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So you’re looking for a new solar panel in Australia, but hundreds of different brands and models are available, and you’re not sure which one to choose. This is often an extremely complicated task if you need clarification on which solar panels are appropriate for your specific needs. There are a few general guidelines when looking for the best solar panels. You’ll have an easier time determining what works best based on your location and how hot or cold it is; however, other factors, such as size constraints and budget, also come into play.
Energy Matters has been a leader in the renewable energy industry since 2005 and has helped over 40,000 Australian households in their journey to energy independence. With Energy Matters, you can be sure you’re getting the best possible deal on solar energy. We only work with reputable solar firms with a proven track record of delivering high-quality solar systems.
Let us discuss and choose the best solar panel system that suits your needs and budget, and we can connect you with our trusted local installers, who will provide up to 3 FREE quotes for your home and business solar energy system.
5 Best solar panels
- SunPower: Best.Known for high efficiency, reliability, and aesthetics
- REC Solar: Second best. A top choice for installers
- Q Cells solar panels: Renowned for high efficiency, durability, and reliability
- Trina Solar: Renowned for high efficiency and innovation
- LONGi Solar: Pioneering efficiency and reliability in the solar industry
Solar Panel Efficiency:
Up to 23%
Warranty: 25 or 40 years
Performance Warranty: Min 92.0% after 25 years
What makes it best:
✓ Excellent long-term efficiency
✓ Class-leading efficiency
✓ Extended warranty of 40 years
✓ Elegant looks
Solar Panel Efficiency:
Up to 22.6%
Warranty: 12 to 25 years
Performance Warranty: Min 92.0% after 25 years
What makes it best:
✓ Superior panel quality and high reliability
✓ Efficient panel design and high power density
✓ Stylish full-black looks
✓ Low panel degradation rate
Solar Panel Efficiency:
Up to 22.6%
Warranty: 12 to 25 years
Performance Warranty: Min 84.8% after 25 years
What makes it best:
✓ High power output and low degradation
✓ A cost-effective choice
✓ Bifacial design for better performance
What criteria should I consider before purchasing a solar panel?
Most people want solar panels that will generate as much electricity as possible at a reasonable cost.
The most important selection for the best solar panels criteria are panel efficiency, warranties, and value for money. Given the harshness of the Australian climate, the ability of the manufacturer to honour the warranty over the long term, as well as panel durability, is important.
Solar panel efficiency
Solar panel efficiency is critical when considering the best solar panels. It measures the sunlight absorbed by panels and converted to electricity.
More free solar electricity is generated per square metre of roof space with higher efficiency panels. With the trend towards all-electric homes, battery storage, and electric vehicles, it makes economic sense to maximise your rooftop’s power generation potential by purchasing the best panels with the highest efficiency panels you can afford.
Of course, the best solar systems with high efficiency panels are more expensive. Calculate the difference in power-generating output over a 25-year timeframe.
The additional power may be worth the extra cost.
Warranties
While the inverter warranty is the most crucial aspect of solar panel system warranties, securing the best solar panels with the longest available warranty is still a worthwhile investment. Solar panel manufacturers offer two primary types of warranties:
Solar panel performance warranty
This guarantees the quantity of solar power produced by the panel after 25 years compared to its original output. While this warranty is notoriously difficult to claim, it does provide a good estimate of the best solar panel’s durability. After 25 years, the industry average is a minimum of 80% performance. The top solar panels will have a 90% or higher performance warranty.
Solar panel product warranty
This warranty protects you against manufacturing flaws. The industry standard is 10 years, but the top solar panels now have a 25-year product warranty.
Check the Manufacturer’s financial health (Bloomberg Tier 1 rating)
Warranties are only valuable if the manufacturer remains in business. This is when the Bloomberg Tier 1 rating for the best solar panels comes in handy. It assesses the solar panel manufacturer’s bankability and financial health.
Given that solar panel warranties can last up to 25 years, it makes sense to buy panels from a company that will be there in the long run to honour their guarantees. Check out our page to learn all the important things you need to know about Tier 1 solar panel manufacturers.
Performance in extreme heat (temperature coefficient)
If you’re looking for the best solar panels, it’s important to consider their performance in extreme heat (such as in northern and central Australia). The temperature coefficient indicates how much a panel’s output is reduced when the temperature rises or falls above or below the optimal range. The temperature coefficient indicates how much a panel’s output is reduced when the temperature rises or falls above or below the optimal range.
