Obviously, not all solar panels are created equal. Also, the solar panels that power your neighbor's house may not be the best for your needs. Consider the criteria below to determine which one best suits your needs.
Efficiency of solar panels
The efficiency of solar panels is expressed as a percentage. Currently, the industry average is around 18%. High-efficiency solar panels can produce efficiency levels of over 22%, while cheaper products have an efficiency of around 16%. But that's only part of the equation.
A solar panel's long-term performance rating measures how much a panel degrades over time. Inexpensive solar panels degrade faster and to a greater extent than higher quality but more expensive panels.
Another consideration, especially for those who live in hot climates, is the temperature coefficient of the panel. The rating measures the loss of energy efficiency with increasing temperature and is expressed as a negative percentage. A lower temperature coefficient indicates a solar panel that performs better in hotter climates than a panel with a higher temperature coefficient.
Total system cost
The average cost of a solar power system for a home is around $16,000. However, depending on your needs, the cost can be as low as $ 3,500 or $35,000 . In general, the higher the price of solar panels, the better the quality. However, your situation may not require the highest quality panel. Compare efficiency and durability ratings to the total cost of the system and how long you plan to own the system.
Panel and component warranty
The typical warranty for a solar panel product is 25 years. However, system components such as batteries, inverters, and other critical parts often have warranties that vary widely between products and manufacturers. Check out these warranties and the 10-25 year panel output warranty to make sure your choice meets your expectations.
Installation company
Just as solar panel manufacturing companies are different, so are installation companies. When choosing the right solar panels for your needs, make sure the installation company you choose can supply both the panels and the components for the entire system.
