Canadian Solar HiDM is one of the best solar panels from Canadian Solar. It’s a Mono-PERC high-density shingle module based on PERC technology that can reach a power output of 420 W and a peak conversion efficiency of 20.4%.
Canadian Solar is a leading solar panel producer globally. It has developed many innovative technologies for creating high solar panels.
The company was founded in 2001 by Shawn Qu in Guelph, Ontario, Canada. It now has branches in over 24 countries across six continents and employs almost 9,000 people worldwide, with two manufacturing facilities in Ontario.
Canadian Solar products can be purchased directly from the firm or through its authorized partners. Check how Instyle Solar works with Canadian Solar.
This article will review several elements to help you decide if the HiDM module system is suitable for your house.
We’ll discuss where the HiDM is manufactured, its cost, efficiency, specifications, warranty, and much more.
So let’s examine the unique features of the Canadian Solar HiDM!
What is the Canadian Solar HiDM?
The HiDM solar panel is a Mono-PERC High-Density Shingle Module. Manufactured by Canadian Solar, the HiDM solar panels feature PERC technology and reach a power output of 420 W and a peak conversion efficiency of 20.4%. They come in two varieties: the standard HiDM module and the HiDM All-Black module.
The PERC technology it is based on increases the cells’ ability to convert sunlight to energy by 30%. Mono-PERC solar panels are distinct from thin-film panels.
HiDM solar panels are manufactured in a Korean factory that uses shingled Mono-PERC solar cells. Due to this shingling, the 60 cells may be packed into a smaller space than if they were laid out with gaps between them.
These solar panels are some of the finest on the market and produce slightly more watts per square metre than HiKu panels, making them appropriate for homes with small roofs.
The Canadian Solar HiDM module is visually pleasing and functional; the lack of gaps between the panels and the bus bar allows more sunshine to reach the cells.
The HiDM solar PV module produces more electricity per square metre than other panels. It’s also more dependable since busbar failure is less common.
With the HiDM solar panels, shading effects are also decreased.
The HiDM has a 15-year product warranty and a 25-year linear power output warranty.
You can also install a solar inverter with your HiDM PV module system.
Your photovoltaic system’s Direct Current (DC) is converted to Alternate Current (AC) by a solar converter, which subsequently powers your home in real-time.
Overview of the HiDM Solar Panel
- Features a 320 – 420 W solar power range.
- Includes shingled modules to increase the area of light absorption.
- Reduces the temperature of the hotspot.
- Its LID + LeTID technology makes up less than 2% of the total.
- Shade tolerance is much improved.
Canadian Solar HiDM Solar Panel Range
Canadian Solar’s HiDM range has a 420 W max capacity. The module power output ranges from 400 W to 420 W in 5 W increments. It is perfect for people seeking a high efficiency at a reasonable price.
Here’s a list of the five variations of the HiDM solar panel series:
- HiDM CS1U-400MS,
- HiDM CS1U-405MS,
- HiDM CS1U-410MS,
- HiDM CS1U-415MS, and
- HiDM CS1U-420MS.
Here’s what the HiDM solar module looks like up close!
Canadian Solar HiDM Solar Panel Technical Specifications
The technical specifications of the Canadian Solar HiDM modules include:
| Increased Power |
|---|
| Pushes module efficiency to 20.4% by increasing the light absorption area. |
| Its Pmax (low temperature coefficient) is -0.37% / °C. |
| Overall shade tolerance is improved from previous generations. |
| More Reliability |
|---|
| Internal current is decreased, and the hot spot temperature is also reduced. |
| The module increases its dependability by limiting cell crack risk to a restricted area. |
| The panel can withstand wind loads up to 2,400 Pa, and heavy snow loads up to 5,400 Pa. |
| Electrical Data | STC* | 400 MS | 405 MS | 410 MS | 415 MS | 420 MS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Short Circuit Current (Isc) | 9.60 A | 9.65 A | 9.70 A | 9.75 A | 9.80 A |
| Opt. Operating Current (Imp) | 9.08 A | 9.16 A | 9.23 A | 9.30 A | 9.37 A |
| Open Circuit Voltage (Voc) | 53.4 V | 53.5 V | 53.6 V | 53.7 V | 53.8 V |
| Opt. Operating Voltage (Vmp) | 44.1 V | 44.3 V | 44.5 V | 44.7 V | 44.9 V |
| Nominal Max. Power (Pmax) | 400 W | 405 W | 410 W | 415 W | 420 W |
| Module Efficiency | 19.4 % | 19.6 % | 19.9 % | 20.1 % | 20.4 % |
| Electrical Data (All) | |
|---|---|
| Operating Temperature | -40 °C ~ +85 °C |
| System Voltage | 1500 V (IEC) or 1000 V (IEC) |
| Module Fire Performance | Class C (IEC 61730) Max. |
| Series Fuse Rating | 15 A |
| Application Classification | Class A |
| Power Tolerance | 0 ~ + 10 W |
| Mechanical Specifications (All) | Data |
|---|---|
| Cell Type | Monocrystalline |
