enphase s280 with LG315N1C-G4

[rsilvers]

Are there any test results that didn't come from SolarEdge that show the SolarEdge as more efficient?

[ButchDeal]

Are there any test results that didn't come from SolarEdge that show the SolarEdge as more efficient?

The specs from both clearly show that enphase is less efficient. The equipment is listed on CA specs and lists which also show it.
NREL has tested as well.

There are not even any tests from enphase showing them more efficient than solarEdge.

[rsilvers]

I thought EnPhase was saying otherwise, but they do seem to just cite that one test from PVE.

[ButchDeal]

I thought EnPhase was saying otherwise, but they do seem to just cite that one test from PVE.

Check their specs. Enphase inverters are 96.5% to 97% efficient CEC & max efficiency

https://enphase.com/en-us/products-and-services/microinverters

SolarEdge ranges from 97.5% to 98.3%

http://www.solaredge.us/files/pdfs/products/inverters/se-single-phase-us-inverter-datasheet.pdf

And the optimizers are 99.5%.

http://www.solaredge.com/files/pdfs/products/power-optimizers/se-P5-series-add-on-power-optimizer-datasheet-na.pdf

So even at lowest of 97.5% and 99.5% combine to 97.0125%. ( marginally greater than 97%) to 98.3% and 99.5% combine to 97.8%

[ncs55]

Thats a pretty good information. Reading all the posts should I go with SMA or enphase? My installer mentioned that its going to cost me the same and its my decision.

If you do not have any shading issues The SMA is what I would want. You can get all of the data you need from the Sunny Portal. For me, it is not only the clipping to consider, which type will harvest more on cloudy or partially cloudy days should also be considered, IMO. I like the production that I see from high voltage strings vs micros on any given day though.

[rsilvers]

Shading can also mean bird poop on a panel, or snow. I am new to this, but I can't see going SMA if EnPhase is the same price.

[ncs55]

Shading can also mean bird poop on a panel, or snow. I am new to this, but I can't see going SMA if EnPhase is the same price.

Bird poop would have to cover most of the module to make an effect like shading. One or two spots does not make a difference with either system. Snow will affect both systems equally also. I am curious why would you think the micros are more productive over a string inverter design in full sunlight? Also, have you considered the LG modules with built in micros?

[ButchDeal]

Bird poop would have to cover most of the module to make an effect like shading. One or two spots does not make a difference with either system. Snow will affect both systems equally also. I am curious why would you think the micros are more productive over a string inverter design in full sunlight? Also, have you considered the LG modules with built in micros?

The optimizers and micros can be slightly more productive in non-shade situations. Mostly due to utilization of module different production levels from the factory. They come usually +5% , -0%.
Then there is some efficiency gains with inverters like solarEdge, at near constant DC side voltages.

[rsilvers]

Also, have you considered the LG modules with built in micros?

Doesn't seem to exist. And if it did, it would not be for 315 or 320 panels.

[ncs55]

Doesn't seem to exist. And if it did, it would not be for 315 or 320 panels.

What do you mean it does not exist? http://www.lg.com/us/commercial/MonoXACe/index.jsp A well producing system is more than the wattage of the modules used in that system. Consider how the A and V work with the inverter as well. The difference in using 300 or 320 Watt modules is usually only a few modules more or less in the system. If you for example were using a 3000 W string inverter maybe ten of the 320's would work, but 11 of the 300's may be a better string design and produce more. And could cost less. Also, usually the higher wattage modules go for a premium compared to yesterdays lower watt module. LG claims to have the highest AC output for a micro design with this module.

[SunEagle]

What do you mean it does not exist? http://www.lg.com/us/commercial/MonoXACe/index.jsp A well producing system is more than the wattage of the modules used in that system. Consider how the A and V work with the inverter as well. The difference in using 300 or 320 Watt modules is usually only a few modules more or less in the system.

Cool. Although I hope they went through a very rigid beta test for those panels. I would hate to have to replace both the panel and inverter should either part fail due to early death syndrome for electronics.

[ncs55]

You never know do ya. I have been waiting for a customer to request these so I can monitor them. My supplier has them in stock and they look pretty robust. The inverter is NEMA 6. Internal temp is rated for 194 F. Mostly here in S.D. the modules run at around 150-160 F in full sunlight. The output specs look pretty good.

[rsilvers]

I mean it has been discontinued:

http://www.lg.com/us/commercial/sola...lg-LG300A1C-B3

[rsilvers]

I don't know why a customer would request them. Why would anyone want 300 watt panels when LG makes 315 and 320 watt panels, unless the 300s were lower dollars per watt, which a customer would not have visibility on. So the installer would have to be the one to talk the customer into it by offering a lower overall price due to reduced labor or something. It just seems like a short-lived product that someone may have trouble replacing in the future if they needed another one and could not find it.

[J.P.M.]

I don't know why a customer would request them. Why would anyone want 300 watt panels when LG makes 315 and 320 watt panels, unless the 300s were lower dollars per watt, which a customer would not have visibility on. So the installer would have to be the one to talk the customer into it by offering a lower overall price due to reduced labor or something. It just seems like a short-lived product that someone may have trouble replacing in the future if they needed another one and could not find it.

As stated, older lower STC Wattage panels sell for less. Lower $$/Watt is why. Less $/Watt for about the same annual production/Watt. Kind of like buying last year's model car.

[rsilvers]

If a customer gets a lower price quote from it, then sure. But I can't picture that happening - as LG, the distributor, or the installer would find a way to keep that from happening.