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AE Solar MIRAGE 485W (Frost)
AE Solar Brand review

MIRAGE 485W (Frost)

485 Wp N-type
ComparePV verdict

Middle of its segment, modest efficiency

Rank 10,674 of 14,129
Compare panels Datasheet PDF
Power (Wp)
485
Strong · top 22%
Efficiency (%)
20.44
Weak · bottom 2%
Density (Wp/m²)
204.2
Weak · bottom 2%
Temp (%/°C)
-0.300
Weak · bottom 5%
Weight (kg)
24.0
Typical · median 23.7 kg
Warranty (yrs)
25
Weak · bottom 7%

The AE Solar MIRAGE Colorful Single-glass Module (450/475/480/485W) series is designed for installations where both performance and aesthetic appeal are important. These BIPV modules feature a colorful, opaque surface that allows photovoltaic systems to be integrated seamlessly into architectural materials without creating a "black slate" effect. This solves a common problem for investors: the conflict between the aesthetic of a building and the desire to install PV panels. Key features include: a colorful, pearl-like front layer and a hydrophobic coating that prevents dust accumulation, which reduces the need for frequent cleaning and helps maintain stable performance over time. The modules utilize TOPCon technology, which allows them to perform better in challenging conditions. The single-glass design reduces the load on the building and simplifies logistics during construction. The series is targeted at projects where visual impact is a priority: modern homes, commercial buildings, facades, carports, and premium investments. An additional advantage is award-winning design, which sets the series apart from standard panels.

Ranking

302 panels in the segment N-type 450-500 W
Metric This panel Median Position in segment Overall rank
Module efficiency 20.44% 22.52% Weak · bottom 2% 11,632
Power density 204.2 225.3 Weak · bottom 2% 11,640
Temperature coefficient -0.300 -0.290 Weak · bottom 5% 6,152
Weight per kWp 49.5 49.7 Typical 3,028
Performance warranty 25 yrs 30 yrs Weak · bottom 7% 9,912
Colour key Strong - top 25% Typical - middle 50% Weak - bottom 25%

Signals from the data

5 positive · 5 caution
Best for

Residential, commercial and BIPV.

Not ideal for

Tight roof space, roofs where every square metre has to count and hot climates.

Watch-outs
20.44% module efficiency

Bottom 2% of the N-type 450-500 W segment, against a median of 22.52%. Ranked 11,632nd in the whole database.

204.2 watts per square metre

Bottom 2% of the N-type 450-500 W segment, against a median of 225.3. Ranked 11,640th in the whole database.

-0.300 %/°C temperature coefficient

Bottom 5% of the N-type 450-500 W segment, against a median of -0.290. Ranked 6,152nd in the whole database.

What owners get
The only European Tier-1 BNEF manufacturer

AE Solar is the only European manufacturer recognized by BloombergNEF as a Tier-1 company with high bankability, as highlighted in the 2024 report (ranked 18th out of 67 evaluated manufacturers), which significantly reduces the financial risk of the project and facilitates external financing.

N-type TOPCon - lower degradation and higher efficiency

N-type TOPCon cells exhibit significantly lower light-induced degradation (LID) and better performance at high temperatures compared to PERC technology. This translates to a realistically higher energy yield throughout the lifespan of the installation, particularly in central European climates.

Colorful BIPV surface + hydrophobic coating

The pearlescent front layer allows for the integration of photovoltaic panels with the facade or roof without creating black surfaces, addressing real conservation and aesthetic limitations. The hydrophobic, anti-soiling coating reduces dust accumulation, which, according to research (ScienceDirect, 2023), can reduce soiling losses by several percentage points per year without the need for frequent cleaning.

Award-winning design of BIPV (Building-Integrated Photovoltaics)

The series features award-winning design, which is a specific selling point for premium projects (modern homes, commercial buildings, and carports) and can facilitate obtaining permits in areas with landscape or building protection regulations.

