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Canadian Solar CS3W-405P
Canadian Solar Brand review

CS3W-405P

405 Wp PERC
ComparePV verdict

Middle of its segment, modest efficiency

Rank 12,797 of 14,005
Compare panels Datasheet PDF
Power (Wp)
405
Typical for its class
Efficiency (%)
18.30
Weak · bottom 1%
Density (Wp/m²)
183.3
Weak · bottom 1%
Temp (%/°C)
-0.360
Weak · bottom 15%
Weight (kg)
24.9
Weak · 2.9 kg above median
Warranty (yrs)
25
Typical · median 25 yrs

The HiKu CS3W-P series is a super high power module built on poly-crystalline PERC technology, featuring half-cut cells arranged in two rows of 144 cells. Splitting each cell in half reduces the internal current flowing through the panel, resulting in lower hot-spot temperatures and a gentler impact of micro-cracks on overall module performance. This approach is especially effective in installations exposed to partial shading from chimneys, antennas, or neighboring buildings, since conventional panels lose considerably more energy under such conditions. Built around a reinforced, crossbar-enhanced frame, the panel delivers strong mechanical resistance to snow and wind loads, making it well suited for roofs in regions with demanding climate conditions. A low power temperature coefficient limits output drops on hot days, and the series is backed by a 25-year linear power warranty along with a 12-year product warranty, contributing to a lower LCOE and reduced installation cost per watt. The HiKu CS3W-P is a proven choice for installers seeking a versatile module for both rooftop and ground-mount applications, combining reliability with an attractive price-to-performance ratio.

Ranking

954 panels in the segment PERC 400-450 W
Metric This panel Median Position in segment Overall rank
Module efficiency 18.30% 20.60% Weak · bottom 1% 13,161
Power density 183.3 206.2 Weak · bottom 1% 13,136
Temperature coefficient -0.360 -0.350 Weak · bottom 15% 12,345
Weight per kWp 61.5 53.0 Weak · bottom 8% 12,652
Performance warranty 25 yrs 25 yrs Typical 9,798
Colour key Strong - top 25% Typical - middle 50% Weak - bottom 25%

Signals from the data

5 positive · 6 caution
Best for

Residential, commercial, shaded-installations and cold-climate.

Not ideal for

Tight roof space, roofs where every square metre has to count and weight-limited structures.

Watch-outs
18.30% module efficiency

Bottom 1% of the PERC 400-450 W segment, against a median of 20.60%. Ranked 13,161st in the whole database.

183.3 watts per square metre

Bottom 1% of the PERC 400-450 W segment, against a median of 206.2. Ranked 13,136th in the whole database.

61.5 kg per kWp

Bottom 8% of the PERC 400-450 W segment, against a median of 53.0. Ranked 12,652nd in the whole database.

What owners get
Established Tier-1 bankability

Canadian Solar is a Tier-1 bankable manufacturer operating since 2001, which lowers project financing risk and eases access to credit for PV installations based on this series.

Half-cut cells in 2x144 configuration

Splitting cells in half reduces internal module current, cutting losses under partial shading (chimneys, antennas) and softening the impact of micro-cracks compared to conventional full-cell panels.

Reinforced frame for snow and wind loads

The construction with additional crossbars provides higher mechanical strength, making the module a suitable choice for roofs in regions with heavy snow loads, such as southern and mountainous Poland.

25-year linear power warranty

The manufacturer guarantees linear power degradation over 25 years, a standard benchmark for the 2018-2021 PERC segment, enabling reliable LCOE modeling over the long term.

Favorable installed cost per watt

The mature, proven poly-PERC technology combined with an ended production cycle means modules from this series are available at lower unit prices than newer N-type designs on the secondary market.

Trade-offs
Production discontinued since 2021

The HiKu CS3W-P series is no longer manufactured (released 2018, ended 2021), meaning limited warranty service availability, spare parts, and difficulty sourcing matching modules for expanding an existing installation.

Efficiency lags current N-type models

Peak efficiency of 19.9% clearly trails comparable power-class (440 Wp) competitors based on TOPCon, such as JA Solar JAM54D40 (22.5%) or Luxor ECO LINE N-TYPE (22.86%), meaning more roof area is needed for the same installed power.

PERC technology without bifacial support

The module is monofacial (is_bifacial: false) and based on older PERC technology, so it cannot capture additional albedo-driven yield available in newer bifacial N-type designs among the peer comparables.

