Silicon Wafer Prices Rebound: Implications for Solar

Hands in rubber gloves holding two silicon wafers used in solar panels to identify the silicon wafer prices are rebounding after a long downward trajectory due to a recent oversupply

Recent developments in the solar industry indicate that silicon wafer prices, a key component influencing the cost of solar panels, have rebounded slightly after a period of fluctuation. While this brings a degree of stability to the market, industry experts suggest that module prices may see an increase in the near future. This evolving landscape has implications for both the solar industry and Mckercher Corporation.

Understanding the Current Market Dynamics

The rebound of silicon wafer prices provides a welcome respite for Manufacturers from the industry’s recent volatility, which, if continued, would compromise many system warranties. It offers a window of predictability, enabling solar panel manufacturers and installers like Mckercher Corporation subsidiaries to plan and budget confidently. However, projections of future module price increases serve as a reminder that the market remains dynamic.

Man holding two silicon rocks used in solar module manufacturing to identify the core component affecting silicon wafer prices internationally.

Implications for Consumers

The current situation presents both challenges and opportunities:

  1. Potential Price Increases: The possibility of module price increases underscores the importance of timely action for consumers considering solar energy. Exploring solar installations sooner rather than later may be advantageous to secure the current below-cost-of-manufacture pricing commonly offered by most distribution channels now that the recent global oversupply has subsided.
  2. McKercher Corporation’s Proactive Approach: McKercher Corporation closely monitors market trends and is committed to transparent communication with our clients. We are well-prepared to navigate the dynamic landscape and continue to offer competitive pricing and high-quality solar solutions even during volatile market conditions.
  3. Continued Industry Growth: Despite continuous price adjustments, the Australian solar industry will maintain its growth trajectory as the country commits to net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. The long-term benefits of solar energy, including immediate cost savings, long-term energy security, and environmental sustainability, remain compelling. McKercher Corporation is poised to support this growth and help individuals and businesses embrace dependable solar power.

The recent rebound of silicon wafer prices and the prospect of future module price increases present a unique high-value market environment. Mckercher Corporation remains dedicated to guiding our clients through these movements. We are committed to providing expert advice, exceptional service, and turnkey sustainable energy solutions that stand the test of time. Explore your solar options and secure your path to a brighter energy future with McKercher Corporation brands Perth Solar Warehouse and PSW Energy.

References

The Acclaimed Aiko Neostar 2P Solar Panel Arrives in Western Australia

Aiko Neostar 2P solar panels installed on a modern light commercial rooftop

Perth, Western Australia – September 6 2024 – McKercher Corporation, a leading provider of renewable energy solutions, is pleased to announce the availability of the highly anticipated Aiko Neostar 2P solar panel at Perth Solar Warehouse. This cutting-edge solar panel represents a significant advancement in solar technology, offering enhanced efficiency, durability, and performance for residential and commercial applications.

Aiko Neostar 2P: A More Powerful Future

As the saying goes, good things come in small packages. The Aiko Neostar 2P solar panel, ABC N-Type design, maximises energy production and delivers exceptional long-term value through improved daily yield from any surface area. Key features include:

  • High Efficiency: With a module efficiency of up to 24.3%, the Aiko Neostar 2P converts more sunlight into usable electricity from a nominated area.
  • Enhanced Durability: Built to withstand harsh weather conditions, the Aiko Neostar 2P features a robust frame and advanced encapsulation technology, ensuring reliable performance over time.
  • Improved Performance: The Intersolar Award-winning ABC N-type TOPCon cell technology, with no front busbar obstructions, contributes to increased power output and reduced energy losses, even in challenging environments.
  • Aesthetically Pleasing: The Aiko Neostar 2P’s minimalist design seamlessly blends with most rooftops, enhancing your property’s visual appeal.

Perth Solar Warehouse: The researched choice

Perth Solar Warehouse is a proud subsidiary of McKercher Corporation, offering a wide range of solar solutions for homes and businesses in the greater Perth region of Western Australia. A team leveraging 20 years of business experience who are committed to providing exceptional customer service and ensuring a smooth installation process.

