I have the Maxeon 410 BLK panels on my roof paired with Enphase IQ8A. My panels are producing about 10% more every year compared to what the design tool projected. Very happy with my purchase
Thanks Martyna, this is awesome. Meyer Burger is known here in South Africa and is premium. I have Trina Solar panels on my roof and love them for their great output and relative affordability.
Good video. I got quotes from three solar companies where I live in the Pacific Northwest. Each proposed a different panel manufacturer, SILFAB, REC, and Q-Cell. I was also asking for a battery backup system and all three proposed Tesla Powerwalls. I also had personal recommendations from friends for two of the companies providing bids and the third was sent to me by Tesla. Ultimately I chose the outfit that proposed SILFAB. The panels were not the determining factor but rather the interaction with the sales rep and the effort he made to understand what I was actually asking them to build. The other two kept trying to tell me what they thought I wanted. It didn't hurt that SILFAB manufactures panels in Washington. You have put me at ease about SILFAB.
Love your videos, especially those with field testing. You speak of ambient heat degrading panel efficiency but you do not appear to address similar complicating factors when operating in cold weather climates, especially voltage increases that might result in exceeding safe limits for a central inverter in sub-freezing temperatures. I would also love to see anything on how to define minimum and maximum limits on how many panels can be on a given string and how that might vary with the panel manufacturer. Thanks.
Hello Martyna, Nice Video. I do want to mention you are a little wrong about the Enphase Inverters not being compatible with REC Alpha Pure R. They are not yet compatible with the IQ8 line. But the IQ7X is compatible with this panel. This is the only one Enphase recommends for this panel. I have just gone live with my system of the Rec 410 Alpha Pure R panels and the Enphase IQ7X inverters. I do agree it's a little disappointing the IQ8 line is not compatible but what I understand they are working on this. It appears the system will do everything it's capable of doing with the set up I have. I am impressed with the Meyer Burger line, and they compare well with REC. Thanks, and I enjoy your videos.
You are very right. I should have clarified that IQ8 series are not compatible with Pure R. Enphase stated they will soon have a solution though so its coming. Thank you for your comment Chris :)! -Martyna
An Enphase rep in another YT channel interview, not to take away from your wonderful content Martyna, stated the IQ8X is soon to be released to support higher voltage requirements. Currently the REC 430W isn't available in Southern CA and perhaps a good thing for now... I wanted to point out something about REC Group that puts their REC Protrust warranty above others and deserves mentioning, correct me if I'm wrong, that if said installer goes out of business, any REC Protrust installer can fulfill the warranty. I believe it was also 30yr for labor and warranty with Protrust personnel. Lastly, REC Group is in fact making the panels for Panasonic, and the reason that it carries the same warranty, along with the specs 😎
Thanks for this great comprehensive summary. I like your choice and if I would ever considering installing solar I will go with REC it always has been my solid pick and hopefully looking forward to your update video on best home batteries.
What are your thoughts on Mission Solar panels? I don't know a ton about them but I'm curious how they are looked at from the perspective of someone in the industry. I like they are manufactured in Texas, but I am not sure about the extent they are "Made in America" instead of just assembled in America.
Great question! I like them! But Mission does have MSolar Brand, that is not manufactured in USA, but in Asia. So just look out for the panel to be Mission and not MSolar. I do Iike them a lot though! They made it through some tough times so they are solid. Martyna
Very well explained. Thank you. Just to add one thing you didn't mentioned Jinko and AJ solars which comes with N type bifecial technology has more efficiency and temperature co efficient. Far more advanced than you picked.
Excelent presentation, very informative for a new buyer of a solar system. please send me the excel format for the list of power panel manufactures. thanks
Good video, I have always liked the REC Panels and would have bought them this year, however I decided to go with another brand which has a module efficiency of 23.9% and a Temp Coefficient of -0.22/°C Pmax and is designed to work with a Microinverter from the start.
Hi, greetings from Pakistan. Since we are near China we get very affordable rates for solar panels. Jinko, Trina, JA, Canadian are the top brands being imported in our country. We get P-Type and newer N-Type panels as well. It's nice to know about what's being used in other side of the world. Happy free energy :)
Thank you so much for sharing, and nothing wrong with those panels, I am a big Trina fan, they do great yields. :) Thank you so much for leaving a comment and sharing :)
If I am limited by roof area, then I would consider the Watts per area, and the dimensions of the panels. The latter is because a different panel size may squeeze more effectively onto your roof shape, covering more area. Panel fitting may give a better result for smaller panels than larger ones, or depend on the panel aspect ratio. An installer may not be willing to mount panels too near a roof edge, so that also needs to be considered.
Very fair point, and in some cases Home Owners Associations or municipalities may require following firecodes, which in most cases require 15.-3 feet of clearance from the roof edges...
