Q Cell Review| Best For Aesthetics And Affordability

Q Cell Review| Best For Aesthetics And Affordability

Hanwha Q cells have been in the solar market for a long time. The company got their popularity because of their aesthetic panels on a budget. Solar consumers can get a premium and long-term service without losing their fortune. But the question still remains if the company is best for aesthetics and affordability. In this Q cell review, we will precisely look into these rubrics.  

So let’s get into it right away!

Is It Q CELLS or Hanwha Q CELLS?

Q cells solar panels have been around for almost as long as the modern solar industry. Since its inception, the company has been sold and rebranded several times. And now the company has grown to become a leading manufacturer. 

Founded in 1999 as Q cells AG in Thalheim, Germany, the company quickly became one of the world’s top solar module manufacturers. Unfortunately, the late-2000s global economic downturn and intense competition from Chinese solar companies took a toll on them. And the company declared bankruptcy in 2011. The Hanwha Group, which is a South Korean company, then purchased Q cells. 

Hanwa Q cells are the most popular in solar market

In the years since, Hanwha has resurrected the Q CELLS brand by bringing together its German engineering team and world-class manufacturing capabilities, becoming one of the world’s top ten solar module manufacturers. In 2018, Hanwha removed its name from the brand, leaving its products simply “Q cells.†In 2022, the brand name was further simplified to “Q cells.â€Â 

You could, however, get away with using any format of the brand name. Hanwha still owns the company. Q cells now have manufacturing facilities worldwide, including the most prominent facilities in Australia and USA.  

Q Cells Solar Panels Quick Summary

  • For residential, commercial, and industrial use, Q cells are among the top ten brands in the world, producing high-quality monocrystalline silicon solar panels.  
  • Q.ANTUM DUO Z technology is a novel method of constructing solar cells into panels that produce abundant electricity in the same space as less efficient panels.  
  • Q cells are among the best panels you can buy for your home, offering comparable performance, cost, and warranty to other Tier 1 solar panels. 

Q Cell's Technology

Q cells have been a leading innovator in solar cell technology since its inception in 1999. It has grown its business by wiring those cells into the solar modules discussed below. They recently expanded their offerings. It includes Q.HOME solar batteries and hybrid solar inverters. But their main product remains solar modules. 

The company has dabbled in various solar cell technologies, ranging from polycrystalline silicon to CIGS thin-film. Still, beginning in 2012, it focused on a technology known as PERC, which stands for “passivated emitter and rear contact.â€Â 

PERC solar cells have an extra layer of conductive material on the backside. It can be built into a solar panel with a reflective back sheet to capture a small amount of excess energy from photons. Otherwise, it would reflect in the sky.  

Some technology used in Q Cells includes  

Q.ANTUM DUO PERC Technology

Traditional PERC solar cells are vulnerable to two issues: light-induced degradation (LID) and potential-induced degradation (PID) (PID). Simply put, exposure to light and electricity can cause cells to degrade faster than they should. Qcells treats its PERC cells with a proprietary process that reduces these issues to almost none. 

The duo in Q.ANTUM DUO refers to the most recent advances in Q cells modules. Each panel is wired in two parts with a cut in half in this technology.

Tron Solar Panels

Q Cells’ most efficient offering is Tron solar panels. They are N-type solar panels. And because of their increased efficiency, they are ideal for small spaces such as residential rooftops and smaller industrial buildings. Q Cells’ Q. Tron technology is backed by a 25-year warranty and a 10% higher energy yield performance guarantee than other solar products.

Antum Duo Z Solar Panels

Q. Antum Duo Z is Q Cells’ most innovative cell technology, allowing solar cell interconnection and eliminating gaps between individual cell rows. This zero-gap interconnection enables increased power generation. Combine this with their Q. Antum technology, and the two work well together to provide a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly electricity solution.

Panels Available in Australia

The Q.BOOST and Q.PEAK series of solar panels are available in Australia from Q CELLS. Q.BOOST is the lower-cost or budget-friendly option for those looking for dependable performance without breaking the bank, whereas the Q.PEAK series is the best-performing solar panel range from Q CELLS.

Q Boost Series

Q.BOOST Q CELLS solar panels provide an affordable solution. This solar panel range is less expensive, allowing more households to use renewable energy in their homes.
Hanwa Q.Boost series has the most tecnologically advanced panels
Features:  
  • 132 Half-cell Monocrystalline PERC Cells  
  • 375~395Wp Nominal Power 
  • 4000 / 5400 Pa Wind/Snow Load 
  • Module Efficiency up to 21.1% 
  • Temperature Coefficient -0.35 
  • Temperature Tolerance -40℃ up to 85℃ 
  • 25-year product warranty 
  • 25-year linear power warranty 
  • Black anodized aluminum Frame  
Q.BOOST Q CELLS solar panels are available in the following configurations: 
  • Q.BOOST 
  • G2 Q.BOOST 
  • Q.BOOST ML-G2

Q Peak Series

Q.PEAK is the high-end solar panel series from Q CELLS. The Q.PEAK solar panel line includes higher kw models that can absorb and convert more sunlight into energy faster. Although these solar panels are more expensive, the trade-off is that they generate more energy.
Q Peak series panels are both beautiful and affordable

