The world record for solar panel efficiency goes to SunPower‘s solar panels: 24% cell efficiency (sunlight  –> usable electricity in laboratory conditions) and 19.6% conversion efficiency (sunlight –> usable electricity in real-life conditions) with the SunPower E19 / 320W solar modules. SunPower prides itself in its hard-earned reputation for world-leading technology and excellent customer service. SunPower panels are commonly used in residential solar, building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV), commercial solar, and utility-scale solar installations.

(Interested in finding out more about SunPower solar modules? Get a free comparison of solar quotes from installers in your area, anywhere in Australia and talk to one of our brokers about whether SunPower is the best option for you.)

SunPower Solar Panels: World-leading 19-20% efficiency

-SunPower monocrystalline solar panels: E19 and E20 series-

Monocrystalline solar cells have a reputation as the most efficient kind of solar photovoltaic (PV) cell, and the first query from many Solar Choice and Solar Selections customers is, “Are monocrystalline solar panels better than polycrystalline solar panels?” In the Solar Choice blog we have previously discussed the issue of efficiency and solar technology, and pointed out that more important than efficiency or technology type is the quality of the brand of solar PV panel in question. The question of durability, quality, and the credibility of the manufacturer trump nominal efficiency every time. (Solar Selections also has an excellent article about the importance of efficiency in choosing your solar panels.) The technology utilised in SunPower’s monocrystalline solar panels does indeed enable high efficiencies, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that all monocrystalline panels can reach such high efficiencies–in fact, the average is more in the range of 14-16%.

E19 and E20 are SunPower’s signature lines of solar panels use monocrystalline silicon technology. Their names stand for their nominal efficiencies–19% and 20%, respectively. These numbers are the highest that can be found on the solar panel market, and it is only with care and precision in design and engineering that SunPower was able to achieve these impressive figures. The company takes pride in its accomplishments, and has a reputation that is hard-won and well-earned.

-SunPower E19 and E20: Key Attributes and Points of Difference-

-SunPower E19 and E20 lines for solar and residential solar power-

SunPower E19 series - Industry-leading 19% efficiency

SunPower’s E19 series solar panels 238 watt (W), 72-cell panels, while the E20 series is available in either a 327-W, 72-cell panel, or a 333W, 96-cell panel. The 72-cell panels are generally used in residential solar applications, while the 96-cell panels are more likely to be used in large-scale commercial applications.

-As noted above, SunPower panels have the highest efficiencies of any solar photovoltaic panels on the market. This means up to 50% more power per unit area than you would expect to get from conventional designs. This in turn means reduced installation costs because fewer panels are required to get the same amount of power.

-Dependable, sturdy design means you can count on your panels continuing to operate over the years through all types of weather. Tempered front glass over the PV cells and an anodised alloy frame mean that the units will be slow to corrode or degrade.

-Transformerless inverter compatibility means that SunPower panels can be used with the solar inverters with the highest efficiency: A winning combination.

-Positive Power Tolerance of +5% for E20 modules: Some solar panels have a power tolerance of +3%/-3%, which means that the panels you install may actually have a lower output than their nameplate capacity. With SunPower’s E20 series, the nominal capacity is guaranteed to be met or exceeded. (E19 panels have a tolerance of +5%/-3%.)

-10 year limited product warranty, 25 year limited performance warranty.

-Product Specifications/Electrical Characteristics-

SunPower E20 series solar panel datasheet (pdf)

SunPower E19 318W solar panel datasheet (pdf)

SunPower E19 238W solar panel datasheet (pdf)

You can see how SunPower panels compare to a number of other name brand panels on the Desert Knowledge Australia website, an invaluable resource for those shopping around for solar panels.

-SunPower Technology: What is Maxeon cell technology?-

SunPower Maxeon solar cell technology. Unlike conventional cells (which use busbars), electricity is collected at the rear of each cell, thereby maximising surface area for sunlight collection.

Maxeon is SunPower’s patented solar cell technology that enables the company’s reputation for world-leading efficiency. Most crystalline solar cell technologies have metal busbars–strips of electronically conductive material–that sit on the face of each solar cell. Instead of having such busbars, electricity generated when SunPower panels capture photons from the sun is transferred to a conductive plate at the rear of each cell. This means that more of each cell’s surface area is used in the capture of sunlight, which in turn means higher efficiency.

Another feature which has enabled SunPower to make the headway that it has with its panel efficiency is the way that individual cells are shaped. They can be tiled closely within the solar module frames, which means a greater number in a smaller area. SunPower panels also employ an anti-reflective glass which helps to trap in sunlight and maximise power output.