Great video, very helpful information keep up the great work you are for us, what are your thoughts on phono solar panels,would you put them on your own house ,God Bless your awesome integrity
Thanks Martyna, I would like a copy of your spreadsheet if you could provide a link that would be greatly appreciated! Of these panels I think I am leaning towards REC. Dave
I use Sunpower X22-360's myself and simply can not imagine using ANY OTHER cell manufacturer's panels (Maxeon I mean). And these panels might as well be considered ancient in terms of progress the past 5 years. I am getting FULL 360 Watt output (actually the best I've measured is 364.25 watts per panel in a 2S2P test group at peak of the day just last week - honestly, it's mind blowing). This all said, you are correct, they are not easy to get unless buying in bulk used (random availability and not how you can work as an installer business) or can be obtained as an installer. I personally became an installer 'trainee' just before the Maxeon / SunPower business spinoff that happened recently. But due to the shake ups that followed I found pallets of secondary market X22's pulled from a job that was cancelled and instead just jumped on them rather than waiting out the spinoff and continuing my 'installer' credentials program. I would REALLY like to see you get your hands on Maxeon panels - seriously - they are nuts.
Only Q Cell available in my area in Australia. Trina panels also available but I will go with the Q Cells in January for my new system. Also going full SolarEdge system with battery as Enphase unavailable
This is a really great comparison of the electrical characteristics of these panels. However, another factor that I feel is just as important is the physical durability of solar panels, especially as it pertains to impact resistance of hail damage. Are there any standard ratings for impact resistance? If so, I would be interested to know how the various panels compare. If not, perhaps this is an area that the industry should explore.
Hi! That is a VERY good point! Especially in Texas... Yes there are standard hail rating from UL, and they differ from 1 to 3 inches traveling at speeds up to 88.3 miles per hour (142 kph). Most data sheets will provide the actual width of hail.
I have Silfab on my home, However, my roof is east-west facing. Is there a better product for that? I assume that the numbers you were quoting for for north-south facing roofs? Or does it make a difference?
Great video, I learned so much about solar panels. Really interesting to see how they compare. I'm personally a shareholder of Meyer Burger, so a bit disappointing to see, that REC is even better. I hope Meyer Burger can catch up through the development of new technologies. But REC don't sleeps either, as I understand. So let's follow this race :) And I like Martyna, she really explains very well. Thank you!
Hi Jose! I am curious how Meyer Berger will hold up. It has been pretty slow in the solar industry the past 2 years. I hope they do not flip. Thank you so much for the comment!!!
Hi Jose! I am curious how Meyer Berger will hold up. It has been pretty slow in the solar industry the past 2 years. I hope they do not flip. Thank you so much for the comment!!!
@@solartimeusa Hi Martyna! The solar panel market in Germany and Europe in general was a disaster in the last year, because of a flood of super cheap chinese moduls. They are selling here below production costs, because of overcapacity in China, and the fact that the USA and India largely closed the border for chinese panels. So everything went to Europe and destroyed the prices. Meyer Burger tried to get protection from the german state (so called "Resiliance Bonus" which would have been paid to home owners who install largely Europe made moduls) but that help was not granted. So they now decided to close the german production, and move to the USA entirely. You know, they are building factories in Arizona (modules) and Colorado (cells). Currently they are performing a big capital raise, I took part in it. Seems to be successful. So with hopefully DOE credit and tax credit facilities in USA they will have enough money, to ramp up the production there. I think if all goes well, this will be a high quality american producer (allthough headquarters and research will stay in Switzerland). Hope that helps :)
I am licensed electrician in the USA, am starting a solar business in Jamaica this year. How do I became a distributor/ installer and what do need to know? Thank for sharing.
i live in Puerto Rico here solar patio lams have LIFETIME of app 2 to 3 years in life they cook under the sun what's the best option for heated non forgiven Sun condition ?
Yes! I really like them and think the majority in the future will be bifacial. As far as extra cost for them, I do think they will do great on white metal roofs or ground mounts ( pergolas, and carports alike). I will be testing them very soon to see how much more power can a panel generate when it is double-sided. Be on the lookout! -Martyna
What to choose i got a calculation in spain for 5kW with instalation 10x tensite 6k 12 longi 8.5k Tensite Monocritalino PERC 500 W VS LONGi Hi-MO5m 66HPH-G2 510W
Hi! If you can get a bigger system I would always go for a bigger one. I am not too familiar with Tensite Panels, but Longi Panels are worldwide known and I would be more comfortable with those. What inverters? :) Martyna
@@solartimeusathank you very much for responding. the offer from tensite is 2.100 euro cheaper Solar power station 5kW without batteries - 25 kWh/day - 5909€ with installation & legalisation. Include: • 10x Solar Panel 500W Tensite Monocristalino PERC • Inverter Growatt MIN 5000TL-XH • 2x Structure 5 Panels 30-45mm Coplanar Falcat • Falcat Universal Junction Kit up to 45mm • Single Phase Wattmeter Growatt SPM • Growatt Shine-Link X Monitoring Longi is 2.100 more expensive Model GW 5000-EH hybrid with 5 kW nominals power single pase 230v (up to 6650 WP) with MPPT range cc from 100-550v. Minimum start at 125 VCc and dissconection at 100 Vcc. Maximum voltage 580 Vcc amd maximum current for the MPPT 12,5 A ( 2 trackers), topology without transformer and maximum efficency of 97.6 Should I choose longi even if the ofer is 2100 euro more,?
