"Keep in mind the 2watt bulbs they use for these panels cost about 20bucks each"

That is incorrect by an order of magnitude.

3 Watt "stars" are around $5 ea.
High quality 5 Watt mounted emitters are only 8 or 9 bucks.
15 Watt emitters can be had for $26.

Dunno where you get your info, but I'll be happy to sell you 2 Watt "bulbs" for 18 bucks each.
Such a deal!

Still, you are right about waiting for decent commercial lights at a reasonable price.
Won't be much longer.

Aloha,
Weezard