Contact Perth Solar Warehouse today to learn more about the Aiko Neostar 2P solar panel and how it can benefit your property.

Quick links/ references

About McKercher Corporation

McKercher Corporation is an Australian leader in digitalised sustainable energy solutions, dedicated to providing innovative products and services that contribute to a cleaner energy future. With a focus on quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction, McKercher Corporation is committed to empowering individuals and businesses to embrace renewable energy as the world’s leading power supply.

Tesla Powerwall 3 Arrives at Perth Solar Warehouse

Tesla Powerwall 3 installed in a garage on a black wall

Tesla’s new home and business integrated energy storage device, Powerwall 3, is now available for order in Australia [August 16, 2024]. Fortuitously for West Australian customers, Perth Solar Warehouse was among the Top 2% of Australian Tesla Premium Certified Installers to represent the Tesla Powerwall 3 at the Sydney product launch. From today you can order the new Tesla Powerwall 3 at Perth Solar Warehouse.

Almost a year ago, the world gained a glimpse of a newly installed Tesla Powerwall 3 in the USA. Instantly, social media tried desperately to uncover the specifications. Within hours, there were graphically enhanced specifications available from a side photo shot of the new model and a way that those details would translate for the Australian population.

Beyond speculating, Tesla Australia has announced its Powerwall 3 Australian models.

Powerwall 3 Specifications

Better suited to accommodate Australian DNSP (Distributed Network Service Providers) and appealing to a new niche with three direct solar inputs with the potential to infuse up to a more appealing 20kW maximum solar array size. “In most instances, ‘new solar’ just became very interesting with Powerwall 3”, states Derek McKercher, director.

Datasheet: download

Brochure: download

Ordering

The launch of Tesla Powerwall 3 is an exciting moment for McKercher Corporation. Perth Solar Warehouse, a McKercher Corporation subsidiary, has a longstanding affiliation with Tesla Energy products in Western Australia. Perth Solar Warehouse represented among the top 2% of Australian Tesla Certified Installers at the Australian primary launch in Sydney on August 16, 2024. At the same time, Tesla Powerwall 3 became available for order Australia-wide through authorised installers.

As a turnkey [installed] solution, customers in the greater Perth and Bunbury region of Western Australia can order Tesla Powerwall 3 through Perth Solar Warehouse, Perth’s leading local Tesla Premium Certified Installer [2022,23,24].

Quick links/ references

Product Insight: An evaluated review of Powerwall 3 stating suitability for up to 70% of home energy users. Powerwall 3 review ›

Shop: Tesla Powerwall 3 at Perth Solar Warehouse ›

Ecosystem Showcase: Shop all Tesla energy ecosystem products with PSW Energy ›

Perth Solar Warehouse Becomes an Authorised Bluetti Stockist

Couple using the Bluetti AC180P on a park table with appliances plugged in as a portable power supply

As the demand for energy convenience increases, so does the demand for dependable and safe portable power supplies. Perth Solar Warehouse, a leading solar and battery supplier of turnkey sustainable energy systems [WA: Top 5], diversifies into camping and portable supplies through the Bluetti product suite.

Portable power systems are undoubtedly on the rise. However, with recent media headlines about lithium battery fires [broadly], it’s essential to identify the quality brands available in the portable power supply space. The Perth Solar Warehouse product suite targets innovative brands with high customer success globally to ensure improved reputational outcomes. Bluetti has a solid history of high customer success throughout America, Europe, Asia and Africa. Therefore, it seems only fitting that such customer satisfaction will continue in Australia, specifically Western Australia.

In a relatively new technology space, very few ‘known’ brands of portable power supplies exist. However, Bluetti has become synonymous with those investing in dependable off-grid solutions.