Here you go: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/15Bxosq73CJ5DkDdq7qhM3eJ3gjAw1iJV/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=113073691231247560362&rtpof=true&sd=true Thank you for the feedback :) Martyna
If heat affects panela that much could you do a test to see the impact of mounting styles or angles on heat? I wonder if in the case of flat mounting even a 1 degree tilt would help a ton because the hot air could flow out.
That is a really cool idea. Hopefully soon I will be able to perform a test like that to see if there is a significant effect. I don't see it being that big, compared to the cost of the raised structure itself, but I am very curious!
Same :) In Norther states the temperatures are better for solar overall. Meyer Burger and REC have good snow load rating so I would recommend same 4 panels :) I hope that helps! -Martyna
Greetings from Brazil! I'm searching for info about solar panels for my home and I found your channel searching for info about the Enphase microinverters. I have not found yet any of these four brands here in Brazil. The most famous here are Trina, Canadian Solar, JA Solar, Jinko, OSDA and some others. What is your opinion on the newer technologies, n-type and topcon for the panels? Thanks!
I actually like TRINA PANELS and Canadian :) Trina does perform very well! I tested them, just done have video out yet. What inverter options do you get ?? SO GLAD YOU FOUND THE CHANNEL! Cheers from Texas! :)
Thank you for the video, it was helpful. I would like to purchase the REC panels for a DIY sun tracking system. I live in Texas. Do you know where I can actually purchase these panels and not go through an installer?
I have some in stock, you can email me: info@solartimeusa.com But you can also reach out to CED Greentech ( they are a local distributors in major cities in USA ( including Texas) ) Major big ones dont sell in smaller quantities, but if you're close to DFW I would be happy to sell you some. :) What city in TX? Martyna
I know you primarily do residential solar. I know you know your stuff so I am asking you this: For my boat where space is critical, where do I look for ultra efficient panels of small size and big power?
I would search for RV kits online. Signature Solar has some ideas for smaller systems, however it could be starting point for you to build a system. Also GREAT resource is Will Prowse: www.youtube.com/@WillProwse He also has a DIY forum, I highly recommend!
@@solartimeusa Thanks. Building systems is not a problem for me as I did my home which is 100% off grid (3,600SF, San Diego). I appreciate your suggestion of RV panels as that is where I started and was wondering if there was another place to look as the RV panels are nice flexible, but a bit big. Thanks again for all your great honest content!
How they prepared the anylysis based on any servay the solar discussion forum as afar as i know most chinese manufacturers claim that thier panels quality match any other countries manufacturers and advantage are the price which no one can beat
Hey! So for best temp reactions, i would go with REC Alpha Series ( either pure R or just Pure). They work best in hot climates. BUT if your budget is a bit more tight, QCells will work very well too. Difference in testing IO have done is about just a few percent better for REC.
Hi Jose! I just visited Belize on my vacation last month! Unfortunately not at this time. But I wish you a ton of luck and make sure to look or professional master electricians to complete work.
@solartimeusa thank you Martyna. Funny, I was just there at the end of Feb into March. Would there be any certain equipment you would recommend for the climate out on the islands. I am on caye Caulker.
Majority of black on black panels available in the world now are below 460 watts. Anything above will be physically bigger and also not a black on black panel. ☝️ I hope that helpszb
The longer you wait, the more money you waste by buying gas and paying the electricity company for your power. The amount you save outweighs the reduction in price if you wait!!
I think honestly panels are higher in wattage now but they are BIGGER in size. So its not that much better, I think they kinda hit the wall with 22/23% efficient panels, and dont see big changes, besides the tandem technology. Its funny Both QCells and REC were same in my last year's video:) But yeah... timing is hard, just they they always say you cannot time the stock market or when to buy a home. But the sooner you do it the better. Martyna
I want to test them soon. They haven't been too popular on residential projects becasue on rooftops you dont get that much more reflection from shingles, and they tenhd nbot to be the wanted look of BLACK ON BLACK. Also they are very heavy since they are covered in glass on both sides, so much easier to install on ground mounts or patio covers as roofs. Martyna
Not very common to use them in residential settings because they are mostly silver framed and Homeowners tend to go for te black on black look. But I DO LOVE qcells and jinko and Trina Commercial lines. We use them for ground mounts on residential projects with big land availability.