25-year linear power warranty

The manufacturer offers a 25-year warranty on power output - a standard that aligns with leading manufacturers in the segment (Trina, JA Solar). The linear warranty ensures predictable performance throughout the investment period.

Trade-offs
Significantly lower efficiency compared to comparable companies

The maximum efficiency of this series is 20.44%, while comparable models in the segment achieve 22.47% (ZNShine ZXM7-UHLD120) and 24.3% (Gokin GK-5-54HG). The difference of approximately 2-4% is directly due to the color of the front layer, which absorbs a portion of the radiation. This means that approximately 10-20% more modules are needed to achieve the same peak power compared to standard TOPCon panels, which increases BOS costs and the required surface area.

12-year product warranty - below premium

The warranty on the product is 12 years, while leading manufacturers in the premium TOPCon segment (e.g., Jinko Tiger Neo, LONGi Hi-MO X6) typically offer warranties of 15-25 years. In the context of roofs that are difficult to access or facades, this difference can be significant for institutional investors who are calculating service-related risks.

Notes from the database
  • Efficiency of 20.4% is 2.1pp below the N-type 450-500W median (22.5%)
  • 204.2 W/m² power density is 21.1 W/m² below N-type 450-500W median (225.3 W/m²) - requires larger installation area
  • Temperature coefficient of -0.30%/°C matches the N-type 450-500W median
  • In the top 82% for efficiency among all N-type panels

Specifications

Open datasheet PDF
Nominal power (Pmax) 485 Wp Nameplate at 1000 W/m², 25 °C
Module efficiency 20.44 % Weak Segment median 22.52%
Vmpp · Impp 42.11 V · 11.52 A Operating point at max power
Voc · Isc 45.59 V · 11.99 A Sizes the string length
Max system voltage 1500 V Longer strings than 1000 V modules
Dimensions 2094×1134×35 mm · 2.37 m² of roof
Weight 24.0 kg Typical Typical · median 23.7 kg
Cells 132 · N-type Monocrystalline
Coefficient Pmax -0.300 %/°C Weak bottom 5% of its segment
Coefficient Voc · Isc -0.275 · 0.045 %/°C
NOCT 45 °C At 800 W/m², 20 °C ambient
Product warranty 12 years Hardware defects only
Performance warranty 25 years Weak bottom 7% · median 30 yrs
End-of-warranty output 84.8 % Equals 398 W guaranteed
Degradation 2.00 % First year

Simulations

Live - change any input
Lifetime output & value
30 years at 1200 kWh/kWp/year and €0.50 per kWh
Power in year 30
-
Lifetime energy
-
Energy value
-

Degradation from this panel's own datasheet figures. No inverter, soiling or shading losses.

Heat losses
-0.300 %/°C against a segment median of -0.290
-
Filter these
Size
Panel Power Eff. Temp. Weight Difference
AE Solar MIRAGE 485W (Frost) 485 W 20.44% -0.300 24.0 kg You are here
LR7-54HJD-510M 510 W 25.00% -0.240 23.5 kg Cooler, +4.6 pp, +5 yr warranty
AIKO-A495-MCE54Mw 495 W 24.80% -0.260 21.0 kg Cooler, +4.4 pp, +5 yr warranty
LR7-54HJD-505M 505 W 24.70% -0.240 23.5 kg Cooler, +4.3 pp, +5 yr warranty
WST-505BKX54-A2 505 W 24.70% -0.260 25.0 kg Cooler, +4.3 pp, +5 yr warranty
AIKO-A490-MCE54Mw 490 W 24.50% -0.260 21.0 kg Cooler, +4.1 pp, +5 yr warranty
LR7-54HJD-500M 500 W 24.50% -0.240 23.5 kg Cooler, +4.1 pp, +5 yr warranty
CIPRO-TN9C54M-500W 500 W 24.50% -0.260 21.4 kg Cooler, +4.1 pp, +5 yr warranty
CMD-88BD-I-345 345 W 14.54% -0.290 35.0 kg -140 W, heavier, -5.9 pp
CMD-88BD-I-350 350 W 14.75% -0.290 35.0 kg -135 W, heavier, -5.7 pp
CMD-88BD-I-355 355 W 14.96% -0.290 35.0 kg -130 W, heavier, -5.5 pp
CMD-88BD-I-360 360 W 15.17% -0.290 35.0 kg -125 W, heavier, -5.3 pp
CMD-88BD-I-365 365 W 15.38% -0.290 35.0 kg -120 W, heavier, -5.1 pp
MIRAGE 450W (Terracotta) 450 W 18.97% -0.300 24.0 kg -35 W, -1.5 pp
MIRAGE 475W (Emerald) 475 W 20.02% -0.300 24.0 kg -10 W, -0.4 pp
GKA120N-PRO-590W 590 W 23.82% -0.300 26.7 kg +105 W, +3.4 pp, +5 yr warranty
GKA120N-PRO-585W 585 W 23.62% -0.300 26.7 kg +100 W, +3.2 pp, +5 yr warranty

