Tier 1 ranking: what is a Bloomberg ranking really?

Deciding on the right photovoltaic panels for a PV installation is crucial to ensure the efficiency and reliability of the system. One of the features investors look for in a module is inclusion in the Tier 1 ranking. In this article, we will outline whether being on this list should make a big difference to an investor

What is a Tier 1 ranking (ranking of photovoltaic panels)?

Bloomberg New Energy Finance (BNEF) is a company specialising in technology research in the energy sector. It publishes a ranking of modules under the name ‘Bloomberg Tier 1’. This ranking does not focus on the best performance of photovoltaic modules, but on the reliability of manufacturers. The companies on this list have a good reputation and a stable position in the financial market. The manufacturers listed in the BNEF report are characterised by having their own factories and the fact that their products have been used in major projects. In other words, the Tier 1 ranking includes companies that are profitable from an investment perspective

Bloomberg Tier 1 criteria

To be included in the Bloomberg Tier 1 list, the following criteria are important

• financial stability and integrity
• sales performance – only companies operating for more than 5 years are included
• scale of production – implementation of major projects
• investment in research and development
• level of product innovation
• degree of advancement of the production process

Quality of photovoltaic modules

A key aspect that is not included in the Tier 1 ranking is product quality. Smaller or more specialised companies can create photovoltaic modules with exceptional performance, durability or other advantages, but they do not have the ability to compete with giant manufacturers on the financial aspect

What to look for when choosing solar panels?

When choosing photovoltaic modules, there are several key factors to consider. Firstly, it is important to assess the performance of the panels, i.e. how much energy they can produce under real-world conditions. The quality of the manufacturer and the length of the warranty are important for the reliability of the system

You should also consider the technology used to make the panels, such as from N-type or P-type silicon. (We have written more here: https://evolive.pl/instalacje-fotowoltaiczne/technologia-n-type/ )

For proper installation and operation of the system, working with an experienced installer is crucial. Before deciding to work with one, we suggest carefully verifying key information about the company in question. Keep in mind that choosing the right installer is one of the most important steps to ensuring you have an efficient and reliable photovoltaic installation that will last for many years

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Summary

Although the Bloomberg Tier 1 ranking is widely used and considered an indicator of reliability in the PV industry, it is worth realising that it is not the only factor determining the performance of solar panels. The Tier 1 list is mainly based on a manufacturer’s financial stability and ability to mass produce, and not necessarily on the quality of the products. When selecting photovoltaic modules, customers and investors should consider a number of factors, such as performance, quality, warranties and budget. It is important to tailor photovoltaic modules to specific needs, and to work with an experienced installer to ensure that the system is installed correctly.