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Q Cells Solar Panels: Backed by a 25-Year Warranty
Q Cells, also known as Hanwha Q Cells, is a large multinational company that spans around the globe. Q Cells was established in Thalheim Germany in 1999. On October 5th, 2005, Q CELLS became a publicly traded company on the Frankfurt Stock exchange. Seven years later in 2012 Q CELLS was purchased by South Korean Hanwha Group.
Today the company is headquartered in Seoul, South Korea, however the decision was made that their research and development operations would continue in Germany. Q CELLS has manufacturing facilities located throughout Asia and in 2019, opened its first U.S. based manufacturing facility in Dalton, Georgia, USA. This 1.7-gigawatt solar panel manufacturing plant has over 750 employees and produces 12,000 panels every day.
If you are wondering where 12,000 Q CELLS panels a day are going, according to the Wood Mackenzie Q1 2022 U.S. PV Leaderboard report, Q CELLS obtained 24.1 percent U.S. residential market share in 2021.
Q CELLS has an excellent reputation in the solar industry and is amongst the leaders in research and innovative manufacturing advancements. Q CELLS produces solar panels for a wide variety of applications for residential, commercial and utility-scale arrays.
Q CELLS panels by the numbers
Assembled in the USAHanwha Q Cells committed to the US solar market when they opened the doors to the biggest solar factory, not only in America, but in the Western Hemisphere, located in Dalton, Georgia.
The plant has a production capacity of 1,700 MW of solar modules annually.
“Our additional investment in Dalton will help Qcells better serve the needs of U.S. customers with increased local manufacturing capacity,” said Qcells CEO Justin Lee. “Georgia has become the clean energy manufacturing heart of America, and we are proud to contribute to the state’s advanced manufacturing economy.”
Although QCELLS manufactures in the USA, their price point for the Texas consumer is competitive with other brands who manufacture in Asia.
The most popular panels from Q Cells are the G9 series, available in sizes from 375W to 395W, and the larger G10 series, available in sizes from 400W to 415W.
Both the G9 and G10 series use the latest high-density Zcell technology combined with 12 bus bars on half-cut cells, achieving maximum efficiency of 21.4%.
QCELLS solar panels are an excellent choice for completely off-grid systems, as well as more common grid-tied systems.
The spec sheet below provides information on several Q CELL panel models. For this review, we will focus on the Q.PEAK DUO BLK ML-G10+ 400W solar module. This is a solar panel you are likely to encounter in the Texas residential solar market.
Q.PEAK DUO BLK ML-G10+ 400W
Q Cells panels feature a black anodized aluminum alloy frame which is certified for high snow (5400 Pa) and wind loads (4000 Pa).
With an improved efficiency rating over previous series, the Q.PEAK DUO BLK ML-G10+ is Q CELLS first 400W module for the residential market, reaching new high-performance levels.
The G10+ module utilizes Q CELLS' zero gap Q.ANTUM DUO Z technology to boost the 400 W module efficiency up to 20.4%.
Every Q Peak DUO module is also backed by a 25-year product and performance warranty that guarantees at least 86% of nominal power up to 25 years.
These all black, monocrystalline modules make for a great looking solar array display on the roof.
Q Peak DUO 400w modules test at or above their reported electrical output. Some panels produced as much as 5% over their reported rating. This report indicates some of these 400-watt panels tested near or at 420W production potential level.
This is not only especially encouraging for overall electricity production but in consideration of future rates of degradation.
Q Peak DUO 400w modules also feature a very respectable rate of degradation, guaranteed not to exceed 2% during the first year and 0.5% annually from years 2 to 10, maintaining 93.5% capacity at 10 years and 86 % capacity guaranteed in year 25.