-Other Information about SunPower Panels-

-Other products by SunPower-

SunPower also has an E18 series panel, which has efficiencies of around 18%.

Ford Motor Co and SunPower recently formed a strategic partnership to offer photovoltaic carport charging stations for electric vehicles.

-Component standards met/awards-

-All E19 series SunPower solar panels are certified by the Clean Energy Council (CEC) of Australia, and are on the list of CEC-approved components

-PV Cycle– SunPower participates in PV Cycle’s voluntary take-back PV recycling program

-CE mark– SunPower panels are compliant with European Union regulations

-TUV Certification means that claims made by SunPower about their solar panel specs have been independently verified by TUVRhineland

-Warranty-

25 year solar cell performance warranty

10 year workmanship warranty

(Your installer may also offer additional warranties for the entire system.)

Read about solar panel and solar system warranties.

-About SunPower-

-Company Headquarters-

Global Head Office: San Jose, California, USA

Australian Head Office: Belmont, Western Australia

-Factory locations-

Malaysia and the Phillipines

-History in the Solar Industry-

SunPower is one of the oldest players in the solar power industry, starting around 25 years ago. Founder Dr Richard Swanson first conceived of the company during the 1970s oil crisis. Later, in the mid-1980s, when a professor of electrical engineering at Stanford University, SunPower was incorporated after Swanson won grants from the US Department of Energy to research solar power and secured financial backing from venture capitalists. By the mid-1990s, SunPower had installed 10 megawatts of capacity in various locations through the US and Europe. SunPower panels can now be found around the world.

Written by James Martin

Solar Energy Analyst for Solar Choice

© 2011 Solar Choice Pty Ltd

Sources and links:

SunPower Australia Homepage (Images and brochures from here)

Previous related Solar Choice articles: SunPower and Ford form strategic partnership: Electric Vehicles and Solar-Powered Car Ports - Solar Panels and Solar Modules - Questions to ask when considering buying a solar power system - Which solar panels are right for you? - Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) - Desert Knowledge Solar Centre solar panel comparisons - Solar Panel Tilt and Orientation in Australia

Nev and Linda Sweeney have been living on their 500-square-meter suburban plot in Sydney’s St Clair Suburb since the early 1980s, and have been trying to live sustainably using the resources on their land for almost just as long. Their approach includes innovative energy generation and efficiency strategies (including off-grid as well as grid-connected solar panel arrays), a permaculture-style integrated food production system, and an army of low- or zero- energy input cooking devices including at least 2 different types of solar ovens.

I visited the Sweeney’s residence for Sustainable House Day 2011 ostensibly as a volunteer, although,  due to the irregular flow of visitors throughout the day, I felt more like a guest. Through talking to them and seeing their home in action, I gained an understanding of some of the challenges and successes that they have experienced  in their drive to transition to self-reliance over the past 3 decades. Their adventure has required a lot of innovation, experimentation, and trial-and-error, but the home has through this process reached its own equilibrium of inputs and outputs, and the couple has become something of a model for how sustainability can work in practice on a suburban plot.

Chokoes are vigorously-growing vine fruits that taste like cucumbers but have the texture of carrots. They grow like mad over the Sweeneys' orange tree.

Harnessing the power of the sun: solar panels and solar cookers

The property is a showcase of innovations related to resource flow–most notably the Sweeney’s impressively well-integrated food production system which produces, among broad beans, eggs and many other edibles, 40 to 50 kilograms of chokoes per year. The most interesting aspects of the home for the purposes of this article, however, are the parts that utilise the power of the sun to reduce the home’s energy use–solar panels and solar cookers.

Solar Panel Arrays: Off-grid solar and Grid-connected solar

The Sweeneys' 1kW grid-connected solar array, visible on their roof above their fruit trees in the back yard.

Nev and Linda have probably one of the only homes in Sydney that has both a grid-connected solar array as well as an off-grid array. The older of the two is the off-grid system, which Nev installed to power only certain appliances in the home–most notably a number of re-wired lights that run directly off the DC electricity produced by photovoltaics (PV) array and its associated battery bank (which has now been replaced twice). It began 25 years ago when Nev installed a round-celled BP Solarex solar panel and the first set of batteries. The next addition to the system came 17 years ago when Nev added another panel to the array, and the last addition when Nev inherited 4 x 80W panels from his brother. The overall output isn’t easily quantifiable in watts, but the voltage of the array is 12V, which is enough to keep the battery bank charged and operating. The batteries supply a good part of the electrical needs of the house.

The Sweeneys' off-grid solar system, located on garage roof. The batteries and inverter are kept in the garage.

