# Market Signal Issue 03

## PV module RFQs cannot be compared by price per watt alone

PV modules look easier to compare than BESS or inverters. Buyers can ask for wattage, price and delivery time.

But in real sourcing conversations, a price per watt is only useful after the product scope is clear. Technology route, model, dimensions, certificate mapping, BOM boundary, degradation, packaging, origin and delivery terms can change the real value of an offer.

Solarbe Global uses this note to turn module price questions into better RFQs.

## Why this matters

Two module offers may both say 585W or 610W. They may still be difficult to compare if the buyer does not know:

1. Whether the quote is for TOPCon, HJT, PERC, bifacial or glass-glass.
2. Whether the certificate applies to the exact model being quoted.
3. Whether the dimensions fit the project design and container plan.
4. Whether the degradation and warranty terms are comparable.
5. Whether packaging, pallet count and loading quantity are included.
6. Whether origin and trade compliance risks are visible before shipment.

The problem is not that price per watt is useless. The problem is that it should come after scope and evidence.

## Buyer RFQ questions

Before comparing module offers, buyers should clarify:

1. Target country and project type.
2. Required certificate and grid or building constraints.
3. Module technology route and power range.
4. Exact model number and datasheet version.
5. Dimensions, weight, frame color and glass structure.
6. Bifaciality and rear-side assumptions if relevant.
7. Warranty, linear degradation and claim process.
8. Packaging, pallets, container loading and delivery terms.
9. Incoterms, lead time and shipment port.
10. Origin, customs and compliance questions that may affect the deal.

## Supplier evidence required

Suppliers should prepare:

1. Datasheet for the exact model.
2. Certificate list with model mapping.
3. Warranty document and degradation statement.
4. Factory and production capability note.
5. Packaging and loading specification.
6. Product images with model context and permission status.
7. Recent shipment or project reference if publishable.
8. Clear statement of what is included in the quoted price.

## Red flags

Pause the comparison when:

1. The quoted model is not the same as the certified model.
2. The supplier only provides a brochure without model-level evidence.
3. Warranty and degradation terms are vague.
4. Packaging and loading quantity are missing.
5. The offer relies on very low price but avoids origin, certificate or after-sales questions.
6. Product images cannot be connected to the quoted model.

## Solarbe Global use

This signal can be used to:

1. Build a cleaner buyer RFQ.
2. Ask suppliers for a module evidence room.
3. Prepare a module sourcing briefing.
4. Create a shortlist based on evidence readiness, not only price.

## Boundary

This note is for sourcing preparation. It is not a real-time price quote, supplier certification, customs advice, warranty guarantee, investment advice or a promise of order terms.