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ASM170M

170 Wp Monocrystalline
ComparePV verdict

Middle of its segment, weak in heat

Rank 13,973 of 14,005
Compare panels Datasheet PDF
Power (Wp)
170
Typical for its class
Efficiency (%)
16.00
Typical · median 16.01%
Density (Wp/m²)
132.8
Weak · bottom 6%
Temp (%/°C)
-0.438
Weak · bottom 5%
Weight (kg)
17.0
Weak · 4.2 kg above median
Warranty (yrs)
-
Not published

The ASM170M series from Australian Solar Manufacturing is a solution dedicated to places where every centimeter of available surface counts while maintaining maximum energy efficiency. The use of advanced monocrystalline cells allows for exceptionally effective energy harvesting even in limited sunlight, which is crucial in the specific Polish climate. These panels stand out with their unique resistance to extreme weather conditions, which is a direct result of rigorous production standards and multi-stage testing in harsh environments. This model effectively solves the problem of limited installation space, offering stable power output in a compact form, ideal for off-grid systems, recreational vehicles, campers, or yachts. Unlike standard mass production, the manufacturer focuses on precise frame finishing and high durability of components, which effectively minimizes the risk of micro-cracks and the undesirable PID effect. By choosing this specific series, the user invests in long-term stability of electrical parameters, which significantly exceeds popular budget solutions on the market. This is a professional proposal for those looking for a reliable power source in locations where servicing is highly difficult and equipment reliability is an absolute priority. The robust mechanical construction guarantees full safety of use for many years, regardless of the intensity of operation in the most demanding terrain.

Ranking

388 panels in the 70-270 W band, all technologies
Metric This panel Median Position in segment Overall rank
Module efficiency 16.00% 16.01% Typical 13,641
Power density 132.8 160.0 Weak · bottom 6% 13,947
Temperature coefficient -0.438 -0.370 Weak · bottom 5% 13,849
Weight per kWp 100.0 69.8 Weak · bottom 9% 13,911
Performance warranty - 25 yrs Not published 13,880
Colour key Strong - top 25% Typical - middle 50% Weak - bottom 25%

Signals from the data

4 positive · 6 caution
Best for

Off-grid.

Not ideal for

Hot climates, roofs where every square metre has to count and weight-limited structures.

Watch-outs
-0.438 %/°C temperature coefficient

Bottom 5% of the 70-270 W band, against a median of -0.370. Ranked 13,849th in the whole database.

132.8 watts per square metre

Bottom 6% of the 70-270 W band, against a median of 160.0. Ranked 13,947th in the whole database.

100.0 kg per kWp

Bottom 9% of the 70-270 W band, against a median of 69.8. Ranked 13,911th in the whole database.

What owners get
TÜV Rheinland and AS/NZS 5033 Certification

The ASM170M series holds TÜV Rheinland certification (certificate no. 23463) and complies with the Australian AS/NZS 5033 standard for PV modules. This independent quality audit distinguishes it from uncertified budget modules prevalent in the off-grid segment.

Monocrystalline Cells — Superior Low-Light Performance

Mono-Si technology delivers significantly higher energy yield under low-irradiance conditions (overcast skies, dawn, dusk) compared to polycrystalline alternatives. This is particularly relevant in mobile applications (RV, yacht) where the module frequently operates outside the optimal angle of incidence.

Australian Manufacturing Standards

The manufacturer has been in operation since 2009 and is subject to Australian quality regulations, which are more stringent than those of most Asian markets. Its smaller production scale enables tighter process control, reducing the risk of factory defects common in high-volume, low-cost manufacturing.

Purpose-Built Design for Mobile and Off-Grid Applications

The compact 170 Wp form factor is optimized for RV, campervan, and marine systems, where available roof area is limited and the entire module must withstand vibration and variable weather conditions for years without access to maintenance.

Trade-offs
16% Efficiency Trails Key Competitors

Peer comparables JA Solar P2 and MY Solar P2 in the same power class (170 Wp) achieve 17.1% module efficiency. The 1.1 percentage point gap means competing modules occupy approximately 6–7% less area at equivalent output — a meaningful disadvantage in mobile applications where space is at a premium.

No Tier-1 BNEF Status

Australian Solar Manufacturing does not appear on the BloombergNEF bankable manufacturers list (Q1 2026). In the context of bank or lessor-financed installations, the absence of Tier-1 status may complicate access to external financing and reduces the manufacturer's perceived long-term credibility.

Narrow Portfolio — Single 170 Wp Variant Only

The series offers only one power variant (170 Wp), with no 175 / 180 / 185 Wp options available. For installers requiring flexibility in matching module output to a specific system design, this limitation may direct purchasing decisions toward broader product lines from competitors such as JA Solar P2, which spans multiple power tiers.