In addition to Nev’s hand-assembled array, the roof of the house is also home to a professionally-installed 1kW grid-connected solar power array. This array was installed on the roof of the house when Australia’s solar power incentives were at the height of the frenzy–a high ($40) REC/STC price from the federal government and a 60c/kWh gross solar feed-in tariff from the NSW government under the now defunct Solar Bonus Scheme. Although the Sweeneys saw little actual need for the array, especially with one of their own already up and functioning, the decision to have the panels installed was a financially obvious one, and the up-front cost was relatively insubstantial for the returns they can expect from it over the life of its operation.

Cooking with the sun: Solar ovens and more

Cooking a lamb roast in one of the solar ovens in the Sweeney's back yard. It needs to be rotated to point towards the sun, but can work even on cool days.

In addition to using the sun to generate electricity, the Sweeneys also use solar energy to cook their food. On Sustainable house day, their yard was full of different models of home-made solar cookers, one of which was quite impressively in the process of preparing a lamb roast for

'No-tech' Solar power oven, made out of cardboard, aluminium foil, and other household materials.

dinner. The oven works even on cold days, albeit slightly more slowly than on hot ones. There are about five different ovens and other cooking and food-drying devices that Nev and Linda have assembled and use regularly in preparing their meals. For those interested in assembling their own solar ovens, you can learn more on SolarCooking.org.

———–

Are you a New South Wales resident interested in going solar to offset your electricity bills? Solar Choice offers free, impartial advice and Solar Quote Comparisons: Our goal is to help you find the system that best suits your needs. 

Want to know more about Solar Power in New South Wales first? The following articles might be of interest to you:

- 30c/kWh Feed-in Tariff offered to NSW customers through a Solar Choice Network Installers

- Is solar right for you in NSW?

- Solar Power reaching grid price parity in parts of NSW

Written by James Martin

You’re interesting in bringing your home into the 21st century by going solar. Great. This is not likely a decision that you’ll make lightly. Calculating what size solar system your household needs and deciding which type of panels are right for you will at some point involve looking at what electricity pricing and billing options are available to you through the different retailers that operate in your area. Not only do they charge different rates for the electricity that you consume; retailers also offer different feed-in tariff rates for the solar-generated electricity that you feed back into the grid. What resources are available to you?

(Get a free solar power quote comparison from installers in your state or territory!)

Electricity prices are rising! How can you save money at home?

Electricity prices are on the rise across Australia, for a number of reasons. Recently, in NSW, for example the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal made a recommendation to the state government to increase the price of electricity by up to 18.1%–these price rises have already come into effect and are being felt throughout the state. Ordinary ratepayers are looking for ways to trim their bills, from cutting back on electricity usage, using more electricity on off-peak periods, or by finding retailers that charge them less money per kilowatt hour used. Solar power systems, whose prices have come down significantly in the past 3 years, are also being eyed more and more frequently as viable means of saving money by generating one’s own power.

Retail electricity price comparison services throughout Australia

Solar Choice helps customers by providing free, impartial advice about solar power systems and installers. Similarly, a number of electricity price comparison services have appeared online to help ratepayers decide on an electricity retailer. Below is a list of some of these sites:

Energywatch.com.au

GoSwitch.com.au

MakeItCheaper.com.au

ShopAround.com.au

Lower rates or change your behaviour?

Remember that changing your behaviour to try to reduce your electricity consumption is usually the smartest–although admittedly the hardest–way to save money on electricity.

Q-Cells solar modules are some of the most innovative and reliable solar systems in the world; the Germany company believes that “Claiming Leadership Means Proving It”, and the “Q” in the company’s name boldly stands for ‘quality’. A number of features of Q-Cells’ solar panels (including their Q.Pro G-2 and Q.Smart panels) support their claim to leadership, most notably the fact that they produce the most efficient thin-film solar cells (Q.Smart cells) in the world, and among the most efficient polycrystalline cells in the world.

(Get a free comparison of solar quotes from installers in your area, anywhere in Australia.)

Q-Cells: high-efficiency solar panels

-Q-Cells Q.Smart CIGS thin-film and Q.Pro G-2 polycrystalline solar panels-

Thin-film solar cells are generally known as the less-efficient cousin of crystalline silicon cells. Typically, crystalline modules have module efficiencies (input sunlight to output electricity) ranging  between 12 and 15% (although a few companies have achieved significantly higher.) Crystalline silicon solar cells are therefore the technology that is used in most frequently in residential solar photovoltaic (PV) installations. 

Although Q-Cells also manufactures some of the highest-efficiency polycrystalline solar panels in the world (at up to 15% module efficiency) in their Q.Pro series, their achievement in managing to manufacture Q.Smart CIGS thin-film modules with efficiencies of up to 13%–where the industry average for thin-film cells tends to be around 9 – 11%.

