I'm searching for some trustworthy Chinese vendors for a 16kW solar setup, which will use 36 Longi 455W solar panels. I live in Dallas where wind speeds can reach 70 mph, so it's crucial to find reliable products. I'm hoping to save some money on this installation without sacrificing quality.
I have a couple of specific questions:
1. Can anyone suggest a solid racking solution? Feel free to share any Alibaba sellers or affordable US options, but please don't mention Ironridge as they're too pricey for me.
2. I'm also on the lookout for string inverters from China. I'm considering Tigo EI inverters for non-China options, but I'm open to other suggestions as well.
Ultimately, I want a solution that prioritizes reliability. I'm fine with minor tweaks here and there but I definitely want to avoid any major headaches when it comes to installation and functionality.
2 Answers
Most inverters are actually manufactured in China, but the quality can vary widely—some can be terrible and even cause safety issues. For example, Deye products are distributed by Solark in the US, which should meet safety standards. I'd definitely advise against using cheap, non-US approved inverters in a residential setting, especially for grid-tied systems. This could complicate your permits and inspections, so stick to certified products for peace of mind!
For your racking needs, I’d recommend checking out superstrut or unistrut from Home Depot. You can attach your panels using PV Z-brackets, which should hold up well. Just make sure to check if it’s suitable for your roof installation. It's a great DIY option that is budget-friendly!
Would this work well for a roof-mounted setup?
Thanks for that insight! What do you think about racking solutions?