Degradation rate
Over time, panels will deteriorate to some extent. If everything else is equal, they will perform better earlier than in later years. When you consider that solar panels have a projected lifespan of 25 years, the degradation is only natural. The degree of degradation varies between brands and is an indication of the panel’s quality.
The degradation rate is a statistic found in the panels’ datasheet’s performance warranty section.
Solar panel's cost vs value
It would be best to decide what is important to you. The best panels are helpful to us if their quality justifies the higher cost of solar panels. While cost is a significant issue, purchasing a high-quality panel that will not fail you is even more crucial.
Power Capacity
Most residential panels generate between 250 and 400 watts per hour. The total output of the panel system should correspond to your home’s power requirements. The weather and the number of daylight hours on the available roof space will also determine it.
After-sales support
After-sales support is a crucial aspect to consider when purchasing a solar panel system. It ensures that you have a reliable source of assistance in case of any issues or concerns that may arise after installation. Here are some key pointers to evaluate after-sales support before making your decision:
Responsiveness: Assess how quickly and effectively the company responds to inquiries and resolves issues. Check online reviews and testimonials to gauge customer satisfaction with their after-sales service.
Technical expertise: Verify that the company’s technicians have the expertise to diagnose and troubleshoot solar panel problems. Ensure they are certified and up-to-date on the latest technologies.
Customer service: Evaluate the company’s overall customer service approach. Check if they provide multiple communication channels, such as phone, email, and live chat, for easy accessibility.
Best solar panel brands in the Australian market
| Brand | Pricing | Solar Panel Efficiency | Product Warranty (Years) * | Performance Warranty (Years) * | Manufacturer’s Financial Health | Support Office in Australia |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SunPower | Medium to Very High | Up to 23% Best | 25 or 40 | Min 92.0% after 25 years | Founded in 1985 Bloomberg Tier 1 | |
| REC | Medium to High | Up to 22.6% Second Best | 12 to 25 | Min 92.0% after 25 years | Founded in 1996 Bloomberg Tier 1 | |
| Q Cells | Medium | Up to 21.8% | 12 to 25 | Min 86.0% after 25 years | Founded in 1999 Bloomberg Tier 1 | |
| Trina Solar | Low to Medium | Up to 22.5% | 12 to 25 | Min 87.4% after 25 years | Founded in 1997 Bloomberg Tier 1 | |
| LONGi | Low to Medium | Up to 22.6% | 12 to 25 | Min 84.8% after 25 years | Founded in 2000 Bloomberg Tier 1 | |
| JinkoSolar | Low to Medium | Up to 22.5% | 12 to 25 | Min 84.8% after 25 years | Founded in 2006 Bloomberg Tier 1 | |
| Canadian Solar | Low to Medium | Up to 22.8% | 12 to 25 | Min 84.8% after 25 years | Founded in 2001 Bloomberg Tier 1 | |
| Panasonic | High | Up to 22.2% | 25 | Min 92.0% after 25 years | Founded in 1918 Bloomberg Tier 1 | |
| * Warranty coverage for solar panels may differ based on the specific model, location, and country. Performance warranty figures reflect the best-performing panels offered by the manufacturer with the least degradation. Please consult the manufacturer’s warranty terms for your region. | ||||||
SunPower best solar panels: Known for high efficiency, reliability, and aesthetics
SunPower is a leading manufacturer of high-efficiency solar panels, known for their sleek black aesthetic and superior performance in real-world conditions. SunPower’s panels are backed by a comprehensive warranty that provides peace of mind for homeowners.
This US-based firm has an astounding up to 23% rate that no other company has been able to match so far, and they are known for producing high-quality products at a premium price.
Why do people choose SunPower solar panels?
SunPower is a popular choice for Australians because they are among the most efficient panels available on the market, with efficiency ratings of up to 23%. This means they can generate more electricity from the same amount of sunlight, saving you money on your electricity bills. SunPower solar panels are also very durable and have a long lifespan, making them a worthwhile investment.
The Sunpower Maxeon series panels are built with high-performance IBC N-type cells, the most efficient solar PV cell technology available today. However, they cost more because of the more expensive materials and advanced manufacturing processes.
SunPower’s more affordable Performance or P series panels are popular for residential and larger-scale business installations. Sunpower panels are quite popular in North America and are among the most reputable brands.
