What to Consider When Buying a Solar Panel (Photovoltaic Module)?
Where Are Solar Panels Used?
PV modules are used in residential areas such as houses, gardens, and farms to generate energy. They are also used in commercial areas. These areas include:
And in many other areas, solar panel systems are utilized.
What to Consider When Buying a PV Module
What should you pay attention to when purchasing a PV module, and which steps should you follow? Whether you are buying a PV module for residential use or commercial purposes, you need to know the criteria for selection, which PV modules to buy, and how much energy consumption you will require.
1.Quality of PV Modules
One of the most important aspects when purchasing PV modules is their quality. The quality of PV modules is determined by their energy output lifespan and the suitability of the materials used in manufacturing. Products are generally categorized into four different quality classes. For commercial rooftop/ground projects and residential projects, Class A products must always be preferred.
All product certifications should be checked, and hail resistance and fire test reports should also be reviewed.
2.Energy Efficiency
The efficiency of PV modules can be considered as the ratio of converting the sunlight received into electricity. The module’s efficiency determines how much energy it will produce.
High-quality manufacturers conduct R&D on energy output, efficiency, and mounting materials. Therefore, when buying PV modules, it is necessary to research and choose materials from such manufacturers.
3.Temperature Coefficient of PV Modules
The temperature coefficient of PV modules is another important factor to consider. While PV modules convert a portion of sunlight into energy, another portion is converted into heat. As a result, PV modules heat up. With heating, the current increases and the voltage decreases. This reduction in voltage negatively affects solar panels and decreases their energy efficiency.
4.Warranty Period of PV Modules
When purchasing a product, its warranty period reflects the manufacturer’s confidence in it. PV modules have two types of warranties: material warranty and performance warranty. Both are crucial for solar panels. Material warranties vary by manufacturer and may be 10, 12, or 15 years. For glass-glass products, performance warranty is 30 years, while for glass-backsheet products, the standard is 25 years. Some manufacturers also provide additional warranty coverage insured by third-party companies. For warranties to be valid, installation must be carried out in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation manual.
5.Power of PV Modules
Understanding product power helps make better purchasing decisions. Solar panel power and price are proportional; the higher the power, the higher the price. One of the most important criteria is to choose the product that offers the highest output power per square meter.
6.Cell Technology
Currently, the most widely used product group in the global market is TOPCON. PERC-type products are still common in the market. TOPCON products have lower temperature coefficients, lower LCOE, and lower annual degradation losses. They also offer higher efficiency and greater power output within the same area, along with higher performance warranties. HJT products provide additional advantages compared to TOPCON, but their unit costs are not yet competitive.
Power Options of PV Modules
PV modules come in different power ratings. Currently, the common power ratings seen in the industrial market are as follows:
