The ML-G10 solar panels from Q Cells are well-known for their lightweight, high-quality build, and affordable price range. The ML-G10 modules are monocrystalline units with an impressive 21.4% efficiency, 400 W to 415 W output capacity, and anti-reflective glass technology.
Q Cells, formerly known as Hanwha Q Cells, is a global solar panels manufacturer that began in Germany in 1999. In 2012, it was acquired by a chemical company in South Korea, the Hanwha Group. Since then, Q Cells has operated as a subsidiary of its parent company.
Its research and development site remains in Germany, but its current headquarters are in Seoul, South Korea.
There are four Q Cells manufacturing facilities worldwide in South Korea, the United States, China, and Malaysia. At the same time, the brand’s sales network has expanded to more than 40 countries globally across Asia, Europe, the Americas, and Australia.
Suppose your household’s electricity demands currently exceed your utility bills budget, or you simply feel compelled to switch from fossil fuels to sustainable energy. In that case, solar system installation can help you address both concerns.
Choosing the right solar panels for domestic or commercial use can be overwhelming, especially with the proliferation of new brands in the industry. To that end, this review will cover Q Cells’ ML-G10 series of solar panels; these modules are noted for their efficiency levels and practicality for Australian weather.
We will cover everything about the ML-G10, including its price, key features, specifications, efficiency ratings, and warranty coverage. By the end of this review, you’ll know exactly if these panels are suited to your needs.
With that in mind, let’s get into it!
What is the Q Cells ML-G10 Solar Panel?
The ML-G10 series is Q Cells’ most notable solar panels series after its infamous G9 range. These G10 solar panels feature an increased efficiency rate and are available in 400 W to 415 W sizes. Moreover, their new Z cell and high-density technology ensure these solar modules provide a high-efficiency value of 21.4%.
A vital aspect of the G10’s popularity is centred on its monocrystalline PERC half-cut cells. These cells are incorporated with multi-busbars (MBB), a technology crucial for increasing panel output.
Q Cells ML-G10 Solar Panel Range
The Q Cells ML-G10 comes in two power yield ranges.
The 405 model, as the name implies, produces 405 W of solar power under standard test conditions (STC). Even under normal operating conditions (NMOT), the power output drops to 303.9 W, which is still impressive.
The 415 model, on the other hand, exhibits a 415 W power at standard test conditions and 311.4 W at normal operating conditions. The efficiency of these models surpasses 20.6% and 21.1%, respectively.
Q Cells ML-G10 Solar Panel Technical Specifications
As noted previously, The G-10 range is cited for its impressive price-to-value proportion. This is due to the product’s excellent technical specifications, as outlined in the G-10 datasheet.
Below, we have summarised the panel’s mechanical and electrical specifications:
| Mechanical Specifications | General Data |
|---|---|
| Dimensions with frame | 1,879 mm x 1,045 mm x 32 mm |
| Weight | 22 kg |
| Front cover | 3.2 mm anti-reflective glass |
| Back cover | Composite film |
| Frame material | Black anodised aluminium |
| Cell | 6 x 22 monocrystalline Q.ANTUM half cells |
| Junction box | 53-101 mm × 32-60 mm × 15-18 mm Protection class IP67, with bypass diodes |
| Cable | 4 mm² Solar cable; (+) ≥ 49.2 in (1250 mm), (−) ≥ 49.2 in (1250 mm) |
| Connector | Stäubli MC4; IP68 |
| Electrical Specifications | 405 Power Class | 415 Power Class |
|---|---|---|
| Power at MPP | 405 W | 415 W |
| Short circuit current | 11.19 A | 11.26 A |
| Open circuit voltage | 45.09 V | 45.16 V |
| Current at MPP | 10.70 A | 10.82 A |
| Voltage at MPP | 37.85 V | 38.37 V |
| Efficiency | > 20.6% | > 21.1% |
What is the Q Cells ML-G10 Solar Panel’s Power Output?
When the ML-G10 solar modules are tested under standard test conditions (STC), the 405 W model yields 405 W power, and the 415 W model produces 415 W power.
However, under normal operating conditions (NMOP), the yield decreases to 303.9 W for the 405 and 311.4 W for the 45 models.
What is the Q Cells ML-G10 Solar Panel’s Efficiency?
At STC, the efficiency of the 405 models is equal to or greater than 20.6%, while the 415 model crosses the 20% threshold and reaches an efficiency equivalent to or beyond 21.1%.
The Q.ANTUM Z cell technology with high-density solar panels is responsible for their high quality. The panel reduces energy loss and boosts its electricity yield by simply reducing the distance between its cells.
What is the Q Cells ML-G10 Solar Panel’s Temperature Coefficient? Will it Perform Well in Australian Weather?
