# Solarwatt Launches Bifacial TOPCon Solar Module for BIPV Applications New German-engineered solar panels gain regulatory approval for complex building-integrated construction projects. - **Source:** [pv magazine](https://www.pv-magazine.com) - **Published:** 2026-11-09 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/56dd1ed4-7b0d-4f0e-a83a-0d49131ec9d4 ## New BIPV Module Launch German manufacturer Solarwatt has introduced the Panel vision M 5.0 construct, a new building-integrated photovoltaic module. This product expands the company's existing Construct series, specifically targeting applications like carports, facades, and parking canopies. The module is designed to integrate directly into architectural structures, providing both energy generation and functional building material capabilities. ## Regulatory Approval Secured The module has officially received the allgemeine bauaufsichtliche Zulassung, or abZ, certification from the German Institute for Construction Technology. This regulatory approval is essential for complex installations like overhead glazing and high-rise facades. By securing this certification, Solarwatt simplifies the legal and bureaucratic processes for contractors and architects planning new projects. ## Advanced Cell Technology The Panel vision M 5.0 construct utilizes bifacial tunnel oxide passivated contact, known as TOPCon, half-cut cell technology. This represents a significant technical upgrade over the previous PERC-based generation. The new module delivers up to 227 W/m², marking a performance increase of more than 20% compared to the earlier GM 3.0 model. ## Enhanced Structural Durability Solarwatt has increased the glass thickness to 3.2 mm, a notable change from the 2 mm glass used in the previous generation. This thicker glass, paired with a reinforced frame, provides superior resistance to high wind and snow loads. Consequently, the module is suitable for demanding environments, including alpine regions and tall facades. ## Historical Market Context Since 2020, Solarwatt has supplied certified modules for European projects totaling 33 MW. The company maintains a portfolio of products that hold the abZ certification, ensuring consistent regulatory compliance across their range. This track record provides planners and installers with increased certainty when selecting components for large-scale or high-stakes building-integrated solar installations. ## Warranty and Performance Solarwatt offers a 30-year product warranty for the new module, matching their standard glass-glass product terms. Furthermore, the company provides a performance guarantee ensuring at least 90% of the original rated output remains after three decades. These long-term commitments are designed to provide financial security for investors and property owners alike. ## Operational Availability The Panel vision M 5.0 construct is currently available for order through the dedicated Solarwatt Pro portal. This platform serves as the primary gateway for the company's installation partners to access technical documentation and procurement tools. By streamlining the supply chain, Solarwatt aims to accelerate the adoption of their latest BIPV technology. ## Strategic Industry Impact By reducing the bureaucratic burden for contractors, Solarwatt aims to lower the barrier to entry for building-integrated solar projects. The combination of higher efficiency TOPCon cells and robust physical construction positions this module as a versatile solution for modern architecture. Future adoption will likely depend on cost-competitiveness and ease of architectural integration. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/11/09/solarwatt-launches-bifacial-topcon-solar-modules-for-bipv-applications/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._