Kyocera [RE-wrenches]

[Greg Seelhorst]

We installed 3 systems of 24ea KC-120s in 2001-2002 and one had problems.
The one which had problems, 8 panels were below their power rating within 2
years and Kyocera replaced the entire system after a bit of squeaky wheeling
and dealing to get them to change the entire array.

I have attached a comment from one of Kyocera's engineers, Steve Allen,
explaining the reason for the panel problems from 2000-2002. They may be
hesitant to let you know this, but if you just Google "KC120, problem" you
will find a bad history with this line of modules.

Regards,


Greg Seelhorst
Installation Manager
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer®
Solar Works
400 Morris Street, Suite C
Sebastopol, CA 95472
707-829-2518 (work)
707-849-6819 (cell)
707-829-8283 (fax)
CA Solar License (C-46) #878231

 

On 1/9/08 1:31 PM, "Allen, Steve" <Steve.Allen at kyocera.com> wrote:

> Hello Greg,
>  
> As Amie says below the problem KC120-1 modules have been isolated as those
> produced in the 2000 through 2002 period. It looks like you have some produced
> in 12-2003 (03Z). In any case the problem with the 2000-to 2002's were
> defective solder bonds at the buss ribbons and cell interconnects. These
> defects do not cause ground faults.
>  
>  
> Best regards,
>  
> Steve Allen
>  
>  



On 6/18/08 9:36 AM, "Drake Chamberlin"
<Drake.Chamberlin at redwoodalliance.org> wrote:

> 
> 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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