Solar panels are the most essential component of any solar PV module, and they are an ingenious way to produce energy to power your home or office. Solar panels can help cut down your carbon footprint, as solar energy is a renewable energy source with no carbon emissions. In recent years, people are switching to solar PV systems to reduce their dependence on conventional energy sources and bring down electricity bills. Today, a number of solar panel manufacturers exist in the market, with each of them making a range of panels of different kinds and of different outputs. For an ordinary customer who is making the transition to solar energy, choosing the right solar panel can be a bit tricky.
Solar panels worth 100W of capacity are generally suited to power homes and small offices. In this article, we will help you choose the best 100W solar panel for yourself. We will review some of the best 100 Watt solar panels in India and discuss some of the important factors which you must take into consideration while buying a solar panel. We will also answer some of the most frequently asked questions regarding these products. Go through this article to make the choice which best suits your requirements.
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Top 5 Best 100 Watt Solar Panels 2023
1. Luminous BIS Certified Polycrystalline 105 Watt Solar Panel
TOP PICK
Highlights
- Manufactured with complete compliance of BIS certification and IS/IEC standards
- Durable polycrystalline panel able to withstand harsh weather conditions
- Made of A-grade silicon cells that are fitted with a powerful reflector
- 25-year performance warranty provided
Luminous is a popular brand for electrical appliances and batteries in India, and the company is also a leading manufacturer of solar panels. All its solar panels come with BIS certification and comply with IS/IEC standards. This 105 W polycrystalline solar panel offered by the company is no exception. It features 36 polycrystalline cells made from many silicon panels fused together. The speckled reflective appearance of these solar cells and the thickness of the slices are clearly visible. Polycrystalline solar panels are more suited for the weather conditions in India, and this panel is designed to withstand extreme weather conditions, such as strong winds and snow loads up to 5400Pa, allowing it to last for decades.
Besides, the use of Grade A solar cells with PID resistant technology generates up to 5 percent more power as compared to the traditional solar panels. The Grade A silicon solar cells are fitted with a powerful reflector, which helps redirect sunlight back from the cell. The space required to install this panel is also not much: it requires only 10 sq. feet of area to install a single panel of this kind. Besides, this Luminous solar panel also comes with a wire of 1000 mm length for a reliable connection.
With an IP 65 rating, this panel offers the best-in-class conversion efficiency. In addition, this solar panel features an anti-reflective coating and back surface field for more light absorption. Moreover, the advanced EVA encapsulation offers a greater degree of module protection.
On the performance front, this solar panel has an open circuit voltage of 22 volts and an optimum operating (Imp) of 5.82 Amps. The short-circuit current (Isc) of this solar panel is 6.28 Amps and the panel offers a module efficiency of 15.14 percent. The maximum power voltage offered by this panel is 18.05 V. Luminous also offers a 5 year warranty on the product, alongside a 25 year performance warranty. With these incredible specs and features, this Luminous solar panel is one of the best 100W solar panels in India.
CHECK THE PRICE ON AMAZON!2. Sukam Solar Panel 100 Watt – 12V
Highlights
- BIS Certified – Luminous solar panels are BIS certified as per IS/IEC standards
- Durable – Designed using a silver anodized high-tech aluminium frame that withstands higher wind and snow loads up to 5400 Pa (IEC)
- Open-Circuit voltage (Voc): 22 Volt, optimum operating current (Imp): 4.4 Amps, short-circuit current (Isc): 4.8 Amps. Modulus efficiency: 15.21%
Sukam is another leading manufacturer of solar panels in India. Most of its solar panels are made from pure silicon, glass and aluminium, and this 100 W, 12 V solar panel is no exception. This is a polycrystalline panel, and is well suited for Indian weather conditions. Sukam tries to minimize or avoid the use of toxic materials like cadmium and arsenic, which are commonly used in many low grade thin film panels, thus minimizing the threat posed to the environment.
In order to maximize power generation, the gap between the frame of the module and solar cell is maintained at an optimum level on this aolr panel. This is done to eliminate shading. Moreover, the use of the highest quality A Grade solar cells results in further maximization of output and also adds to the life of this 100 W panel.
Since this panel is particularly designed to meet the requirements of Indian weather conditions, it promises great performance even under extremely hot weather conditions. Furthermore, this solar panel comes with an Optical Low Iron Tempered Glass, which has very strong permeability and is resistant to shock, and thus, adding to the lifespan of the panel.
This Sukam solar panel also features an advanced UV resistant backing. The use of the encapsulant, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) offers a cushioning to the solar cells within the laminate and thus, protects the cells from etching. Sukam also offers a 5 year warranty on the panel, and a long, 25 years of performance warranty. It is, thus, an excellent choice of a panel for a home or a small office.