The video is a few months old, but I am fully aware of what is happening to our economy and prices of panels are so low its almost a sin not to buy them now, at least for those who can afford it. :)
Here ya go: ua-cam.com/users/redirect?event=comments&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbUFhVUoxMW1WbHdqdV9xbUF0TmFCYl8xSDI3QXxBQ3Jtc0trZlBDLV9kU18zU1NIWC1KeklnelJibU53bUZIUVlsLWtXNDNVV2tRQm1ycFV0QjBrT1hJdF9LMVgxN0d6R1RXLVhTQ3NEMHFnOUtzcmFHbVhTRTVhbVFlWjhMVTMyb1FtUVdMNHVBOUE3UXU3OWpiQQ&q=https%3A%2F%2Fdocs.google.com%2Fspreadsheets%2Fd%2F15Bxosq73CJ5DkDdq7qhM3eJ3gjAw1iJV%2Fedit%23gid%3D1069648462&stzid=UgzATz6PnZQEAnumCiJ4AaABAg.9tNE1XRmiAU9tPXuTjFHpI
I am Polish. I do live in USA now, and I usually try to use both C and F. Celcius is the global temperature that is used in all standard testings so we have to mention it plus then convert to Fahrenheit for our american viewers :)
When you say Best , it seems like there is no One. People look for recommendations and opinions NOT repeat SALES information and Do your own research. HHhhmmm>>>>
Hi, I apologize if I missed your comment, That was one of my first youtube videos and I totally did not expect it to explode like it did. I have a full time job and this is my side hussle so I totally did not have time to respond to all comments :( I am so sorry.
Power wall installation $5000 ??? I’m in th RIGHT business!!!!! Gimme $5l an I’ll go to th nearest high school an pay 2 second string middle linebackers to help me hang a 275 pound box on th garage wall for $50 a piece then I’ll core drill a Parkin pylon $120 an make $4880 for 2 inverters some panels ana pack of lucky strike gold smokes
The installation does not just include labor, the cost for powerwall + gateway is just 2 pieces of equipment, you have to add wires to connect all that together along with other electrical equipment, some has to go to a sales rep as a commission, and in majority, company can make 1-2k profit, which is not that big considering a 10-year warranty.
Hi! Personally I do not have a very high opinion on them unfortunately. But that's because I am a small business owner myself. I do my best to provide best service to my clients. With POWUR, based on my knowledge they subcontract work out, so its very hit or miss if the process will go smoothly for the customer. But you as a rep should keep an eye for all your customers, JUST TO MAKE SURE THEY END UP HAPPY AND no balls are dropped :) One question I always ask is if you were to buy from powur as a homeowner yourself. If you can say you had a good experience, then go for it! :) Side note: I am just a big anti-MLM... hence my opinion on them isnt too high.
I have the Maxeon 410 BLK panels on my roof paired with Enphase IQ8A. My panels are producing about 10% more every year compared to what the design tool projected. Very happy with my purchase
Thanks Martyna, this is awesome. Meyer Burger is known here in South Africa and is premium. I have Trina Solar panels on my roof and love them for their great output and relative affordability.
oh yes! I like Trina a lot too!!! :)
I'm finally moving next week and will be starting my solar build shortly after that. Great timing for this video.
Oh I am so glad! Good luck with everything!!! :)
Hello POWUR company hire me as an ambassador
Do you believe that the world should Go Solar
If Yes then do you want to install our solar panels
Thanks For Your Solar Panels Informative Video.
I Got Me The QCELL G10 & Enphase IQ 8 Micro Inverter System.
Keep Up The Good Work Sweetie ❤
Good video. I got quotes from three solar companies where I live in the Pacific Northwest. Each proposed a different panel manufacturer, SILFAB, REC, and Q-Cell. I was also asking for a battery backup system and all three proposed Tesla Powerwalls. I also had personal recommendations from friends for two of the companies providing bids and the third was sent to me by Tesla. Ultimately I chose the outfit that proposed SILFAB. The panels were not the determining factor but rather the interaction with the sales rep and the effort he made to understand what I was actually asking them to build. The other two kept trying to tell me what they thought I wanted. It didn't hurt that SILFAB manufactures panels in Washington. You have put me at ease about SILFAB.
Thank you so much for sharing. I like those panels a lot personally. Excited for that Powerwall as well.
Love your videos, especially those with field testing. You speak of ambient heat degrading panel efficiency but you do not appear to address similar complicating factors when operating in cold weather climates, especially voltage increases that might result in exceeding safe limits for a central inverter in sub-freezing temperatures. I would also love to see anything on how to define minimum and maximum limits on how many panels can be on a given string and how that might vary with the panel manufacturer. Thanks.
Great video! Note that REC also supports a high 7000 Pa of weight for high wind and snow loads like in the higher hills west Michigan.
Yes very very good point, REC have been tested for a lot more than its competitors.
We had 400W Panasonic panels installed with Enphase IQ8H inverters just a month ago here in SE Pennsylvania. Everything is working great!
YAy! I have a mix of Panasonic and rec panels on my roof, and love those panels :)!
Hello Martyna, Nice Video. I do want to mention you are a little wrong about the Enphase Inverters not being compatible with REC Alpha Pure R. They are not yet compatible with the IQ8 line. But the IQ7X is compatible with this panel. This is the only one Enphase recommends for this panel. I have just gone live with my system of the Rec 410 Alpha Pure R panels and the Enphase IQ7X inverters. I do agree it's a little disappointing the IQ8 line is not compatible but what I understand they are working on this. It appears the system will do everything it's capable of doing with the set up I have. I am impressed with the Meyer Burger line, and they compare well with REC. Thanks, and I enjoy your videos.
You are very right. I should have clarified that IQ8 series are not compatible with Pure R.
Enphase stated they will soon have a solution though so its coming.
Thank you for your comment Chris :)!