-Q.Smart and Q.Pro G-2: Key Attributes and Points of Difference-

-Q.Pro G-2 230-250 Solar Panels for residential solar-

Q-Cells Q.Pro polycrystalline solar panels

Q-Cells QPro Anti Hotspotting protection

Efficiency is not the only or necessarily even the most important factor in when deciding which solar panels are right for you, but perhaps because it is the easiest number to point to, it understandably tends to be the first figure that gets a potential solar owner’s attention. There are in fact a number of questions to ask when considering buying a solar power system, and ‘How efficient is this solar panel?’ is just one of them. First of all, nameplate efficiency may not reflect the efficiency of the system over the course of its lifetime, and secondly, provided you’ve got plentiful space in which to mount your panels, efficiency is almost always trumped by dependability. It’s therefore also integral to consider what sort of solar warranty is on offer, the size and reputability of the manufacturer, the panel’s performance in the climatic conditions of your area (e.g. is it hot? often cloudy?) What makes Q-Cells’ technologies stand out?

The ‘G-2′ in the Q.Pro name stands for ‘Generation 2′. These polycrystalline solar panels have a number of characteristics that make them stand out in the extremely competitive Australian market.

-Q.Pro panels utilise Anti-PID (Potential-induced Degradation) technology, which eliminates efficiency losses that typically occur in the first few months of operation of a solar array due to voltage differences between active layer of the cells and the frame.

Q-Cells Q.Pro Performance Warranty

-Q-Cells’ Hot-Spot Protect (HSP) quality control measures ensure high levels of performance and safety. Invisible defects in solar cells can result in a ‘hot-spotting’ effect, in which the cells heat up in partial shading conditions, causing power loss and potentially even module fires.

-The first traceable and forgery-proof solar modules available on the market. Q-Cells’ Tra.Q technology also enables detailed monitoring and analysis of solar module performance; this makes for effective troubleshooting as well as solar system integration and design.

-25-year performance warranty that guarantees output of no less than 83% the nominal capacity of the module at the 25 year mark, with no more than 0.6% module performance decrease per year. No other companies offer such a specific performance assurance.

-Q.Smart Solar Panels for residential, commercial, facade, and BIPV applications-

Q-Cells Q.Smart thin-film solar panels (available with or without frames)

-Thin-film CIGS solar cell technology integrated into modules in such a way as to guarantee some of the highest efficiencies in the thin-film solar PV industry–up to 15%.

-360-degree efficiency for high efficiency on all roof orientations. Thanks to the nature of the CIGS technology and Q-Cells engineering, Q.Smart panels perform well even at sub-optimal tilt angles and orientations, unlike most crystalline modules, which suffer significant efficiency reductions as their angles

QCells QSmart Thin Film Solar Module Warranty Structure

-Relatively small module size, in combination with the 360-degree efficiency mentioned above, make Q.Smart panels a great choice for building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV).

-Aesthetically appealing, uniform black colour. Modules are available with or without frames.

-One of the best warranties in the industry. Graduated warranties extend of 25 years, guaranteeing no more than 0.7% productivity decreases per year, bottoming out at 85% nameplate capacity by year 25.

-Positive power sorting and the light-soaking effect mean that Q.Smart panels can provide an additional power output of up to 15% once the solar array is installed.

-Manufactured at Q-Cell’s manufacturing facility in Bitterfeld-Wolfen, Germany.

 

-Product Specifications/Electrical Characteristics-

Q.Smart Datasheet

Q.Pro Datasheet

You can compare how Q-cells Q.Pro and Q.Smart panels compare to a number of other name brand panels on the Desert Knowledge Australia website, an invaluable resource for those shopping around for solar panels.

 

-Other products by Q-Cells-

Q-Cells offers a wide range of solar panels beyond just the Q.Pro and Q.Smart lines, for residential, commercial solar, and building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) applications. You can see the full catalogue of Q-Cells solar module products on the Q-Cells module profile page.

 

-Component standards met/awards-

-All models of Q-Cells solar panels are certified by the Clean Energy Council (CEC) of Australia, and are on the list of CEC-approved components

-PV Cycle– Q-cells participates in PV Cycle’s voluntary take-back PV recycling program

-CE mark– Q-Cells panels are compliant with European Union regulations

 

-Warranty-

25 year linear performance warranty

5 – 10 year workmanship warranty

(Your installer may also offer additional warranties for the entire system.)

Read about solar panel and solar system warranties.

About Q-Cells

-Company Headquarters-

Global head office: Bitterfeld-Wolfen, Germany

Oceania head office: Level 2, 56 Berry St, Sydney NSW

 

-Factory locations-

Q.Smart panels are manufactured in Bitterfeld-Wolfen, Germany.

