Poly v. Mono (Schuko v. SunTech)

[Uffda]

From two different installer quotes, I have been given about the same price for a 4.3Kw system: One is for Schuko poly and another for SunTech mono. Mono will yield the higher efficiency (right), but I'm wondering about the quality of the Chinese panels (even though SunTech has a name) versus the German panels.

For that matter, is there any sense in upgrading to a Sharp or Sanyo for an extra $3k for the higher effeciency that some have been getting?
Thanks!
G

[Mike90250]

Sharp or Sanyo - one uses "ultra thin" wafers. I think that may be a thermal risk, after several years, stress may crack ultra thin cells.

[DeltaFox 25]

Didn't someone say if you buy from someone out of this country , if something happens who is going to be there to help you fix it????

[dzsolar]

dzsolar

when you choose solar panels, we think you need to consider many factors, example: quality, cost, warranty, life, services and so on. though the PV technology is from Germany, however many manfacturer from China can supply high quality panels like as famous brand, for example: Suntech, Yingli, Trina solar, Eging solar.

[Jason]

Moving this thread to the Grid Tied Forum

[pvpbryan]

It depends. Most panels come with a 25 year warranty and a 5 year workmanship warranty. While mono is slightly more efficient, it just depends how constrained you are on space as well. I do know SunTech (along with BP) has one of the best warranties in the industry though. I do not know enough about Schuko to comment however.

[russ]

Schuco has a large presence in the US - no problem with warranty.

Schuco is German standard - good quality with higher prices.