How to Spot Low-Quality Solar Panels? The Lure of Low Prices Can Lead to Major Losses

Solar Panel Buying Guide: With the rising demand for solar panels, low-quality panels have also entered the market. Buying them could prove costly for you.

Solar Panel Buying Guide: Until a few years ago, solar panels were seen only in select locations, but now they are being used everywhere—from cities to villages. Due to the surge in demand, a wide variety of options are now available in the market. Some sellers might lure you with low prices to sell you poor-quality panels. Buying such panels results in a waste of money and prevents you from getting the full benefit of solar energy. Today, we will explore the risks associated with low-quality solar panels and how to identify them.

Why are low-quality panels being sold?

The simple answer is that competition in the solar panel market has intensified, and demand is high. Consequently, many dealers are selling low-quality panels at cheap rates to attract customers. Regarding the downsides, these panels often use inferior-quality cells, which reduces efficiency. Furthermore, the panels themselves are structurally weak and prone to bending or warping during strong winds or heavy rain. The quality of the glass and other components used in them is also quite poor.

What are the major risks of low-quality panels?

Their efficiency is inherently low due to the use of inferior cells. Additionally, the prevailing temperatures in many regions of India further reduce this efficiency.
Cheap solar panels are prone to "micro-cracks." These are tiny cracks that are often invisible to the naked eye. Over time, these cracks cause the panel's performance to deteriorate.
These cracks can lead to the formation of "hotspots" on the panel. Hotspots are dangerous and can damage the entire system; they also pose a fire hazard.

How can you identify low-quality panels?

Be cautious if someone offers you a panel at an unusually low price.
You should pay attention to certifications when purchasing a panel. Genuine, high-quality panels will display BIS certification and IEC testing standards.
You can also gauge the quality by examining the panel's construction; a flimsy frame, poor finishing, and inconsistent coloring indicate inferior quality.
The documentation provided with the panel can also help verify its quality and authenticity.