Features:  

  • Monocrystalline Q.ANTUM solar half cells 
  • Q. ANTUM DUO technology 
  • 25-year product warranty 
  • 25-year linear power warranty 
  • Up to 21.1% module efficiency 
  • Black anodized aluminium frame 
  • Ideal for commercial and residential installations 
  • High snow (5400Pa) and wind loads (4000Pa) 

The Q.PEAK solar panel line includes the following products: 

  • Q.PEAK DUO ML-G10.a+ 
  • Q.PEAK DUO ML-G10+ 
  • Q.PEAK DUO BLK ML-G10+ 
  • Q.PEAK DUO XL-G9.2 
  • Q.PEAK DUO XL-G10.2 
  • Q.PEAK DUO XL-G11.2 
  • Q.PEAK DUO XL-G11.3 

The efficiency of Q Cells

The efficiency of Q cells’ current solar panel lineup ranges from 20.9% to 21.6%, which is higher than the industry standard of 15% to 20%. As a result, Q cells solar panels are among the most energy-efficient on the Australian market. 

But what do these numbers mean anything to you as a customer? To put things in context, most solar panel manufacturers offer panels with efficiency ratings ranging from 15% to 20%. 

Q cells’ solar panels start at 20% efficiency for the Q.PEAK DUO-G5, and the Q.PEAK DUO XL-G9 offers 20.9% efficiency, putting Q cells in the same league as solar industry leaders LG and SunPower. 

Product nameQ Cells Q. PEAK SeriesLG NeON R seriesSunPower Maxeon 5 AC
Cell Number60 cells60 solar cells66 solar cells
Cell TypeMonocrystalline Q.ANTUM half cellsMonocrystalline/ N-typeMonocrystalline Maxeon Generation 5
Power Output390W380W415W
Solar Panel Efficiency20.80%22.00%22.20%
Company average turnover (USD)$2.42 billion$47.91 billion$2.7 billion
Annual Power Degradation0.54%0.30%0.25%
Number of busbars1212N/A
Approximate cost per watt (AUD retail incl GST)$1.00$1.25$1.80
Approximate cost per module (AUD retail incl GST)$375$468$750
Dimensions1840 x 1030 x 32mm1,700mm x 1,016mm x 40 mmNot Mentioned
Weight19.5kg17.5kg21.1kg
Product Warranty25 years25 years25 years
Performance Warranty25 years25 years25 years
Operational Temperature Range-40℃ –85℃44 ± 3℃?40℃ to +60℃
Made inSouth KoreaSouth KoreaMalaysia/Philippines/Mexico
Datasheet supplied?YesYesYes

The temperature coefficient and temperature tolerance factors also influence solar panel efficiency ratings. 

Temperature Coefficient – The percentage of power output lost by a panel due to a temperature increase greater than 25 degrees Celsius. This diagram depicts how heat affects solar module power and how much energy is lost when the ambient temperature exceeds normal operating levels. Q CELLS solar panels typically have a temperature coefficient of -0.39 to -0.34, outperforming most competitors. 

Temperature Tolerance – The expected average operating temperature is shown as a temperature range. The modules can operate indefinitely if the temperature does not exceed this range. And with temperature tolerance, high performance is also expected. 

All in all, it is a high-efficiency solar company. 

Warranties Provided by Hanwha Group for Solar Products

Q cell warranty services are among the best in the world. They have different warranty policies for each product. 

Most high-quality solar panels of Q cells are covered under a 12-year product warranty and a 25-year linear performance warranty. This linear performance warranty guarantees a minimum power output of 97% in the first year. In addition, it also ensures 83% power output in the 25th year, with a reduction rate of 0.6% every year.

But What About the Cost?

Q CELLS solar panels will cost an average of $1.05 to $1.12 per watt for overall-sized systems in 2022 or $0.89 to $1.07 per watt for a 10kW system. After federal and state rebates, these are the out-of-pocket costs for fully installed solar PV systems with inverters. 

These prices include complete installation, a solar inverter, and state and federal government solar rebates. To get premium installation service along with experienced solar installers, get in touch with us immediately! 

SizeAverage Price Per WattAverage Price 
All Systems$1.02 to $1.12$6,950 to $8,505
10KW$0.86 to $1.1$8,646 to $11,013

Solar Emporium’s most recent solar panel packages and quotes provide up-to-date statistics on the cost of Q CELLS solar panels in Australia.

So are the Panels Aesthetical and Affordable?

According to many independent solar reviewers, Q cells’ panels are the most aesthetical looking among all the panels in the market. Their panels are premium-looking on an affordable budget. Q cell would be the right choice for people who prefer to make their houses more aesthetic with solar panels.  

Panels that are available in the Australian market are incredible value for money. No wonder they are the second-largest solar industry in Australia. The company holds more than 10% of the entire market share.  

If you are still confused about purchasing Q cells, head to Solar Emporium and get a FREE QUOTE!  

For regular updates about energy solutions and more solar panel reviews, keep an on our website.

Our Solar Experts are here to Help!

Jinko Solar Panel Review | Is It Worth Purchasing Jinko?

Jinko Solar Panel Review | Is It Worth Purchasing Jinko?