Specification
Power output
Efficiency rating
Cell Type
Power tolerence
Front & back load
Warranty
Products data sheets
Q.PEAK DUO BLK ML-G10+ 400W
400 W
20.4%
monocrystalline solar half cells
-0 ~ +5%
5400 Pa-4000 Pa
25-year linear warranty
Sheet 1, Sheet 2
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Q CELLS Solar Panel Efficiency
Q CELLS.PEAK DUO BLK ML-G10+ series solar module's efficiency rating ranges between 19.6% and 20.6%, ranking it high in comparison with solar panels of average efficiency. The G10 + series 400 W module comes in at a solid 20.4 % efficiency. This accomplishment is thanks largely to Q CELLS' zero gap Q.ANTUM DUO Z technology.
Q CELLS Solar Panel Power Tolerance Rating
Power tolerance refers to the amount of electricity a panel will produce, either above or below its rated power capacity, at Standard Test Conditions (STC). The smaller the power tolerance deviation or range, the more accurate the rated power capacity is.
Q CELLS modules have a power tolerance of -0/+5%.
This means Q CELL panels, including the PEAK DUO BLK ML-G10+ 400W will, at the minimum, operate at their rated capacity. The panels have exceeded their rated capacity by as much as 5% in third party testing.
For example, a Q.PEAK DUO BLK ML-G10+ panel rated at 400 W will be to operate anywhere from 400 W to 420 W (or 5% higher than the rated 400 watts) under STC.
With a -0% tolerance rating, the Q.PEAK DUO BLK ML-G10+ 400 panel operates at or above 400 W. American made Q Cells' tolerance means real world performance under Texas' most extreme conditions.
Q CELLS Solar Panel Temperature Coefficient
Solar panels perform best at 77°F (25°C). Here in Texas, obviously, we see temperatures that far exceed 77°F for long portions of the year. A solar panel's temperature coefficient is a measurement indicating how well a specific model of solar panel will perform outside of ideal operating conditions.
Knowing a panel's temperature coefficient and the temperature of the panel will allow you to predict your panel's performance during the dog days of summer.
Temperature coefficients are calculated in Celsius.
With each degree above 25°C /77°F, a given solar panel's electric output will be diminished by its temperature coefficient.
Using the above methodology, the Q.PEAK DUO BLK ML-G10+ 400W panel has a temperature coefficient of -0.34%/°C. Hence, when this panel's temperature increases by one degree, from 25°C to 26°C (77° F to 79° F), expect a 0.34% reduction in potential electric output.
When it's July in Texas and temperatures have climbed to 95° F/35° C, expect electric output to decrease by 3.4%. When the hottest hours of the summer drives the mercury into the triple digits, say 113° F/ 45° C, the panels will decrease approximately 6.8%.
Q CELLS Solar Panel Performance Factors
In 2020, Hanwha Q Cell was the first manufacturer to adopt the more stringent testing standards of TÜV Rheinland Quality Controlled PV certification. This new higher standard has become Q Cells official certification standard for future generation of solar modules.
Leading independent solar module testing and performance services DNV-GL, in association with PVEL, scored Q CELLS as “top-rated” in the 'PV Module Reliability Scorecard Report'.
PVEL's independent lab and field-testing assembles data that developers use to get reliable solar equipment, which allows performance forecasting with a strong degree of accuracy.
In the 9th Edition of PVEL's PV Module Reliability testing (2022), Q CELLS made the 8X Top Performer, being awarded the distinction in 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022.
The "top-rated" designation certifies Hanwha Q CELLS are among the highest scoring modules in their class and display no signs of severe degradation or failure during four separate rigorous testing regimes.
Q.PEAK DUO BLK ML-G10+
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
PMAX Range | 355-400W
Module Design | Monofacial - glass//backsheet
Cell Technology | p-type PERC
# of Cells | 132 (Half Cut)
Wafer Width (mm) | 166.00
TOP PERFORMER IN THESE CATEGORIES
LID+LETID
PID
Warranty Q CELLS Solar Panels
All Q Cells G9+ and G10+ series panels come complete with both a 25-year product and performance warranty.The product warranty ensures all solar panels to be free of defects. The performance warranty guarantees 98% of nominal power rating during the first year. There after a maximum rate of degradation not to exceed .5% per year is guaranteed. At ten years, you will retain at least 93.5% of your rated nominal power and at 25 years your solar panels will retain at least 86% of their energy producing potential.