Q.Pro G-2 panels are manufactured in Malaysia

 

-History in the Solar Industry-

Q-Cells was formed in 1999 and has been producing solar PV panels since 2001, making it among the most experienced solar PV manufacturers in the world.

Written by James Martin

Solar Choice Analyst

© 2011 Solar Choice Pty Ltd

 

 

Sources and links:

Q-Cells Homepage

Previous related Solar Choice articles: Solar Panels and Solar Modules - Questions to ask when considering buying a solar power system - Which solar panels are right for you? - Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) - Desert Knowledge Solar Centre solar panel comparisons - Solar Panel Tilt and Orientation in Australia

Conergy manufactures 3 lines of monocrystalline solar power modules: PowerPlus, P 170-185M series, and SR05-170. This article will focus mainly the PowerPlus series.

Conergy PowerPlus Series Solar Panels: German-made reliability

Conergy PowerPlus Solar Panels

-PowerPlus Solar Panels-

Conergy PowerPlus panels are manufactured in Germany

German engineering has a reputation for efficiency and precision. Conergy uses PowerPlus solar modules’ German manufacturing origins to their marketing advantage. The manufacturing process is fully automated, using state-of the art technology that ensures high, consistent panel outputs and reduces production costs in a country with one of the highest costs of living in the world.

-PowerPlus Solar Module Key Attributes and Points of Difference-

-Fully automated production line ensures consistently high output from panels

-3 busbars (as opposed to the usual 2) per cell for more usable electricity from captured sunshine

-Special 4mm low reflection structured solar glass means more captured sunlight
+0-2.5% positive power tolerance means reliable production from time of purchase (compared to an industry standard of +/-3%)

-One of very few global manufacturers certified to pass the IEC (61707) Salt Mist Test–PowerPlus panel frames are well-suited for coastal areas where salt corrosion can be a persistent problem.

-Product Specifications/Electrical Characteristics-

Conergy PowerPlus Solar Module Series Specifications

-Component standards met/awards-

All three models of Conergy panels are certified by the Clean Energy Council (CEC) of Australia, and are on the list of CEC-approved components.

-Warranty-

-5 year product warranty (extendable to 10 years on request)
-12 year warranted power output of 92% of nominal power
-25 year warranted power output of 80% of nominal power

-Other products by Conergy-

In addition to the PowerPlus line, Conergy manufactures two lines of solar panels under license and under strict quality control at factories in China.

Conergy P 170/180M

Designed for a wide range of applications, panels from this line are available in rated capacities of 170W, 175W or 180W, with a power tolerance of ± 3%. These panels are physically smaller than PowerPlus panels–1580 x 808 x 45mm, making them slightly more versatile where space is tight.

Conergy SR05-170

These panels may be the most cost-effective Conergy solar panel for large solar PV (photovoltaic) systems. SR05-170 panels are available only in the 170W module, and have a power tolerance of ±5%.

Other solar system components

In addition to solar modules, Conergy also produces a wide array of components for solar power systems, including inverters, batteries for stand-alone power systems, and mounting systems.

About Conergy

-Company Headquarters-

Frankfurt, Germany

-History in the Industry-

Conergy Pty Ltd (founded in 2005) is the Australian subsidiary of Germany’s Conergy AG (founded in 1998). This puts Conergy amongst the oldest players in the world solar power industry.

Solar Choice is a solar installation comparison service: we don’t undertake our own solar array installations, but we do offer free independent solar quote comparisons of what’s on offer from trusted solar system installers nationally. Our installers may use components from different manufacturers, and if you’re new to solar power installations, you will probably want to know what distinguishes one company’s panels, inverters, batteries, and other system parts from those of their competitors. This article is one of a series written to help you make an informed decision about purchasing your solar power system.

Written by James Martin

Analyst

© 2011 Solar Choice Pty Ltd

Sources and Links:

Conergy Solar Australia Homepage

Silex is Australia’s leading home-grown solar panel manufacturing brand, offering 3 sizes of solar panel–all assembled at Silex’s Sydney Olympic Park facility, the largest solar panel manufacturing plant in the southern hemisphere. In a market where the vast majority of panels are imported, Silex is an easy choice for those who want to support Australian industry. The most powerful Silex solar panels (SLX180) have a module efficiency of 13-14%, and panels are vigorously tested to ensure longevity.