Notes from the database
  • Efficiency of 16.0% is 5.8pp below the database median (21.8%)
  • Power density of 132.8 W/m² is 85.3 W/m² below database median (218.1 W/m²) - needs more roof space
  • Temperature coefficient of -0.44%/°C is 0.14pp worse than database median (-0.30%/°C) - higher losses in summer heat
  • 17.0 kg weight - 9.5 kg lighter than database median (26.5 kg), reducing installation effort
  • Ranked #13641 out of 14005 panels for efficiency in the database

Specifications

Open datasheet PDF
Nominal power (Pmax) 170 Wp Nameplate at 1000 W/m², 25 °C
Module efficiency 16.00 % Typical Segment median 16.01%
Vmpp · Impp 38.16 V · 4.53 A Operating point at max power
Voc · Isc 44.12 V · 4.81 A Sizes the string length
Max system voltage 1000 V Longer strings than 1000 V modules
Dimensions 1580×810×45 mm · 1.28 m² of roof
Weight 17.0 kg Weak Weak · 4.2 kg above median
Cells 72 Monocrystalline
Coefficient Pmax -0.438 %/°C Weak bottom 5% of its segment
Coefficient Voc · Isc -0.297 · 0.030 %/°C

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
-0.438 %/°C against a segment median of -0.370
-

Alternatives

All ASM panels
Filter these
Size
Panel Power Eff. Temp. Weight Difference
ASM ASM170M 170 W 16.00% -0.438 17.0 kg You are here
GKA182M150W 150 W 23.00% - 9.0 kg -20 W, lighter, +7.0 pp
GKA182M160W 160 W 23.00% - 9.0 kg -10 W, lighter, +7.0 pp
GKA182M180W 180 W 23.00% - 9.0 kg +10 W, lighter, +7.0 pp
GKA182M200W 200 W 23.00% - 9.0 kg +30 W, lighter, +7.0 pp
GKA182M120W 120 W 23.00% - 6.1 kg -50 W, lighter, +7.0 pp
GKA182M135W 135 W 23.00% - 6.1 kg -35 W, lighter, +7.0 pp
NS-220MH-80 220 W 22.06% -0.290 10.5 kg Cooler, lighter, +6.1 pp
NS-220MH-80 220 W 22.06% -0.290 10.5 kg Cooler, lighter, +6.1 pp
NS-210MH-80 210 W 21.06% -0.290 10.5 kg Cooler, lighter, +5.1 pp
NS-210MH-80 210 W 21.06% -0.290 10.5 kg Cooler, lighter, +5.1 pp
ZEUS 1.2 FullBlack 280W 280 W 23.31% -0.260 14.3 kg +110 W, cooler, +7.3 pp
GKA182M285W 285 W 23.00% - 10.8 kg +115 W, lighter, +7.0 pp
GKA182M240W 240 W 23.00% - 10.8 kg +70 W, lighter, +7.0 pp
GKA182M260W 260 W 23.00% - 10.8 kg +90 W, lighter, +7.0 pp
GKA182M270W 270 W 23.00% - 10.8 kg +100 W, lighter, +7.0 pp
DM270M10T-B32HBT 270 W 22.90% -0.290 15.3 kg +100 W, cooler, +6.9 pp

Found 20 panels of the same or similar size to this one, within ±10 mm. See them here Found 20 panels of the same or similar size to this one, within ±25 mm. See them here Found 35 panels of the same or similar size to this one, within ±50 mm. See them here Found 45 panels of the same or similar size to this one, within ±100 mm. See them here

Common questions

6 answered
Is the ASM170M series still available for sale?
The ASM170M series from Australian Solar Manufacturing has been discontinued and is no longer available as a new product through regular distribution. If you require similar specifications, you might consider newer models from ASM or other manufacturers of 170–190 W solar panels designed for off-grid applications. Availability in secondary markets may be limited and is not guaranteed by the manufacturer.
What are the best applications for the 170W ASM170M panel?
The ASM170M panel with a power output of 170 W is primarily optimized for off-grid systems, meaning systems independent of the main power grid. It performs exceptionally well on RVs, camping trailers, boats, and cabins without a connection to the electrical grid. Its compact size and sturdy aluminum frame make it easy to install in spaces with limited area, where every inch of roof or deck space is valuable.
What is the manufacturer's warranty on the ASM170M panels?
Australian Solar Manufacturing offers a 10-year warranty on workmanship and materials defects for the ASM170M series, as well as a 25-year warranty on output power. This warranty guarantees that the nominal output power of 170 Wp will be maintained at a specified percentage for a quarter of a century, which is a standard offered by reputable manufacturers of monocrystalline panels. However, it is important to note that this series has been discontinued, which may make it more difficult to enforce the warranty.
Does the ASM170M panel perform effectively under low-light conditions, such as in Poland during winter?
Yes, the use of monocrystalline cell technology in the ASM170M offers improved efficiency under diffuse and low light conditions compared to polycrystalline cells. This is a significant advantage in the Polish climate, where cloudy days in autumn and winter are the norm. The panel maintains a relatively stable output power even with low solar angles, although the actual output will be proportionally lower under very limited sunlight.
Is the ASM170M resistant to mechanical damage and harsh environmental conditions?
The ASM170M series has undergone rigorous testing by the manufacturer to ensure its resistance to extreme weather conditions. The precisely manufactured aluminum frame and laminate protect the cells from moisture, hail, and strong winds. The manufacturer places particular emphasis on minimizing the risk of cell micro-cracks and PID (Potential Induced Degradation), which is crucial in mobile installations exposed to vibrations, such as those in camper vans or on boats.
Is the ASM170M a Tier 1 panel, and is it worth investing in?
Australian Solar Manufacturing does not appear on the Tier 1 lists of Bloomberg NEF. This indicates a smaller production scale and a different market position compared to giants such as JA Solar and LONGi. However, ASM focuses on quality and Australian quality control standards. The ASM170M series is aimed at users who prioritize reliability in off-grid conditions and have limited equipment maintenance capabilities, rather than those seeking the cheapest budget solution.
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