Top 5 Things to Check Before Buying Solar Panels in Pakistan

If you’re planning to buy solar panels for your home or business. To make the right decision, focus on these five key areas before making a purchase:

1. Check Location and Roof Suitability

Sunlight Availability:
Make sure your location receives plenty of sunlight, preferably with a south-facing roof for maximum solar energy production.
Roof Type & Condition:
Inspect your rooftop for any damage or weak areas. It should be strong enough to handle the weight of the solar panels.
Shading Problems:
Look out for nearby trees, buildings, or other obstacles that may cast shade and lower your panel’s performance.

Panel Types:
Choose the right type based on your budget and space:
- Monocrystalline: Highest efficiency and space-saving.
- Polycrystalline: More affordable and reliable.
- Thin-Film: Lightweight and flexible but less efficient.
Efficiency:
Higher-efficiency panels produce more electricity from the same sunlight. In Pakistan’s sunny climate, look for panels with 18% to 22% efficiency.
Warranty:
Always check both:
- Product warranty (usually 10–12 years)
- Performance warranty (up to 25 years)

System Compatibility:
Make sure your selected panels, inverters, and other parts work well together without any technical issues.
Professional Installation:
Hire certified and experienced installers to ensure safe, correct, and efficient installation.
Net Metering Option:
If available, consider applying for net metering — this lets you sell extra electricity back to the grid and reduce your bill.

Panel Quality:
Invest in trusted, well-known brands with good reviews and a track record of durability.
Cost vs. Value:
Don’t choose the cheapest panels — balance price with quality for long-term savings and fewer problems.
Check Other Components:
Ensure inverters, batteries, mounting structures, and wiring are also of high quality, as they affect the system’s performance.

Check Energy Usage:
Review your past electricity bills to understand how much energy you consume daily and monthly.
Match Solar Output to Daytime Use:
Plan your solar setup to meet your peak daytime energy needs for maximum savings.
Calculate Financial Benefits:
Look at how much you’ll save on electricity bills over time and check if there are any government subsidies or incentives you can claim.