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Canadian Solar CS3W-445MS
Canadian Solar Brand review

CS3W-445MS

445 Wp PERC
ComparePV verdict

Middle of its segment, modest efficiency

Rank 11,699 of 14,129
Compare panels Datasheet PDF
Power (Wp)
445
Strong · top 5%
Efficiency (%)
20.10
Weak · bottom 16%
Density (Wp/m²)
201.4
Weak · bottom 17%
Temp (%/°C)
-0.350
Typical · median -0.350
Weight (kg)
24.9
Typical · median 22.0 kg
Warranty (yrs)
25
Typical · median 25 yrs

The HiKu CS3W-MS series pairs proven monocrystalline module design with engineering choices that meaningfully cut energy losses under less-than-ideal irradiance conditions. The use of half-cut cells in a 144-cell architecture together with multi-busbar technology reduces internal resistance and improves heat dissipation, allowing the panel to better tolerate partial shading and localized overheating (hot-spot effects). This translates directly into higher reliability and a longer system lifespan, particularly on roofs that aren't fully exposed to sunlight throughout the day. Built on proven PERC technology, the module delivers a low power temperature coefficient, meaning smaller output losses on hot days - a real advantage in Poland's climate with increasingly warm summers. A reinforced frame design provides high snow and wind load resistance, making it a solid choice for both pitched residential roofs and ground-mounted commercial installations exposed to demanding weather conditions. The HiKu CS3W-MS series suits investors looking for a balance between high unit power output and a predictable, long-term 25-year linear power warranty, helping lower the effective levelized cost of energy (LCOE) over the system's entire operating life.

Ranking

954 panels in the segment PERC 400-450 W
Metric This panel Median Position in segment Overall rank
Module efficiency 20.10% 20.60% Weak · bottom 16% 12,187
Power density 201.4 206.2 Weak · bottom 17% 12,146
Temperature coefficient -0.350 -0.350 Typical 10,489
Weight per kWp 56.0 53.0 Typical 10,386
Performance warranty 25 yrs 25 yrs Typical 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, shaded-installations, hot-climate and cold-climate.

Not ideal for

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

Watch-outs
20.10% module efficiency

Bottom 16% of the PERC 400-450 W segment, against a median of 20.60%.

201.4 watts per square metre

Bottom 17% of the PERC 400-450 W segment, against a median of 206.2.

What owners get
Tier-1 manufacturer with 25-year track record

Canadian Solar has operated since 2001 and appears on both the BNEF Tier-1 list and S&P Global Energy's bankable supplier ranking for PV modules, which eases project financing and lowers investment risk for banks and lenders.

Half-cut cells with multi-busbar technology

The 144 half-cut cell architecture combined with multi-busbar technology reduces internal resistance and dissipates heat more effectively, lowering the risk of hot spots under partial shading and improving reliability in less-than-ideal irradiance conditions.

Low power temperature coefficient

The PERC-based module maintains a temperature coefficient of -0.35%/°C, limiting performance losses on hot days - a meaningful advantage in Poland's climate with hot summers.

25-year linear power warranty

The manufacturer offers a 25-year linear power warranty, ensuring predictable performance degradation over the system's lifetime and lowering the levelized cost of energy (LCOE) of the installation.

Reinforced frame, high mechanical resistance

The frame construction is engineered for high snow and wind loads, making the series suitable for both pitched-roof and ground-mounted commercial installations exposed to harsh weather conditions.

Trade-offs
Discontinued production since 2021

The HiKu CS3W-MS series was phased out (produced 2018-2021), meaning limited availability of matching replacement units for warranty claims and no new supply from the manufacturer - an important consideration when planning system expansion.

Efficiency below current market standards

The 19.5-20.6% efficiency based on older PERC technology is notably lower than current competitors in the same 455 Wp power class, e.g. LEDVANCE (22.77%), Sunlike Solar (22.8%), or Solitek (22.56%) - a roughly 2-percentage-point gap that translates into lower yield per unit of roof area.

Shorter product warranty period

The 12-year product warranty is shorter than the 15-25 years now standard among many Tier-1 manufacturers, which may affect the perceived residual value of the installation despite the matching 25-year linear power warranty.

