The ML-G9 are high-density monocrystalline residential solar panels from Hanwha Q Cells. They use innovative Q.ANTUM DUO Z technology, which combines PERC, half-cut, and zero-gap features to deliver efficiency ratings of up to 20.3% and power output of up to 385 W.
Solar panels are critical components of a solar system. They are installed on rooftops and will always contest with the elements. As such, they should be of the highest quality to reliably generate solar electricity for decades to come.
The Q Cells ML-G9 are solar panels that have been in the marketplace for several years. The question is whether the ML-G9 still hold their own against Q Cells’ more recent solar panel offerings.
To that end, this review will assist you in determining whether the ML-G9 solar panels are suitable for your solar system.
Read on for more info!
What is the Q Cells ML-G9?
The Q Cells ML-G9 are powerful Mono-PERC residential modules. They were the first PV modules from the company to utilise its Q.ANTUM DUO Z technology, a terrific amalgamation of zero-gap, PERC, dual-cell, and multi-busbar technologies.
As a result, the ML-G9 have no gaps between the cells, which increases its performance by 4% to deliver an overall efficiency in excess of 20.3%
Q Cells introduced the Q.Peak Duo-G9 series in September 2020. The series, engineered in Germany, includes the ML-G9 and two other panels (the XL-G9 and BLK-G9).
The ML-G9 has 132 half-cells (12 more than in a standard module), allowing it to deliver a power output of up to 395 W.
Q Cells ML-G9 Solar Panel Range
Q Cells ML-G9 module output ranges from 360 W to 385 W. The company produces five power classes of the ML-G9:
Q Cells ML-G9 Solar Panel Technical Specifications
You can determine that the ML-G9 is a quality panel from the datasheet. The modules have incredible electrical, mechanical, and temperature specs.
What is the Q Cells ML-G9 Solar Panel’s Power Output?
The power generation of the ML-G9 is impressive. The solar panels have ratings of between 375 W and 385 W.
This output makes them some of the most powerful modules for domestic solar installation.
What is the Q Cells ML-G9 Solar Panel’s Efficiency?
Thanks to its zero-gap technology, the ML-G9 is tremendously efficient, ranging from 19.3% to over 20.3%.
A solar panel with over 19% efficiency is highly efficient. Thus, the ML-G9 are more than capable of converting sunlight into solar electricity.
What is the Q Cells ML-G9 Solar Panel’s Temperature Coefficient? Will it Perform Well in Australian Weather?
The temperature coefficient of the ML-G9 is -0.35% / °C.
Solar panels lose solar production when their temperature exceeds 25 °C. The temperature coefficient measures the production loss.
The ML-G9’s 0.35% / °C rating means that in every 1-degree increase over 25 °C, the production loss is just 0.35%. This reading shows the quality of these panels because many other top panels have temperature coefficient ratings of up to -0.4% / °C.
The operating temperature of the ML-G9 is -40 to +85 °C, showing that it will perform satisfactorily in all manner of Australian weather.
The temperatures in Australia range from about 0 – 34 °C, well within the operating temperature of the ML-G9. So, whatever the time of the year and wherever you live in Australia, the ML-G9 won’t let you down.
What is the Q Cells ML-G9 Solar Panels’ Country of Origin?
Q Cells was founded in Germany in 1999. But in 2012, it was acquired by the South Korean firm Hanwha Group. Since then, the brand is referred to as Hanwha Q Cells – a subsidiary of Hanwha Solutions.
The company has its engineering facility in Germany, where its products are developed. But its manufacturing facilities are located in the US, South Korea, Malaysia, and China.
Will the Q Cells ML-G9 Solar Panel Look Good on My Home?
While it’s not as aesthetically pleasing as Q Cells’ sleek All-Black series, the ML-G9 looks better than most standard panels since:
- It features monocrystalline cells, which are more uniform in colour than other cell types.
- It uses zero-gap technology, eliminating gaps between cells that mar the looks of modules.
Q Cells ML-G9 Solar Panel Key Features
The ML-G9 has many useful features that put it in the league of quality PV modules.
These include:
- Monocrystalline cells: Every cell of the ML-G9 module is created from a single silicon crystal. This purity boosts the cells’ overall efficiency.
- PERC technology: PERC (Passivated Emitter and Rear Contact) cells feature a passivated layer installed on their rear. If light falling on the cells is not absorbed, this extra layer reflects the light onto the cells for another chance of absorption. So, PERC technology helps solar cells absorb more sunlight to generate more electricity.
