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SOMI Brand review

SP550M-72HB

550 Wp PERC
ComparePV verdict

Warranty pick, no clear weak spot

Rank 6,892 of 14,005
Compare panels Datasheet PDF
Power (Wp)
550
Weak · bottom 15%
Efficiency (%)
21.30
Typical · median 21.29%
Density (Wp/m²)
212.8
Typical · median 212.9
Temp (%/°C)
-0.350
Typical · median -0.350
Weight (kg)
28.6
Typical · median 30.8 kg
Warranty (yrs)
30
Strong · top 25%

The SOMI SP525-550M-72HB (Black) series consists of all-black modules designed for installations where both high power density and a consistent, dark aesthetic are important. The use of monocrystalline cells and half-cut construction helps minimize losses in partially shaded conditions and improves stability in real rooftop environments, leading to more predictable annual energy yields. The modules also feature positive power tolerance, making it easier to meet design specifications without the risk of power shortages from the generator side.

This is a good choice for single-family homes, commercial buildings, and PV farms, especially where maximizing available space and a clean appearance are important. In comparison to many competing series, the 72HB model stands out for its combination of large module format with a refined, black design, which makes premium installations easier to implement without compromising performance.

Ranking

589 panels in the segment PERC 550-600 W
Metric This panel Median Position in segment Overall rank
Module efficiency 21.30% 21.29% Typical 8,519
Power density 212.8 212.9 Typical 8,643
Temperature coefficient -0.350 -0.350 Typical 10,419
Weight per kWp 52.0 52.7 Typical 5,417
Performance warranty 30 yrs 27 yrs Strong · top 25% 21
Colour key Strong - top 25% Typical - middle 50% Weak - bottom 25%

Signals from the data

1 positive · 0 caution
Best for

Residential, commercial and shaded-installations.

Strengths
30 year performance warranty

Top 25% of the PERC 550-600 W segment, against a median of 27 yrs.

Notes from the database
  • Efficiency of 21.3% matches the PERC 550-600W median
  • At 212.8 W/m² power density, roof space requirements are typical for PERC 550-600W panels
  • At -0.35%/°C, hot weather performance is typical for PERC 550-600W panels
  • 28.6 kg weight - 2.2 kg lighter than PERC 550-600W median (30.8 kg), reducing installation effort
  • In the top 61% for efficiency among all PERC panels

Specifications

Open datasheet PDF
Nominal power (Pmax) 550 Wp Nameplate at 1000 W/m², 25 °C
Module efficiency 21.30 % Typical Segment median 21.29%
Vmpp · Impp 41.96 V · 13.11 A Operating point at max power
Voc · Isc 49.90 V · 14.00 A Sizes the string length
Max system voltage 1500 V Longer strings than 1000 V modules
Dimensions 2279×1134×35 mm · 2.58 m² of roof
Weight 28.6 kg Typical Typical · median 30.8 kg
Cells 144 · PERC Monocrystalline
Coefficient Pmax -0.350 %/°C Typical median -0.350 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 30 years Strong top 25% · median 27 yrs
End-of-warranty output 80.7 % Equals 451 W guaranteed
Degradation 2.00 → 0.55 % First year, then annual

