In June 2011 we had a PV Solar System installed on my home in Kallaroo, WA. Technical advice and system design was provided by experts at a big National Solar provider. We paid top dollar for the best Option Solar inverter available with 5 years warranty. We installed top quality Simax Solar Panels with 10 years warranty.
Installation of the system was by a local electrical contractor called Clinton Angel from Direct Electrical Solutions. And what a great job he did. Arrived on time with all the equipment. Very neat and tidy installation on a difficult, old two storey house with old clay tiles. Finished the job in one day and left the site clean with no outstanding issues.
Three years later ... The Solar inverter has died. The importer has withdrawn from Australia and although they still operate overseas will not discuss warranty claims with anyone from Australia.
The national solar company that received payment no longer exists. Actually they do – still at the same address with the same phone number and man in charge but a different company name and no interest in warranty claims from old customers.
Twelve of the Solar panels are showing internal manufacturing faults (Cell cracks). Output is now less than half what it was at install. The company trades out of Melbourne but have not answered any requests for support so far.
And Clint from Direct Electrical Solutions? - Still there providing the best help he can. Arrived within two hours of the call for help. Had the Inverter replaced, system checked and working again within two more hours. Good advice, clean and tidy work as always. Has done everything he possibly can to contact the suppliers and negotiate warranty claims on our behalf. Has provided me with current contact details of all involved and a month later is still following up with courtesy checks to see what is happening.
Doesn't matter how good a product is, if you do not have ongoing support you are eventually going to be let down. Deal with the local people who are going to be in the area in the future.
I recommend Clinton Angell from Direct Electrical Solutions, Hillarys WA.

Approximate cost: $1100