-Martyna
An Enphase rep in another YT channel interview, not to take away from your wonderful content Martyna, stated the IQ8X is soon to be released to support higher voltage requirements.
Currently the REC 430W isn't available in Southern CA and perhaps a good thing for now...
I wanted to point out something about REC Group that puts their REC Protrust warranty above others and deserves mentioning, correct me if I'm wrong, that if said installer goes out of business, any REC Protrust installer can fulfill the warranty.
I believe it was also 30yr for labor and warranty with Protrust personnel.
Lastly, REC Group is in fact making the panels for Panasonic, and the reason that it carries the same warranty, along with the specs 😎
Thanks for this great comprehensive summary. I like your choice and if I would ever considering installing solar I will go with REC it always has been my solid pick and hopefully looking forward to your update video on best home batteries.
Glad it was helpful! :)!!! Coming soon on batteries for sure!
Great presentation Marytina, thank you. Keep up the good work.
Thank you so very much! I appreciate you!
What are your thoughts on Mission Solar panels? I don't know a ton about them but I'm curious how they are looked at from the perspective of someone in the industry. I like they are manufactured in Texas, but I am not sure about the extent they are "Made in America" instead of just assembled in America.
Great question! I like them! But Mission does have MSolar Brand, that is not manufactured in USA, but in Asia. So just look out for the panel to be Mission and not MSolar.
I do Iike them a lot though! They made it through some tough times so they are solid.
Martyna
Love the way of you speaking, its lack of defect.😍
Thank you so much!!!
Very well explained. Thank you. Just to add one thing you didn't mentioned Jinko and AJ solars which comes with N type bifecial technology has more efficiency and temperature co efficient. Far more advanced than you picked.
Thanks for sharing those! I do like Jinko and JA too.
Excelent presentation, very informative for a new buyer of a solar system. please send me the excel format for the list of power panel manufactures. thanks
I am so glad!!
docs.google.com/spreadsheets/u/0/d/15Bxosq73CJ5DkDdq7qhM3eJ3gjAw1iJV/edit?pli=1#gid=1069648462
Good video, I have always liked the REC Panels and would have bought them this year, however I decided to go with another brand which has a module efficiency of 23.9% and a Temp Coefficient of -0.22/°C Pmax and is designed to work with a Microinverter from the start.
What panels did you decide on?:)!!!! Share :)
Hi, greetings from Pakistan. Since we are near China we get very affordable rates for solar panels. Jinko, Trina, JA, Canadian are the top brands being imported in our country. We get P-Type and newer N-Type panels as well. It's nice to know about what's being used in other side of the world. Happy free energy :)
Thank you so much for sharing, and nothing wrong with those panels, I am a big Trina fan, they do great yields. :) Thank you so much for leaving a comment and sharing :)
If I am limited by roof area, then I would consider the Watts per area, and the dimensions of the panels. The latter is because a different panel size may squeeze more effectively onto your roof shape, covering more area. Panel fitting may give a better result for smaller panels than larger ones, or depend on the panel aspect ratio. An installer may not be willing to mount panels too near a roof edge, so that also needs to be considered.
Very fair point, and in some cases Home Owners Associations or municipalities may require following firecodes, which in most cases require 15.-3 feet of clearance from the roof edges...
very good comparison and learned a lot. Considering Silfab or Rec for Arizona. Thank you.
Thank you so much for leaving a comment. I am so glad it was helpful!
Great content. I would like the excel spreadsheet if you don’t mind. Thank you Martyna.
Thanks for the info. I would appreciate the link to the spreadsheet. Thank you
Here ya go: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/15Bxosq73CJ5DkDdq7qhM3eJ3gjAw1iJV/edit?pli=1#gid=1069648462 :)
beautiful and smart thank you for the reveiw i just got the rec pure r
Glad I could help. Ps. I Love those panels!!!!! :)
Thank you
Thank You for All that you are doing for our Planet Earth.... Peace.. Shalom.. Salam.. Namaste 🙏🏻 😊 🌈 ✌ ☮ ❤
Thank you!
i totally respect the home work and amazing review, salute!
Thank you very very much! I truly appreciate the feedback!
Martyna
@@solartimeusa new fan from capetown , south africa ❤❤❤❤
Hi Martyna, this is awesome. I would like a copy of the excel table
Great video, very helpful information keep up the great work you are for us, what are your thoughts on phono solar panels,would you put them on your own house ,God Bless your awesome integrity
Thanks Martyna, I would like a copy of your spreadsheet if you could provide a link that would be greatly appreciated! Of these panels I think I am leaning towards REC.
Dave
Here ya go: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/15Bxosq73CJ5DkDdq7qhM3eJ3gjAw1iJV/edit#gid=1069648462 :)!!!
I use Sunpower X22-360's myself and simply can not imagine using ANY OTHER cell manufacturer's panels (Maxeon I mean). And these panels might as well be considered ancient in terms of progress the past 5 years. I am getting FULL 360 Watt output (actually the best I've measured is 364.25 watts per panel in a 2S2P test group at peak of the day just last week - honestly, it's mind blowing).
