The Best Solar Panels For Home Use In Zimbabwe

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As the demand for renewable energy & reliable power sources continues to grow, more and more homeowners in Zimbabweans are turning to solar power to meet their energy needs. 

And with good reason! Not only is solar energy a clean energy and sustainable source of power, but it can also help to significantly reduce your energy bills.

However, with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to try and determine which solar panels are the best fit for your home. That’s why we’ve created this informative blog post – to help you navigate the different types of solar panels available and find the perfect one for your unique needs.

In this post, we will be discussing the top solar panel options for home use in Zimbabwe. We’ll take into consideration factors such as efficiency, cost, and durability, as well as provide you with information on the latest technological advancements in the solar panel industry. 

Whether you are looking to reduce your energy bills, do your part for the environment, or both, we have the information you need to make an informed decision. 

So, if you are ready to learn more about the best solar panels for home use in Zimbabwe, read on!

What to Look for When Choosing Solar Panel for Your Home

When choosing solar panels for your home there are a few things you need to consider.

Solar Panel Costs

When comparing solar products, the cost is often the first factor that comes to mind. However, it’s important to remember that the cost of a solar panel is determined by a variety of factors, including its size (measured in watts) also referred to as power output, physical dimensions, brand, materials, durability, and any certifications the solar panel may have.

While cost is certainly an important consideration when choosing a solar panel, it shouldn’t be the only factor. The cheapest solar panel may not be the most efficient or the best option in the long term.

When evaluating how to choose solar panels, it’s important to keep in mind that some solar companies like Jinko Solar and JA Solar produce budget-friendly & good quality solar panels that have a long lifespan (25-year power warranty ) so it’s worth investing in a high-quality system rather than opting for the cheapest option. It’s also important to consider the long-term benefits and savings that can be achieved with a good quality solar panel system.

Solar Panel Efficiency

Solar panel efficiency is a measure of how effectively a solar panel can convert sunlight into electrical energy. The efficiency of a solar panel is expressed as a percentage, and it represents the proportion of the light that falls on the panel that is converted into usable electricity. A higher efficiency rating means that more of the sunlight that the panel receives is being converted into electricity, which means that the panel will generate more power and be more cost-effective over time.

However, it’s important to note that while a more efficient solar panel may be a better choice in terms of performance, it also generally comes at a higher cost. Therefore, when choosing a solar panel, it’s important to find a balance between efficiency and cost. It’s not always the best choice to get the biggest and most efficient solar panel, since you might end up spending more money than you should to cover your energy needs.

The Best Solar Panels For Home Use In Zimbabwe

Instead, it’s important to assess your requirements and find the panel that best suits your needs. This means not underestimating, but also not overestimating your needs. It’s like buying a car, you don’t need a Ferrari to take your children to school (you can have it of course, but you can do the same spending a lot less). Therefore, it’s important to consider your energy needs, budget, and other factors when choosing a solar panel to ensure that you get the most cost-effective solution.

Solar Panel Wattage

To be beneficial, solar panels need to generate enough power to replace the electricity that a household consumes. Efficiency ratings are an important factor in determining a panel’s ability to convert energy into usable power, while wattage is a measure of the amount of power a panel can produce. Most modern residential solar panels generate between 250 and 400 watts per hour while in operation. Generally, higher-wattage panels are considered more favourable as they produce more power, but other factors such as your energy needs and budget should also be taken into consideration when determining the ideal wattage output per panel. Additionally, The number of panels needed will depend on the household’s consumption and the area of the roof or land available for solar panel installation.

Temperature Coefficient

This refers to the effect of heat on a solar panel’s performance after it has been installed. When solar panels overheat, it can cause them to age faster. A lower percentage per degree Celsius for heat impact is considered more favourable as it means the panel is less affected by heat. The above technical specifications have been provided by Jinko Solar.

Check Solar Panel Warranties

Solar panels typically have a 25-year warranty. However, warranties for other components such as batteries, inverters, and other key parts can vary greatly depending on the product and manufacturer. It is important to pay attention to these warranties, as well as the panels’ output warranty after 10 and 25 years, especially if you plan on living in the same home for an extended period. Make sure to check both performance and manufacturer warranties. Jinko Solar produces budget-friendly & good quality solar panels that have a long lifespan and outstanding product warranty (25-year power warranty )

Installation Company Availability

When choosing a solar panel installation company, it’s important to make sure that the solar installer offers the panels and system components that you desire, or equivalent options. It is also crucial to research the company by checking reviews, references and price quotes to ensure that they can meet your solar energy needs. Additionally, it’s a good idea to look for installer workmanship guarantees in addition to manufacturer warranties to make sure that you are covered in case of any installation-related issues.