SILEX SLX Panels: rigorously-tested, Australian-made panels

-Silex 125 Monocrystalline Solar Cells-

The range of Silex SLX solar modules all use monocrystalline solar cells. Silex cells incorporate an anti-reflective coating, which increases light absorption by the cells and results in more output per kilowatt than the bare cells themselves would. Each cell undergoes individual visual inspection for defects, and are also tested electronically to identify current groups accurately. Advanced and high-grade silver/aluminium pastes are used to ensure strong connections, and screen printing techniques are also used to ensure high-precision electrical contacts in the panels.

-SilexSolar SLX Solar Modules: Key Attributes and Points of Difference-

-Modules assembled in Australia, with cells imported from overseas

-Relatively easy to install, with quick connect leads to enable safe and fact interconnection and installation

-Relatively high module efficiency (13%+, depending on module) also allows for less space to be used in roof-mounting the panels

-The panels have undergone rigorous testing to ensure reliable long term performance

Photos of the Silex Solar panel assembly process

-Product Specifications/Electrical Characteristics-

Silex SLX Solar Panel Specifications

-Component standards met/awards-

Conforms to European directives (CE mark)–meets the standards for being sold in the EU

TÃœV certified according to:  Extended version of the IEC61215:2005 (Crystalline silicon terrestrial photovoltaic panels design qualification and type approval),  IEC61730-1 (Photovoltaic panels safety qualification), and IEC61730-2  (Requirements for construction and testing)

Listed on the Clean Energy Council’s current list of accredited modules

-Warranty-

Manufacturer’s Warrantee: 90% rated power output over 12 years, 80% power output over 25 years

Materials/Workmanship warranty: 10 years

About Silex

-Company Headquarters and Factory location-

Silex’s headquarters and factory can be found in the same location:

2 Australia Avenue
Sydney Olympic Park
Homebush Bay, NSW

-History in the Industry-

Silex has been producing solar panels since 2009, since acquisition of the former BP production facility at Sydney Olympic Park.

Solar Choice is a solar installation comparison service: we don’t undertake our own solar array installations, but we do offer free independent solar quote comparisons of what’s on offer from trusted solar system installers nationally. Our installers may use components from different manufacturers, and if you’re new to solar power installations, you will probably want to know what distinguishes one company’s panels, inverters, batteries, and other system parts from those of their competitors. This article is one of a series written to help you make an informed decision about purchasing your solar power system.

Written by James Martin

Analyst

© 2011 Solar Choice Pty Ltd

Sources and links:

Silex Solar homepage

Silex Solar brochure

Silex SLX series Solar Panels

If you are looking for a direct comparison between different or competing brands of solar panels in Australia, you would be wise to visit the Desert Knowledge Australia Solar Centre. With funding from the Australian Government and oversight and management by the Northern Territory Government, the DKA Solar Centre is an initiative that has been running an impressive experiment in Alice Spring. At the time of this writing, 26 separate solar panel technologies are being tested for their performance in heat, cold, rain, clouds, and sunshine. The map at the top right of this article shows where the solar panels on display at the DKA Solar Centre are located in relation to one another.

Write your own Solar Panel review based on a living database of solar system performance

The DKA Solar Centre website is an online, interactive database that displays and records live weather data and performance data from each type of solar system that they have on site. In addition to the statistical information, there are also two cameras positioned in the bushland around the Solar Centre: these allow you to actually take a look at the weather conditions in which the systems are performing.

The physical Desert Knowledge Solar Centre itself is set up in such a way so as to be of use both as a resource for people shopping around for residential solar power systems, as well as for students of renewable and photovoltaic energy technologies. It is a demonstration facility for commercialised solar technologies–you’ll be able to recognise a number of household brand names on the Australian solar power scene.

Solar Panel Comparisons: How to navigate the DKA Solar Centre database

Here’s a walk-through of how Desert Knowledge Australia’s solar panel monitoring system works. First, go to the DKA Solar Centre map, then click on the arrow at the top right of the screen that says ‘The Data’. Once you do that, you can navigate the site as follows.

First, choose the solar panel model whose performance you'd like to check out. You can see the performance for a SANYO HIT panel above

Here you can see how SANYO HIT array's performance relates to the temperature throughout the day.

SANYO HIT panel performance, compared with ambient temperature and the sunshine--you can see how output fluctuates as clouds block out the sun.

...and the same thing, with 'wind' also graphed on the chart...

..then add rain (none fell for the period we're looking at here)...

You can also look at solar system performance over longer periods--here you can see output and stats over the course of a month.

...and finally, you can compare the performance of different solar panel arrays and how they perform in heat, rain, or shading.

 Solar System comparisons: Limits of what the Solar Centre can tell you

Although the DKA Solar Centre is a useful resource for anyone who wants to check out their options before installing a solar power system, it does have a number of limitations. First of all, only a portion of the panels that are available on the market can be found on the site, so you may not be able to find every panel that you would like to compare and review. For example, it was surprising to find that there are no Suntech panels on display, despite Suntech’s prominent place in Australia’s (not to mention the world’s) solar power industry.