| Dimensions | 2,078 ˣ 992 ˣ 35 mm (81.8 ˣ 39.1 ˣ 1.38 in) |
| Weight | 23.4 kg or 51.6 lbs |
| Front Cover | 3.2 mm tempered glass |
| Frame | Anodized aluminium alloy |
| J-Box | P68, four bypass diodes |
| Cable | 4.0 mm² (IEC) |
| Length of Cable | 1,000 mm (39.4 in) (+) and 640 mm (Including connector) (25.2 in) leap-frog connection: 1780 mm (70.1 in) |
| Connector | T4 series or H4 UTX or MC4-EVO2 |
| Per Pallet | 30 pieces |
| Per Container | (40 ”Q) 660 pieces |
| Electrical Data | NMOT* | 400 MS | 405 MS | 410 MS | 415 MS | 420 MS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nominal Max. Power (Pmax) | 296 W | 300 W | 304 W | 307 W | 311 W |
| Opt. Operating Voltage (Vmp) | 40.8 V | 41.0 V | 41.2 V | 41.4 V | 41.5 V |
| Opt. Operating Current (Imp) | 7.26 A | 7.32 A | 7.37 A | 7.43 A | 7.48 A |
| Open Circuit Voltage (Voc) | 49.9 V | 50.0 V | 50.1 V | 50.2 V | 50.3 V |
| Short Circuit Current (Isc) | 7.75 A | 7.79 A | 7.83 A | 7.87 A | 7.91 A |
| Temperature Characteristics (All) | Data |
|---|---|
| Temperature Coefficient (Pmax) | 0.37 % / °C |
| Temperature Coefficient (Voc) | -0.29 % / °C |
| Temperature Coefficient (Isc) | 0.05 % / °C |
| Nominal Module Operating | Temperature 43 ± 3 °C |
What is the Canadian Solar HiDM’s Power Output?
A HiDM PV module’s electrical output can achieve 420 W.
The monocrystalline PERC solar cells are sliced into six smaller cells and laid out in a shingled pattern.
A conductive adhesive connects the HiDM cells, providing several redundant pathways for electrical flow.
What is the Canadian Solar HiDM’s Efficiency?
The solar panel efficiency of the HiDM can reach up to 20.4%.
The efficiency of solar panels measures their capacity to convert sunlight into usable energy.
For example, when the sun radiates on high-efficiency solar panels with a 20.4% rating, 20.4% of the sun’s energy is transformed into electrical power.
Suppose the same quantity of sunlight shines on two solar panels with different efficiency ratings for the same period. In that case, the more efficient panel produces more power than the less efficient panel.
The longer a solar cell lasts, the better it performs in converting solar energy into electrical energy.
The energy production by each solar cell determines the efficiency of solar panels, which is impacted by the cells’ composition, electrical setup, and other factors.
What is the Canadian Solar HiDM’s Temperature Coefficient? Will it Perform Well in Australian Weather?
The HiDM has a low temperature coefficient (Pmax) of -0.37 % / °C.
It certainly has the capacity to handle Australian weather, but this depends on the temperature and climate conditions.
In Australia, all solar panels are tested at 25 °C. Temperature affects solar panels differently depending on the manufacturer. As a result, all solar panel manufacturers must give the temperature coefficient value for their particular solar panel.
Some manufacturers have designed solar panels specifically for Australian temperatures and hot conditions.
This allows them to run more effectively at hotter temperatures and with a lower total temperature coefficient.
Most solar panel coefficients per degree Celsius are between -0.20 and -0.50%. In layman’s words, the closer this figure is to zero, the less a change in temperature affects the solar panel.
If the TC is -0.50%, it implies that for every degree over the ideal temperature for solar panels of 25 °C, the overall efficiency of the solar panel declines by 0.50%.
What is the Canadian Solar HiDM’s Country of Origin?
Canadian Solar was founded in Canada, but the HiDM modules are manufactured in Korea.
Will the Canadian Solar HiDM Look Good on My Home?
Yes, the HiDM will complement your home if you live in a smaller space. However, your roof type will affect its placement.
Strong, long-lasting roofing materials, such as composite or asphalt shingles, concrete tile, or standing seam metal are ideal for solar panels.
The HiDM solar panels have a shingled Mono-PERC solar design that incorporates more solar cells into a smaller space, making them ideal for enclosed spaces.
The HiDM solar panels work best with:
- On-grid rooftops,
- Small rooftops,
- Solar carports, solar power stations, and
- Other grid-connected applications.
Canadian Solar HiDM Solar Panel Key Features
Here’s a summary of the HiDM solar panel’s main features:
- It delivers outstanding performance with a module efficiency of 20.4%.
- It comes with a fantastic manufacturer’s warranty! A 25-year warranty is also included.
- It has solid solar panel build quality.
- Its weather endurance is boosted by IP68 split junction boxes delivering better heat dissipation & higher safety.
- Best durability. They can handle snow loads of up to 5,400 Pa and wind loads of up to 2,600 Pa.
In 2020, one of the Canadian Solar HiDM models was awarded the top performer after passing all four PVEL/DNVGL tests.
What is the Canadian Solar HiDM’s Warranty?
