- Panasonic HIT® product is an industry-leading, high efficiency photovoltaic solution for roofs, applicable to a variety of specifications - Complete photovoltaic module HIT® product range available in North America beginning January 2016. - Solar panels HIT® were introduced to the U.S. market in 2002 under the Sanyo brand.

NEWARK, N.J., Jan. 13, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Panasonic Eco Solutions Company today announced the company's expansion of larger solar panels into North America's fast-growing residential solar market. Panasonic's complete high-efficiency photovoltaic module HIT® product range will be available beginning this month, including high efficiency 96 cell panels that meet the demand for the growing residential market. Panasonic will also announce its extended product warranty, bringing increased value to installers and end users across North America in 2016.

The residential solar market has continued its steady growth in recent years, with residential solar installations going up 70% from 2014. Panasonic will continue to shape the renewable energy landscape as it broadens the scope of its operations to include all of North America.

"North America is one of the fastest growing markets for renewable energy in the world and solar is expected to drive a significant percentage of that growth over the next several years," said Dan Silver, president, Panasonic Eco Solutions Company North America. "Panasonic's commitment to residential solar in North America has never been stronger. By offering our customers an affordable way to reduce their energy bills and their carbon footprint with one of the most efficient, highest-performing solar solutions on the market, we're perfectly positioned to meet this growing demand."

Panasonic, a leader in consumer electronics, business solutions and industrial components has been a pioneer in the solar business for 40 years, since developing the amorphous silicon solar cell in 1975. Panasonic also developed the original photovoltaic module HIT®, which achieved one of the world's highest conversion efficiency and continues to offer the highest cell efficiencies for capturing and storing energy.

Features and Advantages of Panasonic HIT®

Leading Edge Technology - Silicone Hetero Junction (SHJ) Solar Cell - Panasonic's original silicone heterojunction cell has a unique property that helps minimize loss of electrons and helps maximize the performance of the cell increasing its output.
Original Pyramid Structure - While the rough surface of other panels reflects sunlight, Panasonic's pyramid structure helps the cell surface absorb more sunlight in turn generating more energy.
High Efficiency Performance at High Temperatures - Due to the patented property of the panel's amorphous silicon layer in each solar cell, Panasonic HIT® is efficient and maintains high output even at high temperatures.
Water Drainage - Rain water is drained off the panel surface. This helps avoid not only water accumulation, but also water stains after drying. Even in low-angle installations, the water drainage helps to keep the panel clean.
High Testing Standards - Panasonic's testing criteria is more exhaustive than industry standards.
This is not Panasonic's first foray into the solar industry in North America, as the company has maintained a strong presence in the market since 2002. This experience will prove invaluable as Panasonic aims to capitalize on the new opportunities that have come with the evolving solar industry, as well as new trends that have emerged in the renewable energy landscape as a whole. Panasonic boasts the industry's top level efficiency and energy-saving solar panels on the market (up to 19.7% panel efficiency), which, coupled with its strong brand name, will lead to a robust new beginning in North America.

For more information about Panasonic solar technology, please visit Business.panasonic.com/solarpanels

About Panasonic Eco Solutions North America
Based in Newark, NJ, Panasonic Eco Solutions North America is a division of Panasonic Corporation of North America, the principal North American subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation. The company provides a full range of energy efficiency building solutions, assembly tools, construction tools, heating & air conditioning, lighting controls and ventilation products for professional and industrial use. In Interbrand's 2014 annual "Best Global Green Brands" report, Panasonic ranked number five overall and the top electronics brand in the report. As part of continuing sustainability efforts, Panasonic Corporation of North America relocated its headquarters to a new facility, adjacent to Newark Penn Station in Newark, NJ. It is the first newly constructed office tower in Newark to earn both LEED Platinum and Gold certifications from the U.S. Green Building Council. To learn more about the company, visit http://www.panasonic.com/business/pesna/eco-construction-solutions/.