PV Logic vs Solara solar panels

[Kian]

I'm working on sizing the solar installation for my yacht, and comparing brands. I'm interested in PV Logic and Solara primarily because I have a nearby supplier that offers these. Delivery times are next day or so and the prices don't seem much higher than the best prices I can find online.

The two brands seem to offer similar performance (in terms of W/Area), but Solara is about 50% more expensive. I was wondering if anyone has experience with these brands, and if they can explain why Solara commands such a premium. Even the PV Logic MHD variant falls short (price wise) of the basic Solara panel. The real question, I guess, is if there's anything wrong with the PV Logic ones, or if they're resistant enough to endure the marine environment. If they're fit for purpose, I'd have no reason to spend extra on the Solara ones even if they're slightly more efficient or slightly more resilient. Not when they cost so much more.

 

[GerardV]

I bought Chinese ones. Much cheaper than those with brand names. Just like batteries I replace them every 5 or 6 years.

 

[stuartwineberg]

Check out photonic universe. Just had panels from them. Incredibly patient with my questions and sent me an upgraded controller when they went o/s of what I ordered. Delivered free within 36 hours of order

 

[Pete7]

I bought a second hand Solara panel of e bay and used it for a decade before it finally gave up. No idea what the true age was but it certainly lasted well. Sadly the replacement price was just too much and bought it cheaper panel, that lasted two years.

The Atlantic rowing crowd seem to like Solara.