The popularity of solar panels is sky-high right now. People consider solar homes as smart homes. Solar panels don’t only increase your home’s value; they also serve an aesthetical purpose.   

Jinko Solar Panels have been in the market for years. Ever since they entered the market, there was always hype for their product. But is it worth purchasing Jinko? We will try to answer that in this Jinko Solar Panel review.   

Quick Summary  

  • Jinko Solar is a Tier 1 brand from China.  
  • One of the world’s largest solar panel manufacturers.  
  • Jinko Solar is ranked fifth-best overall by the Solar Reviews solar panel scoring system.  
  • U.S. homeowners can choose between the high-end Eagle G4 or entry-level Eagle G2 models.  
  • Very high module efficiency (21.6%).  
  • Panel warranties could be better.  
  • High-quality and cost-effective  
  • Cost ranges from low to mid to range  

Company History

Jinko Solar was founded in 2006 and has grown to become the world’s largest manufacturer of solar panels only a decade later, in 2016. With global shipments of 14.3 GW in 2019, the company has held the top spot for the last six years in a row. Jinko Solar, headquartered in China, is a massive multinational, vertically integrated corporation that employs over 15,000 people in 70 countries and has manufacturing facilities in China, Malaysia, and the United States.  

Jinko Solar’s success appears primarily due to its emphasis on research and development, performance testing, quality control, and rigorous durability testing. This is evidenced by numerous record-breaking accomplishments over the years, including several efficiency records and consistent top score results from several independent testing companies, including the well-known PVEL scorecards.  

Jinko Solar was at the forefront of innovation only recently, preferring to stick to tried-and-true cell architectures like traditional P-type PERC and half-cut cells. Jinko, on the other hand, has begun to push the boundaries with the release of the new Tiger series panels, which are described in greater detail below.   

Range of Panels 

Jinko solar panels have been on the market for a while. With time, their solar panel range has developed and become more affordable for all structures like residential, commercial, and utility-scale installations.   

They also design custom solar panels for larger solar systems for owners who require panels for specific applications.   

Their most popular solar panel series are mentioned below:   

  • Cheetah HC series 
  • The Cheetah series   
  • Swan series  
  • Tiger series  
  • Tiger Pro Series   

The Cheetah HC module efficiency is also much better at 20.48%, and the temperature coefficient has improved to -0.35%. Much more energy can be yielded under higher temperatures than conventional panels.  

The Cheetah Series: Jinko Cheetah series penetrated the market in 2018. Soon, it became very popular. The series of the panel ranges from 325W to 340W for half-cut size and up to 410W for the full-size solar panel.  

Jinko-Tiger-N-Type-365w-370w-390w
Cheetah Series

Features:   

  • Integrates the newer Five Busbar solar cell technologies to boost the solar module’s efficiency and improve the panel’s aesthetic appearance.  
  • Amazing anti-PID performance guarantees reduced power degradation, which is great for mass production.  
  • PERC technology usage increased module efficiency by up to 20.38%.   
  • Advanced glass and cell surface textured design, significantly enhancing performance in low-light conditions.  
  • The panel got TUV Nord certification for its high salt-mist and ammonia resistance. It’s also certified to tackle extreme weather conditions, including wind load and snow load.   
  • All panels have a 25-year performance warranty and 15 years of product warranty. The degradation rate is at 1% in the first year and 0.4% in the subsequent years until the 25th year.  

Tiger Series: Jinko Tiger series is the newest and one of the most impressive addition to Jinko Solar. This series features two shingle-cell solar panel types; The Tiger monofacial and the Tiger Bifacial.  

This next generation uses the N-Type monocrystalline silicon cells. As it boosts the efficiency output. It consists of a 78-cell design and the tiling of ribbon technology. Jinko’s Research and Development team developed this technology to increase power generation by facilitating light absorption.   

The panels can generate up to 475W with a 21.16% efficiency.   

Tiger Pro Series is considered one of the most powerful utility solar panels. Solar panel market entirely shifted after this series of Jinko entered the space. The panel can deliver up to 580Wp with an Ultra-high p-type mono-module efficiency of around 21.6%.  

Jinko Tiger Series
Jinko Solar Tiger Pro Neo
Features:   
  • This series uses tiling Ribbon tech + half-cells. Combining the TR and half-cell technologies helps eliminate cell gaps and increase efficiency.  
  • Light-induced degradation is much lower with N-type cells than P-type cells.   
  • Tiger series panels use 9 busbars instead of 5 busbars. To reduce the distance between the bars and the finger grid line. It helps decrease the resistance of power losses and improves efficiency.  
  • Panels utilize the Half Cell technology and improve shading tolerance by splitting the full cells. Hence, the panels perform well on cloudy, early mornings and dusk.  
  • The panel modules degrade by 1% during the first year, then maintain a 0.4% linear degradation.  
  • Best warranties – This series has the best warranty periods from Jinko, with a 15-year product warranty and the 30-year linear power warranty.  
  • Weather resilience – The panels come certified to withstand snow load of 5400pa and wind load of 2400pa.   

Swan Series: Jinko Solar’s Swan bifacial series has been the talk of the industry for a while after scooping the European Intersolar Award for innovation.  

