The most black, most aesthetically appealing solar panel... What it is?

[nomorecoal]

We had a similar issue with our HOA. Ultimately we decided on (1) required panels to be installed in symmetry, (2) black mount and (3) hide inverter from public view.

Most of us decided to install the inverter in the basement.

Going anything beyond will face resistance and will also complicate things with advancement in technology.

[sensij]

One person's idea of aesthetically pleasing is not always the same as another's. Another option you might want to look into if homogenous appearance is your thing are frameless modules, especially those with a black back sheet. Lumos has some nice pictures, but price might be double what you'd pay for standard panels. Sunpreme frameless panels might be on the list too... they've just rolled over the product line, and not many pictures are up yet with the newest panels. Sunpower's "Signature Black" is a framed panel that sounds like what you are looking for, but won't be inexpensive either.

I'm going with black frame / black backsheet on mine, but they are polycrystalline panels, so there will still be a blue tint to them. Definitely make sure you see an actual panel and like it, because the pictures and descriptions can be misleading. There is picture of a black/black Solarworld panel in this post, but there are still some very distinct lines you might not like. I suspect the Hyundai's will look a lot like that.

[carzin]

So, I am working hard to convince my HOA that represents a community with 900+ homes that I should be the first solar house in the neighborhood (in North Carolina), and that the panels be installed on the front. My request is over 30 pages in length, including a powerpoint. I have ranking officials with the state DENR, signed letters from council members, and neighbor's support. I have a good shot at this.

Along with the solar install, I am installing a charcoal black roof. The proposal is for 22 Hyundai MG series black mono panels to be installed (with black frames) as well as black mounting gear. I want it as black as possible. My installer is going to bring a panel by for me to take to the meeting (if I deem it would be a wise move). Its hard to tell if the gridding in the MG panel will be apparent or not, especially when it is mounted high and matching the pitch of the roof.

With that said, what are my best options for the most aesthetically appealing panel? Don't bother mentioning solar shingles. And I can't afford the ridiculously over the top solar power panels. My 6 kW system is being installed for just under 20k. I can push it another 3-4k if I feel the panels will look a lot better.

Since I am in the first in the neighborhood, I am attempting to be a role model so that people that follow me won't have a hard time.