CEO Jeff Sykes giving a hands-on review of the Jinko Tiger Neo solar panel
Note: Solar Choice is not a solar installer and has no financial or other incentives to promote any product brand over another.
Overview of Jinko – Company History
Background and Stock Market Presence
Founded in 2006, Jinko Solar, a Chinese enterprise, initially focused on producing silicon wafers. Today, it’s widely recognized as a pivotal player in the solar panel industry. This dynamic company made its mark on the New York Stock Exchange in 2010. Since then, its stock price has experienced some volatility. As of November 2023, it stands at just over US$32, boasting a market cap of US$1.7 billion. Jinko’s global workforce exceeds 15,000, spread across more than 30 countries.
Production Capabilities and Global Reach
Jinko Solar has significantly expanded its production capacity over the years. In March 2020, the company reported an annual production capacity of 17.5 GW of monocrystalline silicon wafers, 10.6 GW of solar cells, and 16 GW of solar panels. Fast forward to June 2021, and the figures are even more impressive. Jinko informed Solar Choice of a substantial increase, boasting 9 production facilities globally. Their integrated annual capacity now reaches 40GW for mono wafers and 50 GW for solar panels.
Impact on Australia’s Solar Industry
Jinko’s reputation for financial stability and a strong track record has made it a preferred choice in Australia. The company plays a significant role in the country’s solar energy sector. Many of Australia’s largest solar farms utilize Jinko Solar’s technology. Over 1GW of Jinko solar panels have been deployed in utility-scale installations across the nation, solidifying their position as a key contributor to renewable energy efforts.
Bloomberg’s infamous tier 1 ranking is NOT a measure of Solar Panel quality in any way. It is simply an indication of the bankability of the manufacturer based on publicly released information on the financial health of the company. This should give you an idea if the company is a large, well-known manufacturer.
PV Evolution Labs with support from DNV GL independently test solar panel reliability. The tests are voluntary, with solar panel manufacturers paying to participate in the testing. This testing process is internationally renowned and is an accurate reflection of the solar panel’s performance.
Jinko Solar Panels have consistently been a top performer for the past 10 years, according to the PV Evolution Labs. They have achieved this by ranking highly in 5 tests (thermal cycling, damp heat, mechanical stress sequence, hail stress sequence and PID). Please note that Jinko Solar had a large number of different solar panel models tested with varying results.
This is a significant achievement, as there are only a few manufacturers that have managed to maintain this level of performance.
Most solar panel manufacturers entering the Australian market first set up their distribution channels and worry about customer service later. This has led to many unhappy customers who are left trying to contact a Chinese head office to claim on their 10-year product warranty.
Relying on your solar installer is not always an option as we’ve seen many residential solar installers (including the large ones) go out of business well within the lifetime of the systems they are installing.
Jinko currently has offices located in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth.
How much do Jinko Solar Panels cost?
Based on Solar Choice’s database we have provided the below-average costs as an indicative guide. These prices include:
Full turnkey Solar System with Jinko Solar Panels
Installation from a pre-vetted reputable installer from Solar Choice’s network
The STC rebate and GST
System Size
Average Fully Installed Cost
5kW
$4,510
6.6kW
$5,512
10KW
$7,798
15kW
$11,510
Important Note: Prices will vary depending on location, inverter brand and which installer is used
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Jinko Solar Panels – Points of Difference
Leading Global Manufacturer
Established in 2006, Jinko Solar has rapidly ascended to become a top-tier player in the global solar panel market. This achievement is notable: Bloomberg’s 2021 data ranks Jinko Solar as the second-largest solar manufacturer worldwide. Their annual solar panel production capacity is an impressive 50GW, highlighting their significant industry presence.
Diverse Product Range
What sets Jinko Solar apart? The company offers an extensive range of solar panels suitable for various applications. Whether for residential use, commercial projects, or utility-scale installations, Jinko Solar has options to meet diverse needs. Notably, their premium selections combine enhanced performance with extended warranties, offering added value to consumers.
