There is a wide range of applications for solar panels and each customer type has particular needs and buying criteria. To most effectively buy solar panels purchasers must understand and consider their specific goals and objectives before price.

Buy Solar Panels

Solar panel vendors may or may not assist with solar design and installation issues. Customers have varying resources and ability should consider the level of support needed when deciding where to buy solar panels.

Customer Types

Customers have varying degrees of know-how and technical expertise and should factor this into their buying decision.

Homeowners (Do-it-Yourself)

Many solar applications require advanced technical skills and experience to be completed correctly.* Homeowners or do-it-yourselfers without all the requisite skills should consider companies at the retail and wholesale level that provide design and installation support. Skilled and experienced do-it-yourselfers may consider manufacturers and vendors that offer no technical support but more competitive pricing.

* To qualify for state and federal rebates grid-tie solar installations must be performed by a licensed electrician or contractor.

Contractors / Installers

Contractors and licensed solar installers are trained to design and develop solar power systems. These customers require no technical support from sellers, need materials quickly and strive to keep project costs within budget. To achieve short lead times for products contractors and installers may consider companies in close proximity that offer competitive pricing and quick delivery.

Solar Developers

Solar developers seek the lowest possible price for products that meet their specifications. Due to the scale of solar farms and similar projects small price differences amount to 100's of thousands of dollar in savings. Developers do not require technical support from sellers and purchase from distributors or manufacturers who offer the best prices.

Project Requirements

For a solar installation to be as efficient as possible the right equipment must be used. Criteria buyers must consider during the purchase of solar panels includes power generation, space limitations, scalability and price.

Power Generation / Degredation

Installers need to calculate how much power must be generated to achieve the goals of their solar energy system and to determine how many solar panels will be needed. Knowing the systems exact power requirements simplifies planning and streamlines the buying process. Additionally, degradation of the solar cells and decreased power output can affect long-term system performance, especially with the use of Thin Film solar panels.

Space Limitations / Scalability / Certifications

Limitations of the installation area and expected future changes to the system can affect what type and size solar panel is chosen for the project. Also, buyers must ensure that the panels they buy for their solar power system are properly certified. Grid Tie systems for instance must consist of UL listed components and UL certification is required to be eligible for all state and federal solar rebates.

Price

Buyers should not compromise their solar installation objectives to receive a low price. Once the ideal system plan is completed customers should seek out the best solar panel price possible for products that fully meet their project requirements. This will provide system reliability, efficiency and longevity.