Established in 2007, Philadelphia Solar is a Tier-1 solar panel manufacturer and the largest manufacturer of solar panels and steel mounting structures in the Middle East, Europe and Africa (MENA), with a current production capacity of 580 MW/year. It was the first MENA-region company to manufacture, develop, design, construct, own and operate utility-scale commercial and industrial photovoltaic plants.
With Free Trade Agreements between Jordan, the EU, the U.S., Canada, Morocco, and throughout the MENA region, Philadelphia Solar exports PV modules to over 52 countries through more than 220 distributors worldwide.
Easy Engineering: What are the main areas of activity of the company?
PHILADELPHIA SOLAR: Philadelphia Solar’s main areas of activity include EPC provider, Developer and investor, as well as a leading Manufacturer of solar panels and mounting structure.
As a leading in engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contractor of photovoltaic systems, we offer comprehensive turnkey solutions including viability studies, permits, design, engineering, construction, commissioning, and monitoring.
As a developer and investor, Philadelphia Solar has made a significant impact in the region through its investments in various power generation projects. These include Al-Baydia Power Generation, the first large utility scale PV plant and storage system in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia (MEA) with a power output of 23 MWp, and Al-Husainiyah Power Generation with 66 MWp. The company has also collaborated to supply 200k high-quality Jordanian-origin PV modules and provided EPC services.
These projects have not only created jobs for Jordanians from Southern Baydia, but also helped to improve the economic situation and contribute to comprehensive and sustainable national development. The Al-Husainiyah plant project alone benefits over 50,000 families through its clean energy output, making a positive impact on the community.
E.E: What’s the news about new products?
PHILADELPHIA SOLAR: Philadelphia Solar specializes in the production of monocrystalline Mono-facial and bifacial solar modules. PHENEX modules are built using the advanced M10 wafer and monocrystalline PERC cell technology. These modules feature 144 cells, and are designed with bifacial technology, which allows for an additional 7-25% power output on the power output of 550W that produced from the front side. This cutting-edge technology ensures increased efficiency and energy production. Recently, the company has introduced its newest products, Black IRIS and Dark PHENEX, which are designed for rooftop use and feature lightweight black modules. Philadelphia solar is up to date with the evolving market technology and willing to adopt the latest technology always such as N-type Products.
The company’s Half-Cell Technology modules have undergone the full International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) certification program, including IEC61215, IEC61730, IEC TS 62804-1, IEC 60068-2, IEC 61701, IEC 62716, and IEC 62782, In addition, the company holds certifications for UL61730, ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001.
Philadelphia Solar’s Magnelis steel mounting structures are known for durability and protection against wear and tear. The unique coating offers exceptional corrosion resistance (3x better than hot dip galvanized sheet) and is a cost-effective alternative to post-galvanized steel. It also features self-repairing protection for cut edges, using a thin zinc-based film with magnesium to prevent corrosion.
Philadelphia Solar exports its photovoltaic solar panels to over 52 countries worldwide and has a presence in 14 countries in the production of Magnelis steel mounting structures.
E.E: What are the ranges of products?
PHILADELPHIA SOLAR: We provide customers with a comprehensive range of photovoltaic modules to meet their specific needs. Our 15 years of experience in producing photovoltaic panels has taught us the importance of offering a wide variety of products. We take pride in being able to offer customers the type of product they prefer and are dedicated to meeting their needs.
Our product range includes:
- Iris: Monocrystalline, 144 cells
- Black Iris: Monocrystalline, 108 cells
- Phenex: Monocrystalline Bifacial Glass to Polymeric Backsheet, 144 cells
- Dark Phenex: Monocrystalline Bifacial Glass to Polymeric Backsheet, 108 cells
- Phenex: Monocrystalline Bifacial Glass to Glass, 144 cells
The name “Iris” is inspired by the flower, which is the national flower of Jordan known for its toughness and ability to thrive in harsh environments. The name “Phenex” is inspired by the Phoenix, an immortal bird of the sun that is said to obtain new life by arising from the ashes of its predecessor, as it dies in a show of flames and combustion.
E.E: At what stage is the market where you are currently active?
PHILADELPHIA SOLAR: Our mission is to bring about a greener future through innovative renewable energy solutions. With the global energy demand rising and the pressing need for sustainable resources, our team is at the forefront of creating a cleaner world. Our cutting-edge products are essential in driving the adoption of sustainable energy practices.
As the market continues to grow, we are determined to make a positive impact on the environment and our company by providing sustainable solutions. Our recent expansion to the USA market with a 1.2GW factory set to launch in 2024 is testament to our commitment to sustainability. By manufacturing locally, we are reducing our carbon footprint and making a greater contribution to sustainable energy.
We take our responsibility to the environment seriously and are dedicated to balancing energy development with preserving nature for future generations. Our expansion in the USA is a key step towards realizing this goal, and we look forward to playing an active role in building a greener future.
E.E: What can you tell us about market trends?
PHILADELPHIA SOLAR: Achieving international energy and climate goals requires the worldwide deployment of PV solar energy to grow on an extraordinary scale. This in turn demands significant additional growth in manufacturing capacity, raising concerns about the world’s ability to rapidly develop resilient PV products that meet different installation environments.
E.E: What are the most innovative products marketed?
PHILADELPHIA SOLAR: Dark Phenex 400-watt bifacial solar panel offers high output and performance for residential use. The sleek, all-black design features 108 half-cut bifacial silicon cells on a transparent black gridded back sheet with a black anodized aluminum frame for durability and lightweight. With 20.5% efficiency, the Dark Phenex delivers high energy yields while maintaining a stylish black-on-black look. Durable and reliable, the panel can withstand up to 5400 Pa static load on both front and back.
E.E: What estimations do you have for 2023?
PHILADELPHIA SOLAR: We anticipate selling 80% of our Jordan production for the US market, and plan to commence site preparation in 2024, with the announcement to be made in the US region.