Canadian Solar’s HiDM has a 25-year linear power output warranty and a 15-year enhanced product warranty on materials and workmanship.
A solar panel performance warranty guarantees a certain level of output based on the panel’s normal deterioration rate.
For 15 years after installation, you’ll be protected against defects in materials and workmanship under the product guarantee.
The HiDM panels will produce no less than 97.5% of their original nameplate rating during the first year.
The power output will fall by no more than 0.6% each year until the end of the 25th year, according to the manufacturer’s guarantee.
The 15-year product guarantee is stronger than the typical 12-year warranty offered by most Tier 1 manufacturers.
However, it’s also important to remember that warranties are only valid for as long as the company remains in operation.
Is the Canadian Solar HiDM a Tier 1 Solar Panel?
The HiDM is considered a Tier 1 solar panel.
Since Canadian Solar is known as one of the best manufacturers in the industry, it makes the HiDM a Tier 1 solar panel.
A Tier 1 solar panel is one that is manufactured by a recognized independent PV industry analyst and has been rated as such.
Tier 1 is the highest rank available, and the analyst who rated it considers the module manufacturer to fulfil several criteria, including market longevity.
Is the Canadian Solar HiDM a CEC-Approved Panel?
Yes, Canadian Solar HiDM is a Clean Energy Council (CEC) approved panel.
All Canadian Solar models are CEC-approved.
Is the Canadian Solar HiDM Safe and Reliable?
Rest assured that the HiDM is one of the market’s safest and most reliable solar modules. These modules can handle up to 5,400 Pa snow and 2,400 Pa wind loads.
Canadian Solar has an excellent testing lab and has acquired certifications such as the Quality Management System, Standards for Environmental Management System, and International Standards for Occupational Health & Safety.
Considering the HiDM solar panels come from a manufacturer with over 20 years of expertise in the solar industry, we can confidently say that these modules meet all necessary safety criteria.
The HiDM PV module has enhanced reliability and better shading tolerance.
Moreover, its IP68 split junction boxes provide better heat dissipation and higher safety.
Advantages and Disadvantages of the Canadian Solar HiDM
A solar panel’s worth depends entirely on the user and their solar energy goals.
Even the best solar panels have some flaws. Let’s briefly cover the HiDM’s advantages and disadvantages:
Advantages
- The HiDM PV solar module offers an excellent relative price.
- It comes with a substantial warranty period.
- Customer service is available globally, including in Australia.
- The panel contains Mono-PERC technology.
- Its performance is on par with Tier 1 solar panels, with the exact cost of a Tier 2 solar panel.
Disadvantages
- Every year, the efficiency of solar panels declines by about 0.55%.
- The Temperate Coefficient (TC) is slightly higher than competing solutions.
- The panel efficiency will decline by its TC if it exceeds 25 °C / 77 °F.
- The TC of most Canadian Solar models is higher than other products on the market.
- Without adequate sunlight, your solar panels won’t generate any electricity.
Canadian Solar HiDM Installation
Even though the HiDM’s installation is straightforward, it should still only be performed by professionals.
To enable optimal performance in various settings, high-quality materials are used in the HiDM.
Canadian Solar is an excellent choice for those who live in areas where solar conditions are less than ideal.
Nonetheless, the HiDM module from Canadian Solar provides satisfactory energy output.
Learn more about everything you’ll need to install HiDM solar panels here.
Let’s discuss some precautions and installation requirements of the HiDM down below.
General Safety, Precautions and Installation Requirements of the HiDM Solar Panels
- Prevent water ingress into the interface while installing modules in light rain or morning dew.
- To avoid electric shock, use equipment that is electrically insulated.
- To prevent direct sunlight and moisture, modules should be stored in a dry and ventilated area.
- If the module is stored in an uncontrolled environment, the storage duration should be shorter than three months.
- Further measures, such as connection endcaps, should be taken to protect connectors from being exposed to moisture or sunlight.
- Two people are required to unpack and install solar panels. When handling solar modules, always use both hands.
- Stacks of modules should have a maximum of 12 modules and aligned frames.
- Avoid putting too much weight on the module or twisting the frame.
Canadian Solar HiDM’s Compatibility with Inverters
HiDM solar panels are compatible with the vast majority of inverters and other photovoltaic system components.
The solar cells of these panels use a range of cutting-edge energy features and materials that are compatible with a solar inverter, charge controllers, and batteries.
Is the Canadian Solar HiDM Worth it for Your Home? Our Opinion
While the HiDM solar panels are inexpensive, their efficiency is lower than other Canadian Solar models. It all depends on how much electricity you plan to output.
If your energy needs are modest, you should certainly consider installing these solar panels.
There’s no arguing that the HiDM solar panels have a winning combination of a long performance warranty and a reasonable price point.
Moreover, a Canadian Solar panel system is a safe bet in general whenever solar panels make financial sense.
Check our post on solar power if you’re interested in anything we’ve discussed in this article.
Next Steps…
If you’re contemplating installing the HiDM solar panels, then you can use our smart solar calculator to see how much you could save with solar.
Find out what rebates you could be qualified for, and learn about the environmental effect you’ll have by clicking below.
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