Where to find pv panels in Central Montana?

[Canine]

Finding panels around 50 watts or less is easy, but to find 250 to 300 watt panels for the DIY guy and for mobile applications is hard. I've found some great panels (Sunpower) 200 miles from here, but they won't sell them to me unless I pay for them to install it and not on a mobile application (slide in camper). No one in Great Falls, MT as far as I've learned, sells panels that large at all.

I want two large panels for three reasons: To make installation in the available space easier, to make best use of panels in early morning/late evening/low light conditions with an MPPT controller, and the cheaper cost per watt compared to 12 volt panels. Looking for 500+ watts of poly panels for my 12 volt battery bank. No free shipping on those larger panels; freight on a semi truck is expensive.

Any recommendations on where to buy here? Would rather buy here than be a burden on anyone to do me a favor. However, I may ask a forum member :angel: if he/she would pick up a couple for me from Northern Arizona Wind and Sun (or other reputable place) while they are at the RTR then bring those panels back when they get near me. (You know who you are!   )

Living in a more remote area has it drawbacks at times. Thanks for reading and considering!

 

[Optimistic Paranoid]

I know this is going to sound incredibly old fashioned for the 21st century, but did you try looking in the yellow pages?

Regards
John

 

[Canine]

Lol. Yep, I did look in ye ole Yeller Pages. One listing under "Solar" and they don't sell solar components. They sell wire and other ubiquitous electrical items, but nothing solar. If they are wiring a house and want to install solar, they contract someone from a town nearby to do the solar parts they can't do.  I spoke to that contractor and they don't stock solar stuff; they order what they need for whatever job they are doing. Since this time of year they are doing nothing or almost no construction, I'm out of luck until at least February.

Maybe I can get some good deal somewhere else with last year's models?

 

[GotSmart]

http://www.renogy-store.com/default.asp

 

[Canine]

http://www.renogy-store.com/default.asp

Free shipping only on 12 volt and they are more expensive panels. 24 volt is freight which is quite expensive. There are no Renogy dealers near me, either.

 

[GotSmart]

Free shipping only on 12 volt and they are more expensive panels. 24 volt is freight which is quite expensive. There are no Renogy dealers near me, either.

The Renogy store is not that far from RTR.  In Ontario CA.  

You can call Renogy, and ask them to design a custom kit.  It is worth a try. 

I am trying to swing a RTR / vandwellers discount.  I think the bosses are on vacation.

 

[Canine]

The Renogy store is not that far from RTR.  In Ontario CA. 

I will give them a call tomorrow that way if logistics work out, I will be ready. You never know, the stars may line up! Thanks

 

[29chico]

Try this firm: CED Greentech. My local branch has the SolarWorld 285w USA made mono panels for $270.  Best deal on large panels that I have found yet.  I'll be buying three soon.

Link:  cedgreentechus.com

Lots of locations.

 

[highdesertranger]

doesn't Home Depot sell solar panels? highdesertranger

 

[Canine]

doesn't Home Depot sell solar panels?  highdesertranger

I see they do. Am surprised. The Grape Solar seem to be very good in quality, but they are spendy. $370 for a 265 watt panel.

 

[blars]

If you do use freight, see if there is a cheaper place to ship to nearby -- you might be able to pick it up at the freight companies warehouse or get it delivered to a commerical address with a loading dock.