LONGi Hi-MO 5 Review – Proven High-Power PERC Solar Panel
LONGi Solar is widely known as one of the top global solar manufacturers, consistently delivering modules that balance quality, affordability, and innovation. Before its flagship Hi-MO 7 arrived with advanced TOPCon technology, LONGi made its mark with the Hi-MO 5. This panel, designed with M10 (182mm) wafers and PERC technology, has become one of the most deployed solar panels worldwide, particularly in utility-scale and commercial projects.
In this review, we’ll cover the LONGi Hi-MO 5 in detail—its specifications, pros and cons, customer feedback, common complaints, competitive positioning, and our final expert verdict.
Introduction to the LONGi Hi-MO 5
The Hi-MO series has been a cornerstone of LONGi’s success, and the Hi-MO 5 quickly became a global favorite upon release. Built around 182mm M10 wafers, the Hi-MO 5 was one of the first panels to standardize this wafer size, helping push the industry toward larger format, higher-output modules.
The Hi-MO 5 uses PERC (Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell) technology, which was the dominant standard at the time of release. Available in both monofacial and bifacial variants, it’s designed for cost-effective scalability while maintaining strong efficiency and durability.
With power outputs up to 600W and efficiency around 21%, the Hi-MO 5 struck a balance between affordability and performance, making it one of the most bankable modules for utility-scale projects during its peak years.
Technical Specifications
Specifications can vary slightly by model, but here are the typical numbers for the LONGi Hi-MO 5:
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Power Output Range: 540W – 600W
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Efficiency: Up to ~21%
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Cell Technology: Monocrystalline PERC, M10 (182mm) wafers
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Temperature Coefficient (Pmax): -0.34%/°C
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Degradation Rate:
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First year: ≤2%
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Annual thereafter: ≤0.55%
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Bifacial Gain (for bifacial models): Up to 70% depending on environment
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Module Design: Available in both glass-glass and glass-backsheet
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System Voltage: 1500V DC
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Warranty:
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Product warranty: 12 years
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Performance warranty: 25 years (linear, with ~84% output at year 25)
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Pros and Cons of the LONGi Hi-MO 5
Pros
- High wattage output (up to 600W) with fewer panels needed for large systems.
- Proven PERC technology – reliable and widely adopted across the industry.
- Affordable compared to newer N-type modules, making it cost-effective.
- Available in both monofacial and bifacial options.
- Strong bankability – LONGi is one of the most trusted global solar brands.
- Good ROI for large-scale projects, especially utility solar farms.
- Industry-standard design (182mm wafers) simplifies integration with BOS components.
Cons
- Lower efficiency (~21%) compared to newer N-type modules (22%+).
- Higher degradation rates than next-generation TOPCon or HJT panels.
- Temperature coefficient (-0.34%/°C) is weaker than advanced competitors, making it less efficient in extreme heat.
- Warranty shorter (25 years) than the 30-year coverage offered by some premium models.
- Not cutting-edge technology – PERC is being gradually replaced by N-type TOPCon and HJT.
Positive Customer Feedback
Customers and installers of the Hi-MO 5 often highlight these positives:
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Strong Value for Money
Buyers appreciate that the Hi-MO 5 offers high wattage at an affordable price, making it ideal for large-scale deployment. -
Reliability in the Field
Installers report consistent, stable performance over time, with minimal failures. -
Bankable Choice
Project developers often note that LONGi’s reputation and global scale make the Hi-MO 5 a safe and trusted choice for financing. -
Flexible Applications
Available in both bifacial and monofacial versions, the Hi-MO 5 is adaptable to various project requirements. -
Proven Design
Many customers highlight the panel’s track record of success, as it has been installed in some of the largest solar projects worldwide.
Negative Customer Feedback
Despite its popularity, some customers report recurring negatives:
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Not as Advanced as Newer Models
Buyers note that the Hi-MO 5 is now overshadowed by Hi-MO 7 and competing N-type modules, which offer higher efficiency and lower degradation. -
Performance in High Heat
The temperature coefficient means energy losses are higher in very hot climates compared to N-type models. -
Shorter Warranty
A 25-year performance warranty is strong, but customers point out that rivals now offer 30 years as a standard. -
Heavy Panels
Installers mention that large-format panels are more challenging to maneuver on rooftops, particularly in residential projects.
Common Complaints
Some specific complaints noted in reviews include:
- Shipping and Handling Damages: Larger panels are more prone to breakage during transport.
- Supply Shortages: During peak demand periods, availability of Hi-MO 5 panels was limited.
- Less Future-Proof: Customers expressed concern about investing in PERC modules when the industry is rapidly moving toward N-type technology.
- Overkill for Small Rooftops: As with most large-format panels, homeowners with limited roof space sometimes regretted choosing them.
Competitive Positioning
The LONGi Hi-MO 5 sits in the same class as:
- Canadian Solar HiKu7 (590W–665W, ~21.6% efficiency)
- Trina Solar Vertex (600W–670W, ~21.5% efficiency)
- JA Solar DeepBlue 3.0 (540W–580W)
Compared to these:
- The Hi-MO 5 offers similar wattage and efficiency, making it competitive in its class.
- Canadian Solar and Trina panels may edge out slightly in wattage and efficiency, but the Hi-MO 5 often comes at a lower cost per watt.
- JA Solar’s DeepBlue 4.0 Pro surpasses it with N-type efficiency, but also costs more.
Overall, the Hi-MO 5 remains a value-driven choice for large projects seeking reliable output without premium pricing.
Final Verdict & Recommendation
The LONGi Hi-MO 5 is a proven, bankable solar panel that helped set industry standards for large-format modules. While it may not feature the cutting-edge technology of newer N-type models, it remains an affordable, reliable, and widely trusted option for utility-scale and commercial projects.
This panel is best suited for:
- Utility-scale projects seeking cost-effective, high-output modules.
- Commercial rooftops where space allows for larger panels.
- Developers who value bankability and a proven performance track record.
If you’re looking for future-proof efficiency and warranties, the Hi-MO 7 or other N-type modules may be a better fit. But if you need affordable, high-power panels with proven reliability, the Hi-MO 5 is still an excellent choice.
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