These panels incorporate the Cheetah HC, half-cut cell technology with a transparent back sheet that makes it more lightweight than other glass modules.  

Their power output is estimated to be 20-30% more than the regular monofacial modules. It generates up to 400W from the front side, with around 20% coming from the rear side.  

Features:   

  • Implements five busbar solar cells to improve the module’s efficiency and enhance its aesthetics.  
Swan Bifacial series
  • Module power increases by 5 – 25% per the different reflective conditions. Its efficiency goes up to high as 19.78%.  
  • Panels offer a lower LCOE and a higher IRR, ensuring excellent performance under low-light conditions.   
  • Their power degradation annually stands at 0.5% with a 30-year linear power warranty.  
  • The Anti-PID performance guarantees limited power degradation for mass production. It’s also designed to handle high-voltage systems of up to 1500VDC, saving BOS costs.  
  • Panels are manufactured with enough strength to support 5400pascal snow load and a 2400 pascal wind load.  

Jinko solar panel specification 

CheetahCheetah HCSwanTiger
Cell Number132120 half-cut cells144156 half-cut cells
Cell TypeMono PERC 158.75 x 158.75mmN-Type MonocrystallineMono PERC 158.75 x 158.75mmMono PERC 158.75 x 158.75mm
Power Output335W350Wp400Wp580Wp
Nominal Power Voltage1500VDC1500VDC1500VDC1000/1500VDC
Power Density23.34w/m325.40w/m324.42w/m311.13/16.70w/m3
Panel Efficiency19.88%20.48%19.78%21.16%
Annual Power Degradation0.4%0.55%0.5%0.4%
Dimensions1840 x 998 x 35mm1684 x 1002 x 35 mm (1.68m2)2031 x x1008 x 30mm2182 x 1029 x 40mm
Weight20.7kgs19.0 kg26.6kg26.1kg
Product Warranty10 years15 years12 years15 years
Performance Warranty25 years25 years30 years30 years
Operational Temperature Range-40℃ to 85℃-40℃ to 85℃-40℃ to 85℃-40℃ to 85℃
Made inChinaChinaChinaChina

Jinko Solar Panel Cost 

A solar energy system built with Jinko solar panels typically costs around $2.25–$2.50 per watt. That means a 6 kilowatt (kW) system will cost you between $13,500 and $15,000 before incentives.  

After applying the 30% federal tax credit – available till the end of 2032 – the total installed cost for a 6 kW Jinko solar system is between $9,450 and $10,500.  

Among the leading Tier 1 solar brands, Jinko Solar can be considered a ”value” choice. Their solar panels usually cost $0.25–$0.50 cheaper than more premium rivals. On a 6 kW system, that’s a savings of $1,500–$3,000.  

Remember that many factors can affect solar panel installation costs, so the figures above are only indicative. Get in Contact with Solar Emporium to get the best solar packages.  

System sizeNumber of solar panels*Average cost per wattAverage total cost (after tax credit)
4 kW11$3.25$9,100
6 kW16$2.95$12,390
8 kW22$2.85$15,960
10 kW27$2.75$19,180
12 kW32$2.75$23,100
14 kW39$2.60$26,936
16 kW43$2.60$29,860

Jinko Solar Panels: Pros & Cons 

Pros 

  • Good quality control – Jinko owns the entire production process, from making the silicon ingots to assembling the panels.  
  • High efficiency – Jinko technology offers some of the highest efficiencies of any manufacturer, with some models over 21% efficient.  
  • Billion-dollar company  
  • Strong Australian presence  
  • A strong brand that the company will want to protect  
  • Well-priced  
  • Excellent durability   
  • Competitive warranties   

Cons 

  • The company is newer than other brands   
  • Product warranty is shorter than some premium brands.  
  • Jinko’s financial stability has been rated as “at-risk” by SinoVoltaics  

Efficiency 

Jinko may not have been the most efficient solar panel before, but it’s on its way now. The Chinese solar manufacturer recently announced that it achieved a world-record 24.79% efficiency on its newer n-type monocrystalline cell.  

They also recently unveiled the 610W n-type solar modules. Therefore, solar panel efficiency will soon steal the show concerning efficiency.  

Battery Storage System 

Jinko Solar has joined the ranks of other well-known panel manufacturers, such as Sunpower and Q Cells, by releasing various battery storage systems. However, unlike the other manufacturers mentioned above, Jinko has gone further and developed a wide range of energy storage systems, including large commercial and utility-scale systems.  

The new Jinko residential battery line comes in various sizes and configurations to meet the needs of different households and energy demands. The smallest and most compact system (shown below) is an all-in-one system with a power output of 5kW and a battery capacity of 10.2kWh.   

The modular JKS series is the next step up, built around the well-known Deye hybrid inverter platform and available in sizes ranging from 7.2kWh to 19.2kWh – Download the full system datasheet. All Jinko battery systems are constructed with the safer lithium Ferro phosphate (LFP) cell technology, which has a longer cycle life and better performance in a wide range of temperatures.  

Sustainability

As part of the RE100 initiative, Jinko Solar has committed to sourcing 100% of its electricity demand from renewables by 2025. RE100 is the global corporate renewable energy initiative.  Bringing together hundreds of large businesses committed to 100% renewable electricity.  

