ZNShine Solar Panels Review (2024)

Overview

ZNShine Solar, hailing from China, is steadily gaining traction in the solar panel market, largely due to its competitive pricing. Although the brand has been in the solar sector for over a decade and a half, it’s not as universally recognized as names like SunPower or Qcells.

When you receive a solar proposal that includes ZNShine panels, you might be wondering if they’re the right choice for your home. Before making a decision, it’s important to understand the factors that set ZNShine panels apart. From their performance and efficiency to their long-term durability and warranty offerings, getting a comprehensive look at what ZNShine panels bring to the table can help you make an informed choice. Here’s a closer look at everything you should know about these panels to determine if they align with your energy goals and home requirements.

Key Points

• ZNShine hails from China and is a Tier 1 solar panel manufacturer, crafting modules suitable for both residential and large-scale solar endeavors.
• Their primary residential solar offerings include three distinct panel lines, with power specifications spanning from 360 W to 415 W.
• Post the solar tax incentive, a ZNShine solar panel system averages at about $14,000, marking a cost slightly below the industry’s standard.
• ZNShine panels boast strong performance metrics coupled with reliable warranty provisions.
• Recognized on BloombergNEF’s Tier 1 list, ZNShine is deemed a bankable solar manufacturer.

Want to determine the number of solar panels your house requires?

ZNShine specializes in producing both monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels, catering to residential, business, and large-scale utility ventures. By collaborating with the China University of Science and Technology, they aim to pioneer advanced solar module technologies that elevate performance.

One of the best advancements emerging from ZNShine’s labs is the incorporation of graphene into their solar cells. This material boosts the efficiency of the panels and provides resilience against environmental factors like moisture, dust, and extreme temperatures. As a result, graphene integration helps extend the operational life of ZNShine’s solar panels, making them a potentially more reliable choice in the long term.

Another impressive feature in many of ZNShine’s commercial offerings is their bifacial design. These panels are equipped with a rear side that captures reflected sunlight from surfaces such as rooftops or the ground beneath them. By harnessing additional sunlight, bifacial panels can increase electricity production, making them a great option for maximizing energy output in areas with high reflectivity.

ZNShine has introduced double-glass solar panels, which feature an extra glass layer on the back of the panel, replacing the traditional backsheet. This design not only boosts the durability of the panels but also helps to reduce the risk of chemical degradation inside the photovoltaic modules, increasing their overall lifespan. However, it’s important to note that this double-glass technology is still relatively new, and its full range of benefits and drawbacks are yet to be fully understood. This innovation may also require specialized installation knowledge, which some solar companies might lack, potentially adding a layer of risk for consumers.

Of the wide range of solar panel models ZNShine offers, the top three picks for household setups are:

• ZXM8-SP120 Series
• ZXM6-NHLD120 Series
• ZXM6-NHLD132 Series

What’s the pricing of ZNShine solar panels?

A typical ZNShine solar panel setup is priced between $19,250 and $20,000 before accounting for any deductions. With the 30% federal solar tax credit applied, the cost drops to approximately $14,000.

The price range translates to around $2.75 to $2.85 for every watt of ZNShine solar panels installed. Given that the current market rate for most solar systems hovers around $3.00 per watt, ZNShine emerges as a more economical choice.

However, keep in mind that the final expense for a solar project can fluctuate based on elements such as the number of panels you require and your chosen installation service.

How do ZNShine panels stack up against other solar panel brands?

While ZNShine solar panels tend to be more wallet-friendly than some alternatives, is that reason enough to opt for them? Below, we provide key performance metrics for ZNShine’s solar panels to help you make an informed decision.