Notes from the database
  • At 20.1% efficiency, this panel is on par with typical PERC 400-450W modules
  • 201.4 W/m² power density is 4.8 W/m² below PERC 400-450W median (206.2 W/m²) - requires larger installation area
  • Temperature coefficient of -0.35%/°C matches the PERC 400-450W median
  • Weight of 24.9 kg is 2.9 kg above PERC 400-450W median (22.0 kg) - verify structural support
  • In the top 86% for efficiency among all PERC panels

Specifications

Open datasheet PDF
Nominal power (Pmax) 445 Wp Nameplate at 1000 W/m², 25 °C
Module efficiency 20.10 % Weak Segment median 20.60%
Vmpp · Impp 40.90 V · 10.89 A Operating point at max power
Voc · Isc 48.90 V · 11.54 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 Typical Typical · median 22.0 kg
Cells 144 · PERC Monocrystalline
Coefficient Pmax -0.350 %/°C Typical median -0.350 of its segment
Coefficient Voc · Isc -0.270 · 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
-0.350 %/°C against a segment median of -0.350
-
Filter these
Size
Panel Power Eff. Temp. Weight Difference
Canadian Solar CS3W-445MS 445 W 20.10% -0.350 24.9 kg You are here
AIKO-A495-MCE54Mw 495 W 24.80% -0.260 21.0 kg +50 W, cooler, +4.7 pp
AIKO-A490-MCE54Mw 490 W 24.50% -0.260 21.0 kg Cooler, +4.4 pp, +5 yr warranty
STP-NT11/48QGSF-490 490 W 24.50% -0.260 21.5 kg Cooler, +4.4 pp, +5 yr warranty
JAT54S40-485/LR 485 W 24.30% -0.260 19.3 kg Cooler, lighter, +4.2 pp
AIKO-A485-MCE54Mw 485 W 24.30% -0.260 21.0 kg Cooler, +4.2 pp, +5 yr warranty
LR7-54HJD-495M 495 W 24.30% -0.240 23.5 kg +50 W, cooler, +4.2 pp
AIKO-A485-MAH54Mw 485 W 24.30% -0.260 21.5 kg Cooler, +4.2 pp, +5 yr warranty
CS3W-395P 395 W 17.90% -0.360 24.9 kg -50 W, hotter, -2.2 pp
CS3W-400P 400 W 18.10% -0.360 24.9 kg -45 W, hotter, -2.0 pp
CS3W-405P 405 W 18.30% -0.360 24.9 kg -40 W, hotter, -1.8 pp
CS3W-410P 410 W 18.60% -0.360 24.9 kg -35 W, hotter, -1.5 pp
CS3W-415P 415 W 18.80% -0.360 24.9 kg -30 W, hotter, -1.3 pp
CS3W-420P 420 W 19.00% -0.360 24.9 kg -25 W, hotter, -1.1 pp
CS3W-425P 425 W 19.20% -0.360 24.9 kg -20 W, hotter, -0.9 pp
CS3W-430P 430 W 19.50% -0.360 24.9 kg -15 W, hotter, -0.6 pp
CS3W-435P 435 W 19.70% -0.360 24.9 kg -10 W, hotter, -0.4 pp
GKA120N-PRO-590W 590 W 23.82% -0.300 26.7 kg +145 W, +3.7 pp, +5 yr warranty

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 1041 panels of the same or similar size to this one, within ±100 mm. See them here

About the HiKu CS3W-MS series

6 answered

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

Is the Canadian Solar HiKu CS3W-MS series still available for purchase?
The HiKu CS3W-MS series has been discontinued by Canadian Solar and replaced with newer models. These panels can still be found through distributors clearing remaining stock, but availability is limited. Check current inventory with a local supplier before planning an installation based on this series.
What warranty comes with Canadian Solar HiKu CS3W-MS panels?
The manufacturer provides a 12-year product warranty and a 25-year linear power output warranty. This means that after 25 years of operation, the panel should still deliver a substantial portion of its original rated power, resulting in a predictable and lower levelized cost of energy (LCOE) throughout the system's lifetime.
How do the half-cut cells in the HiKu CS3W-MS differ from standard panels?
The panel uses 144 half-cut monocrystalline PERC cells with a multi-busbar layout. Splitting cells in half reduces internal resistance and heat losses, allowing the module to better handle partial shading and lower the risk of hot spots, which improves durability compared to conventional full-cell panels.
What is the maximum power output of the HiKu CS3W-MS, and is it enough for a residential system?
The highest-power variant in the series reaches 455 Wp, making it a solid choice for both rooftop and larger commercial installations. A typical 5-10 kWp residential system would require between 11 and 22 modules, depending on the household's energy needs.
Do Canadian Solar HiKu CS3W-MS panels perform well in hot summer conditions?
Yes, thanks to PERC technology the module has a low power temperature coefficient, limiting efficiency loss during hot days. This is a significant advantage in climates with hot summers, where high rooftop surface temperatures can noticeably reduce output in standard panels.
Can HiKu CS3W-MS panels withstand heavy snow and wind loads?
Yes, the module features a reinforced frame designed for high mechanical loads, including snow and strong wind. It performs well on both sloped rooftops and ground-mounted commercial installations exposed to harsh weather conditions, typical of harsh winters.
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