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
-

Alternatives

All SOMI panels
Filter these
Size
Panel Power Eff. Temp. Weight Difference
SOMI SP550M-72HB 550 W 21.30% -0.350 28.6 kg You are here
LR7-54HJD-510M 510 W 25.00% -0.240 23.5 kg Cooler, lighter, +3.7 pp
LR7-60HVH-560M 560 W 24.80% -0.260 25.0 kg Cooler, lighter, +3.5 pp
LR7-54HJD-505M 505 W 24.70% -0.240 23.5 kg Cooler, lighter, +3.4 pp
LR7-60HVH-555M 555 W 24.60% -0.260 25.0 kg Cooler, lighter, +3.3 pp
LR7-54HJD-500M 500 W 24.50% -0.240 23.5 kg Cooler, lighter, +3.2 pp
SP525M-72HB 525 W 20.30% -0.350 28.6 kg -25 W, -1.0 pp
SP530M-72HB 530 W 20.50% -0.350 28.6 kg -20 W, -0.8 pp
SP535M-72HB 535 W 20.70% -0.350 28.6 kg -15 W, -0.6 pp
SP540M-72HB 540 W 20.90% -0.350 28.6 kg -10 W, -0.4 pp
SP545M-72HB 545 W 21.10% -0.350 28.6 kg Very close match
AIKO-A650-MAE72Mw 650 W 25.20% -0.260 27.0 kg +100 W, cooler, +3.9 pp
AIKO-A645-MAE72Mw 645 W 25.00% -0.260 27.0 kg +95 W, cooler, +3.7 pp
AIKO-A640-MAE72Mw 640 W 24.80% -0.260 27.0 kg +90 W, cooler, +3.5 pp
AIKO-A635-MAE72Mw 635 W 24.60% -0.260 27.0 kg +85 W, cooler, +3.3 pp
AIKO-A630-MAH72Dw 630 W 24.40% -0.260 32.5 kg +80 W, cooler, +3.1 pp

Found 2326 panels of the same or similar size to this one, within ±10 mm. See them here Found 2368 panels of the same or similar size to this one, within ±25 mm. See them here Found 2382 panels of the same or similar size to this one, within ±50 mm. See them here Found 2542 panels of the same or similar size to this one, within ±100 mm. See them here

Common questions

6 answered
Is the SOMI SP525–550M-72HB (Black) series still available for purchase?
The SOMI SP525–550M-72HB (Black) series has been discontinued and is no longer part of regular distribution. Remaining stock may still be found with some distributors, but for new installations it is advisable to consider currently manufactured modules with comparable specs to ensure long-term availability of matching panels for system expansion or replacement.
What warranty does the SOMI SP525–550M-72HB (Black) come with?
The SOMI SP525–550M-72HB (Black) series carries a 12-year product warranty covering material and workmanship defects, along with a 30-year linear power output warranty. The power warranty guarantees that the module retains a specified percentage of its rated output over three decades. Check with your distributor for the exact power retention thresholds at each warranty milestone.
What are the real-world benefits of half-cut PERC cell technology in the SOMI SP525–550M-72HB modules?
PERC combined with half-cut cell architecture delivers measurable gains under real rooftop conditions. Half-cut cells reduce resistive losses and limit the impact of partial shading — from chimneys, dormers, or adjacent panels — on overall string output. PERC technology adds a rear reflective layer that boosts light absorption. The combined effect is more stable generation under cloud cover and better performance at elevated operating temperatures.
Are the SOMI SP525–550M-72HB (Black) modules bifacial?
No, the SOMI SP525–550M-72HB (Black) is a monofacial module — it captures light from the front side only. The all-black rear backsheet makes bifacial generation impossible, as no light passes through. This is not a drawback for rooftop installations, where ground albedo is low anyway. Bifacial gains are most relevant for ground-mounted systems or flat roofs with highly reflective surfaces.
How do the SOMI SP525–550M-72HB (Black) panels look on a dark roof — will the seams between modules be visible?
The SP525–550M-72HB (Black) is a true all-black module — black frame, black backsheet, and black cells create a visually uniform panel surface. This makes it ideal for premium installations where aesthetics matter. The narrow gaps between modules blend into a dark tile or slate roof, resulting in a clean, low-profile appearance that satisfies even design-conscious homeowners.
What types of installations is the SOMI SP525–550M-72HB (Black) series best suited for, and does it work for residential use?
At up to 550 Wp per module, the SP525–550M-72HB (Black) is a large-format panel suited for residential rooftops with sufficient area, commercial buildings, and small-scale PV farms. Fewer modules are needed to reach a target system capacity, which simplifies BoS wiring and can reduce installation labor costs. The positive power tolerance ensures each module meets or exceeds its nameplate rating — eliminating generator-side shortfalls at system commissioning.
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