One other thing you’ll want to keep in mind while perusing the site is that the conditions in which the solar panels on exhibition may not be the same as your own. REC/STC zones were drawn as they are for a reason: Some locations are sunnier than others, not just in terms of how the sun moves through the sky (based on latitude), but also in terms of how often the sky is clouded over. Alice Springs’s solar power-friendly climate makes it a great testing ground for how well particular panels will perform if given the chance to shine!

Written by James Martin

Analyst

© 2011 Solar Choice Pty Ltd

Sources and Links:

Desert Knowledge Australia Solar Centre homepage

Suntech is the largest manufacturer of solar photovoltaic (PV) modules and produces some of the most efficient and affordable commercially available solar panels in the world. Suntech’s 350-person strong research and development (R&D) team spans three continents and allows the company to stay at the technological forefront of the solar power industry. Although Suntech’s head office and manufacturing operations are located primarily in China, CEO Dr Zhongrong Shi is a PhD graduate of the University of New South Wales’s (UNSW) Photovoltaic Centre of Excellence, and the company’s Australian origins and ongoing Australia-based Research & Development are clearly a point of pride for Suntech.

Looking for Suntech solar panels? Request a free solar quote comparison to see which installers in your area use Suntech components.

Stepped warranties, Good performance in low-light conditions,
Positive manufacturer’s tolerance, and Current sorting

Suntech offers a range of solar panels, from less efficient standard silicon panels to industry-leading high-efficiency panels using the company’s newly introduced Pluto technology (also discussed below). No matter which of these technologies is used or the model under consideration, Suntech panels are characterised by a number of features that make them stand out from others in this increasingly competitive field. These characteristics are detailed below.

Standard Suntech Silicon Cells

High module conversion efficiency. Athough module efficiency varies slightly from model to model, Suntech standard poly- and monocrystalline silicon modules routinely achieve 14.9% efficiency, 2 to 5% more than many other panels on the market.

-Positive power tolerance. Suntech ensures its panels’ output reliability by guaranteeing that its solar panels will perform at their rated output or greater at the time of purchase: 0 to +5%. This is in contrast to an industry average of +/-3%.

-Better low-light performance. All solar panel arrays will be affected at some point by overcast skies and other sub-optimal lighting conditions. Suntech panels’ efficiency is up to 2.5% better in low-light conditions, thanks to their ‘edge-isolation’ technology, which essentially means shorter ‘fingers’ on the cells and therefore less wasted sunlight.

-TruPower process. All silicon solar cells are susceptible to material and performance degradation over time due to a phenomenon called ‘light-induced degradation’ (LID). Suntech’s TruPower process takes LID into account in determining nominal system wattage from time of production. This means higher output than most brands over the course of a Suntech cell’s lifetime.

-Stepped Warranty means more assurance over a panel’s lifetime. Most solar module manufacturers offer a two-step solar product warranty for module components and a 25 year manufacturer’s power output warranty for the cells themselves. Suntech warrantees are broken into four steps for more certainty over discreet periods: 10 (as of 15 July 2011), 12, 18, and 25 years, resulting in estimated comparative efficiencies of anywhere from 6% to 28% over the course of a panel’s lifetime. This means that the owner is able to more accurately estimate the returns from their solar system over the course of its lifetime.

Suntech warranties vs Competitor warranties

-Current sorting processes. Suntech modules of the same rated capacity are sorted and packaged by current, so that current mistmach losses are reduced by up to 2%.

In focus: Suntech Ad+–190W for residences

The Ad+ is one of four residential solar panels available in Australia. At 14.9% module efficiency, in combination with the other benefits as mentioned above, it offers market-leading value for money.

190s 24/Ad+ Suntech Solar Panel

-Product Specifications/Electrical Characteristics-

Standard test conditions are lrradiance 1000 W/m2, module temperature 25 °C, AM=1.5;

-Component standards met/awards-

-PV Cycle–Suntech participates in PV Cycle’s voluntary take-back PV recycling program

-CE mark–Panel is compliant with European Union regulations

-IEC–International certification for electrical equipment used in explosive environments

-Clean Energy Council–Suntech panels can be found on the CEC approved solar panel list

-Other products by Suntech-

Suntech Pluto technology is used in Sydney Town Hall's 48kW solar power array

Suntech offers a wide range of reliable silicon solar module products, with capacities between 180W and 280W and including polycrystalline and monocrystalline modules, allowing a great degree of solar system design flexibility.

