Solar Panels - LG panels vs SunEdison panels? (costs, discount)

[ziggyziggy]

I know most installers go with LGs but how are the SunEdisons?


Does a higher wattage panel mean its more modern and efficient as compared to a lower wattage? Lower wattage usually means older technology and lower efficiency. Fair assumptions?

[Paoluccm]

All fair assumptions. Older lower wattage panels are much cheaper than more modern high wattage panels which you will use less of. In the end the costs are about the same. The only factor is roof space with southern exposure. If you have a small roof space facing south and high usage then you will have to go with higher wattage.

Regardless, you can only install to get no more than 110% of last 12 months power usage. Any overage is sold back to PSEG at a deep discount and you still have to pay the monthly service fee (approx $12) just to connect to the grid.

Panels usually last 20-25 years maybe a little more and degrade 1%/year. So in 20-25 years panels should be generating at 80-75% but by then, there will probably be much more efficient panels.

[AnthonyDsouza]

Originally Posted by ziggyziggy

I know most installers go with LGs but how are the SunEdisons?


Does a higher wattage panel mean its more modern and efficient as compared to a lower wattage? Lower wattage usually means older technology and lower efficiency. Fair assumptions?

SunEdison panels are generally okay, but it's important to check things like warranty and support.

When it comes to panel wattage, higher doesn't always mean better. Newer panels might have higher wattage, but it's not the only thing that matters. Other stuff like size and materials are important too. So, while higher wattage panels might be newer, it's not always the best choice.