This all said, you are correct, they are not easy to get unless buying in bulk used (random availability and not how you can work as an installer business) or can be obtained as an installer. I personally became an installer 'trainee' just before the Maxeon / SunPower business spinoff that happened recently. But due to the shake ups that followed I found pallets of secondary market X22's pulled from a job that was cancelled and instead just jumped on them rather than waiting out the spinoff and continuing my 'installer' credentials program.
I would REALLY like to see you get your hands on Maxeon panels - seriously - they are nuts.
Only Q Cell available in my area in Australia. Trina panels also available but I will go with the Q Cells in January for my new system. Also going full SolarEdge system with battery as Enphase unavailable
Hey Peter, thanks for sharing and personally I LOVE QCells, they are good looking but above all super good quality panel. And it really is visible.
This is a really great comparison of the electrical characteristics of these panels. However, another factor that I feel is just as important is the physical durability of solar panels, especially as it pertains to impact resistance of hail damage. Are there any standard ratings for impact resistance? If so, I would be interested to know how the various panels compare. If not, perhaps this is an area that the industry should explore.
Hi! That is a VERY good point! Especially in Texas... Yes there are standard hail rating from UL, and they differ from 1 to 3 inches traveling at speeds up to 88.3 miles per hour (142 kph). Most data sheets will provide the actual width of hail.
I have Silfab on my home, However, my roof is east-west facing. Is there a better product for that? I assume that the numbers you were quoting for for north-south facing roofs? Or does it make a difference?
Great video, I learned so much about solar panels. Really interesting to see how they compare. I'm personally a shareholder of Meyer Burger, so a bit disappointing to see, that REC is even better. I hope Meyer Burger can catch up through the development of new technologies. But REC don't sleeps either, as I understand. So let's follow this race :)
And I like Martyna, she really explains very well. Thank you!
Hi Jose! I am curious how Meyer Berger will hold up. It has been pretty slow in the solar industry the past 2 years. I hope they do not flip. Thank you so much for the comment!!!
Hi Jose! I am curious how Meyer Berger will hold up. It has been pretty slow in the solar industry the past 2 years. I hope they do not flip. Thank you so much for the comment!!!
@@solartimeusa Hi Martyna! The solar panel market in Germany and Europe in general was a disaster in the last year, because of a flood of super cheap chinese moduls. They are selling here below production costs, because of overcapacity in China, and the fact that the USA and India largely closed the border for chinese panels. So everything went to Europe and destroyed the prices. Meyer Burger tried to get protection from the german state (so called "Resiliance Bonus" which would have been paid to home owners who install largely Europe made moduls) but that help was not granted. So they now decided to close the german production, and move to the USA entirely. You know, they are building factories in Arizona (modules) and Colorado (cells). Currently they are performing a big capital raise, I took part in it. Seems to be successful. So with hopefully DOE credit and tax credit facilities in USA they will have enough money, to ramp up the production there. I think if all goes well, this will be a high quality american producer (allthough headquarters and research will stay in Switzerland). Hope that helps :)
I am licensed electrician in the USA, am starting a solar business in Jamaica this year. How do I became a distributor/ installer and what do need to know? Thank for sharing.
Big Like! 👍
Big thanks :) ! Thank you so much!
i live in Puerto Rico here solar patio lams have LIFETIME of app 2 to 3 years in life they cook under the sun what's the best option for heated non forgiven Sun condition ?
Good luck Martyna 🙂
Thank you so much
Any information on Aionrise 360W panels? Thanks.
Great video! What do you think of double sided panels? Are they worth it? What installation situations do they work best in?
Yes! I really like them and think the majority in the future will be bifacial. As far as extra cost for them, I do think they will do great on white metal roofs or ground mounts ( pergolas, and carports alike). I will be testing them very soon to see how much more power can a panel generate when it is double-sided. Be on the lookout!
-Martyna
What about Aiko, in my Opionion they are the best Panels at the moment
They are not very popular in USA, where are you located?
@@solartimeusa Germany
What to choose i got a calculation in spain for 5kW with instalation
10x tensite 6k
12 longi 8.5k
Tensite Monocritalino PERC 500 W
VS
LONGi Hi-MO5m 66HPH-G2 510W
Hi!
If you can get a bigger system I would always go for a bigger one. I am not too familiar with Tensite Panels, but Longi Panels are worldwide known and I would be more comfortable with those.
What inverters? :)
Martyna
@@solartimeusathank you very much for responding. the offer from tensite is 2.100 euro cheaper
Solar power station 5kW without batteries - 25 kWh/day - 5909€ with installation & legalisation.
Include:
• 10x Solar Panel 500W Tensite Monocristalino PERC
• Inverter Growatt MIN 5000TL-XH
• 2x Structure 5 Panels 30-45mm Coplanar Falcat
• Falcat Universal Junction Kit up to 45mm
• Single Phase Wattmeter Growatt SPM
• Growatt Shine-Link X Monitoring
Longi is 2.100 more expensive
Model GW 5000-EH hybrid with 5 kW nominals power single pase 230v (up to 6650 WP) with MPPT range cc from 100-550v. Minimum start at 125 VCc and dissconection at 100 Vcc. Maximum voltage 580 Vcc amd maximum current for the MPPT 12,5 A ( 2 trackers), topology without transformer and maximum efficency of 97.6
Should I choose longi even if the ofer is 2100 euro more,?