Suntech’s most recent technological development is its Pluto technology, which uses super-fine ‘fingers’ (the conductive metal strips on the silicon cells) to effectively increase the cell area that can capture usable sunlight. Although not yet commercially available in Australia except for larger, iconic solar installations such as those on Sydney Town Hall and the Sydney Theatre Company, Pluto panels are becoming increasingly widespread in the EU, where limited roof-space means higher demand for high-efficiency panels.

Standard silicon cells (l) vs cells using Pluto technology (r). Note the fineness of the conductive 'fingers' in the Pluto cell.

About Suntech

-Company Headquarters-

Wuxi, China

-Factory locations-

China, USA

-Production capacity-

2.4GW capacity for modules, 1.2GW of in-house wafering and cell capacity by the end of 2011.

-Quote-

“Suntech has sold over 15,000,000 panels to thousands of customers in more than 80 countries. Our customers come to trust us as the reliable partner of choice, and with our industry-leading 10 year product warranty they know that Suntech products can provide the safest and fastest return on their investment.” Suntech APMEA President James Hu.

Solar Choice is a solar installation comparison service: we don’t undertake our own solar array installations, but we do offer free independent solar quote comparisons of what’s on offer from trusted solar system installers nationally. Our installers may use components from different manufacturers, and if you’re new to solar power installations, you will probably want to know what distinguishes one company’s panels, inverters, batteries, and other system parts from those of their competitors. This article is one of a series written to help you make an informed decision about purchasing your solar power system.

Written by James Martin

As it currently stands with most buildings, the sun’s light is often a burden, especially in summer, when it heats up exteriors and necessitates energy to be spent on cooling.  Pythagoras Solar is a company that has created an innovative building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) technology that could revolutionise the way that buildings generate and use energy. This technology–called Photovoltaic Glass Unit (PVGU) technology–is a transparent solar panel using standard monocrystalline PV cells that works with the sun, generating power for the building in question while simultaneously reducing the need for electricity for heating, cooling, and artificial lighting.

BIPV: Pythagoras Solar Windows

The purpose of good a building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) system is two-fold: to reduce a building’s energy demand, and to produce useable electricity for the building it occupies. In an excellent BIPV system, the BIPV technology will take the place of building components so seamlessly that there should be little or no added cost to their installation vs installation of conventional building parts. Energy costs money, and thanks to a BIPV system’s contribution to increased energy efficiency and energy production, building developers may expect faster returns on investment (ROI) despite the increase in up-front costs associated with the use of cutting-edge technology.

Pythagoras solar window technology: Transparent photovoltaic cells for BIPV. (Image from Pythagoras-Solar.com)

Pythagoras solar windows fulfil the criteria for being excellent BIPV by potentially taking the place of conventional windows; they do everything a window does, with the added benefit of electricity generation. In addition to letting light into the building’s interior like a window, Pythagoras’s PVGU acts as insulation, prevents direct solar radiation from entering a building and therefore improves a space’s interior visual and thermal comfort, and affords greater design flexibility to architects, builders, and engineers. Similar to conventional IGUs (insulated glazing unit–insulated glass windows, etc), Pythagoras modules are generally designed on a per-project basis. Ideally, these factors will all contribute to cost-efficient, beautiful buildings that generate their own energy with a lower negative impact on the environment in terms of carbon emissions and resource use.

Benefits of Pythagoras BIPV Solar Windows

-Generates solar power–delivers an unmatched level of energy generation per unit area (up to 13.5% module conversion efficiency) compared to other BIPV technologies such as thin-film/amorphous silicon.

Pythagoras BIPV solar windows Demo Project

-Improves building energy efficiency–The PVGU acts as a great thermal barrier (low U-value, high R-value), reducing a building’s heating and cooling loads during more extreme weather events. With 50% visible light penetration rate, there is also less need for artificial lighting, reducing costs and creating a visually comfortable environment.

-Architectural Design Benefits–The prismatic optics allow a high level of transparency and design adaptability. Unlike conventional solar panels, Pythagoras technology’s transparent nature means that they can be utilised in locations that would not ordinarily be an option for conventional solar panels, which are opaque. The technology is already available in windows, skylights, and vertical curtain walls. To add flare to add to Pythagoras technology’s already modern look, color cells will also soon be available.

Although Pythagoras technology is not yet available in Australia, Solar Choice does have an experienced and highly qualified in house architect and consultant who is able to design BIPV solutions. Please send an email to sales@solarchoice.net.au or fill out a free online quote comparison request form in order to commence discussions on what design may be appropriate for you.

Written by James Martin

Solar Choice Analyst

© 2011 Solar Choice Pty Ltd

Sources and Links:

Pythagoras-Solar homepage