Model	ZXM8-SP120 Series	ZXM6-NHLD120 Series	ZXM6-NHLD132 Series
Power output	385 W – 405 W	360 W – 380 W	395 W – 415 W
Efficiency	20.03% – 21.07%	19.76% – 20.86%	19.89% – 20.78%
Cell type	Half-cell mono PERC, 10 busbar	Half-cell mono PERC, 9 busbar	Half-cell mono PERC, 9 busbar
Glass	Single glass	Double-glass	Double-glass
Product warranty	12-years	12-years	12-years
Performance warranty	25 years, 2.5% degradation Year 1, 0.55% annual degradation	30 years, 0.5% annual degradation	30 years, 0.5% annual degradation

Performance Metrics for ZNShine Panels

When it comes to the world of residential solar panels, ZNShine has commendable specifications. Most of the solar panels on the market today range between power ratings of 370 W to 400 W. ZNShine is competitive, offering a span of 360 W to 415 W.

Efficiency is another impressive feature of these panels. While most modern solar panels possess efficiency levels ranging from 17% to 19%, ZNShine panels break the mold, starting at an impressive 19.76% and reaching up to 21.07%. Their remarkable power output and module efficiency owe a lot to the monocrystalline half-cut PERC cells they utilize. These cells, known for fewer resistive losses, are adept at converting a greater percentage of sunlight into electricity compared to their standard counterparts.

Additionally, ZNShine’s panels boast other specifications, such as temperature coefficient and power tolerance, that align with or surpass the industry benchmarks. Their high ratings in both power and efficiency ensure they can effortlessly meet the energy demands of your household.

As for credibility, ZNShine is recognized as a Tier 1 solar panel brand by BloombergNEF, which is a testament to its bankability and reliability.

Warranty on ZNShine Products

ZNShine provides a 12-year product warranty, ensuring their panels are devoid of manufacturing flaws. This duration aligns with the industry norm. However, some major players like Panasonic and SunPower offer extended warranties of up to 25 years upon online registration. While longer warranties exist, ZNShine’s standard 12-year coverage remains quite competitive.

Performance Warranty of ZNShine Panels

Performance warranties offer a guarantee on how well the solar panels will perform over their lifespan, providing insight into their long-term reliability and energy efficiency.

The specifics of the warranty can vary depending on the model of solar panel you choose. For example, the ZXM8-SP120 Series panels come with a 25-year performance warranty. This warranty ensures that the panels will degrade no more than 2.5% in the first year and no more than 0.55% annually. While these degradation rates are within the industry standard, they are slightly above average, meaning there could be a marginal reduction in energy output over time but they still offer a reliable performance lifespan.

On the other hand, the ZXM6-NHLD120 Series and the ZXM6-NHLD132 Series offer a more extended 30-year performance warranty, which exceeds the typical 25-year industry coverage. These panels are guaranteed not to degrade beyond 2.5% in the first year and no more than 0.5% per year after that, providing a slower degradation rate and longer-term reliability. This makes them an attractive option for those looking for a more durable, long-lasting solar solution.

Remember, these warranties stem from Standard Test Conditions (STC). The projected degradation rates represent lab conditions. If a new solar panel doesn’t generate its full power potential immediately upon installation, it doesn’t imply malfunction. For any significant drops in production not linked to environmental factors, consulting your solar installer is advisable.

Considering ZNShine Solar Panels?

ZNShine panels make for a worthy consideration if you’re pondering a solar switch. These panels offer competitive pricing and are anticipated to deliver strong performance post-installation. While the warranty on the ZXM8-SP120 Series might seem a tad lacking, the marginally faster degradation rate shouldn’t necessarily deter you.

Being candid, the brand of panels is not the sole significant choice. Who installs them is perhaps even more pivotal. It’s crucial to pick a trusted solar installation firm when making the transition. Remember, solar panels are crafted for longevity – spanning 25 years and even 30 for certain ZNShine models. This underscores the importance of partnering with an installer who can provide unwavering support throughout your panels’ lifecycle.

At 8MSolar, we have a team of solar experts committed to helping you install your dream solar system. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the solar panel brand options, let 8MSolar be your guide and help you find the best fit for your home.