What the best & cheapest place to buy solar panels?
 

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What the best & cheapest place to buy solar panels?

I'm looking to buy a 2kW or 3kW system.




(also rails, and cables).

What do you want to do with them? Single string inverter, micro-inverters?

Do you have a panel wattage in mind? Or are you limited by any space constraints?

I usually look here when I'm trying to get a good idea for prices. I wouldn't go with anything that isn't UL listed, it is required for grid-tie and in general I don't see why someone wouldn't want listed panels. Keep in mind that there are much higher costs than the panels themselves when you factor in the total once you've got your racking, inverter(s), permitting, and if you need labor you'd want to factor that in as well. Normally(from what I read and from discussions with people who install these systems) installed costs prior to government rebates is $4+ per nominal watt if a system is professionally installed at about a 4kw size(factor in economies of scale). Not sure what the labor component is in that number though for those doing it themselves. Also, don't forget about shipping costs for all of these components, they are large and heavy.

Solar Panel Price Survey | EcoBusinessLinks

i want 12v ~, and to use grid tie inverters (500 thru 1000watt units each).

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Before ya buy anything, better check with your local power company and see what they require you to have to be able to connect to them. Also, check on the rates on what they will give you. Might not be worth your efforts, IMO..

i'm looking to grid-tie, but not looking to resale back to the grid.

^^^^^ Exactly. My power company has a 4 page legal document you have to sign before you can connect anything that generates power to "their grid". Whether you intend to overproduce and sell back or simply cut your bill slightly makes no difference to their lawyers.