Customers can purchase Bluetti portable power supplies and solar panels from Bluetti directly online. However, suppose you’re seeking a hands-on buying experience to test your loads/appliances before committing to the investment. In that case, Perth Solar Warehouse provides a more classic in-store approach, combining technical know-how at the point of sale with the bonus of using your Bluetti immediately.

Value guarantee: Perth Solar Warehouse is committed to a Bluetti website price match or better on ‘in-stock’ premium model items.

View the Bluetti range available at Perth Solar Warehouse.

SigenStor Approved: PSW Energy Delivers Sigenergy Showcase

Sigenergy mySigen app for SigenStor in the palm of a users hand displaying the energy ecosystem on a mobile smart device

June 5, 2024: Sigenergy Sigenstor single-phase 5 and 6 kW reach ‘CEC-approved’ status for compliance in the Australian market, marking the green light for Sigenergy single-phase 5 and 6 kW system (with battery) installations in Australia. Given single-phase approval, Sigenergy’s three-phase SigenStor approval should follow in the not-to-distant future.

The anticipated approval of SigenStor single-phase systems is welcome news for electrification enthusiasts seeking a comprehensive sustainable energy solution towards an entirely electric shift. More notably, SigenStore has an easily adaptable (modular) ‘Sigen EV DC charging module‘ with up to 25 kW fast charging capability for those eagerly awaiting a bidirectional electric vehicle charging solution.

Further complementing an industry-leading product lineup of sustainable energy products, PSW Energy has launched a Showcase category for Sigenergy today in selected West Australian regions. Due to higher profiling, PSW Energy’s Showcase categories remain reserved for specific products that resonate and appeal to consumers. Sigenergy sits alongside Tesla (Home Energy and EV Charging) and Bluetti (Camping and Portable Power) as one of three specialised products likely to add greater value for more through improved user experience, further expediting sustainable energy uptake.

Gauging the rapid appeal in European and Asian markets, SigenStor’s 5-in-one, and more customisable design is likely to outpace many established inverter and sustainable energy brands in Australia from 2025.

SigenStor is not just another rehashed, rebadged solution we’ll see prominently throughout SNEC 2024 [Shanghai New Energy Conference]. It’s 100% its own, from software to hardware. Once in a decade, a new technology emerges that gains virtually instant consumer appeal. Sigenergy is this decades. Most notably, they’ve recruited really well as the foundations to drive rapid adoption.

Sven [Albersmeier-Braun] is highly regarded for his time at SENEC and is ideal for the European markets. Will [Hall] is respected among industry professionals and has been appointed Australia’s director through extensive Australian solar industry experience. He’s committed to hard work and will take great care of Sigenergy in Australia. These people don’t just go to any company. More depth comes from leading global marketing and software development backgrounds who can inspire positive change.

Derek McKercher

Sigenergy SigenStore will complement Australia’s love for superior technology that incorporates a high-value feature return no matter where one is on their sustainable energy journey. Given that Sigenstor can work as a simplified hybrid inverter-only option ready for future expansion, the base-level solution has a relatively low entry point. More comprehensively, with all features incorporated, SigenStor is the ultimate all-in-one electrification (solar, battery, and EV charging) solution from the start.

Although not yet approved,  comparative base-level Sigenergy 5 kW SigenStor hybrid inverter (no battery), through PSW Energy with 6.6 kW of combined nominated solar panels, is attainable in the mid-price bracket. An equivalent option positioned between Goodwe and Fronius and considered a high-value inverter based on added features.

Sigenergy Partners with Perth Solar Warehouse

Sigenergy SigenStor top left corner with LED light ray.

May 2024: Perth Solar Warehouse announces retailer partnership with energy innovator Sigenergy. Presenting its innovative software-first product foundation, Sigenergy’s initial release to the Australian market is a new generation of energy storage and control, SigenStor. Identified as the dawn of the digital battery era, Sigenstor encompasses a simplified all-in-one solar and storage solution, gaining rapid adoption in Europe and Asia. Fortuitously, this digital era defining product suite is now available for Australia.

