Of course, not all solar panels are equal. Also, the solar panels that power your neighbor's house may not meet your needs. Consider the following criteria when deciding which one best suits your needs.
Solar Panel Efficiency
The solar panel efficiency rating is shown as a percentage. The industry average is currently around 18%. High-performance solar panels can have an efficiency rating of over 22%, while low-cost products can have an efficiency rating of around 16%. But that's only part of the equation.
Long-term solar panel efficiency ratings measure how much the panels wear out over time. Cheaper solar panels often fail faster and more than high-quality but more expensive panels.
Another consideration, especially for those living in warmer climates, is the panel's nominal temperature coefficient. The rating measures the loss of energy efficiency as temperatures rise and is expressed as a negative percentage. The lower temperature coefficient rating reflects that the solar panel performs better in hot weather than panels with a higher temperature coefficient.
Total System Cost
The average cost of a solar energy system for a home is about $16,000 . However, depending on your needs, the cost can range from $ 3,500 to $35,000 . In general, the higher the cost of a solar panel, the higher its quality. However, your situation may not require the highest quality panels. Compare performance and durability estimates with total system cost and estimated system ownership time.
Warranty for panels and accessories
A typical solar panel warranty is 25 years. However, system components such as batteries, inverters, and other critical parts are often covered by warranties that vary widely by product and manufacturer. Check out these warranties, as well as the 10-year and 25-year panel warranties, to make sure the model you choose meets your expectations.
Installation company
Just as solar panel companies are different, so are installation companies. When choosing solar panels according to your needs, make sure that the installation company you choose can supply the panels and components for the entire system.