CHECK THE PRICE ON AMAZON!3. Microtek 100 Watt Solar Panel
Highlights
- 100-watt, 12-V solar panel
- Panel has an extremely low level of degradation
- Sold in markets only after going through stringent quality-check tests
- Voltage produced at maximum power is 17.46 V and current at maximum power of 5.73 amps
Microtek is a popular electrical appliances and battery manufacturer in India, and has recently entered the solar market, with their premium quality solar panels for homes and offices. This 100 W, 12 V panel offered by Microtek makes use of an advanced EVA encapsulation for better module protection. Moreover, the use of a high transmission toughened glass surface, not only adds to the durability of this solar panel but also enhances its performance.
The solar cells used on this panel have extremely low rates of degradation, and the panel can easily last for more than 30 years, if maintained properly. The panel is ideal for both on grid and off grid applications. Moreover, it features an anodized aluminium frame offering a high degree of structural support for mounting and shock resistance.
The manufacturing process of this panel adheres to stringent quality checks, and the panel is tested to withstand adverse environmental conditions. It is suited to meet the requirements of extreme weather conditions in many parts of India.
Microtek also offers high quality, IP 67 rated, MC4 compatible connectors along with this solar panel. On the performance front, this 100 W, 12 V solar panel has a Voltage at Maximum Power (Vmp) of 17.46 V and a Current at Maximum Power (Imp) of 5.73 Amps. Besides, there is a 5 year warranty on the product, and a 25 year performance warranty offered by Microtek. All of these features make it an ideal choice of solar panel for your home.
CHECK THE PRICE ON AMAZON!4. Bluebird Solar Panel 100 Watt – 12 Volt Mono PERC Solar Panel
Highlights
- 100 watts, 12 V monocrystalline solar panel with 36 5BB high efficiency solar cells
- Durability ensured by the AR coated tempered PV glass
- Resistant to PID, ammonia corrosion, and salt mist
- Open circuit voltage- 22.5 V and short circuit current- 5.3 Amps
Bluebird Solar is an Indian solar company that makes different kinds of monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels for the Indian market. The company claims that its products are carefully tested and inspected before they reach the market. This 100 W, 12 V monocrystalline solar panel offered by Bluebird is one of the best in class monocrystalline panels in the market. It comes with 36 5BB high efficiency solar cells for an efficient, long lasting performance.
The use of AR coated tempered PV glass makes this a highly durable product. Moreover, this solar panel is fitted with heavy duty silver anodized aluminium frames, which makes it resistant to strong winds. It is also PID resistant, and salt mist and ammonia corrosion resistant. The panel is certified to withstand extreme environmental conditions that are witnessed in many parts of India. Moreover, it comes with IP 67 rated connectors, which are strong, efficient, durable and reliable.
On the performance front, this solar panel offers a maximum voltage (Vmp) of 20 V, and a maximum current (Imp) of 3 Amp. It has an Open Circuit Voltage (VOC) of 22.5 V and a Short Circuit Current (ISC) of 5.3 Amps. This solar panel has a module efficiency of 18.4 percent.
The use of innovative cell technology in this solar panel results in reduced Balance of System (BOS) costs. Thus, you get a great return on investment. Moreover, Bluebird offers a product warranty of 10 years and a performance warranty of 25 years. This panel also works well when the sky is cloudy, or when lighting conditions are poor. It is an ideal choice of solar panel for home lighting systems and solar street light systems.
CHECK THE PRICE ON AMAZON!5. LOOM SOLAR 125 watt-12 Volt Mono PERC Panel
Highlights
- 125 W monocrystalline panel best suited for residential purposes
- Manufactured using A+ grade, anti-PID PERC solar cells for great performance
- Comes with an IP 67 rated, compatible MC4 cable connector for higher module efficiency
Finally on our list, we have Loom Solar’s 125 watt, 12 V Monocrystalline PERC solar panel. Loom Solar is an Indian company, which particularly specialises in making monocrystalline panels for homes and commercial spaces. This 125 W panel makes use of innovative cell technology to ensure an optimum level of solar power generation, and thus, offers a high value for money.
The A+ Grade, anti-PID monocrystalline PERC solar cells are designed for delivering great performance in the long run. The space required for installing this panel is just 16 sq. feet, and the product has been designed with aesthetics in mind. It boasts of a modern design and can blend well with the exteriors of your house.
There are 4 busbars and a total of 36 cells on this solar panel. Moreover, it comes with an IP 67 rated, MC 4 compatible cable connector, which ensures higher module efficiency. The diodes come preinstalled in the junction-box of this solar panel. In addition, Loom Solar claims that this solar panel can also work well when the lighting conditions are low and the weather is cloudy. However, we have no information about the warranty on this product.
CHECK THE PRICE ON AMAZON!Factors to look for while buying a solar panel
1. Weight
The weight of the solar panel impacts its portability. If you are planning to install a panel on the rooftop of your house, it is easier to carry the panel if it is lightweight. Besides, weight is an important factor to consider as well because certain roofs are designed to withstand weights only up to a certain level. Additional weight can pose a danger to the structural integrity of your building. This is particularly important to consider if you live in an area, which frequently experiences hail storms and snowfall.