The temperature coefficient of PMPP is -0.34% / K, and the Nominal Module Operating Temperature or NMOT is 43 degrees Celsius with a variation of three degrees. The modules’ certified high snow (5,400 Pa) and wind loads (4,000 Pa) showcase their suitability for the extreme Australian climate.
What is the Q Cells ML-G10 Solar Panels’ Country of Origin?
The Q Cells brand range was initially German-produced. But in 2012, South Korean company Hanwha Group acquired the brand and shifted its headquarters to Seoul. Now, the Q Cells ML-G10 solar panels and most of the company’s products are made in South Korea.
Will the Q Cells ML-G10 Solar Panel Look Good on My Home?
The ML-G10 solar panels are fit for residential use with a high-tech and durable aluminium alloy framework that looks stylish and is sturdy enough to withstand harsh environments.
Q Cells ML-G10 Solar Panel Key Features
Q Cells’ experts designed the ML-G10 solar module to deliver cleaner energy for a greener environment. The most important features of the solar module include:
- High efficiency: the ML-G10 solar panels comfortably cross the 21% efficiency limit, reaching up to 21.4%
- Monocrystalline module design: the panels feature high-density monocrystalline busbars.
- High wind and snow loads: the durable aluminium alloy framework can endure high snow (5,400 Pa) and wind (4,000 Pa) loads.
- Low shading: the wire connections between the solar cells result in reduced shading and high power output.
- Anti-reflective glass: advanced anti-reflective glass technology keeps the solar panels from overheating.
- Performance at low irradiance: The ML-G10’s production remains consistent even in poor sunlight.
What is the Q Cells ML-G10’s Warranty?
All Q Cells products come with a minimum warranty of 12 years. However, all products in the ‘Plus’ range include a 25-year warranty.
Is the Q Cells ML-G10 a Tier 1 Solar Panel?
The company rates as a Tier 1 due to its exceptional quality and unmatched product warranty. To keep their Tier 1 status intact, the panels go through the most comprehensive testing to assess the quality of their components.
Is the Q Cells ML-G10 a CEC-approved Panel?
The Q Cells ML-G10 solar system has not yet been approved by the Clean Energy Council (CEC), Australia.
However, the Q Cells ML-G10 solar panels passed the Quality Controlled PV – TÜV Rheinland accreditation in 2020 and are currently undergoing the QCPV Certification. It’s likely only a matter of time before they achieve CEC-approved status.
Is the Q Cells ML-G10 Safe and Reliable?
Holding a place in the top-rated solar modules in the ‘PV Module Reliability Scorecard Report’ by PVEL and DNV-GL means that these modules are the highest-performing among their competitors. Q Cells ML-G10 can handle wind load up to 4,000 Pa and snow load of 5,400 Pa.
These modules show minimum system degradation or quality failure during their testing regime. The organisations that perform these tests do so to ensure product safety and reliability.
Advantages and Disadvantages of the Q Cells ML-G10
Below is an overview of the main strengths and weaknesses of these mid-range panels:
Advantages:
- Patented mono-PERC technology for maximum power yield.
- High-density panels for an efficiency boost.
- Multiple sizes are available, ranging from 405 W to 415 W.
- Anti-PID technology for module longevity.
- Certified to withstand extreme weather conditions.
- Hot-spot protection technology for better efficiency.
- Annual degradation rate no greater than 0.50% p.a.
- 12 to 25 years product warranty.
Disadvantages:
- Panel efficiency is not as strong as other Chinese competitors.
- Q Cells is rated as a medium-level company in terms of performance and quality.
Q Cells ML-G10 Installation
The Q Cells ML-G10 solar panels are relatively easy to install due to their lightweight structure. The time required for solar module installation typically depends on your location, installers’ labour efficiency, and approval from the local inspector.
It may take between 1 to 2 days for the complete installation procedure.
After the technicians have installed the systems, you may have to wait for the local inspector to give his consent. This step may take an additional day according to your location.
Q Cells ML-G10 Compatibility with Inverters
Q Cells ML-G10 solar panels are compatible with almost all solar inverters. However, customers find that they operate best when installed with Q Cells’ integrated solar inverters for storage. The Q.HOME CORE total energy storage solution comes with a 15-year product warranty and easy installation.
Is the Q Cells ML-G10 Worth it for Your Home? Our Opinion
The price range for the ML-G10 solar module is reasonable, and you can further reduce your upfront charges through a solar rebate tailored to your area of residence and local government. Plus, with the anti-LID technology, you are bound to have decades of uninterrupted solar energy supply.
In our opinion, the optimal quality of Q Cells ML-G10 solar module systems, compared to their low cost, make them worthwhile for your household’s roof.
Next Steps…
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