Already making waves throughout Europe with an operating system (OS) focused, software-first design and shifting preconceived norms where inverter and battery manufacturers are primarily hardware manufacturers who evolve into software development secondary. It is an afterthought that could prove limited with any company seeking mainstream market appeal beyond 2030 as modern user experience compliments improved “smarter” energy utilisation. 

Founder Tony Xu [ex-Huawei FusionSolar and Ascend AI President] discovered the limitations of hardware-first designs imposed in the new generation of energy management through his previous high-profile business and technical roles. Sigenergy is a testament to where the next chapter of sustainable energy technology begins.

5 in One Sigenergy-SIGENSTOR render

Sigenenergy Sigenstor five-in-one energy solution: Solar Inverter, DC EV charger, Battery Control System, Battery Pack, and Electronic Management System.

Sigenergy brings together much more than improved harmonisation between integral components. Certain hardware elements now answer the pivotal questions most seek in a sustainable energy solution. Despite its well-covered, five-in-one product nature, SigenStor’s versatility exceeds any current market offering. 

Battery modules are flexible. With Sigenstor, there is no need to match a 5 kWh battery configuration throughout the modularity. If one’s ideal storage requirement is 13 kWh, combine a 5 kWh and 8 kWh Sigen Battery Module configuration. Matching SoC (State of Charge) when expanding later is now a thing of the past. Shift the focus, and the EV DC Charger is the mainstream market first, yet much more. The V2X bidirectional charging features convert a compatible vehicle and power supply into increased energy density for a given property. Nothing like this exists in Australia to date, nor is anything announced on the horizon. Sigenergy has entered the market with a resounding impact.

It is a unique solution that is certain to appeal to many through its adaptability and almost unlimited design possibilities. Perth Solar Warehouse is committed to delivering one of the first all-encompassing SigenStor demonstration systems for customers to interact with before purchasing. Related: Sigenergy Defines a New Digital Battery Era ›

Discover Sigenergy in Person

Look, touch, interact. Customers can view Sigenergy’s Sigenstor on display from Monday, July 1st, 2024, at the PSW Energy, Perth Solar Warehouse display centre, 3/90 Discovery Drive, Bibra Lake, WA. To ensure the time and direct attention many customers prefer, all that is requested is to book an appointment due to a limited number of sales support staff at a nominated time. 

PSW Energy & Perth Solar Warehouse

Image: PSW Energy, Perth Solar Warehouse display centre. 3/90 Discovery Drive, Bibra Lake, WA.

“We plan to offer one of the first all-encompassing Sigenergy solar, battery, DC EV Charger and Sigen operating systems for potential owners to interact with, available by the 5th of August 2024, due to three-phase controller and DC EV charger certifications pending with the CEC” mentions Derek McKercher [Director]. Customers can order the single-phase Sigenstor variants from Perth Solar Warehouse for installation (without the DC EV charger) from July 2024 for installation within the Perth and Bunbury regions of Western Australia.

With McKercher Corporation subsidiary Perth Solar Warehouse announcing the adoption of Sigenergy’s SigenStor system among its leading energy storage options, including Tesla, Sungrow, and Goodwe, PSW Energy has now followed suit [May 12, 2024] for broader region customers to consider. 

Perth Solar Warehouse provides turnkey (installed) solar, battery and EV charging solutions to the greater Perth region of Western Australia. PSW Energy offers Perth Solar Warehouse’s leading products for more to enjoy with a user-friendly and native online shopping experience, reducing barriers and expenses associated with a premium service. PSW Energy and Perth Solar Warehouse are McKercher Corporation businesses with a local dealer and service guarantee supported by 20 years of business history.

Perth Solar Warehouse: Sigenergy’s SigenStor is a game-changer for Australia ›

Aiko solar panels to add fierce competition in Australia

Q2, 2024, Aiko Solar will arrive in Australia, adding fierce competition in the ultra-high efficiency stakes. Primarily a world-leading manufacturer in cell shipments (Rank: 2nd, 2023, source: InfoLink), the technology and value incorporated within Aiko solar panels initial release, the Neostar 2S, will surely appeal to many purchasers and vendors in the mid-range premium system sector.