Warranty 

All Jinko solar panels generally come with a 10-year product warranty and a 25 – 30 performance warranty. The Tiger series is the only service with a longer product warranty of 15 years.   

Although with the latest Tiger Neo product, they applied a warranty reduction from 15 years back to 12 years. This is very unusual for most manufacturers, including Jinko. Typically, product warranty increase is more common.   

Dominance in Australia 

Jinko holds the largest share in Australia. They have a registered overseas subsidiary company based in Sydney. Here they have a full sales team and full support team on hand. This is critical because it means Jinko can resolve warranty issues quickly and effectively.  

It also helps us by allowing us to stay up to date on any new products or changes. Having offices in Australia is a huge advantage. It’s not just a sales center; it’s also a business. It also eliminates the need to rely on your solar installer.  

You can simply contact Solar Emporium and have your problems resolved quickly.  

Is It Worth Purchasing Jinko? 

Based on continuous feedback from solar installers and industry professionals, Jinko Solar has a good track record for dependability. Jinko had some panel failures over the years. But their production facilities have improved with their products.   

PVEL categorized Jinko Solar as one of the world’s leading independent solar module testing and performance services. In Module Reliability Scorecard Report, Jinko Solar has performed admirably in the last five years of testing. Each year, they earned a ”Top ‘performer’ rating and ranked first among the group’s highest-performing modules.  

Jinko Solar did not become the world’s largest producer of solar panels by chance. Until recently, the company’s primary focus was not on producing the most efficient panels but on mass-producing the most cost-effective and dependable panels based on tried and tested PV cell technologies. However, Jinko Solar’s emphasis on R&D is now assisting in pushing the solar industry toward new high-performance cell technologies.  

The introduction of the Tiger N-type and Neo TOPCon panels with tiling ribbon technology exemplifies Jinko’s innovative manufacturing techniques for increasing efficiency while lowering costs.   

With a good track record and a strong market position, Jinko Solar is undoubtedly one of the better options for dependable, cost-effective solar panels. Particularly popular are the Tiger panels, which have already proven to be a popular choice for residential and commercial installations.  

Our Solar Experts are here to Help!

Sunpower Solar Panels Review | #1 Residential Solar Panel?

Sunpower Solar Panels Review
When it comes to residential solar panels, Sunpower solar panels have been on top of the consumer choice list. Sunpower solar panels have been called the most efficient and worthy rooftop solar panels, but what makes them special? Many aspects of SunPower solar make them stand out from the crowd but in this SunPower solar panels review, let us dig deep into their technology and solar modules.

SunPower Solar Panels- How it All Started

Early in the ‘80s, SunPower embarked on an unofficial mission. It all started in a lab where they experimented with various solar panel technologies before launching as SunPower- the brand, in 1988. The R&D team’s initial financial acquisition allowed for the formal excursion to take place.
After then, there was no looking back since they collaborated with Honda, the legend of a brand, to build record-breaking PV (photovoltaic) cells utilizing cutting-edge cell technology and went on to win the world solar challenge automobile race, which established them as renowned pioneers of the renewable energy sector.
Over a 25-year period, their presence can be seen in a multitude of NASA programs as well as other aircraft projects. San Jose, California, is where SunPower’s corporate offices are located.
They also have the designation of Bloomberg Tier 1 ranking, which is a sign of the company’s financial soundness rather not necessarily of the high calibre of its panel. If this label is current, it implies that the company is a well-known major manufacturer that has successfully served clients on a worldwide scale for a long time.

About SunPower Solar Cell Technology

On the basis of pure tech advancements, there is no denying SunPower research and development team has been doing the most with the utmost quality assurance. 22.8% panel efficiency is the best in the market and undefeated so far, and that, paired with 420W panels, seems like a match made in heaven. Not only that, their cell technology of Maxeon cells, IBC cells and shingled cells are spectacular.

Let’s get to know them in brief-

Maxeon Cell Technology

Everything is held together by a strong foundation of tin-plated copper on the back of the solar cells. To make their solar panels even more effective, they employ the purest silicon that is created exclusively for solar panels. The Maxeon cells absorb sunlight with their distinctive light-trapping surface, which is also anti-reflective.

The metal gridline that was attached to the front of the solar panels was removed. Because of this, Maxeon cells have fewer shading issues and have a very posh appearance when installed on a rooftop. As said before, they are powered by a solid copper backing, and each cell is joined to the next by thick connectors called strain relievers. These are not always affected by heat; as you know, metal expands in extreme heat.

Maxeon solar cell technology has nearly eradicated the shattering and rusting problem, which historically prevents many solar cells from operating to their full potential. They have a special design that eliminates 85% of the problems that cause conventional cells to fail. SunPower may cost a bit more upfront, but you will enjoy the rewards in the long term.
sunpower maxeon

IBC Solar Cells

IBC, or interdigitated back contact, is a form of solar cell that, in contrast to conventional solar cells, converts energy from the cell’s forward contact to the rear contact. In contrast to conventional solar cells, this technique enables the whole front portion of the solar cell to function as a vessel for absorbing sunlight without wasting even a single inch of space.