Notes from the database
  • At 18.3% efficiency, this panel is 2.3pp below the PERC 400-450W median of 20.6%
  • 183.3 W/m² power density is 22.9 W/m² below PERC 400-450W median (206.2 W/m²) - requires larger installation area
  • At -0.36%/°C, hot weather performance is typical for PERC 400-450W panels
  • At 24.9 kg, this panel is 2.9 kg heavier than the PERC 400-450W median (22.0 kg) - more demanding for installation crews
  • Ranked #13161 out of 14005 panels for efficiency in the database

Specifications

Open datasheet PDF
Nominal power (Pmax) 405 Wp Nameplate at 1000 W/m², 25 °C
Module efficiency 18.30 % Weak Segment median 20.60%
Vmpp · Impp 38.90 V · 10.42 A Operating point at max power
Voc · Isc 47.40 V · 10.98 A Sizes the string length
Max system voltage 1500 V Longer strings than 1000 V modules
Dimensions 2108×1048×40 mm · 2.21 m² of roof
Weight 24.9 kg Weak Weak · 2.9 kg above median
Cells 144 · PERC Polycrystalline
Coefficient Pmax -0.360 %/°C Weak bottom 15% of its segment
Coefficient Voc · Isc -0.280 · 0.050 %/°C
NOCT 42 °C At 800 W/m², 20 °C ambient
Product warranty 12 years Hardware defects only
Performance warranty 25 years Typical median 25 yrs · median 25 yrs

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
-0.360 %/°C against a segment median of -0.350
-
Filter these
Size
Panel Power Eff. Temp. Weight Difference
Canadian Solar CS3W-405P 405 W 18.30% -0.360 24.9 kg You are here
GS10-B120-GF-455 455 W 21.03% -0.320 24.0 kg +50 W, cooler, +2.7 pp
GS10-B120-GF-450 450 W 20.79% -0.320 24.0 kg +45 W, cooler, +2.5 pp
GS10-B120-GF-445 445 W 20.56% -0.320 24.0 kg +40 W, cooler, +2.3 pp
GS10-B120-GF-440 440 W 20.33% -0.320 24.0 kg +35 W, cooler, +2.0 pp
LNSU-410M 410 W 20.31% -0.360 24.5 kg +2.0 pp
GS10-B120-GF-435 435 W 20.10% -0.320 24.0 kg +30 W, cooler, +1.8 pp
LNSU-405M 405 W 20.06% -0.360 24.5 kg +1.8 pp
CS3U-395P 395 W 19.90% -0.360 22.5 kg -10 W, lighter, +1.6 pp
LNSU-400M 400 W 19.81% -0.360 24.5 kg +1.5 pp
CS3W-395P 395 W 17.90% -0.360 24.9 kg -10 W, -0.4 pp
CS3W-400P 400 W 18.10% -0.360 24.9 kg Very close match
CS3W-410P 410 W 18.60% -0.360 24.9 kg +0.3 pp
CS3W-415P 415 W 18.80% -0.360 24.9 kg +10 W, +0.5 pp
CS3W-420P 420 W 19.00% -0.360 24.9 kg +15 W, +0.7 pp
CS3W-425P 425 W 19.20% -0.360 24.9 kg +20 W, +0.9 pp
CS3W-430P 430 W 19.50% -0.360 24.9 kg +25 W, +1.2 pp
GKA120N-PRO-590W 590 W 23.82% -0.300 26.7 kg +185 W, cooler, +5.5 pp

Found 115 panels of the same or similar size to this one, within ±10 mm. See them here Found 345 panels of the same or similar size to this one, within ±25 mm. See them here Found 345 panels of the same or similar size to this one, within ±50 mm. See them here Found 1027 panels of the same or similar size to this one, within ±100 mm. See them here

Common questions

6 answered
Is the Canadian Solar HiKu CS3W-P 440W panel still available for purchase?
The HiKu CS3W-P series has been discontinued and replaced by newer models using TOPCon cell technology. Panels from this series may still be found through distributors clearing existing stock, but availability is limited. When buying, check the production date and confirm the manufacturer's warranty still applies despite the end of production.
What warranty comes with Canadian Solar HiKu CS3W-P panels?
The manufacturer covers the HiKu CS3W-P series with a 12-year product warranty and a 25-year linear power warranty, guaranteeing a minimum performance level throughout its service life. This is standard for Tier 1 panels, though newer Canadian Solar TOPCon models now offer extended 30-year power warranties.
How do the half-cut cells in the HiKu CS3W-P differ from standard full-size cells?
The half-cut cells in the HiKu CS3W-P series are cut in half and arranged in two rows of 144 cells, reducing the current flowing through each cell. This lowers heat generation at hot-spot points, improves resistance to microcracks, and reduces power loss under partial shading, such as from a chimney or antenna, compared to conventional full-cell modules.
Is the HiKu CS3W-P 440W panel suitable for roofs with heavy snow or wind loads?
Yes, the module's design features a reinforced frame with additional crossbars, increasing mechanical strength against snow and wind loads. This makes the HiKu CS3W-P well-suited for roofs in regions with more demanding climate conditions, where standard frames might deform or crack under snow pressure.
Are HiKu CS3W-P panels bifacial and able to capture reflected light?
No, the HiKu CS3W-P series is a monofacial module using PERC cell technology without an active rear surface. The panel generates energy only from direct and diffuse light hitting the front side. For additional energy gain from ground reflection, consider Canadian Solar's newer bifacial TOPCon models instead.
How does PERC technology in the HiKu CS3W-P affect panel efficiency on hot days?
HiKu CS3W-P panels have a low power temperature coefficient, limiting output drops during high summer temperatures. PERC technology, with its rear reflective layer, improves light absorption and partially offsets thermal losses, allowing the panel to maintain steadier energy production on hot days compared to older non-PERC modules.
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