Hey team, a follow-up thread for the solar power nation deal that was posted on ozbargain. Will be a good place to compare notes for those of us taking the plunge and others deciding if it’s a good deal or not.
Personally, I‘ve paid my deposit and ordered a system $3,299 in total. 6.6kw Huawei Inverter w/ Risen 315w panels.
Original deal here https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/483479
Conduit was a bit meh, but looks good.
Can you show a zoomed out photo of the inverter?
Also what was the outcome of the downsized panels that they did not tell you about?
are you referring to the conduits that go upwards from the panels?
Up and down, any in the sun. Looking from my phone so if it’s not connected to the solar my bad.
So they ordered 21 of the 315w panels as opposed to 20 of the 330w panels. 21 315w panels actually works out better as more watts and they took a small amount off the bill to make up for it, which was a really nice touch. I left that out of the review since it’s a variable that’s not likely to pop up for anyone else, even though the outcome was overwhelmingly positive.
How does that work with planning approvals or don’t you need that down there? ( adding a panel)
just so you dont think im ignoring you ;)
couple of dot points
- what direction are those panels? hopefully theres no sun orientations (ie times of the year, like winter) where the antenna shadow casts over the panels (that would be bad, drop production and possibly cause issues with the panels over time). Im assuming east/west?
- that conduit is to the panels right? not a fan of conduit out in the open, not a likely chance it will last a decade in full sun and remain water tight
- wheres the roof top isolators? i would expect one on each of those panel banks (assuming each is its own dc run to the inverter) but cant see one in the pic (or at least at the resolution i can zoom in to)
cant really judge any of the elec install based on that cropped inverter install.
Good generation numbers though, no issue there.
Good job stepping up to the panel/inverter you did, big difference to the original deal posted
Nice that you got a local installer, though post-sales service will likely not be with the same installer which can be where issues arise
and nice work on the QFF points
there you go, pretty even positive/negative feedback there ;)
Haha a measured response. Nice work
East/west. Roof gradient is not very steep- I think this helps my almost 40kwh
Some conduit, yeah. There’s not too much, but there’s some.
I’m not sure what an isolator is, I hope it’s there haha
I got the local installers details for any emergency and SPN will contract to him.
Even better for the QFF points, it’s with NAB and the annual fee was waived because we have a home loan haha
Btw I sent u a PM to come check them out if u like since you’re local, but I think you’re shy haha
isolator might be on the other side, they are a shit idea but you have to have them.
If you get audited they will pick it up and turn your system off
https://onestepoffthegrid.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/…
Upload a pic of the cables coming out of the solar inverter :)
"I got the local installers details for any emergency and SPN will contract to him."
Be careful they will charge for any call outs, if SPN does not do book them
BTW what time was the photos taken ?
@liveish: I have 2 DC isolators on mine, one on each chain.
@live_1991 what's your take on them? I know they are required by law at the moment but have heard that they are a part that can cause fires
When I uploading more pics haha
Was the app fusion home on iOS?
The one on Android is a bit meh I found myself using the web portal more often
I'm currently setting up neteco with huawei
Did you get the API setup for pvoutput?
@impoze: I think you need to do your own API integration
Setting up some some aws lambda kind of stuff
Do u know the address to log into the web portal? Also, can u get your output to PVOutputs from web ui?
@Bellpop: Haven't had time to give it a go yet
System working nicely in this pre-summer weather though,
Hi guys, I am currently talking to Solar Power nation for the following system @3350 (as it's a two stories)
21x315w risen watt solar panels
5kw huawei inverter.
I also got an interesting quote from Solar Secure:
21x315w Seraphim Mono Black Blade series panels
Huawei inverter $3421
Solar Secure requires $200 deposit that can also be given by credit card.
I am reading reviews for both before I decide.
Do you guys know anything about Seraphim panels?
Thanks
if i had to pick between those two companies, even I'd pick Solar Power Nation :/
Thanks :)
😂😂😂
Lol, so hard to choose guys. I can't make up my mind, but I am leaning towards SPN as a lot on here got it installed.
But also about the inverter, I cannot decide. So annoying
Guys just a word of warning:
I asked for a quote via Hipages and Spn recontacted me (different person) and a Fronius 5kw + 21 panels has been quoted $200 less than when I contacted mentioning ozbargain.
Their rep did post in the other thread to mention ozb to get a better deal so don't think that's an issue?
I don’t know it’s a bit strange as later came with a quote of $3900 for 20x330w seraphim and Fronius 5kw.
I managed to get same quote from Solarmatic which has been recommended from a friend and are in Sydney. So I’m going with them instead.
Saraphim panels are same quality as Risen but warranty is 15 years. Prices are the same as well so why not, get a bit of extra warranty
@SBOB: Yes I just noticed that PDF is not updated. however I was told it has changed to 15 years look here https://solarbright.com.au/products/solar-power/solar-panels…
https://www.seraphim-energy.com/seraphim-rolls-out-innovativ…
@fozzie: Cool.
As long as they have local support should the installer disappear then that's a good extra on the seraphim
@SBOB: I really hope Nobody needs it. I found a PDF that matches new warranty.
https://sundraenergy.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Serap…
@fozzie: I tried doing this the other day, it sort of worked. Got $100 off to round things evenly (3500) but seemed a little "too" easy ahha Cheers!