Aiko and key Australian distributors have finalised distribution agreements with four high-profile strategic partners: Solar Juice, Sol Distribution, AC Solar Warehouse, and Tradezone. Mckercher Corporation subsidiaries PSW Energy and Perth Solar Warehouse have committed to becoming one of Australia’s installers for Aiko Solar panels as part of a turnkey solution.

Left to right: Grant Behrendorff – AC Solar Warehouse, Elio Cordaro – Sol Distribution,  Alex Hang – Aiko, Rami Fedda – Solar Juice,  Tradezone.

Before the distribution signing, Aiko Australia’s Key Account Manager, Ross Crawford, delivered an in-depth product overview at the product launch. However, he singled out McKercher Corporation Director Derek McKercher to share the moment unveiling the Aiko solar panel range. “About six weeks ago, when I updated my LinkedIn profile to show I was now working for Aiko, I very quickly received an excited phone call from a good friend and solar business owner, Derek McKercher, from Perth Solar Warehouse. Derek was over the moon that I had joined Aiko, and he began to talk to me about how he had been watching Aiko for some time now. It was great to see the Aiko technology reach Australian shores. In the weeks since, Derek has been putting together some great content anticipating Aiko launching in Australia. I want to invite Derek to unveil our product offering…”

Derek McKercher unveiling the Aiko Neostar ABC n-type residential solar panel at the Aiko launch event, Cockle Bay, Sydney during Ross Crawford's key note presentation.

Image: Ross Crawford (left) Derek McKercher (right) unveiling the new Aiko Neostar ABC N-Type solar panel range for the Australian market.

Customers can rest assured that we’re committed to delivering the most advanced solar and sustainable energy technology. As an Intersolar and Reddot design awardee for 2023, Aiko Solar has subjected its design to innovative scrutiny and prevailed among its peers from two of the most decorated awards on the global circuit.

Among an elite calibre, REC Alpha Pure previously acquired the 2022 Instersolar award for innovation based on its lead-free HJT (heterojunction technology). In 2021, LONGi Solar added Galium dopping to its wafers, mitigating the effects of performance degradation usually associated with conventional P-Type solar panels in the Hi-MO 5. With high recognition for module innovation and design, Aiko Solar looks set to be a revered name on the Australian landscape.

Unlike alternative leading module efficiency innovators, pricing guidance is a likely 20% premium over alternative mainstream market options–a less conventional premium for an efficiency title holder that is almost sure to attract instant local market traction.

Aiko Solar panels are now available for pre-order at PSW Energy as part of a turnkey solar package.

Product review: The Aiko Solar panels set to revolutionise the Australian market ›

Note: originally posted on February 19, 2024, this post has been updated to incorporate the Aiko launch event at Cockle Bay Wharf in Sydney on March 5, 2024.

Sunwiz Awards 2024: PSW is a Top 5 Solar Company in WA

Derek McKercher with arms folded and smiling with Sunwiz Awards 2024 logos in the top left corner

Before a March 7th, 2024 ceremony, Sunwiz, an industry market intelligence provider, pre-announced PSW Energy, Perth Solar Warehouse as a Top 5 solar installer collaborating submitted Solar Panel Verification data. SPV data is used to notify the Clean Energy Regulator of solar panels connected to the grid as Part of the Small Technology Certificate (subsidy) scheme. Complementing such an achievement was a Best Installer award through verified customer experiences.

Top 5 Combined Western Australia: PSW Energy, Perth Solar Warehouse polled 4th overall and ranked as one of the state’s most popular choice providers of solar energy systems. Leading volume was never a core focus for PSW Energy, Perth Solar Warehouse, although an outstanding reputation and improved online purchasing experience have had a flow-on effect on customers.

