Aiko Stellar 3N+ 665W: The Commercial Sibling of the Comet 3N72
Aiko's Stellar 3N+ 665W (manufacturer code AIKO-A665-MDE72Dw, supplied with the AIKO-01C connector) is the dual-glass, large-format commercial counterpart to the Comet 3N72 mono-glass series — both built on Aiko's third-generation N-Type ABC cell platform. With 144 back-contact cells producing 665W of peak power at 24.6% module efficiency, the Stellar 3N+ is engineered for UK commercial roofs, agricultural buildings, ground mounts and ambitious residential projects where roof space allows a 2.38 m module footprint.
This guide covers what makes the Stellar 3N+ different from a standard 72-cell TOPCon panel, the specifications you'll need for system design, how it compares to its sister product the Comet, and the warranty and certification framework that supports a 30-year deployment.
How N-Type ABC Cell Technology Works
Conventional solar panels — whether PERC or N-Type TOPCon — route electrical current off each cell through silver busbars and finger contacts printed onto the front surface. Those metal lines block roughly 3–5% of the cell from receiving sunlight. Aiko's All Back Contact (ABC) architecture moves every electrical contact to the rear of the cell, leaving the entire front face as unobstructed silicon.
Rear-Contact Cell Architecture
All positive and negative collection points sit on the back of the cell. The front is a uniform, unbroken absorber — no busbars, no fingers, no shadowing — so more photons reach the silicon and become electricity.
Infinite Technology Cell Layout
Aiko's Gen 3 manufacturing closes the inactive gaps between adjacent cells. More of the module's fixed 2,382 × 1,134 mm footprint becomes active generating area, lifting power output without changing the panel size.
Cell-Level Partial Shading Optimisation
When a chimney, aerial or branch shades part of the module, ABC contains the loss to the shaded cells only — the rest of the string keeps producing. PERC and TOPCon panels typically lose much more output under the same shading.
Better Temperature Coefficient
At −0.26%/°C for Pmax, the Stellar 3N+ loses less power per degree of cell heat than TOPCon (typically −0.29%/°C) or PERC (−0.35%/°C). On warm UK summer days, that gap delivers a measurable yield advantage.
Comet 3N72 vs Stellar 3N+: Same Family, Different Glass
The Comet 3N72 (model code AIKO-A-MDE72Mw) and the Stellar 3N+ (model code AIKO-A-MDE72Dw) sit on the same Gen 3 ABC platform. They share electrical performance, cell technology, the 144-cell 6×24 layout, identical dimensions, the same temperature coefficient and the same 30-year linear warranty. The difference is the rear face:
Comet 3N72 — Mono-Glass
3.2 mm tempered front glass with a high-weather-resistant polymer backsheet. Lighter at 28.2 kg, monofacial output only, IEC Class C fire rating, lower cost per watt where bifacial gain isn't relevant.
Stellar 3N+ — Dual-Glass Bifacial
2.0 + 2.0 mm semi-tempered coated glass on both faces. Heavier (≈32 kg) but bifacial — captures reflected light through the rear glass for additional yield over tracker systems, white membranes and light-coloured ground.
For most UK commercial deployments — particularly on flat roofs with reflective membranes, ground-mount installations, agricultural barns over light-coloured concrete, or any setting with significant rear albedo — the Stellar 3N+ dual-glass version is the right specification. The mono-glass Comet remains a strong option where weight is a critical constraint or where the mounting surface offers no rear irradiance gain.
Why Dual-Glass Matters for 30-Year Deployments
Traditional panels use a polymer backsheet that can yellow, delaminate or develop micro-cracks over a 25–30 year service life. Replacing the backsheet with 2.0 + 2.0 mm coated semi-tempered glass changes the longevity profile entirely. Glass doesn't degrade under UV, doesn't absorb moisture, and gives the cells genuinely symmetrical mechanical support.
Moisture Resistance
Glass-on-glass construction blocks water vapour ingress that drives PID and EVA delamination on backsheet panels.
Micro-Crack Suppression
Symmetric front/rear glass distributes mechanical load evenly, reducing cell stress under wind, snow and handling.
Bifacial Yield Gain
Rear face captures reflected irradiance — real-world gains of 4–10% on flat roofs, light ground or tracker systems.
Fire Performance
Dual-glass construction improves the fire safety profile and supports more demanding building applications.
