Solar energy can save you money and help you adopt a sustainable lifestyle. However, when it comes to solar installation, most people struggle with one very common decision: solar EPC vs manufacturer- which solar solution to choose.
Both solar manufacturers and solar EPC solution providers can install solar systems. However, they have a few differences that you must be aware of to make your final decision. In this blog, we have compared both these options to help you determine which is more suitable for your project.
Solar Manufacturer
What Does A Solar Manufacturer Do?
A solar manufacturer is someone who designs, engineers, and produces solar modules (PV modules). These modules or panels are the powerhouse of the solar system and are mounted on your rooftop or the ground based on your system design. Some manufacturers, like Sunora Solar, also develop other solar products like the solar inverter and solar battery.
A solar panel manufacturer is responsible for:
- Researching and developing modern solar cell technology
- Manufacturing solar panels
- Testing the quality of solar panels
- Offering a warranty on the solar panels (and other solar products)
- Supplying solar panels to direct customers, EPC contractors, and distributors
Solar panel manufacturers aren’t responsible for handling the entire solar installation process. Their role ends when they sell their panels and offer a warranty for the panels only.
You can either buy solar panels directly from the solar manufacturer or through a dealer. However, one primary difference between solar dealers and manufacturers is the cost and warranties.
Can Solar Manufacturers Help With Solar Installation?
Many big solar panel manufacturers offer solar installation services directly or help you connect with a reliable EPC contractor. It totally depends on individual solar manufacturers on whether they want to offer installation services and what those services cover.
Solar EPC Services
What Is A Solar EPC Company?
EPC stands for Engineering, Procurement, and Construction. A solar EPC company is one that handles everything regarding the solar system installation, from site survey to final system connection checkup.
EPC companies provide turnkey solar EPC solutions to handle everything in one place. Thus, instead of coordinating with multiple suppliers for solar panels, electricians, and more, you can rely on the Solar EPC company to handle all tasks of solar installation.
The solar EPC services meaning includes:
- Site survey for shadow analysis, energy load assessment, and installation design
- Solar system design and engineering
- Procurement of solar system components (panels, inverter, cables, mounting structure, and more)
- Installing the solar mounting structure
- Connecting the electrical system
- Managing the connection with the local grid and DISCOM
- Solar subsidy processing support
- System testing and performance tracking
- Providing warranties and post-commissioning support for maintenance and more
Advantages Of EPC Solution
The following are a few advantages of working with a solar EPC company:
- One team manages everything instead of you coordinating with multiple suppliers and service providers
- Your solar system is designed based on the site survey to maximize output
- Get high-quality equipment at the best prices
- They ensure that your system meets all the regulatory requirements
- Get insights and support to get a solar subsidy for residential rooftop projects
- Get product and performance warranty for your solar system
- The solar EPC company takes complete accountability for project completion
Solar EPC Vs Manufacturer: What’s The Difference?
| Solar Manufacturer | Solar EPC Company | |
| Primary role | Producing solar panels and modules | Providing end-to-end solar system development services |
| Services | Some manufacturers might offer installation services | End-to-end installation service include pre-installation and post-installation surveys |
| Support to get government permits | Some manufacturers might offer | Support from experts who help you in getting permits and subsidy |
| Post-installation support | Limited to product warranty | Product and performance warranty, annual maintenance contract (AMC) |
| Accountability | For solar panel only | Single point accountability for entire system |
| Best solution for | EPC contactors, bulk buyers, and dealers | Homerowners and commercial & industrial clients |
If your focus is on getting the best solar panels only, choosing a solar panel manufacturer is the best choice. However, if you want a smooth solar installation and someone to take accountability for it, working with a solar EPC contractor is much more beneficial.
How To Choose A Solar EPC Contractor?
If you want to hire a dedicated EPC service provider, you should consider the following factors before choosing one:
Track Record Of Installed Projects
Check how many solar panel systems and what solar capacity they have installed. A company with a diversified portfolio including residential, commercial, and industrial projects are more likely to handle any complications in your project.
Compliance Standards
Compliance is essential for smooth execution and security. That’s why, when choosing a solar EPC company, you should check their certificates and whether they follow all the compliance standards.
Public Reviews
Always check the public reviews of the solar EPC company to know if they are reliable or not. Cross-check the client testimonials with real project details.
Transparency In Communication And Project Quotation
A trusted EPC company maintains transparency regarding the process, services, price, timeline for installation, and the legal procedures. If they offer vague answers and cryptic bills, you should think about whether to continue with them or not.
Post-Installation Services And Warranties
A solar system lasts for at least 25 years. During this time, you might need various services to keep the system running smoothly. A reliable EPC company must offer post-installation support for maintaining the components and the system.
If you want a stress-free solar installation service, you should connect with a solar panel manufacturing company that also offers EPC services. Sunora Solar can help you get the best results from the solar system. Contact us now to know more.
Conclusion
When it comes to solar installation, the age-old solar EPC vs manufacturer questions arise. Solar manufacturers mostly focus on developing and selling solar panels. Many large-scale solar panel manufacturers offer end-to-end solar installation services. Solar EPC companies are responsible for complete solar installation, right from the first site survey to the final connection inspection to commission the project. They are solely responsible for the installation of your system without any delays or damage. Working with an EPC helps you remain stress-free as a professional will take care of all the tasks, approvals and permits. Contact us for more information about solar installation.
FAQs
What is EPC in the solar industry?
An EPC (Engineering, Procurement and Construction) company does all of the work involving installing solar systems. They help you design the solar system, procure the best components and take care of the entire installation cycle in the most efficient way.
Which solar EPC company is the best in India?
The ‘best’ EPC company varies based on your location, system size, system complexity, budget, and specific requirements. Working with a solar manufacturer with in-house EPC services is one of the best decisions you can make. It helps you get all the services in one place and at a better price.
What are the benefits of using an EPC contractor?
The following are a few benefits of working with an EPC contractor:
- One contractor takes all responsibilities of solar installation
- System designed based on your site to maximize output
- Get support for government approvals and permits
- Get post-installation support and warranties
- Save your time and effort by coordinating multiple vendors
How to choose the right panel company?
When choosing a solar manufacturer, check the diversity of their products, certificates, client testimonials, portfolio projects, and communication style. This helps you determine if they are reliable for your project.
