Which Panel Size?

[smcrea]

We had numerous quotes for a PV system and it seems that all of the installers tried to use 240w panels and then screamed that they cant fit them all on the roof.

But we know that they make 250w, 300w and up.

Why do the installers seem so reluctant to use higher output panels?

We are thinking about using 250w instead of 240w

Also do you have feedback on Suntech Pluto 240w vs Siliken 250w panels and then compatibility with a Sunnyboy US-4000 inverter?

[Naptown]

We had numerous quotes for a PV system and it seems that all of the installers tried to use 240w panels and then screamed that they cant fit them all on the roof.

But we know that they make 250w, 300w and up.

Why do the installers seem so reluctant to use higher output panels?

We are thinking about using 250w instead of 240w

Also do you have feedback on Suntech Pluto 240w vs Siliken 250w panels and then compatibility with a Sunnyboy US-4000 inverter?

Most of the panels in the 230-255W class are almost identical in size (other than Sunpower and Sanyo Biafacial)
Can't say anything about the Suntech but the Silikens are good.
With the higher wattage they should be able to get more watts on the roof.
Not enough info to comment on compatibility with the SMA 4000. (like how many etc)

[Mike90250]

Larger than 250w, you need a really large man or 2 average ones, to handle the large glass "sails" on the roof. More chance for breakage.

[smcrea]

Which Panel Size?

Thanks for the input.

But why do they always seem to choose 240's instead of 250's when physically they are the same size but you get more power for your sq/ft?

[KRenn]

Thanks for the input.

But why do they always seem to choose 240's instead of 250's when physically they are the same size but you get more power for your sq/ft?

Where do you live? Why not look at higher-end Sun power or Panasonic modules which are high-efficiency and both highly affordable through prepaid leases. A Sun power 327 watt module is identical to an average 240 watt module in physical dimension.

[Naptown]

Thanks for the input.

But why do they always seem to choose 240's instead of 250's when physically they are the same size but you get more power for your sq/ft?

Because 240's cost less per watt than 250's With a single inverter the cost per watt is actually less. With Microinverters the cost per watt will be more (on inverter costs)

[smcrea]

Which Panel Size?

I live in Southern CA.

It seems that cost goes up with the more higher efficiency modules and we are where we want to be power wise but just wanted a 'little' bit more power.

This was more of an interest question: Why do installers seem to choose 240w panels.

We got around 5 quotes and they all went for 240w panels in the initial quote.

[Naptown]

Where do you live? Why not look at higher-end Sun power or Panasonic modules which are high-efficiency and both highly affordable through prepaid leases. A Sun power 327 watt module is identical to an average 240 watt module in physical dimension.

If I were new to this forum I would think you worked for Sunpower leasing. Costs vary state to state and may not be as good a deal as you got considering you leased before the end of the 1603 program, had high APS rebates etc etc.

[smcrea]

Which Panel Size?

No I don't work for any solar company.. I'm in the cellular phone industry

I'm paying cash on the nose for my system

I just want t get an inside scoop on why they choose the 240w panels?.. I'm thinking margins maybe better because they are obviously in to make money!

[Naptown]

No I don't work for any solar company.. I'm in the cellular phone industry

I'm paying cash on the nose for my system

I just want t get an inside scoop on why they choose the 240w panels?.. I'm thinking margins maybe better because they are obviously in to make money!

Actually I was Referring to Rkenn whom I quoted.

[smcrea]

Which Panel Size?

So why do they plumb for 240w as default?

[Naptown]

So why do they plumb for 240w as default?

Plumb would not be a word I would use with Photovoltaic. More of a thermal term or water and waste term.

Why 240's?
Well someone bids your house with 250W panels and say 20 will fit. so you are getting a 5 KW system cost per watt is say $5.00
Same 20 modules but 240W you get a 4.8 KW system and the price is say $4.80 a watt.
Without incentives and a $.10 a KWH electric cost the payback time would be 1-2 years longer depending on where you live

[smcrea]

Which Panel Size?

Thanks,

So we are in the process of getting our plans drawn up by a contractor and decided to switch from using 26 x Suntech Pluto 240's to 26 Siliken 250w panels calculated at the price per watt that was sued on the Pluto's

So:

- Are Siliken panels as good or better than Suntech plutos?

- Is this a good deal?

Thanks Again!