Track Record of Successful Projects
Jinko Solar’s panels are widespread, from neighbourhood rooftops to commercial properties and large-scale solar farms. This widespread usage offers an opportunity to monitor the performance of their solar modules. Many of Jinko Solar’s panels come with warranties extending over 12 years, a testament to their commitment to quality and durability. Interestingly, the company only recently established this warranty, underscoring their confidence in product longevity.
Jinko Solar Panels: A Top Choice in Premium Solar Solutions
Extensive Market Adoption
Since 2008, Solar Choice has been aggregating quote data from hundreds of Australian solar installers for our comparison service. This extensive data provides valuable insights into market trends. Notably, Jinko Solar Panels, particularly the Tiger Series, are a popular choice. Approximately 1 in 8 solar installers include these panels in their premium offerings.
Sign of Quality and Reliability
What does this widespread adoption mean for consumers? It’s a strong indicator of the quality and reliability of Jinko Solar Panels. Their frequent inclusion in premium solar solutions suggests that Jinko Solar consistently delivers a product that meets, if not exceeds, the expectations of discerning customers. This trend points to Jinko Solar’s ability to provide a high-quality product, ideal for those seeking superior solar solutions.
Learn More
For those interested in a detailed analysis of products used in premium offers, visit the Solar Choice Price Index. Here, you’ll find a comprehensive breakdown, offering deeper insights into the preferences and performance of various solar products, including Jinko Solar Panels.
Types of Jinko Solar Panels
All the models of panels they currently sell in Australia are salt mist corrosion resistant and suitable for coastal installations across Australia.
The majority of Jinko’s solar panels are approved by the Clean Energy Council for the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme, which is Australia’s home solar rebate program. Jinko offers four series of panels the Swan, Eagle, Cheetah and Tiger Series.
Swan Bifacial Series (HC 60M and HC 72M)
The Swan Bifacial Series includes 5 busbars solar cell that adopts new technology to improve the solar panel efficiency of modules, and offers a better aesthetic appearance, making it perfect for rooftop installation
It has an excellent Anti-PID performance guarantee limited power degradation for mass production and is designed for high voltage systems of up to 1500 VDC, saving BOS cost.
The 0.55% annual power degradation 30-year linear power warranty and lightweight design for easy installation and low BOS cost.
The module power increases by 5-25% generally (per different reflective condition) lower LCOE and higher IRR also means excellent performance in low-light environments (e.g. early morning, dusk, and cloud, etc.)
Cheetah Series (60, 72V, HC 60, HC 72 V)
The Cheetah Series includes 5 busbars solar cell that adopts new technology to improve the efficiency of modules, and offers a better aesthetic appearance, making it perfect for rooftop installation.
They are UL and IEC 1500V certified; lowers BOS costs and yield better LCOE with a higher module conversion efficiency (up to 20.74%). Their excellent Anti-PID performance guarantee limited power degradation for mass production and advanced glass and cell surface textured design ensure excellent performance in a low-light environment.
This Solar Panel comes with a 30-year performance warranty with degradation at 1% in the first year and 0.4% annually until year 30, and a product warranty of 15 years.
Eagle Series (60, 72, PERC 60, PERC 72, Eagle MX, Eagle SE)
The Eagle Series is the most affordable panel in Jinko’s Australian solar panel range.
The Eagle Plus module conversion efficiency (up to 18.57%) is boosted by PERC technology (developed initially at UNSW) and with limited power degradation caused by PID effect is guaranteed under extremely strict testing conditions (85℃/85%RH, 192 hours) for mass production.
The advanced glass and solar cell surface texturing allow for excellent performance in low-light environments and has high salt mist and ammonia resistance certified by TUV NORD.
Tiger Series (66, 78, Monofacial, Bifacial, All Black, P-type, N-type)
The Tiger Series utilises Jinko’s leading technology and is the most efficient panel they offer in the Australian market.
The Tiger Series cell technology comes in the more common P-type and the more efficient and durable N-type which has a 30-year performance warranty and an annual degradation rate of only 0.4% after the first year.
The 66-cell panels also have an ‘All Black’ option which makes a stylish solution for a residential roof space.
