Founded in 1997 by Gao Jifan, Trina Solar has grown to become one of the top five solar panel manufacturers globally. The company, listed on the Shanghai Stock Exchange, boasts a market capitalization of approximately 47 billion Chinese Yen (about AUD 10 billion). Trina Solar has been a prominent player in the solar industry, contributing significantly to residential, commercial, and solar farm projects across over 160 countries, including a substantial presence in Australia with a local office in Sydney.
Key Panel Indicators
- Bloomberg Tier 1 Ranking: Yes
- DNV GL Top Performer: Yes (5/6)
- Office Location in Australia: Yes
These indicators highlight Trina Solar’s bankability and reliability in the solar panel industry. While Bloomberg’s Tier 1 ranking reflects the financial health and credibility of the manufacturer, the DNV GL Top Performer status is a testament to the quality and reliability of Trina Solar panels based on independent testing.
Cost of Trina Solar Panels
The cost of Trina Solar panels varies based on system size, installation specifics, and local factors. Here are average costs for fully installed systems using Trina Solar panels in Australia:
- 6kW System: $5,282
- 8kW System: $8,687
- 10kW System: $11,244
These prices include installation, the STC rebate, and GST, but can fluctuate depending on the location and installer.
Trina Solar Panel Comparison: Honey M vs Vertex S
Here’s a breakdown of the key specifications for Trina Solar’s Honey M and Vertex S panels:
| Feature | Honey M | Vertex S |
|---|---|---|
| Cell Number | 120 | 120 |
| Cell Type | Monocrystalline | Monocrystalline |
| Power Output (Wp) | 375 | 400 |
| Nominal Power Voltage (V) | 34.4 | 34.2 |
| Panel Efficiency (%) | 20.5 | 20.8 |
| Annual Power Degradation (%) | 0.55 | 0.5 |
| Dimensions (mm) | 1763 x 1040 x 35 | 1754 x 1096 x 30 |
| Area (m²) | 1.83 | 1.92 |
| Weight (kg) | 20 | 21 |
| Product Warranty (years) | 12 | 15 |
| Performance Warranty (years) | 25 | 25 |
| Operational Temperature Range (°C) | -40°C to 85°C | -40°C to 85°C |
| Made in | China | China |
Unique Selling Points
Trina Solar distinguishes itself through several key factors:
- Large Manufacturing Capacity: Trina Solar is one of the largest solar manufacturers globally, with a production capacity exceeding 100GW.
- Vertically Integrated Supply Chain: Trina controls most steps in the solar panel production process, including ingot, silicon wafer, and solar cell manufacturing, ensuring high quality and supply chain reliability.
- Innovative Technologies: Trina employs advanced technologies such as PERC, bifacial, and half-cut cells, which enhance efficiency and performance.
Panel Technologies
Trina Solar offers several series of panels, including the Honey, Tallmax, and Vertex series. Each series has its unique features and applications:
- Honey Series: Known for a balance between efficiency, quality, and affordability, these panels are ideal for small rooftop systems. The latest Honey M panels offer up to 20.7% efficiency.
- Vertex Series: These panels are designed for high performance, with the Vertex S being popular in residential markets due to its compact size and high efficiency (up to 21.8%). The premium Vertex S+ panels come with a 25-year product warranty.
- Tallmax and Duomax Series: Although less common now, these series were predecessors to the Vertex series, offering robust performance and high efficiency.
Independent Testing
Independent testing by PV Labs Australia in late 2023 placed Trina Solar panels in the middle tier for quality and performance, scoring 85 out of 100. This indicates consistent and reliable performance, although not necessarily top-tier in all categories.
Warranty for Australian Customers
Trina Solar provides comprehensive warranties for its panels:
- Product Warranty: Ranges from 10 to 25 years depending on the model.
- Performance Warranty: Guarantees 80-87.4% of the rated power output after 25 years, with higher-end models like the Vertex series offering up to 87.4%.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Large manufacturing capacity and financial stability.
- Vertically integrated supply chain ensuring quality control.
- Local Australian office providing easy access to support and warranty claims.
Cons:
- A wide range of models can be confusing for customers.
- Some quality issues reported in older models (2011-2014).
Conclusion: Should You Buy Trina Solar Panels?
Trina Solar panels are a solid choice for both residential and commercial installations due to their balance of affordability, efficiency, and reliability. Their extensive warranties and local support in Australia further enhance their appeal. However, customers should carefully consider the specific model and series to ensure they meet their performance and budgetary needs.