2. Dimensions
The dimensions of a solar panel are usually directly proportional to their output. However, this might not always be the case. A number of good quality and expensive solar panels can fit in a smaller space when compared to low-budget solar panels with the same rating. Before buying a solar panel, take proper measurements of the space where you are going to install the panel and make your purchase in accordance with the space available.
3. Price
As with any other product, price is an important factor to consider while buying a solar panel. There are a number of affordable, low budget solar panels available in the market, which the consumer might find desirable. However, not all these panels boast of a good quality. Since buying a solar panel is a huge investment, you must be careful while choosing one. Go for a panel which should last for at least 25 years. It is always good to buy products offered by trusted brands, some of which have been listed in our reviews of the best 100W solar panels in India.
4. Efficiency
It is important to keep in mind that due to solar cell degeneration, the power generated by a solar panel reduces over time. Therefore, choosing a product which features a low efficiency is not a wise investment decision to make. Choose a solar panel with the highest possible efficiency, even if it requires you to make slight adjustments in your budget. In this way, you can make sure that you will have enough power for your appliances in the long run.
5. Fixed Solar Panels and Flexible Solar Panels
Traditionally solar panels have been fixed units, with an EVA film and a TPT back sheet cover, fixed into a corrosion-resistant aluminium frame. In fact, fixed solar panels are the most common in the market. They are used for both commercial and residential purposes. Low output, fixed, mounted solar panels are generally used for boats, RVs and trailers with flat rooftops.
Flexible solar panels are a new introduction in the solar market, and are quickly becoming popular. They can bend up to 30 degrees and are therefore considered the best solution for curved surfaces in trailers and yachts. Another advantage of these panels is that they are lightweight and ultra thin. They are also a great choice for campers, as they are easy to install. However, a drawback found in flexible solar panels is that they are available only in 50 W and 100 W options.
6. Monocrystalline and Polycrystalline Solar Panels
Monocrystalline solar panels offer a high degree of module efficiency (18 to 25 percent). Their distinct homogenous, dark black look and rounded edges makes them easily recognizable. As the name suggests, monocrystalline panels are made from a single crystal. The single crystal seed is placed in molten silicon and is left until a solid crystal structure, known as a cylindrical ingot is formed. In the later stage, the crystal is cut into silicon wafers, which are then integrated into a solar cell. Due to their manufacturing process, monocrystalline solar panels tend to have longer lifespans, ranging between 25 to 35 years. Thus, one gets a high return on investment on monocrystalline solar panels.
Polycrystalline solar panels are a lower-cost alternative to monocrystalline panels. While they came to the market before monocrystalline panels, they have a lower degree of efficiency, with module efficiency ranging between 17 and 20 percent. Understandably, polycrystalline panels differ in terms of manufacturing process from the monocrystalline panels. They are made from multiple crystals cut in square ingots, offering a heterogeneous blue look. They tend to have a shorter lifespan, too, as they can last between 25 to 30 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How fast will a 100w solar panel charge the battery?
There are a number of factors which influence the total time required by a solar panel to charge a battery. The size, type, and state of the battery are some of these factors.
Considering that you are using a 50 Ah battery, a 100 W solar panel will usually take 9 to 10 hours to charge the battery, when completely drained. This is because a 100 W, 12 V solar panel produce around 5.5 amp hours of energy per hour.
However, if your battery is old or the cables are damaged, it will take a much longer time for the solar panel to charge it. Besides, weather conditions, and factors like position of the sun, etc. can also impact charging time.
Charging cycles are invariably slower on cloudy days. The best 100 W solar panels in India which we have reviewed in this article are of good quality, and therefore, they shall offer faster rates of charging under bright lighting conditions.
Q2. Can a 100 watt solar panel run a refrigerator?
No. A single 100 W solar panel cannot run a regular refrigerator. Firstly, for running a refrigerator, you need to have a battery which is rated at around 10 times the running wattage of the refrigerator. This is necessary to ensure reliable functioning.
This means that even if you are using a small fridge of 130 watts, you need to have an inverter with a rating of 1500 watt. A 100 watt solar panel will take days to charge an inverter of that capacity. Therefore, it is impossible for a 100 W solar panel to run a refrigerator.
Q3. Can a 100 watt solar panel power a TV?
Unlike a refrigerator, an LED or an LCD TV does not consume a lot of power. Therefore, if you have a small LED or LCD TV, your 100 W solar panel can keep it running for around 5 hours without any difficulty.
Conclusion
Solar panels are becoming more and more popular, reducing humankind’s dependency on pollution causing fossil fuels. Today, solar panels are being used in a variety of spaces and are being used to power homes, offices and utilities. As such, they are widely available in the market. However, choosing a solar panel can be a bit tricky, as there are a number of things to be aware of before making any such purchase.
Therefore, in this article, we offered you a buyers’ guide for 100 W solar panels in India. We reviewed some of the best 100 W solar panels in India, and listed down all the important factors which one must be aware of before buying a solar panel. We also answered some of the frequently asked questions related to thesesolar panels. Go through this article thoroughly and buy a solar panel that best suits your requirements.
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