Thank you for the info. Very informative. Could you send me the link to the spreadsheet. Thank you
Here you go: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/15Bxosq73CJ5DkDdq7qhM3eJ3gjAw1iJV/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=113073691231247560362&rtpof=true&sd=true
Thank you for the feedback :)
Martyna
If heat affects panela that much could you do a test to see the impact of mounting styles or angles on heat? I wonder if in the case of flat mounting even a 1 degree tilt would help a ton because the hot air could flow out.
That is a really cool idea. Hopefully soon I will be able to perform a test like that to see if there is a significant effect. I don't see it being that big, compared to the cost of the raised structure itself, but I am very curious!
What about cooler northern states?
Same :) In Norther states the temperatures are better for solar overall. Meyer Burger and REC have good snow load rating so I would recommend same 4 panels :)
I hope that helps!
-Martyna
Greetings from Brazil!
I'm searching for info about solar panels for my home and I found your channel searching for info about the Enphase microinverters.
I have not found yet any of these four brands here in Brazil. The most famous here are Trina, Canadian Solar, JA Solar, Jinko, OSDA and some others.
What is your opinion on the newer technologies, n-type and topcon for the panels?
Thanks!
I actually like TRINA PANELS and Canadian :) Trina does perform very well! I tested them, just done have video out yet.
What inverter options do you get ??
SO GLAD YOU FOUND THE CHANNEL! Cheers from Texas! :)
Valuable information
Thank you so much for the comment, I am glad the video was helpful! :)
QCell is what Tesla panels are right?
Thank you for the video, it was helpful. I would like to purchase the REC panels for a DIY sun tracking system. I live in Texas. Do you know where I can actually purchase these panels and not go through an installer?
I have some in stock, you can email me: info@solartimeusa.com
But you can also reach out to CED Greentech ( they are a local distributors in major cities in USA ( including Texas) ) Major big ones dont sell in smaller quantities, but if you're close to DFW I would be happy to sell you some. :) What city in TX?
Martyna
I know you primarily do residential solar. I know you know your stuff so I am asking you this: For my boat where space is critical, where do I look for ultra efficient panels of small size and big power?
I would search for RV kits online.
Signature Solar has some ideas for smaller systems, however it could be starting point for you to build a system.
Also GREAT resource is Will Prowse: www.youtube.com/@WillProwse
He also has a DIY forum, I highly recommend!
@@solartimeusa Thanks. Building systems is not a problem for me as I did my home which is 100% off grid (3,600SF, San Diego). I appreciate your suggestion of RV panels as that is where I started and was wondering if there was another place to look as the RV panels are nice flexible, but a bit big. Thanks again for all your great honest content!
How they prepared the anylysis based on any servay the solar discussion forum as afar as i know most chinese manufacturers claim that thier panels quality match any other countries manufacturers and advantage are the price which no one can beat
As usual ,awsome presentation 👌. What panel would you recommend for the hot weather in texas 77493. Thks
Hey! So for best temp reactions, i would go with REC Alpha Series ( either pure R or just Pure). They work best in hot climates. BUT if your budget is a bit more tight, QCells will work very well too. Difference in testing IO have done is about just a few percent better for REC.
@@solartimeusa Thank you 😊
Thanks. Great Job. Please send me the spreadsheet.
Hi Martyna, would you consider an install in Belize?
Hi Jose! I just visited Belize on my vacation last month! Unfortunately not at this time. But I wish you a ton of luck and make sure to look or professional master electricians to complete work.
@solartimeusa thank you Martyna. Funny, I was just there at the end of Feb into March. Would there be any certain equipment you would recommend for the climate out on the islands. I am on caye Caulker.
Have you tested Bluesun pv modules? i see they have a 480w panel thats claiming 23,1% efficiency
Hey! Could you send me the link to the panel you're mentioning? I am curious to take a look at the technology used in those panels!
@@solartimeusa cant send any link it seems, but if you google "bluesun shingled solar panel 480w" you will find it
What about the ones that are advertised 550 watts?
Majority of black on black panels available in the world now are below 460 watts. Anything above will be physically bigger and also not a black on black panel. ☝️ I hope that helpszb
What about 700-watt solar panels?
Beauty is a powerful weapon
Thanks, buying solar and a tesla are 2 things that you always feel like waiting is a wise decision as they keep getting better and cheaper 😉
The longer you wait, the more money you waste by buying gas and paying the electricity company for your power. The amount you save outweighs the reduction in price if you wait!!
@bugandtot9985 I agree and love my system but kinda wish I waited just 1 more year for the newer technology lol
I think honestly panels are higher in wattage now but they are BIGGER in size. So its not that much better, I think they kinda hit the wall with 22/23% efficient panels, and dont see big changes, besides the tandem technology.
Its funny Both QCells and REC were same in my last year's video:)
But yeah... timing is hard, just they they always say you cannot time the stock market or when to buy a home. But the sooner you do it the better.