REC: A top choice for installers
REC solar panels are a popular choice for installers because they are high quality, efficient, and reliable. A strong warranty also backs them. REC is a good option for homeowners looking for a cost-effective and efficient way to generate solar power.
Norway founded the REC company in 1996, and all its products are manufactured in Singapore, is also known for producing some of the best solar panels. REC was a pioneer in half-cut (also known as split-cell) panels, offering a variety of models in Australia.
REC produces high-quality, low-cost panels that are very popular among installers, particularly the Alpha series. All REC, Alpha TwinPeak, and N-peak panels include a standard 20-year product warranty and an improved performance warranty with reduced degradation, making it one of the best warranties available.
REC was the first to use half-cut cells in the split module configuration, which is now the industry standard due to increased efficiency and improved shade tolerance. The cost-effective TwinPeak series and high-performance Alpha series panels, which feature innovative N-type Heterojunction (HJT) half-cut cells, have propelled REC to the forefront of high-performance solar with extremely low deterioration.
Why do people, especially those installers, choose REC solar panels in Australia?
REC provides comprehensive training for installers and offers a variety of support materials to help them complete installations quickly and efficiently.
REC solar panels are a good choice for homeowners and installers. They are a high-quality product backed by a strong warranty and a good reputation for customer service.
Q Cells solar panels: Renowned for high efficiency, durability, and reliability
Q Cells is a leading global manufacturer of solar panels, renowned for their high efficiency, durability, and reliability. The company’s products are consistently rated among the top performers in the industry, and a strong warranty backs them. Q Cells panels are a popular choice for both residential and commercial applications.
Q Cells was founded in Germany but is currently situated in Seoul, South Korea, and is well known for producing high-quality solar panels based on proven solar cell technology.
This brand isn’t well-known, yet it’s a hidden gem.
With a panel efficiency rate of 21.2%, they compete with certain prominent brands. Q cells’ sophisticated technology has eliminated the threat of PID (Potential Induced Degradation).
Potential-induced performance deterioration in crystalline photovoltaic modules caused by so-called stray currents is an issue that could have harmed the efficiency of your panels.
Over the previous four years, Q Cells panels have been among the top-rated solar panels in the ‘PV Module Reliability Scorecard Report’ published by PVEL, a leading independent solar module testing and performance service, in collaboration with DNV-GL.
A top performer is one of the highest performing modules in the group, with no signs of serious degradation or failure during the four rigorous testing regimens. Q Cells was also the first manufacturer to receive TÜV Rheinland’s more demanding ‘Quality Controlled PV certification’ in early 2020.
Trina Solar: Renowned for high efficiency and innovation
Trina Solar is a leading global photovoltaic (PV) module manufacturer recognized for its commitment to innovation and high-efficiency solar solutions. Founded in 1997, Trina Solar has been at the forefront of solar technology advancements, consistently setting new benchmarks for module power and efficiency.
Trina Solar is also a well-known Chinese solar panel manufacturer with a long history in Australia and a record of upholding warranties.
With dual-glass panels, Trina Solar provides an economical and effective method to enjoy the sun. These specially designed materials decrease UV ageing, power degeneration in your Trina PV system, and corrosion, all of which cause performance concerns in your house or office.
LONGi Solar: Pioneering efficiency and reliability in the solar industry
LONGi Green Energy Technology Co., Ltd. (LONGi) is a world-renowned monocrystalline silicon wafers, cells, and modules manufacturer. Founded in 2000, LONGi has established itself as a pioneer in the solar industry, renowned for its commitment to technological innovation and high-quality products.
LONGi is another significant Chinese solar maker. They only began selling in full in Australia in 2017 and have a good reputation because of their energy-efficient technology and low prices. Some solar modules have utilised an excellent combination of PERC (Passivated Emitter and Rear Contact) innovation and bifacial technology.
LONGi Solar is the world’s largest manufacturer of solar products, including wafers, cells, and panels, and was a driving force in the solar industry’s transition to more efficient monocrystalline PERC cells.
In recent months, LONGi’s R&D team has set new efficiency records using sophisticated N-type TOPcon cell technology. This more efficient cell architecture is expected to gradually replace the widely used PERC cell technology over the next 3 to 4 years.
