A warning that some solar panels are inferior
Inferior Solar Panels Invade Australia Energy Matters 9 JULY, 2013: Inferior solar panels are being sold to unsuspecting Australians, with the cost in lost energy production calculated for the first time at $3,261* per household.
It is estimated 397,545 Australian homes have inferior ‘Tier 3’ solar panels installed, which are generally considered lower-grade due to the way they are manufactured. Three tiers of solar panel manufacturers were defined in an independent report by Pike Research in 20112.
Energy Matters’ Nick Brass explains why so many people have installed these ‘Tier 3’ solar systems.
“Unfortunately, people don’t realise they’ve purchased a second rate system. Unlike many consumer electronics that have brands famous for quality, the solar market in Australia is dominated by unknown brands – even though premium Tier 1 panels such as REC and Panasonic exist 3. Tier 2 panels can also be solid performers, but performance can vary wildly between the various brands2.”
“We’ve determined almost 40% of systems sold in Australia contain ‘Tier 3’ produced panels*. Some companies are focusing on selling low quality systems so they can promote a dirt cheap price. The fact is, not all solar power systems are created equally,” says Mr. Brass.
The company’s zero dollar deposit; low repayments initiative has become hugely popular since it was launched earlier this year.
Mr Brass also warns only to deal with reputable installers. This follows a disturbing report from Australia’s Clean Energy Regulator** that found one in five installations from the past five years were substandard.
“It could take years for the customer to realise they aren’t getting the maximum efficiency from their system due to a poor quality install. Always ask a solar installer how they will guarantee their installation. For example, will they offer a power monitor to ensure the system is performing optimally, or will they come out and audit the job 6 months after installation?”
According to Energy Matters’ calculations; the loss of energy production nationally over 25 years due to substandard installations combined with the 25-year performance loss of Tier 3 systems installed in 2012 comes to a staggering 3,045 GWh*. …… http://www.energymatters.com.au/index.php?main_page=news_article&article_id=3828
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