Price per watt too low to be real???

[randallhilton]

I'm getting ready to take part of our home off grid - multiple reasons include a) be prepared and b) reducing the electric bill is a better pay off than the interest earned on the money.

Anyway -- I found a place that's offering blemished 200W panels for under $3 per watt and offers refurbished charge controller/inverters for considerably less than new.

www.sunelec.com is the web site.

It's pretty tempting because I would be able to build a considerably larger system for my budget but I don't know if I would be asking for a boat load of grief. I know many of you are vastly more experienced than I so I plead for your wisdom.

[12vman]

Quote..
"Sun modules are non-UL, Tuv or CE listed."

This may give you a problem if you plan to go for a grant or use a state incentive. Beyond that, the manufacturer still provides a warranty.

If I was going to do the install for myself, it seems to be a great deal. Stay within NEC standards so there wouldn't be any issues if the need of a warranty claim arose. If you know a licensed electrician, you may want to get him/her involved and get his/her blessings in writing. (Obtained via steaks on the grill and good, cold beverages) ;)

Don't skimp on the mounting/install! Plan on the panels and everything to be at location for 25+ years. That's a big factor on warranty claims. The manufacturer will nit-pick if they can. Don't forget proper grounding techniques.

As for the refurbished controllers, IMO, may be a gamble unless they provide a "like new" warranty.

Just my thoughts..