Residential Solar Tech?
by onlynd (2019-03-19 10:58:47)
Edited on 2019-03-19 11:00:52
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I’m considering bids from a couple companies near Annapolis in Maryland.

One of the tech discriminators between the offers is micro inverters vs. power optimizers. My research shows conflicting info on which is more efficient and reliable. Does anyone familiar have a perspective that isn’t readily available in the interwebs? I think I’m only concerned about total system efficiency (assuming same nameplate wattage) and I already know that I’ll have minimum shading impacts.

Both are offering 100% flashing on roof penetrations, backed by 20-25 yr warrantees on their work.

The quote with power converters is ~17% less - what am I missing other than a much more aggressive bid?

I live in MD and work in solar
by pfightingirish  (2019-03-19 21:37:28)     cannot delete  |  Edit  |  Return to Board  |  Ignore Poster   |   Highlight Poster  |   Reply to Post

My company used to install residential and now we only focus on commercial. We used to install both enphase microinverters and solaredge with optimizers. Both do essentially the same thing (maximize production of each module) and both have had their problems in the past with failures. I have enphase installed on my house and have been happy so far.

Just as important to the return on your investment is how are you financing? Outright purchase provides the greatest return, if you don’t have cash go with loan over ppa.

Finally which company do you trust will be there to stand behind its warranties. Which company provides better workmanship? Check out solarreviews.com.

I believe you are making the right decision to go solar - good luck on deciding which company!