
100
Performance Overall
Maxeon Performance 3 series
Above Avg (Cat3)
78/100

Sub-Category: Product asset which compiles the category. Characteristic: Scoring characteristic/gauge of the Sub-Category.  Reference: Reference material from which the sub-category Characteristic has been derived. Class.: Solar Analytica classification of the nominated score range. Points: Solar Analytica ranking points nominated per solar module property attributing toward an individual sub-category (excluding overall row). Overall (row): combined average of each Sub-Category. 

5. Guarantee: 88/100

Ultimately, the Guarantee of the Maxeon Performance 3 series will seal the deal for many. It’s one of the better 25-year product guarantees attached to a solar panel for a secure energy investment by one of the longest-standing solar module manufacturing companies.

Embedded within the 25-year Guarantee period is a comprehensive Guarantee assurance providing three critical aspects of (limited) parts, service and transport security in the unlikely event of a product failure. A Certified installer network to selected regions offers added installer benefits to provide end-users with an appropriate manufacturer endorsed installer who intimately understands the Maxeon Performance 3 series range.

IMPORTANT: The Maxeon Performance 3 series product guarantee should be interpreted in conjunction with the entire Warranty for Performance PV Modules / SPR‐P3 Residential (or SPR‐P3 Commercial) document February 1, 2021, or that of which succeeds it. Listed below are the Solar Analytica data point indicators for ranking analysis only and are not a substitute for interpretation of the product guarantee.

Sub-Category
Characteristic
Reference
Class.
Guarantee period
25-years (300-months).
Warranty for Performance PV Modules/ SPR-P3 Residential, Feb 1 2021, section 1. Limited Warranty (reference documents).
Above Avg (Cat4)
80
Guarantee assurance
Parts, service and transport.
Warranty for Performance PV Modules/ SPR-P3 Residential, Feb 1 2021, section 2. Claims Process and Coverage (reference documents).
Above Avg (Cat5)
100
Manufacturer established
1985 (37-years).
Wikipedia: Sunpower Corporation (external)
Above Avg (Cat5)
100
Certified installer network
Yes, WITH additional end-user/ installer benefits.
Linked from manufacturers regional websites.
Above Avg (Cat5)
100
Manufacturer bankability
CCC+, Feb 2022.
PV Moduletech bankability ratings (external).
Above Avg (Cat1)
60
Guarantee Overall
Maxeon Performance 3 series
Above Avg (Cat4)
88/100

Sub-Category: Product asset which compiles the category. Characteristic: Scoring characteristic/gauge of the Sub-Category.  Reference: Reference material from which the sub-category Characteristic has been derived. Class.: Solar Analytica classification of the nominated score range. Points: Solar Analytica ranking points nominated per solar module property attributing toward an individual sub-category (excluding overall row). Overall (row): combined average of each Sub-Category. 

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Overall: 82/100

Maxeon possesses wider appeal from high-end to mid-range accessibility influencing a broader market share in the form of the Performance 3 series. A decision which no doubt has had its rewards for this world-famous brand. This distinctive Maxeon solar panel uses a shingled-cell formation upholding characteristic design qualities of a front surface free from busbar obstruction for maximised light absorption.

Possessing elite Durability specifications and a renowned 25-year guarantee, the Performance 3 series is an ideal Maxeon solar module solution where leading efficiency is less of a consideration. Now one of the most popular Maxeon module options with a broad scope of model offerings. An AC module option, colour coded residential variants and refined commercial solar panels ensure a stable energy investment to a wide project cross-section wanting superior Maxeon value.

Category
Classification
Score
Detail
Design
Elite
Above Avg (Cat4)
87
Criteria >
Durability
Elite
Above Avg (Cat4)
86
Criteria >
Efficiency
Very good
Above Avg (Cat2)
70
Criteria >
Performance
Superior
Above Avg (Cat3)
78
Criteria >
Guarantee
Elite
Above Avg (Cat4)
88
Criteria >
Overall: Maxeon Performance 3 series
Above Avg (Cat3)
82/100
Overall: Maxeon Performance 3 COM & UPP
Above Avg (Cat3)
84/100
Design.
Durability.
Efficiency.
Performance.
Guarantee.
Overall.

Maxeon has a reputation for manufacturing elite solar modules. Therefore, it’s noticeable when a deviation occurs, as in the chart below. The deviation exists predominantly within the efficiency stakes, still considered Very Good against the industry average. It is an interesting perspective to see how closely aligned the Maxeon Performance 3 series is to its industry-acclaimed counterparts for what should be a considerably lower cost.

Accuracy matters.

Is there a sub-category value that requires an amendment? Submit an amendment request using this Amendment request form.

General product questions should be made using the comments section at the bottom of this post for community feedback (keep scrolling). 

How was this score calculated.

The Sunpower Performance Series range of solar modules has been calculated using the Solar Analytica Assessment Criteria (solar modules) 2.1.1 >

References.
  • Sunpower Performance 3 AC BLK data sheet.
  • Sunpower Performance 3 BLK (315-335 W) data sheet.
  • Sunpower Performance 3 BLK (365-390 W) data sheet.
  • Sunpower Performance 3 COM data sheet.
  • Sunpower Performance 3 UPP data sheet.
  • Warranty for Performance PV Modules / SPR‐P3 Residential warranty document.
  • Warranty for Performance PV Modules / SPR‐P3 Commercial warranty document.
  • Sunpower Solar IEC referenced installation manual.
  • SunPower Wins Solar industry Sustainability Award Press releases.
  • IEC 61215-2 External site >
  • IEC 61701 External site >
  • IEC 62716 External site >
  • IEC TS 62804-1-1 External site >
  • IEC 60068-2-68 External site >
Maxeon solar panels overall.

How does the current range of Maxeon solar panels compare against each other?

  • Compare in detail.

At the time of writing the following Sunpower Maxeon solar panels were analysed alongside the Sunpower Maxeon Performance 3 series;

  • Sunpower Maxeon 3.
  • Sunpower Maxeon 5.
  • Sunpower Maxeon 6.
Tags: Performance 3 seriesSunpower/Maxeon
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