- Half-cut cells: The ML-G9 uses half-cells (aka dual cells). While a standard module has 66 full cells, the ML-G9 has 132 dual cells. The technology splits the cells in a standard module into two, doubling their number, thereby reducing resistive losses. The reduction in power loss makes dual cells more efficient.
- Zero-gap layout: The technology eliminates the gaps between the cells, raising panel performance by creating more light absorption areas.
What is the Q Cells ML-G9’s Warranty?
ML-G9 comes with 12 years of product warranty and a 25 years performance (linear power) warranty. These are on par with the warranties of the other top module companies.
Is the Q Cells ML-G9 a Tier 1 Solar Panel?
The tiered rating looks at the manufacturers. The ML-G9 is a Tier 1 solar panel because it is manufactured by the Tier 1 modules manufacturer Hanwha Q Cells.
These manufacturers have the capacity to manufacture quality modules. Generally, Tier 1 modules producers meet the following criteria:
- At least six different banks consider them ‘bankable.’
- The company is at the forefront of innovation in the solar industry.
- It has a solid reputation among its peers and customer base.
- It invests in state-of-the-art production facilities.
- The company has produced high-performing panels for at least five years.
Is the Q Cells ML-G9 a CEC-Approved Panel?
The CEC (Clean Energy Council) regulates Australia’s renewable energy industry and maintains a list of approved (fire-tested) solar panels.
ML-G9 is among the modules on the list, meaning the CEC approves it for installation in Australia.
As a CEC-approved panel, one benefit of using the ML-G9 is that you’ll qualify for federal government solar incentives (such as STCs).
Is the Q Cells ML-G9 Safe and Reliable?
The ML-G9 is a CEC-approved module, which provides a firm level of credibility. The modules are also certified by reputable third parties in the solar world, including the IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission), which prepares standards for electrical, electronic and related technologies.
Using dual technology, the modules have low internal current, making them better able to handle hot spots. As a result, the panels are less likely to crack, melt, or catch fire because of hotspots.
The modules also reduce LID (Light Induced Degradation) and LeTID (Light and Elevated Temperature Induced Degradation) better than most modules.
Lastly, the panels are very stable. They come with anodised frames and a 2.8 mm thick glass covering, allowing them to withstand snow loads up to 6,000 Pa and wind loads up to 4,000 Pa.
Advantages and Disadvantages of the Q Cells ML-G9
The ML-G9 modules come with many advantages, including:
- A comparatively high power output (365 W – 385 W) for a residential solar system.
- Tremendous module efficiency levels of 19.3% – 20.3%.
- Improved protection against common degradation sources like LID and LeTID.
- Lower hot spot temperatures for better protection against hotspots.
- Enhanced shade tolerance.
- Enduring performance under hot temperatures.
- Durable enough to withstand heavy mechanical loads.
- Extended warranties that give peace of mind.
The ML-G9 solar panels don’t have many disadvantages, however the ones worth noting are:
- As monofacial panels they can only collect light for conversion to electricity from one side.
- Their use is limited to residential solar projects. They may not be powerful enough for commercial or industrial solar systems.
Q Cells ML-G9 Installation
The ML-G9 can be installed like any other standard solar panel. So, installation is relatively easy. Being monofacial modules, installing the ML-G9 doesn’t require special mounting equipment or reflective surfaces.
However, you need a certified installer like Instyle Solar to have a quality and safe solar system. You cannot qualify for subsidies like STCs if you opt against using certified solar installers.
Q Cells ML-G9 compatibility with inverters
When your rooftop panels generate direct current (DC), you need a solar inverter to convert it to alternating current (AC) that your home appliances can use.
The ML-G9 modules are compatible with the products from the mainstream inverter brands. These include:
- Tesla Powerwell inverters,
- Huawei inverters,
- Sungrow inverters,
- Fronius inverters, and
- Enphase microinverters.
Is the Q Cells ML-G9 worth it for your home? Our Opinion
The ML-G9 uses innovative solar technologies to deliver more power per square meter than competing solutions.
It is one of the most powerful solar modules for a domestic solar system. However, Canadian Solar’s high-performing residential modules are capable of generating more power, which gives them the edge in terms of price-to-value ratio.
Next Steps…
Interested in solar? By clicking below, you can use our smart solar calculator to find out just how much you could save with solar, what rebate you are eligible for, and your impact on the environment.
Don’t wait until next quarter’s bloated bill. Get started today!
Click here to calculate your solar savings!
Join over 20,000 homeowners who have made the switch with Instyle Solar or the 1,000+ positive reviewers who have been more than happy with their solar install.
You can also contact us on 1300 133 556 or email us at sales@instylesolar.com.au.