Stellar 3N+ vs Standard 72-Cell Panels
At 24.6% module efficiency, the Stellar 3N+ sits roughly 1–1.5 percentage points ahead of equivalent 72-cell N-Type TOPCon modules and 2–3 points ahead of legacy PERC. That gap compounds across every square metre of roof and every year of generation.
| Parameter | Aiko Stellar 3N+ 665W | Typical 72-Cell TOPCon | Legacy PERC 72-Cell |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cell Architecture | N-Type ABC (rear-contact) | N-Type TOPCon (front busbars) | P-Type PERC (front busbars) |
| Peak Power | 665 W | 580–620 W | 540–565 W |
| Module Efficiency | 24.6% | 22.5–23.0% | 20.5–21.5% |
| Pmax Temp Coefficient | −0.26%/°C | −0.29%/°C | −0.35%/°C |
| Construction | Dual-glass bifacial | Mono-glass / dual-glass | Mono-glass backsheet |
| Front Busbar Shading | None | Yes (3–5%) | Yes (3–5%) |
| Partial Shading Loss | Cell-level isolation | String/half-string | String/half-string |
| Year-30 Output Guarantee | ≥88.85% | ~84–87% | ~80–84% |
Watch: Inside the Aiko ABC Cell
Buy the Aiko Stellar 3N+ 665W at Quality Heating
Stellar 3N+ 665W N-Type ABC 72 Cell — Silver Frame, Dual Glass, 01C Connector
Aiko's flagship commercial-format module on the Gen 3 ABC platform. 24.6% module efficiency, bifacial dual-glass construction, silver anodised frame, AIKO-01C round-post connector, 30-year linear performance warranty backed by Munich Re.
£167.00 inc VAT
Full Technical Specifications
The figures below cover the 665W bin (AIKO-A665-MDE72Dw) at Standard Test Conditions (STC: 1000 W/m², 25°C cell temperature, AM1.5 spectrum). The wider Stellar 3N+72 family spans 650W to 685W, with module efficiency rising to 25.4% at the top bin.
| Electrical Performance (STC) | |
| Maximum Power (Pmax) | 665 W |
|---|---|
| Module Efficiency | 24.6% |
| Open Circuit Voltage (Voc) | 54.35 V |
| Voltage at Max Power (Vmp) | 45.60 V |
| Short Circuit Current (Isc) | 15.28 A |
| Current at Max Power (Imp) | 14.59 A |
| Power Output Tolerance | 0 to +3% |
| Temperature Coefficients | |
| Pmax | −0.26%/°C |
| Voc | −0.22%/°C |
| Isc | +0.05%/°C |
| Mechanical & Physical | |
| Cell Type | N-Type ABC, 144 cells (6 × 24) |
| Dimensions (L × W × H) | 2,382 × 1,134 × 30 mm |
| Weight | ≈32 kg (dual-glass) |
| Front / Rear Glass | 2.0 + 2.0 mm coated semi-tempered glass |
| Frame | Silver anodised aluminium |
| Junction Box | IP68, 3 bypass diodes |
| Connector | AIKO-01C round-post (supplied with this product) |
| Cable | 4 mm² (IEC) / 12 AWG (UL) |
| Operating Limits | |
| Maximum System Voltage | DC 1,500 V |
| Maximum Series Fuse Rating | 25 A |
| Operating Temperature | −40 °C to +70 °C |
| Maximum Static Load | Front +5,400 Pa / Back −2,400 Pa |
| Hail Test | 35 mm diameter at 27.2 m/s |
| Protection Class | Class II |
| Warranty & Degradation | |
| Product Warranty | 15 years (extendable to 25 years*) |
| Performance Warranty | 30-year linear |
| First-Year Degradation | ≤1% |
| Annual Degradation (Year 2–30) | ≤0.35% |
| Year-30 Guaranteed Output | ≥88.85% |
| Warranty Partner | Munich Re (optional cover available) |
Where the Stellar 3N+ 665W Fits
At 2,382 × 1,134 mm and approximately 32 kg, this is not a panel for typical pitched residential tile roofs. It is a commercial-format module — and the maths work hardest at scale.
Commercial Flat Roofs
Warehouses, distribution centres and retail roofs benefit from the bifacial rear-glass gain over light-coloured TPO or PVC membranes. Higher kWp per square metre also reduces ballast and rail costs.
Agricultural Buildings
Dairy parlours, machinery sheds and grain stores typically offer large unshaded south-facing rooflines — ideal for 72-cell modules where each panel installed reduces hardware and labour cost per kWp.