Martyna
No Aptos DNA bifacial 440w
thank you so much
Which one is American made???
Any knowledge on vsun 400 panels
Very comparable to Phono, Trina and Jinko :) Good product!
@@solartimeusa thanks for responding.
Can you do a Tesla solar review
Great idea! Do a company review as a whole? :) And also their products?
Martyna
What about bifacial panels
I want to test them soon. They haven't been too popular on residential projects becasue on rooftops you dont get that much more reflection from shingles, and they tenhd nbot to be the wanted look of BLACK ON BLACK. Also they are very heavy since they are covered in glass on both sides, so much easier to install on ground mounts or patio covers as roofs.
Martyna
what about the 700 watt panels
Not very common to use them in residential settings because they are mostly silver framed and Homeowners tend to go for te black on black look. But I DO LOVE qcells and jinko and Trina Commercial lines. We use them for ground mounts on residential projects with big land availability.
Price is one of the most critical attributes of most consumers. You must not of heard what all is going on in this country and all over the world.
The video is a few months old, but I am fully aware of what is happening to our economy and prices of panels are so low its almost a sin not to buy them now, at least for those who can afford it. :)
Conventional solar has gotten a lot better but Maxeon is tops
Can you elaborate more? They haven't really been that much popular ever since the split between sunpower and Maxeon. Just wayyy to expensive;(
Nothing about AIKO ?
Not in usa, at least not to my knowledge, and I do go to all major solar shows here and in Germany. Where are you located?
@@solartimeusa in the country where it's possible to buy them - Poland ;)
Please make a new one April 2024
Yes! Need to work on this for sure! Stay tuned!
Please send spread sheet.
Here ya go: ua-cam.com/users/redirect?event=comments&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbUFhVUoxMW1WbHdqdV9xbUF0TmFCYl8xSDI3QXxBQ3Jtc0trZlBDLV9kU18zU1NIWC1KeklnelJibU53bUZIUVlsLWtXNDNVV2tRQm1ycFV0QjBrT1hJdF9LMVgxN0d6R1RXLVhTQ3NEMHFnOUtzcmFHbVhTRTVhbVFlWjhMVTMyb1FtUVdMNHVBOUE3UXU3OWpiQQ&q=https%3A%2F%2Fdocs.google.com%2Fspreadsheets%2Fd%2F15Bxosq73CJ5DkDdq7qhM3eJ3gjAw1iJV%2Fedit%23gid%3D1069648462&stzid=UgzATz6PnZQEAnumCiJ4AaABAg.9tNE1XRmiAU9tPXuTjFHpI
Sunpower is my company good quality
Yes, Maxeon panels are definitely super good. I want to test them!!
Solar time USA?
Yes sir?
SunPower!
WILL TST THEM SOON! Very curious to see if they are worth all the hype! ;)
Martyna
AKIO ABC 24%
but your title says "Best in 2024" ?
The tech has not changed much since last year.
If you are in America why are you using the wrong temperature?
I am Polish. I do live in USA now, and I usually try to use both C and F. Celcius is the global temperature that is used in all standard testings so we have to mention it plus then convert to Fahrenheit for our american viewers :)
When you say Best , it seems like there is no One. People look for recommendations and opinions NOT repeat SALES information and Do your own research. HHhhmmm>>>>
Yes they are not good at answering back
Hi, I apologize if I missed your comment, That was one of my first youtube videos and I totally did not expect it to explode like it did. I have a full time job and this is my side hussle so I totally did not have time to respond to all comments :( I am so sorry.
Very bad preview, you didn't even show the videos or pictures off the product. 👎
Are you sure you watched the video? I believe I showed data sheets and lots of images.
Power wall installation $5000 ??? I’m in th RIGHT business!!!!! Gimme $5l an I’ll go to th nearest high school an pay 2 second string middle linebackers to help me hang a 275 pound box on th garage wall for $50 a piece then I’ll core drill a Parkin pylon $120 an make $4880 for 2 inverters some panels ana pack of lucky strike gold smokes
The installation does not just include labor, the cost for powerwall + gateway is just 2 pieces of equipment, you have to add wires to connect all that together along with other electrical equipment, some has to go to a sales rep as a commission, and in majority, company can make 1-2k profit, which is not that big considering a 10-year warranty.
You don't have Longi and Trina and Canadian solar bifacial panels.
I do mention them as panels i like for sure just didnt make it to my final top!
Share your thoughts about POWUR Pbc Company please
They recently hired me as a ambassador
Hi! Personally I do not have a very high opinion on them unfortunately. But that's because I am a small business owner myself. I do my best to provide best service to my clients. With POWUR, based on my knowledge they subcontract work out, so its very hit or miss if the process will go smoothly for the customer. But you as a rep should keep an eye for all your customers, JUST TO MAKE SURE THEY END UP HAPPY AND no balls are dropped :)
One question I always ask is if you were to buy from powur as a homeowner yourself. If you can say you had a good experience, then go for it! :)
Side note: I am just a big anti-MLM... hence my opinion on them isnt too high.
@@solartimeusa ohk thankss dude!