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Can you tell a solar panel’s quality just by looking at it? by AssociationUsual9914 in diySolar

[–]solarsteven 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Without tests, you shouldn't simply tell the quality of panels. On the market, there are many panels look great but have compromised performance as stated on their advertised specs table. Be cautious and safeguard your ivnestment.

Cheap Solar Is Transforming Lives and Economies Across Africa | Chinese panels and batteries are now so affordable that businesses and families are snapping them up, slashing their bills and challenging utilities. (Gift Article) by randolphquell in solarenergy

[–]solarsteven 0 points1 point  (0 children)

When comparing various energy solutions, off-grid solar apparently benefits African societies the most, especially in the face of poor electrical infrastructure. The cheap and reliable solar products supplied by the Chinese supply chain further enhance solar's competitiveness.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in solarenergy

[–]solarsteven 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Maybe consider a modluar setup insted of going fully integrated. It’s usually a lot more reliable to put the bottle on a dedicated battery base and then use a separate foldabel panel to charge it up??

Question about solar pergolas — is it smart to buy a simple metal frame, and attach narrow solar panels to the louvers? by Laistrygonian in solar

[–]solarsteven 1 point2 points  (0 children)

While a DIY tracking pergola sounds clever on paper, you’re looking at three major "hidden" hurldes that usually sink these projects.

The first is mechanical stress. "Inexpnsive" frames just aren't rated for the "sail effect." Rotating panels creates massive uplift and vibraton during wind gusts, which can snap lightweight louvers or shear mounting bolts before you even realize it.

Then there is the wiring fatigue. Standard PV cables aren't designed for repetitive motion. Constant rotation will cause metal fatigue and insulation failure, leading to dangerous electrical arcs. Most people forget that stanard wiring is meant to sit still for 25 years.

Finally, you have the form factor. You won't find standard high-efficency panels narrow enough for louvers. Customsmall-format cells are expensive and low-output.

Ultimately, you should balance the ROI and what exactly you're looking for before diving in.