Solar Panel Efficiency

Solar panel efficiency determines how much solar energy can be converted into electricity. This section compares the efficiency rates of Jinko, Canadian, and Longi.

Comparison of Efficiency Rates:

Brand	Average Efficiency
Jinko	19.5% – 21.3%
Canadian	19.8% – 22.8%
Longi	20.3% – 22.5%

 

Impact on the Number of Panels Needed:

Higher efficiency means fewer panels are needed to generate the same amount of energy. For example, to generate 5kW:

• Jinko (20% efficiency): ~25 panels
• Canadian (21% efficiency): ~24 panels
• Longi (21.5% efficiency): ~23 panels

This difference can be significant for larger installations or when space is limited.

Factors Affecting Solar Panel Output in Pakistan

Geographic Location and Sunlight Hours: Pakistan’s diverse geography affects solar potential across provinces:

• Sindh and Balochistan: Highest solar potential with 5-7 peak sun hours daily.
• Punjab: Good potential with 4-6 peak sun hours daily.
• Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Varied potential, 3-5 peak sun hours daily.
• Gilgit-Baltistan: Lower potential due to mountainous terrain, 2-4 peak sun hours daily.

Panel Orientation and Tilt:

Optimal orientation and tilt vary by location:

• Karachi: 25° tilt, south-facing
• Lahore: 30° tilt, south-facing
• Islamabad: 33° tilt, south-facing
• Quetta: 28° tilt, south-facing
• Peshawar: 32° tilt, south-facing

Shading and Obstructions:

Common obstructions in Pakistan include:

• Dense urban areas: Neighboring buildings
• Rural areas: Trees and agricultural structures
• Industrial zones: Tall chimneys or storage tanks

Regular cleaning is crucial due to dust accumulation, especially in arid regions.

Jinko Solar Plates

Specifications and Unique Features:

• Efficiency: Up to 21.3%
• Power output: 330W – 535W
• Temperature coefficient: -0.35%/°C
• Warranty: 12-year product, 25-year performance

Unique features: Advanced cell technology, and robust design for high wind and snow loads.

Calculation Example: For a 5kW system in Lahore:

• Daily energy requirement: 20 kWh
• Jinko 400W panels at 20% efficiency
• 5000W ÷ 400W = 12.5 panels, rounded up to 13 panels

Canadian Solar Plates

Specifications and Unique Features:

• Efficiency: Up to 22.8%
• Power output: 355W – 590W
• Temperature coefficient: -0.36%/°C
• Warranty: 12-year product, 30-year performance

Unique features: Excellent low-light performance, and advanced anti-PID technology.

Calculation Example: For a 5kW system in Lahore:

• Daily energy requirement: 20 kWh
• Canadian 450W panels at 22% efficiency
• 5000W ÷ 450W = 11.1 panels, rounded up to 12 panels

Longi Solar Plates

Specifications and Unique Features:

• Efficiency: Up to 22.5%
• Power output: 370W – 580W
• Temperature coefficient: -0.34%/°C
• Warranty: 12-year product, 25-year performance

Unique features: High efficiency in high-temperature environments, bifacial options available.

Calculation Example: For a 5kW system in Lahore:

• Daily energy requirement: 20 kWh
• Longi 500W panels at 21.5% efficiency
• 5000W ÷ 500W = 10 panels

Comparing Results

Side-by-Side Comparison:

Brand	Panels Needed	Total Power	Efficiency
Jinko	13	5200W	20%
Canadian	12	5400W	22%
Longi	10	5000W	21.5%

 

Factors to Consider:

1. Initial cost: Longi may have a higher upfront cost but requires fewer panels.
2. Space efficiency: Longi’s higher efficiency is beneficial for limited roof space.
3. Long-term performance: Canada offers the longest-performance warranty.
4. Local availability and support: Consider which brands have strong presence in Pakistan.
5. Climate suitability: Longi’s performance in high temperatures may be advantageous in hotter regions of Pakistan.

In conclusion, while all three brands offer high-quality solutions, the choice depends on specific project requirements, budget constraints, and local conditions in Pakistan. Longi offers the highest efficiency and space-saving option, Canadian provides the best warranty, and Jinko offers a balance of performance and cost-effectiveness.