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Independent Testing of Jinko Solar Panels by PV Labs Australia
PV Labs Australia were engaged by the ACT Government in 2023 to complete some independent testing of some solar panels available on the market. A total of 121 solar panel were borrowed from suppliers and collectively 14 different manufacturers were tested.
The solar panels were tested via a visual inspection, STC power, electroluminescence, wet leakage and potential induced degradation.
In terms of overall score, Jinko Solar ended in the middle of the pack. With results of 86 out of 100 in round 1 and 89 out of 100 in round 2, the testing confirmed Jinko’s positioning as a mid-range quality solar panel.
Understanding Jinko Solar’s Warranty for Australian Customers
When considering Jinko Solar panels, it’s crucial to understand their warranty offerings. These warranties can vary significantly based on the panel type and model. We recommend obtaining the datasheet for the specific solar panel quoted by your installer. This datasheet will provide the exact details of the warranty for that model, ensuring you have accurate and relevant information.
Product Warranty Explained
Solar panels typically come with two types of warranties: product and performance. The product warranty covers manufacturing faults that may cause damage or malfunction. For most solar panel manufacturers, this period is usually between 10-15 years. However, Jinko Solar offers a more extended product warranty. Their N-type mono-crystalline solar panels come with a 25-year warranty, while some other models have a 12-year warranty (note: this excludes bi-facial solar panels). It is important to check the data sheet on the model you’ve been quoted.
Performance Warranty Insights
The performance warranty guarantees a certain level of output over the panel’s lifetime, usually ensuring the panel will degrade to a maximum of around 80-82% of the original output after 25 years. Jinko Solar panels, however, provide a range of performance warranties. These can vary from the standard 80.7% output after 25 years to an impressive 87.4% after 30 years for their N-type mono-crystalline solar panels.
For a comprehensive understanding of Jinko Solar’s warranty terms in Australia, it’s advisable to review their full warranty documentation. Click here to access Jinko Solar’s complete Australian warranty information.
Comparison of Jinko Solar Panel Specifications (common modules)
Jinko Cheetah HC 330W JKM330M-60H
Jinko Tiger All Black 390W JKM390N-6RL3-B
Cell Number
120 half-cut cells
132 half-cut cells
Cell Type
Mono PERC
N-type Monocrystalline
Power Output
330Wp
390Wp
Max Power Voltage
33.54V
37.25V
Panel Efficiency
19.56%
20.43%
Annual PowerDegradation
0.7%
0.4%
Dimensions
1684 x 1002 x 30 mm
(1.68 m²)
1855 x 1029 x 30 mm
(1.91 m²)
Weight
18.5kg
20.8kg
Product Warranty
12 Years
25 Years
Operational Temperature Range
-40°C to 85°C
-40°C to 85°C
Made in
China
China
Pros and Cons of Jinko Solar Panels
Pros
Cons
Large manufacturing capacity and healthy financial position
Have local office in Australia
From mid-range to premium options for customers
Founded in 2006 (shorter history compared to similar Chinese solar brands)
How do Jinko Solar Panels Rate?
A Trustworthy and Affordable Option
Jinko Solar is a one of the biggest solar panel manufacturers with over 20 years under their belt. They have a proven track record that their products will do what they say on the data sheet, which is proven in the many large scale projects that they have been selected on.
Varied Selection Catering to Different Needs
Jinko Solar do have a range of solar panels that can cater to different budgets. They are best known for offering cost-effective mid-range solutions. Their new Tiger Neo series does offer above average characteristics and is priced a little higher.
Local Support in Australia
For over a decade, Jinko Solar Panels have had a local dedicated support team. Unlike some of the smaller brands and brands newly entering the Australia market, it seems likely that Jinko are here to stay. Given solar panels are designed to last for at least 25 years, we believe this is an important consideration.
Jinko Solar Commercial Project Example: Voyages Ayers Rock Resort
Project Overview
Date: Q1, 2016
Jinko Model Used: Solar Eagle Series
Application Type: Supplier
System Size: 1.8 MW
Project Details and Implementation
In March 2016, Voyages Ayers Rock Resort saw the commissioning of a substantial 1.8 MW solar system. Jinko Solar played a pivotal role, supplying 1.6MW of EAGLE PID free modules. The remainder of the project was complemented by another module provider. This system uniquely combines roof and ground mount systems, ensuring energy production is optimally close to its usage point.
