PV Solar Modules

Our Preferred Supplier - Trina Solar:

With so many solar panel manufacturers in the world these days, it is important to remember that their efficiency, performance, and longevity can vary greatly. As with any industry there are varying standards of quality, but being a long-term investment, dollars saved up front may cost far more in the long run in the case of a premature failure or inadequate warranty support.

Although the standard performance warranty period for the industry is 25 years, the useful working lifetime of a solar panel is expected to be up to 40 years. For this reason, we believe that it is vital to use only highest quality product from respected and long-established manufacturers. This assures optimum performance and minimises the chance of any product performance issues; and in the rare event that something unexpected does occur, then we can also rely on the manufacturer honoring the warranty terms promptly.

Our preferred brand is Trina Solar which is Tier 1, and among the largest solar manufacturers in the industry with a proven track record and a culture of continual technological improvement.

In most instances, we offer the standard 330W panels but in a commercial setting the larger 440W modules may be more appropriate. However, as technology and efficiency of modules increases, so the module sizes may increase depending on the latest technology available.

Finish Options:

As well as improving performance efficiency, manufacturers have recognised that consumers want a panel that not only performs well, but also looks good on the roof. Initially, most panels had bare aluminium frames and white backing sheets, and were quite a stark feature on a roof space.

However, most manufacturers are now producing completely black panels, with black aluminium frames, and black backing sheets that blend in with the dark solar cells themselves – these are now our standard panel type.

To complement this, we also use black clamps and mounting rails to present a more visually integrated solar array overall that will blend into the roof aspect – particularly on a dark coloured roof.

Best Practise:

Metalcraft is a long-established company with over 50 years history in NZ and  with 12 branches nationwide we value our reputation and pride ourselves on our quality of work. As such we only use the highest quality products and engage experienced specialist solar installers in order to eliminate the risk of any faults occurring. However, in the unlikely event of a defect or issue, you can be assured that Metalcraft will honour its obligations and will provide support for any warranty-related matters. We are members of the Sustainable Electricity Association of NZ (SEANZ) and adhere to their strict quality assurance principles.

SEANZ is an independent organisation representing organisations who research, manufacture, distribute, design, sell, finance and build Renewable Technologies and Projects in New Zealand and Pacific.

Their Mission:

Drive the growth of onsite renewable electricity generation in New Zealand By developing the capacity and capability of the industry.

SEANZ members must:

• Meet the SEANZ entry criteria whereby company principals and directors past history is identified and taken into consideration.
• Continue business operations with honesty and integrity. -Ensure only appropriately validated and verified, certified technology. -That their skills and knowledge are applied ethically in the interest of their clients.