Selecting the right PV modules for your projects or clients or even for your house, goes beyond a simple cost decision. Price is an important factor indeed, but it may come at a cost. Let’s break down which factors may affect a PV module’s performance as well as price, and how to use that knowledge to ensure we are making an informed decision:
1️⃣ Efficiency & Degradation: Ensuring Consistent Output Over Time
One of the most critical aspects of solar panels is their efficiency. The energy output of your system is directly tied to the quality of materials used in the panels, particularly the cells. There are 4 levels of Cell quality, from Grade A to Grade D. The Grades related to their microstructure, which can affect their actual performance when converting sunlight into electricity.
Grade A Cells
Grade A cells are pretty much perfect cells of highest quality. No visual or technical defects. Modules made with Grade A cells degrade at a slower rate, approximately 0.3 – 0.5% per year. That means that after 10 years, high-quality PV panels would retain approximately 95% of their original capacity! This gradual degradation means they retain higher energy output and maintain their effectiveness for much longer than lower-grade panels. On the other hand, lower-quality panels may degrade much faster, potentially losing 10% of their efficiency in just 1.5 years.
Frame Material and EVA Quantity
High-quality frames, usually made from durable materials like anodized aluminum, provide robust support, keeping the solar cells secure and well-aligned. They also withstand expansion and contraction, which is where lower quality frames suffer the most, especially in areas with extreme weather conditions. Overall the frame quality will extend the module’s longevity, but also ensure less energy loss.
EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) plays a vital role in solar panel performance and lifespan. Think of how delicate the PV cells are! EVA encapsulant layers surround the PV cells, acting as a protective cushion between the cells and the glass, as well as between the cells and the back sheet. Moreover, high quality EVA offers excellent UV resistance and transparency, with maximum sunlight reaching the cells. Lower-quality EVA can degrade and yellow over time due to UV exposure, which reduces transparency and, in turn, decreases energy production as less light reaches the cells.
When considering a 25-year lifespan, the difference is substantial. A panel with a higher degradation rate will simply not be serving you within a few years.
2️⃣ Lifetime Savings: Higher Quality Equals Greater Returns
While high-quality panels might cost more upfront, they provide considerable lifetime savings. Investing in well-built, reliable solar panels can save thousands of dollars over 30 years due to their consistent output. Think of quality panels as a one-time investment yielding years of power without frequent replacements. For example, a well-maintained, high-quality system could save up to $10,000 over its lifespan compared to lower-quality options. The consistent power output will also help maintain the value of your property, adding to your long-term return on investment.
3️⃣ Installation Cost Matters: Choose Reliable Materials to Avoid Future Costs
Here’s an example by experience.
Our recent client X in Belgium purchased a significant amount of Eco Green Energy Solar Panles with a single cause: to make up for the power inconsistency in a project cause by underperforming PV systems! In their project installation, in less than 2 years they noticed a significant loss in performance (almost 9% loss).
As a result, they had to replace the low-performing panels TWICE in a span of four years. At which point, they got in touch with Eco Green Energy to supply high-quality modules.
The costs of purchasing PV modules twice, the shipping costs and most of all, installation costs, was already a significant loss for their company. Let’s not forget that installation costs alone can sometimes amount as much as the PV system itself!
4️⃣ Warranty & Consistency: Long-Term Assurance for a Power-Packed Future
A reliable warranty is another strong indicator of a panel’s quality. Premium solar panels typically come with a 30-year power warranty, reflecting the manufacturer’s confidence in their product’s durability. This long warranty period means you won’t find yourself underpowered in the years to come, forced to add extra capacity to meet energy needs.
With a solid warranty, you can trust that your solar investment will continue delivering reliable energy output, ensuring predictable returns. In contrast, lower-quality panels may have shorter or more limited warranties, leaving you exposed to potential future costs.
5️⃣ Transparency: Know What You’re Buying with BOM and EL Reports
Just like checking food labels for quality, solar panel buyers have the right to know what they’re investing in. A Bill of Materials (BOM) report provides transparency into the components used, while Electroluminescence (EL) testing reveals any hidden micro-cracks that could affect performance. Requesting these reports can help you confirm that you’re getting the quality and durability you’re paying for.
Remember, it is within your rights to request these reports!
Why Eco Green Energy? A Trusted Brand with 15+ Years of Excellence
Eco Green Energy, a French brand with over 15 years in the solar industry, emphasizes durability and efficiency by exclusively using Grade A materials in all products. This commitment to quality ensures that our panels deliver reliable energy output year after year, maximizing both power and return on investment for every client. When you choose Eco Green Energy, you’re investing in a system built to last, with performance you can count on.
Want to learn more about how quality impacts your project’s power output and ROI? Let’s start a conversation today to discuss your unique needs and how the right panels can help you achieve long-term energy savings and sustainability.
Feel free to contact us at info@eco-greenenergy.com