Best Rated Australia, Top 20: At the core of PSW Energy, Perth Solar Warehouse is customer experience. 2024 saw a 12th overall polling compared to other Australian companies in the Best Rated — Most Popular of the Sunwiz Awards, measuring at least 150 reviews from two or more trusted review platforms with a greater than 4.8 customer rating average. PSW Energy, Perth Solar Warehouse measured 4.85 over Google [4.81] and SolarQuotes.com.au [4.88] for the 2023 calendar year.

Tesla Performance Excellence Award, Q4, 2023

Kate Rutherford pictured holding a glass of champagne for the Tesla Energy Performance Excellence Award

PSW Energy and Perth Solar Warehouse acquired the Tesla Performance Excellence Award through a 362% year-on-year (YoY) growth for Powerwall sales in Q4, 2023, cementing their position as Perth’s leading Tesla Energy product supplier in 2024—a result reflecting preferred consumer patterns for digitalised purchasing options aligned with local market knowledge.

PSW Energy and Perth Solar Warehouse provide profound knowledge-sharing opportunities for customers to perform in-depth product research for suitability without typical in-home consultation services, relieving additional expenses previously normalised with laborious sales consultancies. The process influencing the ability to streamline services consists of 90% of installations suitable for remote product compatibility auditing and proven customer outcomes [4.8/5] from Tesla internal surveys.

A testament to team collaboration, the awarded subsidiaries of McKercher Corporation provide a user-friendly purchasing experience complemented by using in-house service technicians for superior quality control along the customer journey. Such recognition is only possible with all staff contributing to a shared customer-centric focus. McKercher Corporation would like to recognise all staff who improve the adoption of Tesla Energy products so that more customers can experience enhanced Powerwall benefits.

The Tesla Performance Excellence Award compliments PSW Energy and Perth Solar Warehouse’s reinstated Tesla Premium Certified Installer 24 recognition for a third consecutive year. Tesla Premium Certified Installers are among Tesla’s top 5% of local installers (Australia) through superior reputation and improved customer outcomes. The Tesla Performance Excellence Award further compliments this esteemed recognition.

Further sources: PSW Energy, Perth Solar Warehouse

High Distinction: Tesla Premium Certified Installer 2024

Tesla Certified Premium Installer 2024 - PSW Energy, Perth Solar Warehouse wall paper

January 2024: PSW Energy, Perth Solar Warehouse is recognised as a Tesla Premium Certified Installer for the third consecutive year. With an enduring commitment to high-quality and deep product suite knowledge, Tesla Premium Certified Installers represent only 5% of Tesla Energy product installers. Such distinction aims to assist customers in fine-tuning their installer selection towards superior Tesla product outcomes.

Tesla Premium Certified Installers are selected based on a committed fulfilment of criteria essential to the long-term growth of sustainable energy. It’s important to note that once attained, Tesla Premium recognition is never guaranteed. It’s an evolution of aligned core beliefs towards superior self-sustainable power supplies for all. That’s why an inherent importance exists around accurate implementation–a local business most likely to support your energy security long-term.

Derek McKercher [McKercher Corporation, Director] welcomed the strengthened local relationship between the two organisations as pivotal in enduring manufacturer-to-local business relationships.

“A direct relationship over an enduring period has allowed PSW to assist Tesla’s mission towards broader adoption of sustainable energy products for more. Additionally, customers prefer fewer [distributor] layers of complexity, especially where warranty concerns arise.”

Derek McKercher

Proving to be one of the world’s most advanced companies towards independent electrification, Tesla has earned a reputation for attention to detail to earn success. Therefore, why not seek within its top 5% of installation partners where long-term energy security exists? There is no warranty if a product installation doesn’t meet manufacturer specifications. Tesla Certified Premium Installers are Tesla’s most trusted brand partners. McKercher Corporation welcomes this continued trusted recognition of it’s subsidiaries PSW Energy and Perth Solar Warehouse.