One of the main reasons for efficiency loss is shading issues, which are caused by exposure to heat with metal gridlines. SunPower unveiled their market-leading IBC cell technology to completely eliminate this.

Shingled Cells

Just like rooftop shingles, these cell types work in a similar manner. They are laid in shingles that eliminate the need for busbars that accumulate space unnecessarily. More area of the roof is covered with the use of shingled cells that allows more PV cell space to actually work on generating renewable energy. Electrically Conductive Adhesive, or (ECA) is used to stick all the solar cells together while keeping them working.

Top Modules of SunPower Solar Panels

Here are some of the top models to choose from –

Maxeon 6 AC Solar Panel (Datasheet)

  • Factory-integrated microinverter (technology of Enphase)
  • −40°C to +60°C operating temperature
  • 66 Maxeon 6 cells integrated
  • 22.8% efficiency rating
  • Backed up with 40 year product and power warranty
  • Works even in low light conditions
  • Weatherproof
  • 25 year of inverter warranty through Enphase
  • Class II double-insulated, corrosion-resistant polymeric enclosure for the inverters
sunpower maxeon 6
sunpower maxeon 3

Maxeon 6 AC Solar Panel (Datasheet)

  • 22.7% efficiency rate  
  • SunPower warranty of 40 years (power & performance)  
  • High-transmission tempered anti-reflective glass 
  • Can withstand any harsh weather  
  • Ammonia and dessert tested with ISO certification  
  • −40°C to +85°C operating temperature  
  • Class C fire rating per IEC 61730 
  • Maximum power degradation of 0.25% annually  

Performance 6 Solar Panels (Datasheet)

  • 21.1% efficiency rate  
  • 25-years product warranty (complete confidence warranty)
  • Monocrystalline PERC solar cells  
  • IP 68 rating  
  • Black anodized aluminium alloy frames  
  • LID-resistant solar cells 
  • Hot spot resistance  
sunpower performance 6

Specifications At a Glance

SunPower Maxeon 6 ACSunPower Maxeon 3 DCSunPower Performance 6
Power (W)420 -440415-430395-415
Cell TypeMonocrystallineMonocrystalline Maxeon Gen 3Monocrystalline PERC
Efficiency (%)22.822.721.1
Weight (KG)1920.0418.6
Operational Temperature Range?40℃ to +60℃-40℃ To 85℃-40℃ To 85℃
Annual Power DegradationNot More Than 0.25%Not More Than 0.25%Not More Than 0.45%
Product Warranty40 Years40 Years25 Years
Performance Warranty40 Years40 Years25 Years
Weight (KG)21.821.221

Points of Difference and Areas to Improve for SunPower

Here are the advantages and disadvantages of SunPower solar panels.

Pros

  • Their creativity and use of the Maxeon IBC cells to boost panel effectiveness and efficiency are unprecedented. 
  • Peace of mind for decades to come with their 40 year warranty with flagship Maxeon panels and industry-standard warranty of 25 years with value-line solar panels.  
  • No other brand has achieved the highest level of efficiency in the residential solar panel category, which is 22.8% while using the purest silicon in their Maxeon series. 
  • With their latest AC modules, enjoy the perks of microinverters which allows each panel to work individually rather than in a series, reducing their chance of facing shading issues ten folds. This technology has been brought to you in collaboration with the pioneers, Enphase microinverters.  
  • Maxeon series, which also won the first-ever Sustainability Award from PV magazine because of their excellence in participating for the growth of clean energy. 
  • 0.005% chance of you returning your SunPower solar panel, statistically speaking.  
  • Various certifications, such as Cradle to Cradle and ISO, were obtained for their outstanding performance and efficient solar panels. 
  • Aesthetically enticing appearances to provide the homeowners’ roofs with a stylish outlook.  
  • As the solar panels can range up to 440W per panel, with less roof space, you can have twice as much power output in comparison to regular solar panels available in the market.  
  • Bloomberg Tier-1 solar system ranking for the company is present.  

Cons

  • SunPower solar panels come at a higher price point which can be considered a disadvantage; then again sustainable energy source of such calibre is an investment. Investments with insane ROI come at a price.  

SunPower Solar Panel Warranty

With a whopping 40 years of product and performance warranty with all the solar panels except the more affordable performance panels is astounding. As their panel return rate is already only 0.005%, where they sold over 30 million units, the company has confidence in its products which shows with such a long warranty period backup. Also, their degradation rate is 0.25% only which is impressive.  

Certifications and Achievements

SunPower solar panels are proud holders of many achievements and certifications so far, which further strengthens their claim to be one of the best in the category.  

The company has the Bloomberg Tier-1 ranking, which is proof of their financial solvency. This is an important marker when it comes to backing up such a huge warranty claim of 40 years. A bankrupt or soon-to-be broke company cannot provide you with the confidence to keep this promise.  

Also, they are PV evolution labs, one of the top performers. This proves their products are of top-notch quality. It indicates that in various weather conditions and in different situations, SunPower solar panels will still perform as expected. Point to be noted- this is a voluntary test in which SunPower participated at their own accord.  