LONGi Solar’s Hi-MO 4 mono PERC panels use the typical split-cell structure and have become one of the market’s most popular and economical 370W panels. Furthermore, the novel Gallium-doped silicon cells are an astonishing invention that has been shown to increase the lifespan of solar panels.
The LONGi Hi-MO 5 solar module is a high-efficiency, double-glass framed module designed for utility-scale power plants. It delivers up to 540W of front-side power. It utilizes LONGi’s gallium-doped M10 standard silicon wafers (182mm) to produce a P-Type Mono PERC module with the lowest light-induced degradation (LID), increased attenuation performance, and high power output, ensuring long-term reliability. Read more about LONGi Hi-MO 5m Panels Showcased on Open Homes Australia, Episode 5.
Canadian Solar: A leading provider of solar energy solutions
Canadian Solar is a leading provider of solar energy solutions for residential, commercial, and industrial applications. The company offers a wide range of high-quality solar panels, inverters, and mounting systems, as well as comprehensive installation and maintenance services. Canadian Solar has a global network of installers that can provide expert advice and support to help you get the most out of your solar energy system.
Canadian Solar, despite its name, manufactures its panels in China. Shawn Qu, however, launched the company in Guelph, Ontario, Canada.
Canadian Solar is among the best in terms of price and performance. And, it is one of the highest quality available for the price.
Engineering cell technology has been introduced to the Australian market with an efficiency rate that guarantees more power per dollar spent on solar panels than any other brand. While their efficiency rate is lower than others at 19.91%, this firm compensates with Split-cell technology, which makes these panels affordable.
With an office in Australia, Canadian Solar can assist you with the installation and maintenance of your panels.
Jinko Solar: Most innovative solar module manufacturers
Jinko Solar is one of the most innovative solar module manufacturers in the world.
They manufacture goods in China for a varied global utility, commercial, and residential consumer base.
Jinko Solar is another well-known Chinese panel manufacturer with a long history of serving Australian customers and contractors. It is the largest Chinese solar panel manufacturer by volume, producing a diverse range of affordable and dependable panels.
Jinko engineers collaborate closely with the Australian UNSW solar research centre of excellence. They have set several efficiency records over the years due to their ongoing research and development in new PV cell technology.
Panasonic: Well-known for high quality premium solar panels
Panasonic is a well-known Japanese corporation that produces high-quality premium solar panels. The company, formerly known as Sanyo, was a pioneer in high-performance heterojunction (HJT) solar cell technology and established itself as one of the industry leaders in high-performance solar panels with over two decades of experience.
HJT cells are constructed from more efficient, higher purity N-type silicon, which has the lowest degradation and performs best at high temperatures.
Panasonic’s high-quality panels are ideal for hot areas due to their extremely low temperature coefficient of 0.26%. They deliver exceptional performance and service, backed by a 25-year warranty that includes robust output power guarantees.
With an efficiency rating of 20%, these low-temperature coefficient products are among the best solar panels in Australia.years
Best After-Sales Support: REC solar panels
REC’s commitment to customer satisfaction is evident in its extensive warranty coverage, which includes a 25-year product warranty and a 10-year performance warranty. These warranties provide homeowners with peace of mind, knowing that their investment in REC solar panels is protected against any unforeseen issues.
Beyond its warranty coverage, REC offers a range of after-sales support services to ensure that its customers enjoy the optimal solar experience. These services include technical support, troubleshooting assistance, and maintenance recommendations. REC also provides a comprehensive online knowledge base and user manuals to empower customers with the information they need to manage their solar systems effectively.
With its unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction, REC has established itself as a leader in the solar industry, providing not only high-performance solar panels but also exceptional after-sales support that gives homeowners the confidence they deserve.
Best solar panel efficiency
SunPower is the best solar panel on the Australian market, with an efficiency of up to 23%. This means SunPower panels can convert 23% of their sunlight into electricity. REC is the second-best solar panel, with an efficiency of up to 22.6%. This means that REC panels can convert 22.6% of their sunlight into electricity.
Both SunPower and REC panels are a good choice for homeowners who are looking for the most efficient solar panels. However, SunPower panels are typically more expensive than REC panels.
Types of solar panels
Solar panels are an increasingly popular choice for Australians looking to generate electricity and reduce their reliance on the grid. Three main types of solar panels are available in Australia: monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film.
- Monocrystalline solar panels are the most efficient type, with an efficiency of around 20%. They are made from high-purity silicon crystals, producing a uniform structure for efficient energy conversion. However, they are also the most expensive option.
