Sirius Force 250 Watt Panels. Is it a SCAM?

1. Ebay seller -
2. Inspecting the panels
3. Specifications quoted on Ebay
4. Testing the Facts

Ebay seller - Sirius Force

Inspecting the panels

On inspection the panels had no labels or manufacture's markings except a barcode:.



I tried to find the barecode by searching the Internet without success. Also, It is not listed on the Australian Clean Energy database of CEC approved PV modules:
http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/DocumentAssets/Pages/CEC-approved-PV-modules.aspx

Detail of the Solar Panel Validation initiative can be found here: http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/RET/Scheme-participants-and-industry/Solar-Panel-Validation-initiative

If anyone has information about the source if these panels I would appreciate an email.

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Specifications quoted on Ebay

• Max Power: 250W
• Max Power Voltage: 23.28V
• Max Power Current: 11.60A
• Open Circuit Voltage: 28.50V
• Short Circuit Current: 9.19A
• Temperature Range: -40°C - 85°C
• Frame: No Frame
• Solar Cell: Mono
• Thickness: 3.0 mm
• Net Weight: 1.8 kg
• Approx Size:(L x H x W) 1170x3x550mm

Testing the Facts

I purchased two panels, so I placed both in direct sunlight near the middle of the day. First, I connected a voltmeter to the leads and tilted the panel to maximise the voltage. Then, I connected an ammeter directly to the leads and also titled the panel to get the maximum current reading. I repeated this for the second panel.

The results for both panels were close to identical: Voltage: 20.5, Current: 4.2 Amps That calculates to 86.1 Watts. Certainly NOT a 250 Watt panel.

Even after making some allowance the ambient temperature, solar cells temperature, solar irradiance, and losses in the tes equipment this panel falls far short of the claimed 250 Watt nominal output.

I would suggest it is nominally a 100 Watt panel.

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