Just want to add my two cents. I has a great experience dealing with this company, they installed a 6.6 system within 4 weeks (in Sydney, from deposit paid date to installation in 4 weeks). Ken was the person I deal with, he was very helpful, to the point where I couldn’t have asked for a more prompt response (All my email queries to him were responded within an 1 hour of sending the email).
They have started the process of contacting my electricity service provider to install a smart meter.
I have one question, the Fronius app is showing that 100% of the electricity produced is being sent to the grid and none utilised in the house. Is this because of the absence of a smart meter?
unless you got the smart meter, it won't show you your usage, only the power generated
I know a few Ozbargainers have installed with these guys recently, I wanted to check in on how your install has been going? Any issues so far and if so have they been responsive? Seriously considering these guys but part of me is worried about their deals being too good to be true..
I know some people upgraded the inverter, but did anyone ask for upgraded solar panels?
What options did you get.
Thanks.
Below
Hi mate, about a month in here since install. No dramas with install or operation. Can highly recommend. I went risen panels and huewei inverter for about 3500 installed
I signed a contract about 3 months ago and they have ghosted me ever since. Sales rep has not responded to any of my emails and every time I call they tell me that somebody will call me back but they never do. Unsure what to do at this point but I would recommend steering clear of this company if you plan to have panels installed anytime this year lol
I paid deposit about three weeks ago and am apparently getting an install date tomorrow. I’ll report back and let you know how I go. From past experience they were great. I always deal with Ken.
?? Your comment from November was that you were installed in October…
"Hi mate, about a month in here since install. No dramas with install or operation. Can highly recommend. I went risen panels and huewei inverter for about 3500 installed"
Since then I’ve sold and bought a house. Install is for the new place. Was happy enough with them last time, hence why I’m going through them again.
Has anybody else been forced to pay $200-300 extra last minute due to roof grinding being required? This company has been a complete nightmare to deal with. We began chatting to this company back in November and it is now Mid March and are still without any solar panels. Would recommend everyone to STEER CLEAR do not use this company
Nah I wasn't. did u get the install done?
Hey guys, don't mean to bump this thread up again. I've been doing some research and took the plunge to go onto SPN becuaes of this thread and a few others. Don't know much about what i need but figured you guys are the experts ;). So formally, i've gone with the deal of $3600 with 20x 330kw Risen panes + 5kw Huawei Inverter as per @bellpop did in their last home.
Dealing with ken aswell myself. Really prompt. Persistent on the calls (called 3 times while i was at work 2min intervals) obviously wanting the business.
Saw a member quote hipages to get a discount. advised someone else payed $3200 for it and to get a price match but he wouldn't do it becaues of "last years rates" but dropped $100 off the price instantly without hesitation. So $3500 all up with $100 deposit.
Paid deposit about 2 days ago and had a call from one of the guys to say install will be happening in 2 days. So deposit to install in 3 days. Must be due to current conditions. I'll keep you guys updated if you'd like some more progress!
Thanks again ozbargain forum.
Great job mate. I was really happy with that setup.
Cheers, definitely came from the recommendation from yours. Did you end up going with captain green?
Had captain green price matched by a local company called ‘quick fix solar’ they’re based on the central coast. Really happy with the job.
Super stoked yours turned out good too ;)
@PMK is that install on a single story or double story
Install is in a single story home. If you check the comments a double wasn't too much more.
just a follow-up on these guys.
My system was installed in October, 2019.
November 2020, I noticed leaking underneath the panels. A lot of back & forth between SPN, countless calls & emails to get them to inspect it.
Took about a month to get it looked at by an installer, who blamed the builder. Builder came and said it was definitely solar install.
Chasing up a few more weeks and they sent out another guy who had a look, left and disappeared.
Finally, 3 months later they sent out a proper roof inspector who said he couldn't find any issues. Everything had dried up at this stage but you could clearly see it had leaked from the paint bubbling on the wall.
Come this week, with the massive downpour, it's leaked again. Luckily, I had a few measures in place with towels, tarps & bags as it could have been a lot worse. Another leak has formed.
I've already got fair trading involved and will now go to NCAT tribunal to request a work order to have it removed/fixed.
Best to stay away from Solar power nation as it's when things go wrong that you need to call on the service.
Just bumping up thread to get idea about how eveyone is doing ? I have got very competitive quote of $4.2k for 13.2 kwh system. Just wanted to know if you guys are having good or bad experience with SPN. Next best quote is $6.5-7k but after sale is what bothering me.
get some more quotes
My inverter stopped recently, but that was dealt with Huawei directly. Promptly sent out a replacement and back up and running.
I have checked with RAA and Origin which are charging arm and a leg. Got some quotes with solar quotes which is nearly double the amount about same panel. I have no faith on SPN but as long as the panel and inverter company abide by warranty I think can give it a shot. What do you reckon ? Also suggest better inverter and panel.
Ask around for recommendations in local Facebook groups or friends.
https://www.solarquotes.com.au/panels/ has a chart you can pick mid range for panels, he has the same chart for inverters.
Don’t go with Solar Power Nation. Read the after sale reviews!
https://www.productreview.com.au/reviews/1e064571-6693-544f-…
@liveish: I’m in Newcastle, so not so small.
I’m also impressed with your nature response in acknowledging a decent job instead of knee jerk undermining it.
I’m really happy with it.
After paying for it with a new credit card with 90k bonus QFF pointing for min spend of 3k and selling those QFF points on ozbargain classifieds, the whole setup will have cost me a touch over $2,000. Not bad hey.