Ground-Mount & Solar Farms
DC 1,500 V system voltage supports long strings and reduces cabling losses. The 30-year linear warranty with Munich Re cover meets project finance bankability requirements.
Carports & Canopies
Solar carports benefit doubly from the dual-glass construction — bifacial rear gain from reflected ground light, plus glass-on-glass durability under handling and snow load.
Barn Conversions & Estates
Large unshaded outbuildings often allow installations of 30–80 modules. Fewer, larger panels reduce mounting complexity and shorten the install programme.
Single-Axis Tracker Arrays
The Stellar 3N+ family supports tracker mounting (compatible with NEXTracker-style systems via the standard bolt-hole pattern), maximising daily yield through sun-tracking.
Certifications, Warranty & Standards
The Aiko Stellar 3N+ family is independently tested to IEC 61215 (design qualification) and IEC 61730 (safety qualification) standards by TÜV Rheinland. Aiko's third-generation ABC modules — including the Stellar 3N+ — also carry the red dot Design Award 2023, an ESG Best Performer recognition, and Inter Solar Award status.
The 30-year linear performance warranty is bankable, with optional Munich Re reinsurance available for project finance. Aiko guarantees first-year degradation no greater than 1%, then annual degradation no greater than 0.35% from Year 2 to Year 30 — finishing at a minimum 88.85% of rated output after three decades of operation.
Installation Notes
Refer to the official AIKO PV Modules Installation Manual for full mechanical and electrical requirements. Key points specific to the Stellar 3N+ 72-cell dual-glass format:
Clamp Mounting
Pressure clamps on the long side, mounting rails parallel to the long frame, clamp range 500–550 mm from the short edge — gives the full ±5,400/−2,400 Pa static load capacity. Use a minimum of four clamps per module.
Bolt Mounting
M8 bolts through the standard mounting holes, tightened to 16–20 Nm. The 790 mm and 1,400 mm mounting hole sets are present in the silver frame for both inner and outer four-hole configurations.
Grounding
Use the φ4.2 mm grounding holes on the frame with M4 × 12 mm stainless bolts, star washers and 4 mm² copper grounding wire. Torque to 3–7 Nm. Unused mounting holes may also be used for grounding.
String Voltage Sizing
Maximum system voltage DC 1,500 V. With Voc 54.35 V at STC and a Voc temperature coefficient of −0.22%/°C, calculate maximum string length using the lowest expected ambient temperature at the site.
Mounting must be carried out by qualified personnel familiar with photovoltaic electrical and mechanical work, and installers should follow the relevant UK building regulations, BS 7671 wiring requirements and MCS installation standards. The roof structure must be assessed for the dead and imposed loads of the array before installation begins.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between the Stellar 1N+ 645W and the Stellar 3N+ 665W?
Both are 72-cell dual-glass commercial modules built on Aiko's N-Type ABC platform, with the same physical format, the same AIKO-01C connector and the same Munich Re-backed warranty. The 1N+ is the first-generation Stellar at 645W and 23.9% module efficiency. The 3N+ is the third-generation upgrade — 665W, 24.6% efficiency, lower BOS cost per watt, and Aiko's latest Infinite Technology refinements for partial-shade tolerance and micro-crack resistance.
For new-build commercial projects where every Watt matters, the 3N+ is the natural specification. The 1N+ remains a strong value option where pricing per kWp is the deciding factor and the 7–8% generation premium of the 3N+ doesn't justify the price difference. Both qualify for MCS certification and the Smart Export Guarantee.
Is the Stellar 3N+ 665W the same panel as the Comet 3N72?
They share the same N-Type ABC cell technology, the same 144-cell layout, the same dimensions and the same electrical performance at each power bin. The difference is the rear face: the Comet 3N72 (AIKO-A-MDE72Mw) is mono-glass with a polymer backsheet, while the Stellar 3N+ (AIKO-A-MDE72Dw) is bifacial dual-glass with 2.0 + 2.0 mm coated semi-tempered glass on both faces.
For most UK commercial deployments, the dual-glass Stellar 3N+ is the recommended specification — better long-term durability, bifacial yield gain, and improved fire performance. The mono-glass Comet is a strong option where module weight is a constraint.
What does the "01C" in the product name refer to?
AIKO-01C is Aiko's own DC connector, used on the Stellar commercial range in place of the Stäubli MC4-EVO2 connector found on the residential Neostar series. It's a round-post design rated for the same DC 1,500 V system voltage as MC4. Standard inverter MC4 cables and combiner boxes require matched mating connectors — confirm compatibility with your specified inverter and combiner before ordering.
