Light for its output, modest efficiency
The AE Solar AURORA MD-144 (Mono-facial) series are large-format modules designed for high energy yield in installations where efficient surface utilization and stable performance under various conditions are crucial. The use of PERC monocell and half-cut construction helps minimize module losses and improve performance under partial shading, which translates directly into more predictable production in typical Polish rooftop and ground-mounted conditions.
In practice, the MD-144 stands out for its resistance to PID degradation and its robust performance in environmental conditions, which is particularly important for investments near agricultural land or in areas with high levels of dust. This makes it a good choice for installers and investors who want to build larger strings and reduce the number of modules without compromising quality.
Compared to many competing monofacial modules, the AURORA MD-144 series is distinguished by its performance in diffuse light, robust mechanics, and a long-term approach to reliability in commercial and utility-scale projects.
Ranking
Signals from the data
Commercial and shaded-installations.
Tight roof space and roofs where every square metre has to count.
Top 16% of the PERC 500-550 W segment, against a median of 53.0.
Bottom 19% of the PERC 500-550 W segment, against a median of 20.90%.
Bottom 19% of the PERC 500-550 W segment, against a median of 209.0.
AE Solar has maintained its BNEF Tier-1 status since the 16th edition (confirmed in Q1 2025) and is the only European manufacturer in this ranking. The bankability rating has increased from 26% (2023) to 50% (2024), which directly facilitates financing for projects by banks and insurance companies compared to less recognized Asian manufacturers.
MD-144 achieves a maximum efficiency of 21.31%, placing it at or above the levels of all the listed competitors: Goldi Solar GS10-B144-TF (21.3%), IBC Solar 182M (21.28%), and S-Energy SL65-72BGJ (21.3%). The series maintains a key sales parameter while retaining its European manufacturer status.
MD-144 utilizes Mono PERC cells doped with gallium instead of boron, which structurally limits Light-Induced Degradation (LID). The LID effect in boron-doped cells can reduce the module's power output by 1-3% in the first few months of operation; the gallium-doped version stabilizes the power output more quickly and improves the predictability of annual yield.
The configuration of 144 182mm half-cut cells reduces internal current by approximately 50%, which lowers resistive losses and improves performance under partial shading. A power output of up to 550 Wp allows designers to shorten strings or install greater power in the same number of modules compared to older 400-450 Wp formats.
The manufacturer guarantees more than 87% of the nominal capacity after 30 years of operation, with a 15-year product warranty. These terms are comparable to those offered by other similar projects, but combined with the bankability of Tier-1 assets, they provide a solid foundation for calculating IRR in commercial and farm projects with long-term financing horizons.
The temperature coefficient of Pmax for PERC modules is -0.35%/°C, which is typical for this technology. Newer N-type TOPCon modules (including AE Solar's METEOR CMD-144 series), achieve -0.28 to -0.30%/°C, which, at a module temperature of 65°C (typical summer conditions in Poland), translates to a real increase of approximately 1.5-2% in hourly energy yield for TOPCon. This difference accumulates over the lifespan of the project.
In ground-mounted installations on light-colored surfaces (gravel, light soil, snow), bifacial modules of the same class generate realistically 5-15% more energy per year. The MD-144, as a monofacial module, does not utilize this effect, which can be a significant factor in selecting modules for PV farms above 1 MWp, where even a few percentage points of increased yield directly translate into LCOE.
- Efficiency of 20.5% matches the PERC 500-550W median
- 205.3 W/m² power density is 3.7 W/m² below PERC 500-550W median (209.0 W/m²) - requires larger installation area
- Temperature coefficient of -0.35%/°C matches the PERC 500-550W median
- Weight of 26.5 kg (1.9 kg below PERC 500-550W median of 28.4 kg) allows easier transport and roof mounting
- #11228 for efficiency, #10419 for temperature performance out of 14005 panels
Specifications
Simulations
Degradation from this panel's own datasheet figures. No inverter, soiling or shading losses.
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About the AURORA MD-144 (Mono-facial) series
These answers cover the whole series. Where a figure differs, the specification above is this module's own.