Kyocera [RE-wrenches]

[Scott Carlson]

Hi Drake,

I have had great performance from Kyocera modules compared to the ptc
ratings! Have seen poorer performance from some of those you listed as
better. Maybe other factors are coming into play. Just my two cents!


R. Scott Carlson
Real Goods Carlson Solar
Southern California V. P.
of Sales and Installation
(877)927-0782 (toll free)
(951)766-8825 (fax)
(909)633-0782(cell)



-----Original Message-----
From: Larry Crutcher, Starlight Solar [mailto:larry at starlightsolar.com] 
Sent: Thursday, June 19, 2008 1:13 PM
To: RE-wrenches at topica.com
Subject: Re: Kyocera [RE-wrenches]



Drake,

I sell tons of Kyocera modules to RV customers because they come to my store
and ask for it by name. However, I never recommend them. While I concur with
most of the other comments, it is interesting that no one has mentioned the
overall poor performance of Kyocera. 

The CEC rates them way down in the bottom end for performance. The KC-120 is
below 700 out of about 940 modules tested. Others rate a little higher. The
top performers are First Solar, Uni-Solar, Sunpower, and Sanyo. If customers
will listen to me, I always recommend the best performance modules as it
makes a HUGE payback difference over the next three decades of operation.

Here in Arizona, the $3 per watt rebate is based on nameplate rating. So
there is no incentive to build high performance systems. The cheaper panel
you by, the lower the customers initial cost. The rebate should be based on
performance. If we push high performance instead of price, won't many
manufacturers step up to the plate with better modules? Wouldn't that be
good?  
Larry Crutcher
General Manager
Starlight Solar

Retail Store & Shipping: 2998 Shari Ave. Yuma, AZ 85365
Phone (928) 941-1660      Fax (928) 342-9103

Mailing Address:11279 S. Glenwood Ave, Box 11114, Yuma, AZ 85367
Renewable Energy Products for Home, Business and Recreational Vehicles
powered by STARLIGHT

  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Drake Chamberlin 
  To: RE-wrenches at topica.com 
  Sent: Wednesday, June 18, 2008 9:36 AM
  Subject: Kyocera [RE-wrenches]



  I've been hearing conflicting opinions as to the quality of Kyocera 
  modules.  Some years back, on the list, I recall that it was stated 
  that there have been voltage consistency problems, and other issues.

  One long-time solar salesman recently claimed that Kyocera is the 
  best product on the market.  Does anyone have any experience that 
  would give an indication of the quality of Kyocera?

  Thanks,

  Drake 


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