- Polycrystalline solar panels are made from silicon fragments, which gives them a slightly lower efficiency of around 16-18%. They are less expensive than monocrystalline panels, making them a more popular choice for residential installations.
- Thin-film solar panels are the least efficient type, with an efficiency of around 10-12%. They are made from a thin layer of semiconductor material deposited on a glass or plastic substrate. They are lightweight and flexible, making them suitable for certain applications, such as curved surfaces.
The best type of solar panel for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. If you have limited space, monocrystalline panels may be the best option. Polycrystalline panels may be a better choice if you are on a tight budget. And if you are looking for a lightweight and flexible solution, thin-film panels may be the right choice. Read more about Types of Solar PV Technology: A Comprehensive Guide.
How much do solar panels cost?
The cost of solar panels in Australia has decreased significantly in recent years, making them a more affordable option for homeowners and businesses.
The average cost of a 5kW solar panel system, including installation, is between $4,500 – $8,000. However, the actual cost can vary depending on the size of the system, the type of panels used, and the location of the installation. A 6kW system typically costs between $4,000 and $6,000, while a 10kW system can cost between $7,500 and $10,500. Read more about Average Solar Panel Cost in Australia: Factors That Affect the Price.
Support office in Australia
When purchasing solar panels, it is critical to evaluate whether the company has an office and representatives in Australia. This often indicates their dedication to the Australian market; if they do not maintain an office in Australia, warranty claims will be far more challenging.
What is the significance of using the finest solar panel brands?
- They have the lowest failure rate.
- If there is a flaw, the manufacturer will honour their warranty.
- Installed by a local solar provider that will still be in business if there is a problem — and will do the necessary testing to file a successful warranty claim with the manufacturer.
Energy Matters has a nationwide network of trusted local installers ready to provide you with up to 3 Free Solar Quotes. Get your free quotes today!
How to find the best solar installers?
There are a few things to consider to find the best solar installer today:
Accreditation: There is more accreditation in today’s solar industry than ever before for better consumer protection and maintenance standards. The accreditation body is the Clean Energy Council (CEC) which also has a list of over 7,000 accredited solar installers. Also, keep in mind that if the solar installer is not accredited, you won’t be entitled to rebates and incentives.
Detailed quote: Quotations must be detailed and include a proposed system design, warranty terms, expected generation, and a list of components or products.
Warranty: Ensure you understand the warranty terms, and an accredited solar installer will offer an additional warranty that covers the entire system. Many installers will also offer a performance guarantee that will ensure that your system is producing as expected during a set time frame (may will offer 10 years).
Attendance: Accredited solar installers must be physically present during the install of the solar system at least three times during installation. They must be present during the job set up, during mid-installation, and during testing and commissioning.
You can get the best solar out there for your home or business when you know what to look for in a solar installer in Brisbane today. Energy Matters has a network of local installers ready to provide you with up to 3 free solar quotes! Get your free solar quotes today.
What about solar panels made in Australia?
Tindo Solar is now Australia’s only solar panel manufacturer and is well-liked by installers and clients. The company uses high-quality mono PERC cells in the newly built manufacturing facility near Adelaide. However, due to the limited production volume, they can be difficult to find outside of South Australia.
Is it worthwhile to invest in solar panels?
There’s no getting around the high initial costs of putting solar panels on your home, which may run into thousands of dollars even for a cheaper or smaller system.
Despite the initial cost, investing in solar can pay out in the long run, thanks to several incentives and generous feed-in tariffs. Aside from rebates and feed-in tariffs, you’ll need to evaluate if you’ll be living in your home in the long run, as it may take several years to get a return on your investment.
What is the best option for you?
You may disagree with the ranking criteria for all of our research into the best panels, or you may place far more emphasis on one of the criteria, such as high efficiency or value. Of course, you must choose the best panel for your house and financial situation. Visit this page to learn tips and choose the best solar panel.
Energy Matters has over 17 years of experience in the solar industry and has helped over 40,000 Australian households in their journey to energy independence. Let us discuss and choose the best quote that suits your needs and budget. Use our free solar quote system to get up to 3 free solar quotes from our network of trusted, local installers. Complete our quick quiz and begin your solar journey today!
Originally published on 29 November 2022. Updated on 23 November 2023.
