Lumeta Solar, a California PV module manufacturer, announced the launch of Lumeta Lynx, a line of solar modules that eliminate racking resulting in faster installation, zero roof penetrations, and improved aesthetics. The low-profile, black-on-black, frameless monocrystalline modules adhere directly to the roof, dramatically reducing module installation time on tile, shingle, and commercial roofs.

“Lumeta Lynx offers the lowest installed cost and is more attractive than traditional rack-mounted solar modules,” said CEO and founder Timothy Davey. “Our product grew from customer demands for solar without roof penetrations, and has been redesigned to meet the needs of residential and commercial solar professionals.”

The Lumeta Lynx 60 is a 300-W 18.1% efficient module is designed for both tile roofs, where it is installed using inserts that create a level surface, and composition shingle roofs. The Lumeta Lynx 72 is a 360-W 18.3% efficient module designed for installation on almost all commercial roof systems. Lumeta Lynx will begin shipping to select partners in Q4 2017 and be available throughout the United States in Q1 2018.

“A module that slashes installation time and almost erases the chance of roof leaks is great for solar contractors’ bottom line,” said Everett Brewer, an executive at WattHub, a renewable energy exchange for solar developers, contractors, engineers, suppliers, and financiers. “We’re excited to be among the first to use Lumeta Lynx and know that a lighter weight system with fewer components will increase operational efficiency for distributors and contractors alike.”

Lumeta Lynx weighs less than half of glass-fronted modules with racking, and their construction varies from traditional modules a few ways:

• Dupont’s ETFE (ethylene tetrafluoroethylene) replaces the glass front sheet and enables heat dissipation
• High efficiency black monocrystalline silicon cells with industry-standard EVA encapsulation provides decades of reliable energy production
• A FRP (fiber reinforced polymer) semi-rigid back sheet protects the cells
• A tapered edge seal replaces the frame, removing the need for grounding and lessening soiling
• Industrial-strength butyl adhesive, commonly used in the roofing industry, secures the module for the system’s lifetime and enables removal if ever required

The module was tested to NREL’s demanding Qualification Plus standard and passed a Black & Veatch-developed reliability and robustness testing protocol that ensures the module withstands the rigors of real-life handling.