Flat panels vs. Solyndra

[Dennis Rude]

We're getting ready to install a new (22,000 sf) roof, with solar panels on most of it. The total KW will be approximately 82. I am being urged by a consultant to use flat panels, & at the same time, 2 full time roofers are telling me that the raised Solyndra system is much better. I would appreciate any help in making the right choice.

Thanks

[Naptown]

flat modules by a major manufacturer are probably your best bet. Solyndra are thin film modules and are expensive, The company is not in good financial shape from What I have heard. Watt density will be much lower Their system however is very slick and installs very rapidly.

[Dennis Rude]

That's really helpful; thanks very much.

[russ]

Roofers trying to make their job the easiest possible?

I expect your consultant is a much better source of information - by maybe 1000%

Russ

[Simms Duncan]

Dennis - just one question. Are you planning to install a reflective roof surface? If so, Solyndra can offer very signficant savings on the cost of your roof as well as a competitively priced PV system. If you don't believe me, this document should convince you: https://na6.salesforce.com/sfc/p/800...7KSSa0SeCDITs=. Or you can just call me at 510-440-2487. I know because I obtain this savings for customers all the time. Ring me anytime. The number I have given you is my office number, but it rings through to my cellphone. But I'm on the West Coast, so don't call to early in the morning.


{mod note - this post is currently being left up, because it is a direct reply to a question. Although I question the wisdom of placing one's phone # with hour restrictions, on a google archived posting.}

[Bells1242]

Can you provide some more info? Are you space constrained? What's the roof slope and azimuth? It might depend on what state you're in, weather etc. Solyndra is preferred by the roofers because it's super roof friendly. No penetrations, only 2.8 lbs/sqft, no impact on drainage and low wind loads mean less worries on their part.

Simms asks a very important question as well ... What type of roof are you installing?

[Brad_Pratt]

Flat Panel vs. Solyndra

The panels are just one component of the cost. The balance of system (BOS) and installation can be significant. Solyndra panels have very low BOS costs, do not penetrate the roof and can be installed very quickly. As a result, the all in cost is very competitive with flat panels. If you have a reflective/cool roof, there can be significant tax credits for the installation. Also, depending on the roof, some flat panel system cannot support the weight, where Solyndra panels are significantly lighter. As far as the company is concerned, they continue to be funded, had over $140M in revenue last year, over a 1000 roof top installations and their installed base is expanding rapidly, so I don't think they are going away any time soon. I would do some research - Solyndra panels could be a god fit and a cost effective solution.

[russ]

All I know is what I read on financial sites - Solyndra is reported to have high per watt costs to the point of being marginally competitive at best and no good prospects for getting more competitive.

The reflective roof part is a bit of a joke unless one washes the roof everyday - the amount of light reflected at conditions best is low.

The entire concept is one that, in my opinion, should have never got off the drawing board.

Russ