Popular Solar Panels in Miami and Broward: A Technical Comparison

In the sunny locales of Miami and Broward, Florida, solar panels are gaining momentum as a key solution for sustainable energy needs. Among the top contenders in the market are the REC Alpha 405, Jinko 385, and Canadian Solar 395W panels. Each of these panels offers a unique set of technical advantages that cater to the high solar irradiance of the region. Here is an in-depth look at the specifications of these popular solar panels.

REC Alpha 405

• Country of Origin: Norway
• Quality Rating: High - known for durability and high performance.
• Power: 405W
• Cell Count: 72 HJT cells
• Colour: Black - offering a sophisticated look for modern rooftops.

One of our customers with a REC Alpha 405 system of 28 modules.

Jinko 385

• Country of Origin: China
• Quality Rating: Good - reputable for its quality-price balance.
• Power: 385W
• Cell Count: 72 monocrystalline cells
• Colour: Typically dark blue or black, series-dependent.

Another one of our customers. This one with Jinko 385 for a total of 27 modules.

Canadian Solar 395W

• Country of Origin: Canada
• Quality Rating: Very good - noted for robustness and efficiency.
• Power: 395W
• Cell Count: 72 monocrystalline cells with PERC technology
• Colour: Black - aesthetically pleasing for residential installations.

Two other of our customers with Canadian Solar 395W system of 32 (left) and 35 modules.

Comparison of Consumption and Production for a Home in Miami/Broward

For a household with a daily energy consumption of 37 kWh (Florida average, according to Shrink that Footprint), an assessment of how many panels are needed from each type and their total energy output is crucial. Assuming an average of 5 hours of peak sunlight, the calculations are as follows:

Number of Panels Needed

• REC Alpha 405: Number of panels = 37 kWh/day / ((405W × 5 hours) / 1000) ≈ 18 panels
• Jinko 385: Number of panels = 37 kWh/day / ((385W × 5 hours) / 1000) ≈ 19 panels
• Canadian Solar 395W: Number of panels = 37 kWh/day / ((395W × 5 hours) / 1000) ≈ 19 panels

Total Energy Production

The total energy production is the sum of the energy produced by each panel multiplied by the number of panels and the hours of sunlight.

• REC Alpha 405: Total production = 18 panels * 405W × 5 hours = 36.45 kWh/day
• Jinko 385: Total production = 19 panels * 385W × 5 hours = 36.57 kWh/day
• Canadian Solar 395W: Total production = 19 panels * 395W × 5 hours = 37.52 kWh/day

In summary, a home in Miami or Broward with a daily requirement of 37 kWh would need around 18 to 19 solar panels, depending on the chosen model. This is obviously a very hypothetical analysis and many more factors need to be analyzed, but at least you have an idea.

While the REC Alpha 405 offers slightly less production with fewer panels, the Canadian Solar 395W can exceed the daily energy demand. It's important to note that actual performance can vary based on location-specific conditions and panel orientation.