Hanwha Q Cells Solar Panels Review - Are They The Right Choice?
If you’re considering Hanwha solar panels for your home, there are a number of things you need to keep in mind first.
Q Cells started in Germany in 1999, and in February 2015 Hanwha Q CELLS was born from combining Hanwha SolarOne and Hanwha Q CELLS. They are headquartered in Seoul, South Korea, (Global Executive Headquarters) and Thalheim, Germany (Technology & Innovation Headquarters) and is the world’s largest solar cell manufacturer as well as one of the largest photovoltaic module manufacturers.
In 2014, the Q.PRO-G2 235Wp solar module tested by the renowned specialist journal PHOTON achieved the highest performance ratio (93.6%) and the best specific yield of all the polycrystalline solar modules tested.
Key Benefits Claimed By Hanwha:
- Excellent performance under low light – Mere 2% loss of efficiency at 200W/m2 with respect to efficiency at 1,000W/m²
- Module capacity up to 280 Wp
- Module tolerance +5/0 W
- Inclusive 12-year product warranty and 25-year linear performance warranty
- Excellent stability: tested for wind loads up to 4000Pa and snow loads up to 5400Pa
With all these positives, Hanwha panels sound like a great option for your solar power system, however, there are three things you must consider first.
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Hanwha Q Cell panels offer panel efficiency rates of up to 17.1%, compared to the market leader which is up to 21%. While a lower efficiency brand of panel is usually cheaper, you will sacrifice some long-term return-on-investment by not going with the highest efficiency brand you can afford, so be sure to compare the lifetime value of Hanwha Q Cells against other brands before making a final buying decision.
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If your roof space is not too constricted, Hanwha Q Cells are a cost efficient choice because you can fit enough panels on the roof to meet your power needs (compared to the higher efficiency panels previously mentioned) at a more reasonable price. However, if your roof space is limited and you want to maximise your power production, Hanwha Q Cells might not be the best choice for you. It’s important to keep in mind that solar is an investment first and foremost. Getting an accredited installer with experience in your local area to consult with you will help you understand what panels will provide the best return for your investment over the life of the system.
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Even if you are already 100% decided on Hanwha Q Cells, don’t be too hasty in accepting the first quote you receive. Different installers charge different prices, even for the same product. Installers all buy their products from different places, have different margins and offer varying levels of service. The price you are quoted, even for the exact same product, can vary by hundreds of dollars depending on who you talk to.
The best way to make sure you get the right panel for you at the best price is to compare quotes from Clean Energy Council accredited installers with experience in your area.
By partnering with the top national and local installers across Australia we offer the quickest, easiest and smartest way for you to do this.