SunPower solar panels also have an Australian office which is great for any emergency queries. All in all, they do back up their claim of being an amazing of a solar panel manufacturer. In this SunPower solar panel review, we pretty much covered all aspects of it.  

Want to grab the opportunity to know more about how you can get your hand on such an amazing product yourself? Get in touch with us today and claim a FREE consultation session.  

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Canadian Solar – Solar Panel Review

Canadian Solar Panel Review

Many countries have realized the harmful effects of fossil fuels and are trying to reduce their carbon footprint. Technology is improving, and countries are adapting to new ways to use renewable and sustainable energy. Consequently, the entire renewable market is on the rise.  Especially, the Australian renewable industry is booming because of multiple government rebates and incentives to encourage energy efficiency. As a result, solar energy solutions have seen a positive shift since solar is a huge part of renewable energy. This brings us to the “Canadian Solar – Solar Panel review.†

In this article, we will discuss the leading global manufacturer of solar panels.

Quick Summary

  • Power ratings (Watts): 350W – 665W
  • Panel Efficiency %: High – 19.4% – 21.3%
  • Most efficient panel: HiKu7 with 600W
  • Cell technology: P-type and N-type TOPCon
  • Price range: Low-med
  • Product Warranty: Standard 12 years (25 years for 370W and below panels)
  • Service and support: Good 4/5
  • Overall rating: 8.5 

Overview of Canadian Solar

Canadian Solar is a Tier 1 solar panel company. This company has been in business for over 20 years. Dr. Shawn Xiaohua Qu established Canadian Solar in 2001. He remains the Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer. Canadian Solar was listed on the NASDAQ in 2006. Although the majority of its production is in China, Canadian Solar has two manufacturing facilities in Ontario, Canada.
According to Bloomberg NEF, Canadian Solar has the world’s fifth-largest solar panel manufacturing capacity and is expanding its presence in Australia. They have four warehouses across Australia and employ 50 locals in solar panel sales and service, as well as large-scale solar farm projects.
In March 2020, the Canadian Solar research and development team created an n-type poly-crystalline silicon solar cell with a world record efficiency of 23.81%. The world’s most efficient residential solar panel currently has an efficiency of 22.6%. 
Over the years, they have grown to be one of the biggest solar panel manufacturers in the world. Their production capacity is almost 2.5 gigawatts per year. Their panels are popular among homeowners and businesses because they are high-quality, affordable, and because they have the Tier 1 title. 

What is a Tier 1 Solar Panel?

You may have encountered the term Tier 1 while researching solar for your home and wondered what it meant.
Solar panels have 3 categories – Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3. Tier 1 is the more efficient and reliable. Therefore, you should always choose the Tier 1 category. Tier 1 solar panels are known for their long lifespan, so their 25-year performance warranties will be honored. Their automated manufacturing techniques reduce the possibility of defects, and their long-standing reputation ensures that any problems arise are resolved.
A variety of factors are considered when determining Tier 1 solar panels. 
  • At least 5 years of experience: This ensures that they are a reliable source of solar energy and are respected enough to withstand the test of time while remaining financially secure.
  • Public trade and strong balance sheet: These companies are more reliable because they have previously been subjected to specific standards and have been declared worthy of investment.
  • Strong manufacturing techniques and strong vertical integration: This results in increased productivity and more efficient material utilization. Also, it ensures safe and high-quality solar products.
  • Invest heavily in marketing: A growing market reflects brand confidence and a desire to invest in quality control. 

Range of Panels 

Canadian Solar manufactures solar panels for residential, commercial, and utility-scale applications that are reasonably priced and have a good reputation for quality and dependability. Like most large-volume manufacturers, Canadian Solar has switched to higher efficiency mono PERC half-cut cells in almost all new generation panels. The HiDM module, manufactured in Canada, is the sole exception, employing a special shinged mono PERC cell configuration. 

Various Series of Panels Available in Australia 

All black

All-Black series

  • Higher efficiency with 120 Mono PERC cells 
  • Response significantly well in extreme hot weather 
  • Highest efficiency 20.4%
  • On average power (W) ranges between 335W—340W
  • Tackles shading better than other panels
  • 12 – 15 years of product warranty, with 25 years of service and power output warranty 
  • Better for residential purpose 
  • 35 mm coated aluminum alloy frames 

HiDM series

  • Monocrystalline cells
  • PERC and shingle cell technology
  • Module efficiency of up to 20.4%
  • 0.55% annual degradation rate
  • 25 years linear power output warranty, 15 years product warranty
  • Ideal for residential installations
  • HiDM solar panels can output a maximum of 420W on peak condition 
hidm

Ku series

  • Monocrystalline and polycrystalline cells
  • PERC cell technology
  • Designed for residential purposes
  • New panels can also work on commercial site
  • Module efficiency ranges between 17.8% to 19.9%
  • 0.5% annual degradation rate
  • 6000/4000pa snow/wind load
  • 25/30 years linear power output warranty
  • 12 years product warranty

