The demand for renewable energy is on the rise, more homeowners and businesses are opting for solar panels to power their properties. 

However, with the increasing popularity of solar energy, the market has also seen an increase in counterfeit products. 

Identifying original, high-quality solar panels is important so you don’t end up throwing cash away – returning fake products can be a big issue because the sellers won’t make it easy for you. It’s better to avoid this stress and ensure efficiency, longevity, and return on investment. 

Hence, we’d guide you through the characteristics of good solar panels and provide tips on distinguishing genuine products from fakes.

Characteristics of Good Solar Panels

High Efficiency: Quality solar panels have high-efficiency rates, meaning they can convert a larger percentage of sunlight into electricity. Look for panels with efficiency rates above 15%, though top-tier panels can achieve efficiencies over 20%.

Durability and Build Quality: Good solar panels are built to withstand various weather conditions, including rain, wind, and hail. They should have solid framing, typically made from anodized aluminium, and tempered glass that can resist impact and degradation from UV exposure.

Positive Tolerance: Panels with positive tolerance mean they can produce more power than their rated capacity. For example, a panel rated at 300 watts with a positive tolerance of 0-5% can produce up to 315 watts under optimal conditions.

Reputable Manufacturer: Leading manufacturers, such as SunPower, LG, and Panasonic, are known for their high-quality products. They offer extensive warranties, often 25 years for performance and product quality, which indicates their confidence in the longevity and efficiency of their panels.

Certifications and Standards: Quality solar panels are certified by recognized standards organizations. Look for certifications such as:

• IEC 61215: Ensures the panel’s longevity and performance under prolonged outdoor exposure.
• IEC 61730: Ensures the panel’s safety for electrical and mechanical operations.
• UL 1703: Certifies the panel’s safety standards in the United States.

Performance Warranties: A good solar panel comes with a solid performance warranty, guaranteeing that the panel will produce a certain percentage of its rated power output after 25 years, typically around 80-90%.

Identifying Original Solar Panels

Check the Manufacturer’s Details: Original panels come with detailed information about the manufacturer, including their contact details, production location, and serial numbers. Verify this information on the manufacturer’s official website. Look attentively for Manufacturer name and logo, Model number, Wattage rating, Efficiency rating, and Safety certifications (IEC, UL). Be wary of missing or poorly printed information.

Serial Number Verification: Each solar panel has a unique serial number. Contact the manufacturer or check their website to verify the authenticity of the serial number. Counterfeit panels often have serial numbers that do not match the manufacturer’s records.

Inspect Physical Quality:

• Build Quality: Genuine panels have high-quality materials and finish. Look for any signs of poor workmanship, such as uneven surfaces, loose connections, or inferior framing materials.
• Labelling and Branding: Authentic panels have clear, professional labelling and branding. The logos and information should be printed crisply, without any signs of tampering.

Request Certification Documents: Ask the supplier for certification documents that verify the panel’s compliance with international standards. Authentic panels will come with verifiable certification from recognized testing laboratories.

Evaluate the Price: If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Counterfeit panels are often sold at significantly lower prices. Compare prices from multiple reputable suppliers to understand the market rate for quality panels.

Purchase from Reputable Dealers: Always buy from authorized dealers or directly from the manufacturer. Reputable dealers are more likely to sell genuine products and provide necessary after-sales support and warranty services.

Warranty and Support: Original panels come with comprehensive warranties. Verify the warranty terms and conditions and ensure the dealer honours them. Also, check if the manufacturer provides customer support and service networks.

Investing in solar panels is a big decision that can provide long-term benefits for your home or office. Ensuring you purchase original, high-quality panels is needed to maximize these benefits. 

So try understanding the characteristics of good solar panels and following the steps to identify genuine products, you can make an informed decision and safeguard your investment in renewable energy.