Environmental Impact
The solar system at Voyages Ayers Rock Resort is expected to significantly contribute to environmental conservation. Annually, it’s anticipated to offset at least 2733 tonnes of CO2, marking a substantial step towards sustainable energy use.
Compare quotes from up to 7 pre-vetted installers in your area now. Since 2008 our knowledge and sophisticated software has allowed over 300,000 Australian households and businesses to make a well-informed choice on their solar & battery installer.
Jeff has consulted on over 20MW of commercial solar projects, ranging from SMEs to ASX top 100 companies. Jeff has also provided independent advice to 100s of residential solar, battery and EV charging customers across every state in Australia. He holds an MBA from the Australian Graduate School of Management and is an expert in business strategy and financial analysis.
Very happy with the installation and contractor who installed the system.
2nd November 2024
Glenn
-
10-15kW system
5.00
It's a big system and produces power even on cloudy days, the panels have had zero issues and it put out way more than we can use on a sunny day.
31st October 2024
Anthony
-
10kW system
5.00
Happ so far hasn’t caught on fire so that’s a plus
31st October 2024
Dc
-
6kW system
4.00
Needed 5 panels in a string to be recognised by the inverter. Black edging looks good on the roof. The panels are good - if installed properly…
30th October 2024
Michael
-
10-15kW system
5.00
The panels look great on the roof; the set up is balanced and symmetrical. They produce the stated amount of electricity.
25th October 2024
Emma
-
6kW system
5.00
The panels look good, they have glass on both sides.
22nd October 2024
Adam
-
5kW system
5.00
Time will tell, but they look sleek. Black. When we tested the unit we were getting 5kw straight off the bat! Good
22nd October 2024
Troy
-
10-15kW system
5.00
Seemed to be great value when looking at efficiency vs. cost, so very happy.
14th October 2024
Adam
-
15-20kW system
5.00
Jinko was the brand recommended to me by Sure Solar. In the research I’ve done and several other quotes that I had obtained this brand of panel was very highly regarded and very cost-effective.
I’m very happy with the decision to use this and during the installation it looked very robust.
10th October 2024
Angelo
-
10-15kW system
5.00
Happy with the entire job, the system itself and the installers and company as a whole. 1st class beginning to end.
27th September 2024
Hugh
NSW - 2590
10kW system
5.00
Output great. Solar panels look better than shed roof !
26th September 2024
Jaden
-
5kW system
5.00
I am happy with the result and they look clean and neat during their installation.
I choose this brand because it's high standard brand
19th September 2024
Carter
-
5kW system
5.00
Happy with system output? Absolutely! The Jinko panels are performing even better than I expected. I've already seen a significant reduction in my energy bills.
How do the solar panels look on the roof? They blend in well with my roof and have a sleek, modern appearance. I’m really happy with how they look.
Any other reasons you chose this brand? Jinko is known for its reliability and high efficiency. Plus, their strong warranty gave me extra peace of mind when making the decision.
18th September 2024
Fieldsie
-
10-15kW system
5.00
The panels are excellent and the app shows charging when it is hard to believe there is enough sunlight. A potential customer asked Sunsmart to see an installed system and I happily offered to show the customer mine after the excellent assistance I had received at every stage. The customer came on an overcast day and had done a lot of preliminary research on Solar systems(I had done none). He explained all of the parts of the system and was very impressed with the absorption rate due to the inclement weather, the responsiveness of the change over switch and the information updates on the app. I believe after seeing the system that he was definitely purchasing thru Sunsmart SC
17th September 2024
Louise
TAS - 7268
9kW system
5.00
So far everything seems really good, the app is easy to navigate as well
9th September 2024
Amanda
-
6kW system
5.00
Panels look great on roof, luckily for me you can’t see from front of house, happy with choice and placement
Showing 20 of 519 Reviews
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