When buying a solar product from Off Grid Power Solutions you have the option of requesting an installation quote from a certified electrician / solar installer/ on the product page. Alternatively, you can contact us for more information.

Available space on your roof

The amount of roof or yard space you have, and the direction it faces, can greatly impact the type of solar panel that is best for you. If you have a smaller space, it’s best to opt for fewer panels with higher wattages and efficiencies. Conversely, if you have a larger space, you may be able to benefit from more panel quantity and power options. The direction of your roof or yard also plays a crucial role, as the panels should face the optimum direction in order to maximize energy production.

How Do Solar Panels Work?

In Short; Solar panels work by converting the energy from the sun into usable electricity for your home or business. They do this through a process called photovoltaic (PV) conversion.

The panels are made up of photovoltaic cells, which are made of silicon and other conductive materials. When sunlight hits the cells, it causes the electrons in the silicon to become excited and move around. This movement creates an electric current, which is then sent to an inverter.

The inverter converts the direct current (DC) electricity produced by the panels into alternating current (AC) electricity, which is the type of electricity that is used in most homes and buildings.

The AC electricity is then sent to your electrical panel and distributed to the various devices and appliances in your home or building. Any excess electricity can be sent back to the grid or stored in a solar battery/batteries for later use.

Types of Solar Panels

Monocrystalline

A monocrystalline solar panel is a type of photovoltaic (PV) panel made from monocrystalline silicon cells. It is one of the most popular and efficient types of solar panels available on the market today.

Monocrystalline solar panels are made from a single, continuous crystal structure of silicon, which is cut into thin wafers to make solar cells. Because the cells are made from a single crystal, they have a uniform and consistent structure, which makes them more efficient at converting sunlight into electricity.

Monocrystalline solar panels are typically more efficient than other types of solar panels, such as polycrystalline panels. They can convert more sunlight into electricity and produce more power per square foot of panel area. They are also more durable and have a longer lifespan than other types of solar panels.

Monocrystalline solar panels are also relatively small in size, making them suitable for small spaces and for residential use. They are also well suited for grid-tied solar systems, where the excess energy generated can be sent back to the grid for credit or future use.

However, they are also the most expensive type of solar panels compared to other types like polycrystalline and thin-film solar panels.

Polycrystalline

Polycrystalline solar panels, also known as multicrystalline or multi-si solar panels, are another type of photovoltaic (PV) panel that is widely used in solar power systems. They are made from multiple crystals of silicon and are less expensive than monocrystalline solar panels.

Polycrystalline solar panels are made by melting raw silicon and pouring it into a square mould. As the silicon cools and solidifies, it forms multiple small crystals, rather than a single, large crystal. These crystals are then cut into thin wafers to make solar cells.

The cells in polycrystalline solar panels are less efficient than those in monocrystalline solar panels, as the multiple crystals in the cells interfere with the flow of electricity. They typically have a lower conversion efficiency of around 15-17%, which means they can produce less power per square foot of panel area.

However, polycrystalline solar panels have a slightly lower cost than monocrystalline solar panels, making them an attractive option for some customers. They are also suitable for a wide range of solar power systems, such as grid-tied and off-grid systems, and for residential, commercial, and industrial use.

They are also more durable and have a longer lifespan than other types of solar panels. They are also relatively larger in size and can be less aesthetically pleasing than monocrystalline solar panels.

Thin-Film Solar

Thin-film solar panels are a type of photovoltaic (PV) panel that is made by depositing a thin layer of photovoltaic material, such as amorphous silicon, cadmium telluride (CdTe), or copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS), onto a substrate, such as glass, metal, or plastic.

One of the main advantages of thin-film solar panels is that they use less raw material compared to crystalline solar panels, such as monocrystalline and polycrystalline. This makes them less expensive to produce and allows for more flexibility in the manufacturing process. They are also relatively more flexible and can be used in a wide range of applications, such as in building-integrated photovoltaics, portable solar devices, and flexible solar panels.

Thin-film solar panels also have a lower conversion efficiency than crystalline solar panels, typically around 8-12%. They also have lower power output per square foot of panel area, meaning that more space is needed to produce the same amount of electricity. They are also less durable and have a shorter lifespan than other types of solar panels.

