• Frater Mus@lemmy.sdf.org
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    1 year ago

    Used panels are very cheap off the pallet locally (see craigslist, fb marketplace, etc).

    If you describe the DIY setup (off-grid, grid-tied, hybrid) people might have specific suggestions for budget components.

    • Shdwdrgn
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      1 year ago

      Thanks for this tip! I just checked my local CL and am finding deals around $0.50/watt with most panels being around 325W. The output voltages are all over the place though, definitely need to pay attention to the charge controller specs.

      • Frater Mus@lemmy.sdf.org
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        1 year ago

        Very small setups (sometimes called “toy” setups because they are typically for fun and learning) are the most expensive by the watt, typically $1USD/watt. I don’t know the Canadian market at all, sorry.

      • Frater Mus@lemmy.sdf.org
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        1 year ago
        1. Because they are bought in bulk (by the pallet) and delivered at freight rates. It’s common for folks who need a lot of them to buy a pallet, take what they need, then sell the rest.
        2. because they are leftovers after a job
        3. the really cheap ones (like mine) are commercial or residential pulls Cf. WIll Prowse’ $50 250w pulls