# Market Signal Issue 05

## BOS RFQ: accessories cannot be compared by unit price before site and standard are clear

Scope: rooftop and C&I PV balance-of-system items only. This note does not cover full EPC design, utility-scale plant engineering or construction responsibility.

## Why this signal matters

PV module RFQs often move into BOS questions quickly:

1. Which mounting system fits the roof or ground condition?
2. Which cable, connector and protection components should be included?
3. Which standard, certificate or test evidence is expected?
4. Which packaging and delivery scope is included?
5. Who is responsible for local installation and acceptance?

If these questions are not structured, buyers may compare unit prices for very different scopes.

## Where comparison breaks

BOS comparison breaks when offers do not share the same:

1. Application: rooftop, carport, C&I ground mount or small commercial system.
2. Roof or ground condition.
3. Wind, snow, corrosion and environmental assumptions.
4. Cable size, material and standard.
5. Connector compatibility and test scope.
6. DC/AC protection and distribution boundary.
7. Packaging, labeling, spare parts and documentation.
8. Local installation and acceptance responsibility.

## Buyer RFQ questions

Buyers should clarify:

1. Site type and project size.
2. Roof or ground structure.
3. Target country and applicable standard.
4. Module type and layout context.
5. Cable, connector and protection scope.
6. Installation responsibility and local service path.
7. Evidence needed before supplier comparison.

## Supplier evidence questions

Suppliers should prepare:

1. Product series and exact model.
2. Datasheets and installation guide.
3. Test reports or standard scope.
4. Material specification.
5. Packaging and labeling method.
6. Warranty and limitation statement.
7. Product images with public-use permission.

## What Solarbe Global should do next

1. Help buyers turn vague BOS needs into a comparable RFQ.
2. Help suppliers prepare a BOS evidence room before overseas outreach.
3. Help local partners define inspection, installation and acceptance roles.
4. Keep BOS Issue 05 focused on rooftop and C&I accessories first.

## Boundary

This market signal is for sourcing preparation only. It is not engineering design, official price quotation, supplier certification, installation instruction or order commitment.