Additionally, the efficiency of thin-film solar panels is affected by heat and shading, and they tend to perform poorly in high-temperature environments. They also tend to degrade faster than crystalline solar panels.

However, they are suitable for a wide range of solar power systems, such as grid-tied, off-grid, and hybrid systems. They also have a more aesthetic look compared to other types of solar panels.

So what are the best solar panels for home use in Zimbabwe?

The best solar panel solution will depend on your specific needs and circumstances.

Monocrystalline solar panels are the most efficient and durable option, but they are also the most expensive. They are ideal for smaller spaces or for those who want the highest possible energy output per square foot. They are also well suited for grid-tied solar systems, where the excess energy generated can be sent back to the grid for credit or future use.

Polycrystalline solar panels are less expensive than monocrystalline, but they are also less efficient. They are suitable for a wide range of solar power systems, such as grid-tied, off-grid, and hybrid systems, and for residential, commercial, and industrial use.

Thin-film solar panels are the least expensive option, but they also have the lowest efficiency. They are suitable for a wide range of applications, such as building-integrated photovoltaics, portable solar devices, and flexible solar panels. They are also relatively more flexible and can be used in a wide range of applications.

Ultimately, the best solution will depend on your budget, the amount of space you have available, and your energy needs. It is recommended to consult with solar professionals or conduct a detailed site assessment to determine the best solar panel option for you.

How many solar panels do I need?

The average household uses six to fourteen 455W solar panels, with larger homes requiring up to twenty-three panels. However, it is dependent on the amount of available space, your electricity consumption, and the parameters of your inverter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which types of panels are best for residential homes?

For residential homes, monocrystalline or polycrystalline solar panels are typically the best options. Monocrystalline solar panels are more efficient and durable but also more expensive. Polycrystalline solar panels are less expensive but less efficient. Both types of panels are suitable for residential use and have a good lifespan and aesthetic look. It’s recommended to consult with solar professionals or conduct a detailed site assessment to determine the best option for your specific needs and circumstances.

What angle should solar panels be positioned at?

When solar panels are oriented directly toward the sun, they produce the most power. The optimal angle of approaching sunlight varies depending on your earthly location. Solar panels in northern latitudes perform best when mounted at about a 45-degree angle to the average position of the sun, while those in southern latitudes perform better when installed at 20 to 25 degrees.

Do solar panels require regular maintenance?

Solar panels require very little upkeep. Light cleaning on a regular basis and keeping them free of leaves and debris help them perform at their best. A professional inspection once a year helps ensure that your system is trouble-free for years.

Does temperature coefficient matter?

Surprisingly, solar panels outperform in cold temperatures. The coefficient rating for solar panels reflects how well the panel performs as the temperature rises. Coefficient ratings are critical in determining which solar panels are best suited for use in hot climates.

How long do solar panels last?

Jinko Solar produces budget-friendly & good quality solar panels that have a long lifespan and outstanding product warranty (25-year power warranty ) this does not mean that the solar panel will stop working after 25 years, it will just become less efficient with an annual efficiency reduction of 2%.

We Are Sona Solar Zimbabwe.

Named after the Gaelic term (Old Irish Word) Sonas - for Good Fortune (Prosperity and Happiness) - Sona Solar Zimbabwe is committed to bringing Prosperity and Happiness to its customers through Solar Solutions in Zimbabwe. We deliver turn-key energy efficient solutions to meet client energy and budgetary needs and reduce environmental impact.

Choosing The Best Solar Company in Zimbabwe:

Choosing a solar panel installation company can be time-consuming. It is easy to be overwhelmed when comparing the reputation, price, warranty, and panel options of different solar providers.

Sona Solar Zimbabwe stands out as one of the most reputable companies in Zimbabwe. Sona Solar Zimbabwe offers reliable systems with a 25-year warranty, 10-year workmanship warranty, and two-year production guarantee.

Sona Solar Zimbabwe prides itself on offering original solar products and accessories. Sona Solar Zimbabwe also maintains partnerships with reputable brands around the world.

Address: 7 Frank Johnson Ave, Eastlea (Near VID), Harare, Zimbabwe.

WhatsApp: +263 78 922 2847 and +263 78 864 2437
Landline: +263 24 2797750

Email: sonasolarzw@gmail.com