Found 405 panels of the same or similar size to this one, within ±10 mm. See them here Found 416 panels of the same or similar size to this one, within ±25 mm. See them here Found 433 panels of the same or similar size to this one, within ±50 mm. See them here Found 961 panels of the same or similar size to this one, within ±100 mm. See them here

About the MIRAGE Colorful Single-glass Module (450/475/480/485W) series

6 answered

These answers cover the whole series. Where a figure differs, the specification above is this module's own.

Are AE Solar MIRAGE Colorful panels suitable for building facades or carport applications?
Yes, the MIRAGE Colorful series was designed specifically for BIPV applications - that is, photovoltaic systems integrated into architecture. The colorful, pearl-finish front creates modules that seamlessly blend into facades, flat roofs, and carports, without the distinctive appearance of typical black panels. This is an ideal solution for modern homes, commercial buildings, and premium projects, where aesthetics are as important as energy generation.
What warranty does the AE Solar MIRAGE Colorful module manufacturer offer?
AE Solar offers a 12-year product warranty (for material and workmanship defects) and a 25-year performance warranty for the MIRAGE Colorful series. The manufacturer is a recognized Tier 1 supplier based in Germany, which effectively means reliable warranty claim handling. It is advisable to confirm the warranty terms with an authorized distributor in Poland before making a purchase.
Does the TOPCon technology used in MIRAGE Colorful panels lead to improved performance in cloudy conditions?
Yes. TOPCon solar cells exhibit higher efficiency under diffuse and low-light conditions compared to older PERC technology. This translates to improved energy yield on cloudy days and during sunrise or sunset - which is particularly relevant in Poland's climate. The MIRAGE Colorful series combines this advantage with an aesthetically pleasing, colorful coating, while maintaining the high performance of TOPCon modules.
Do AE Solar MIRAGE Colorful panels require frequent cleaning?
No. The MIRAGE Colorful modules have a hydrophobic surface coating that prevents the accumulation of dust, dirt, and other contaminants. In practice, rain is more effective at washing away dirt, allowing the panels to maintain their performance for longer without manual cleaning. This is particularly important in installations on facades and in areas with limited access.
What is the maximum power output of the AE Solar MIRAGE Colorful series panels, and which variant is recommended?
The MIRAGE Colorful series includes four power options: 450 W, 475 W, 480 W, and 485 W. For installations aimed at maximizing power output with a limited number of modules, the 485 W version is the optimal choice. Lighter versions may be advantageous in projects with weight restrictions for the roof or for specific architectural requirements. The best version should be selected by the PV system designer.
What are the key differences between AE Solar MIRAGE Colorful solar panels and standard black TOPCon modules?
The key difference lies in the appearance: MIRAGE Colorful features a colorful, opaque front layer inspired by the award-winning design, replacing the standard dark blue or black surface. This makes the modules look like an element of the facade or roof covering. The efficiency of the cells is slightly lower than in typical TOPCon modules (due to the colored coating), but the manufacturer is targeting segments where the visual effect and integration with architecture are a priority over maximizing yield per square meter.
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