Are Q CELLS solar modules a good fit for you?
Some of Q Cells competitors may score just higher in some individual categories of efficiency or performance, however when taking price point into consideration Hanwha QCells is an amazing value for the Texas solar consumer.
In the first quarter of 2022, the Wood Mackenzie U.S. PV Leaderboard report declared Qcells obtained 24.1 percent of the residential solar market in the US in 2021.
What to know about Q CELLS Solar
- Q.ANTUM DUO Z Technology with zero gap cell layout boosts module efficiency up to 20.9%., with the 400W model we reviewed coming in at a highly competitive 20.4%.
- Q CELLS Q.PEAK DUO ML-G10+ series solar panels have a manufacturer's warranty extending for 25 years.
- High tech aluminum alloy frame, certified for high snow and wind loads
- Q CELLS is the first solar module manufacturer to pass the most comprehensive quality programme in the industry: The new "Quality Controlled PV" of the independent certification institute TÜV Rheinland.
- ALL-WEATHER TECHNOLOGY Optimizing power yields, whatever the weather with excellent low-light and temperature behavior.
- High-tech aluminum alloy frame, certified for high snow and wind loads.
- Long-term yield security with Anti LID Technology, Anti PID Technology1 , Hot-Spot Protect and Traceable Quality Tra.Q�.
- Inclusive 25-year product warranty and 25-year linear performance warranty.
All of these factors make a Hanwha Qcell PEAK DUO BLK ML-G10+ 400W an excellent value for Texas solar consumers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q Cells solar panels are known for their high efficiency, advanced technology, and durability. Q.ANTUM technology, which enhances their performance even under low light conditions, providing superior energy yield compared to conventional panels.
The efficiency of Q Cells solar panels can vary based on the specific model. However, many of their panels boast efficiencies exceeding 20%, which is considered high in the solar industry. Higher efficiency means more electricity generation per square meter of the panel.
Q Cells solar panels can be installed in a wide range of locations, including residential, commercial, and industrial settings. Their high efficiency and adaptability to different environmental conditions make them suitable for most regions around the world.
Yes, Q Cells offers product warranties for their solar panels. The solar warranty period may vary depending on the model but typically covers defects in materials or workmanship for 25 years from the date of purchase.
Q Cells solar panels are designed to be compatible with standard photovoltaic systems, making integration with existing setups possible. However, it's advisable to consult with a professional installer to ensure proper compatibility and system performance.
Yes, by utilizing solar energy, Q Cells solar panels help reduce carbon emissions and dependence on fossil fuels, contributing to a greener and more sustainable environment.
Q Cells solar panels are designed to be relatively low-maintenance. Regular cleaning to remove dirt and debris is recommended to optimize their performance. However, they do not require frequent technical maintenance.
Yes, the choice of inverters or micro inverter brand and model you choose will ultimately determine which monitoring system you will have. These online portals or smartphone apps, deliver real-time data, including energy production and system health.
Q Cells solar panels are only available through authorized dealers and solar installation companies. Solar Home Review will be happy to put you in contact a reputable QCells installer in your area. Simply complete the quick solar questionaire to help us learn about your solar needs and your homes energy consumption.
The availability of incentives or rebates for Q Cells solar panels depends on your location and local policies. In many regions, solar installations are eligible for solar tax credits, rebates, or other financial incentives. Solar Home Review is happy to put you in contact with a solar consutant in your local area who can research the incentives specific to your zip code.
The installation time for Q Cells solar panels can vary based on several factors, such as the size of the system, complexity of the installation, and local permitting requirements. On average, a standard residential installation may take a few days to complete.