Can the Stellar 3N+ be used on a domestic UK pitched roof?
It can — but it isn't designed for typical residential pitched tile roofs. At 2,382 × 1,134 mm (approximately 2.7 m²) and around 32 kg per module, the Stellar 3N+ is a commercial-format panel. For typical UK domestic roofs, the Aiko Neostar 3P+ 540W or Neostar 3S+ 530W are the correct format — smaller, lighter, and engineered for tile-and-batten racking.
If you have a long, unshaded south-facing roofline (a barn conversion, a long bungalow, an outbuilding), the Stellar 3N+ can work and will deliver more kWp per square metre — but the roof structure must be assessed for the additional point loading.
What is bifacial gain and does it apply to UK installations?
Bifacial gain is the extra electricity produced by light reflected onto the rear glass face of the panel. The amount depends on what the panel sits over: white TPO roof membrane gives roughly 8–12%, concrete or light gravel gives 4–8%, and grass or dark tarmac gives only 1–3%.
For a typical UK commercial flat-roof installation over a light membrane, realistic annual bifacial gain is in the 4–8% range. Ground mounts over white stones or light gravel can exceed that. Pitched roof installations against a dark tile see negligible bifacial benefit.
Is the Stellar 3N+ MCS certified for the Smart Export Guarantee?
Yes. The Aiko Stellar 3N+ 665W module is MCS certified, which is the certification scheme that qualifies UK installations for the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG). To claim SEG payments, the system must be installed by an MCS-accredited installer, and the inverter must also appear on the MCS product list. Confirm MCS scope with your installer before specification.
How does the 30-year linear warranty actually work?
Aiko guarantees no more than 1% power loss in Year 1, then no more than 0.35% loss per year from Year 2 through Year 30. That puts the guaranteed minimum output at the end of Year 30 at 88.85% of the nameplate rating — equivalent to roughly 591 W of generating capacity from the 665 W module.
The warranty is described as "linear" because there are no step changes — output declines along a single straight line through the 30-year period. Munich Re acts as Aiko's reinsurance partner, providing bank-grade financial backing should Aiko's own business circumstances change during the warranty term.
Pairing the Stellar 3N+ With Inverters & Batteries
The Stellar 3N+ 665W operates at DC 1,500 V system voltage with Voc 54.35 V per module, allowing relatively long strings before hitting inverter input ceilings. For commercial deployments, three-phase string inverters or central inverters typically suit best — explore options in our String PV Inverters collection.
For sites adding storage to self-consume more generation, browse the Solar Batteries collection. For off-grid or grid-tied design guidance, our complete guide to setting up an off-grid solar system in the UK walks through component selection, system sizing and DNO considerations.
If you're weighing the Stellar 3N+ against alternatives — TOPCon panels from JA Solar, or LONGi's HPBC modules — see our Aiko vs JA Solar vs LONGi solar panels UK homeowner guide for a side-by-side breakdown of each manufacturer's current line.
Related Aiko Modules at Quality Heating
Stellar 1N+ 645W Dual-Glass — 72 Cell, Silver Frame, Short Cable, 01C
The first-generation Stellar — same 72-cell dual-glass format and AIKO-01C connector as the 3N+. 23.9% module efficiency at 645W, short-cable variant ideal for tighter portrait layouts where standard cable lengths run long.
£147.00 inc VAT
Neostar 3P+ 540W Dual-Glass — 60 Cell, Black Frame
Aiko's 60-cell bifacial ABC module — 24.4% efficiency in a residential format. Right size for larger UK pitched roofs where the 72-cell Stellar is too big.
View pricing
Neostar 3P+ 490W Dual-Glass — 54 Cell, Black Frame
The highest-efficiency residential panel currently available on the UK market at 24.5% module efficiency. Compact 54-cell format for standard UK pitched roofs.
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Neostar 3S+ 530W Dual-Glass All-Black Bifacial
Aiko's premium aesthetic option — bifacial dual-glass in a completely uniform all-black finish. Ideal for conservation areas and high-specification residential projects.
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Browse the full range in our Solar Panels collection, or check the Solar Energy FAQ for answers to common questions about system design, MCS certification and the Smart Export Guarantee.
Specify the Stellar 3N+ for Your Commercial Project
Express UK delivery, trade pricing, and tailored quotes for projects over £2,500 with free shipping included. Speak to the Quality Heating team about specification, volume pricing and matched inverter selection.