HiKu Series 

  • Monocrystalline and polycrystalline cells
  • Can generate a maximum of 450W of energy
  • Split-cell/multi-busbar technology
  • Module efficiency of up to 20%
  • But HiKu5, HiKu6 and HiKu7 panels are able to output more power. Ranges between 665W output with a module efficiency of up to 21.4%.
  • 0.55% annual degradation rate
  • 25 years linear power output warranty
  • 12 years product warranty
  • Ideal for both commercial and residential installations
Hiku
HiKuKuHiDMAll Black
Power (W)320-460430-450400-420320-340
Efficiency (%)19.520.420.420.4
Size (Inch)83×41.3×1.685.4×39.2×1.3866.9×39.1×1.3865.0×39.1×1.38
Weight (LBS)54.952.242.340.1
FeaturesHigh Output Poly ModuleBifacial Modules Add 30% PowerHigh-Density Mono ModuleBetter Shading Tolerance & Minimizes Micro-Crack Impacts
Operational Temperature Range-40°C To 85°C-40°C To 85°C-37°C To 85°C-37°C To 85°C
Annual Power DegradationNo More Than 0.55%No More Than 0.55%No More Than 0.45%No More Than 0.45%
Product Warranty12 – 15 Years12 – 15 Years12 – 15 Years12 – 15 Years
Performance Warranty25 Years25 Years25 Years25 Years

Cost 

To get the best price, you should get multiple quotes from Canadian Solar. Checking out different products might help too. The final price depends on the equipment you get, based on your product. More specifically, the kind of inverter or battery you need with your panel depends on what panel you get. Most Canadian Solar PV systems are priced between $2.70 and $3.20 per watt, making them an excellent value in the home solar market.
This means that the gross cost of a 6 kW system (before any tax credits or other incentives) would range between $16,200 and $19,200.
Furthermore, most homeowners pay far less than the total gross cost. With the federal solar tax credit of 26 percent, a 6 kW system with Canadian Solar panels would cost between $11,988 and $14,208. And everyone is eligible for the said credit. Numerous state-level solar incentives and rebates are available to help you further reduce your upfront costs. 
The table provides below is not an exact amount. Rather, it’s an approximate amount. Check out the best solar packages here. 
System Size (kW).Average cost (with installation)
6kW$11,988 – $14,208
8kW$13,500- $15,650
10kW$16,550- $17,900

Efficiency

“Solar panel efficiency†refers to how effectively a solar panel captures and converts sunlight into usable electricity. A high-efficient solar panel can produce more electricity than a lower-efficient panel of the same size under the same conditions. As a result, a higher efficiency rating is generally preferred.
The efficiency of your Canadian Solar panels will differ depending on the model you select for your system. The efficiency rating of Canadian Solar panels ranges from 15.88% to 20.60%.

Performance (temperature coefficient) 

The temperature coefficient indicates how well your solar panel will perform in less-than-ideal conditions. Like other electronic equipment, solar panels perform better when kept cool (ideally at temperatures around 25° C/77° F). The temperature coefficient indicates how much your panel performance will change during hot, sunny summer days.
Your solar panel’s electricity production decreases by a temperature coefficient for every degree above 25° C (77° F). The temperature coefficient of the Canadian Solar CS1H-325MS panel from their HIDM residential series, for example, is -0.37%/°C. This means that if the temperature of the panel rises by one degree, from 25° C (77° F) to 26° C (79° F), electricity production will fall by 0.37%. If the temperature rises to 35° C (95° F), electricity production will fall by 3.7%.
Your solar panels will most likely see a few hot and sunny days throughout the year, so they should have the lowest temperature coefficient possible.
The temperature coefficient of Canadian solar panels ranges between -0.41 and -0.35.

Warranties

Whether you’re purchasing a television, a car, or solar panels, the manufacturer should provide a strong warranty. The materials warranty (also known as the product or equipment warranty) of a solar panel is a guarantee from the manufacturer that they will replace your panel if it fails due to manufacturing defects or environmental issues.
Depending on the product line, Canadian Solar provides a warranty of up to 15 years for defects in their solar panels. Warranty claims were also made easier by the government of Australia. 

Pros and Cons of Canadian Solar 

Canadian Solar panels provide various options for solar systems. There are solar panels that range from average to extremely well-performing. However, it depends entirely on the user and what they are looking for in a solar panel; this determines whether it is worthwhile.
Everything has positive and negative aspects, and Canadian Solar is no exception. Here are some of the brand’s benefits and drawbacks:

Pros

  • Canadian Solar Panels offer an excellent price-performance ratio.
  • These panel manufacturers are less expensive than competing brands on the market.
  • Split-cell technology is also included in most models’ modules.
  • They have an average efficiency rating ranging from 16.88% to 20%.
  • Customer service is available all over the world, including Australia.
  • The majority of residential models include dual-cell PERC technology.
  • Panels come with Tier 1 performance but offers a competitive price of Tier 2 models. 
  • Depending on the product, the warranty ranges from 15 years- 25 years. 
  • Government rebates and incentives are available 

Cons

  • Names of the solar modules can be confusing for native English speakers 
  • Efficiency may drop up to 0.55% yearly.

Are Canadian Solar Panels Worth Buying? 

The decision to install Canadian Solar Panel is totally up to you. However, choosing Canadian Solar can provide value for money. Considering the efficiency, prices are quite competitive and better than other companies. For residential purposes, choosing Canadian Solar would be worth it. 

Our Solar Experts are here to Help!