When it comes to solar panels, Jinko Solar is a name that often comes up as a top choice for both residential and commercial installations. As a leading global manufacturer, Jinko Solar has significantly influenced the renewable energy industry. This review covers Jinko Solar’s background, product range, efficiency, technical specifications, cost, reliability, and service availability. Let’s dive into why Jinko Solar panels are highly regarded and whether they are the right choice for your energy needs.
Company Background and Global Presence
Jinko Solar was founded in 2006 and has since grown into a solar powerhouse with a presence in over 100 countries. The company’s headquarters are located in Shanghai, China, with several manufacturing facilities spread across China and Malaysia. Jinko Solar has become the world’s largest solar panel manufacturer by shipment volume, consistently leading the market with high-quality products.
Pros of Jinko Solar Panels
1. High Efficiency Rates
Jinko Solar panels deliver outstanding efficiency, with the Tiger series reaching up to 22.6%. Additionally, advanced technologies like PERC (Passivated Emitter Rear Cell) enhance light absorption and reduce electron recombination, maximising power output. The half-cell technology also reduces electrical resistance, boosting overall efficiency.
2. Advanced Cell Technology
Jinko Solar incorporates cutting-edge cell technologies to enhance performance. For instance, features like multi-busbar (MBB) design reduce the distance electrons need to travel, decreasing resistance and improving efficiency. As a result, this technology ensures that more sunlight is converted into electricity, increasing the panel’s overall power output.
3. Affordable Pricing
Jinko Solar panels offer an excellent balance between performance and affordability. Prices typically range from $0.50 to $0.70 per watt, depending on the specific model and installation requirements. For a standard 6.6kW residential system, the cost can be between $4,000 to $6,200 after Government rebates.
4. Durable and Weather-Resistant
Jinko Solar panels undergo rigorous testing to withstand extreme weather conditions. Specifically, their panels are certified to endure high winds and heavy snow loads, making them suitable for various climates. Moreover, the robust construction and high-quality materials used in manufacturing ensure long-term durability and reliable performance.
5. Excellent Temperature Coefficient
The temperature coefficient of Jinko Solar panels is competitive, minimising efficiency losses in high-temperature environments. This factor is crucial for installations in regions with hot climates, ensuring that the panels continue to perform well even under intense heat.
6. Strong Warranties and Longevity
Jinko Solar offers solid warranties, including a 10-year product warranty and a 25-year linear power output warranty. These warranties guarantee that the panels will maintain a significant portion of their rated power output over 25 years, ensuring long-term reliability and performance.
7. Wide Product Range
Jinko Solar provides a diverse range of panels, catering to different needs and applications. From residential to commercial and utility-scale projects, Jinko’s product lineup includes monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels with varying power outputs and efficiency levels.
8. High Power Output
Jinko Solar panels are available in high-wattage models, suitable for large installations and projects requiring significant power generation. Panels like the Tiger Pro series offer power outputs exceeding 500W, making them ideal for commercial and utility-scale applications.
Cons of Jinko Solar Panels
1. Efficiency Drop in High Temperatures
While Jinko Solar panels have an excellent temperature coefficient, there is still a drop in efficiency in high temperatures. This drop, although minimal, is an important consideration for installations in extremely hot regions where optimal performance is critical.
2. Limited Availability of Cutting-Edge Models
Although Jinko offers a wide range of panels, some of the latest and most advanced models may not be readily available in all markets. This limitation can impact those looking for the highest efficiency and newest technology in their solar installations.
3. Potential for Supply Chain Disruptions
As a global manufacturer, Jinko Solar sometimes faces supply chain challenges that can lead to production and delivery delays. These disruptions can affect project timelines, especially during periods of high demand or global supply chain issues.
4. Aging Model Performance
Older models of Jinko Solar panels may not have the same efficiency and technological advancements as the latest versions. When considering older stock or second-hand systems, it’s important to note that these panels might not perform as well as newer models with improved technologies.
5. Total System Costs
The cost of Jinko Solar panels is competitive, but the total system cost includes additional expenses for inverters, mounting hardware, and installation labour. These additional costs should be factored into the overall budget for a solar installation.
Jinko Solar Panels Testing by PV Labs Australia
In 2023, PV Labs Australia conducted independent testing of solar panels, funded by the ACT Government. They borrowed 121 solar panels from 14 different manufacturers and ran the following five different tests.
- Visual inspections (checks for defects that may cause a risk of reliability loss)
- Standard test condition (STC) power tests (check of solar panel power output)
- Electroluminescence (EL) tests (check of inherent solar panel quality and transport / handling damage)
- Wet leakage tests (safety test)
- Potential induced degradation tests (accelerated aging test)
Jinko Solar had three models tested in round 1 and four models tested in round 2. The models performed well, averaging scores of 86 in round 1 and 89 in round 2.
Conclusion
Jinko Solar has established itself as a leader in the solar industry, offering high-quality, efficient, and affordable solar panels. With a wide range of products, a strong presence in Australia, and a commitment to innovation, Jinko Solar is a reliable choice for anyone looking to harness the power of the sun. Whether you’re interested in reducing your carbon footprint or lowering your energy bills, Jinko Solar panels provide a solid and sustainable solution. Be sure to consult with a CEC-approved installer to choose the best solar panel system for your needs.