How to buy solar panels in the Philippines in 4 easy steps.

STEP 1 – Understand the product

While anyone can definitely buy solar panels by themselves, having panels without an engineering-procurement-construction (EPC) solar company will mean having to DIY the entire system. Unless tinkering and engineering is a hobby, the best thing to do is to find an end-to-end solutions company that will calculate, needs, solar requirements, construct or build the system, and connect the system to the grid so that net metering can be enjoyed.

STEP 2 – Know the payment options

There are two ways to obtain a solar PV system: outright purchase (with or without financing) or through a leasing program. The former need not be explained, the latter is also not complicated but does need a quick explanation. Leasing a solar system simply means having a solar power company install the entire system, take over operation and maintenance at no upfront cost. The system is slowly paid back over time. It is usually recommended to go for the most intelligent investment (long term) and not the cheapest.

STEP 3 – Learn a little jargon

It is easy to get overwhelmed or swept away by fancy terms. “Tier 1 panels,” “photovoltaic”, “wiring and inverters”; it gets confusing. Most solar power companies will use the best of the best technology so as to be able to promise the longest possible warranty and optimal performance. The only things a newbie to solar power needs to know are:
How long is the warranty?
This should be at least 20-25 years.
What is the system’s performance ratio?
This should be over 75%.

STEP 4 – Have choices

Don’t just talk to one supplier, talk to three to five. Like buying the perfect suit, trying on more than one is necessary to know which has the right fit.