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To determine the best solar panels in the UK, our solar experts have researched over 50 models on the market. In their extensive analysis, they examined key factors, including efficiency, reliability, power and solar panel costs.
The Project Solar UK Evo Super Max Series 455W came out on top for its ability to generate the expected amount of energy even in cloudy conditions. It also has an unparalleled warranty and strong reliability.
The best solar panels for UK homes have efficiency ratings of over 20 per cent as well as solid power outputs – anything from 420W and up. They typically come with advanced features that increase their efficiency and longevity, and most can work in low light and adverse weather conditions. We’ve found that the best solar panels are usually made from monocrystalline cells, which are more efficient than cheaper polycrystalline cells.
During our research, we compared more than 50 solar panels from 13 best-in-class manufacturers, evaluating each to decide an overall winner. We considered a range of factors in our analysis.
As part of our research, we also examined the manufacturers track record, as well as their expertise, experience and ethical and sustainable practices. To learn more about our process, read about how we review solar panels.
Top takeaways
The Evo Super Max Series 455W solar panels are the newest in Project Solar’s range. They are the best overall solar panels, thanks to their solid output and efficiency, combined with the most generous warranty on the market.
These panels incorporate passivated emitter and rear contact (PERC) technology. PERC solar cells are enhanced versions of traditional cells, designed to increase energy production by as much as 6 to 12 per cent. This efficiency boost comes from an additional layer placed on the cell’s rear side that captures the sunlight reflected back into the cell, providing another opportunity for energy conversion.
What’s more, the Evo Super Max Series 455W can be integrated into a smart solar system that uses real-time data to monitor energy production with smart meters and inverters. Thanks to its high efficiency of up to 21.01 per cent, the brand is suitable for homes of all sizes, retaining optimum performance in low-light conditions. In other words, cloudy days and winter months shouldn’t affect its performance.
Read our full Project Solar review.
Top takeaways
SunPower’s Maxeon 7 combines a high energy output with a high efficiency rating of up to 24.1 per cent. The crack-resistant panels are designed to withstand corrosion, and they come with enhanced shade tolerance.
The design of solar panels typically results in the system only being as strong as its weakest panel. For this reason, an issue with a single panel can impact the whole system. However, SunPower Maxeon 7 solar panels are fitted so that each panel works independently, improving the system’s overall power by approximately 50 per cent. This means less surface area is required to achieve the same energy output as other panels. The Maxeon 7 panels also feature maximised power point tracking, which enhances their output in variable weather conditions. So, even on overcast days, you’ll benefit from optimal output.
Read our full SunPower solar panels review.
Top takeaways
Jinko’s Tiger Neo 420W N-Type 54-Cell panels use Super Multi Bus Bar (SMBB) technology. Bus bars are thin copper or silver strips that connect the cells in a solar panel and carry the current. The sophisticated design of SMBBs uses a higher number of bus bars, which are also finer and denser. This reduces the effect of shading and optimises the path the current takes, increasing the overall efficiency of the panel.
Naturally, all solar panels degrade over time, losing their ability to harvest energy and becoming less efficient. This is caused by potential induced degradation (PID) – the gradual leakage of electrical current from the solar cell to the panel frame. Jinko’s technology has reduced this leakage, meaning its panels hold their efficiency longer than the average panel.
They also deliver enhanced protection against extreme environmental conditions, such as rain, wind and snow, making them one of the most reliable solar panels in the UK. If you live on the coast or your home becomes shaded when it’s particularly windy, you’ll still be able to generate a stable amount of energy with these panels.
Jinko offers a 12-year warranty on the product and 30 years on linear power.
Read our full Jinko Solar solar panels review.
Top takeaways
Among all the solar panels we reviewed, JA Solar’s panels boast the highest power output. Designed with shading and weather in mind, and packed with desirable features – such as PERC cells and a high resistance to hotspot degradation – they make for a welcome addition to homes with high energy usage.
At 31.8kg, the panels are quite heavy, but their high energy output easily compensates for the extra weight. Considering that an output of 420W and above is standard for solar panels, JA Solar’s 595W panel is certainly powerful – especially when paired with an efficiency rating of up to 23 per cent. In short, you can expect a healthy return of energy from these solar panels, even in low-light conditions.
Read our full JA Solar review.
Top takeaways
All solar panels will perform to some extent in cloudy weather, but low-light conditions pose a greater problem. If your home is shaded by trees, then it’s crucial to invest in panels designed with low-light enhancements.
The Ultra V Series from Suntech includes modules comprising 182mm silicon wafers that optimise this solar panel’s layout and power generation. What’s more, these modules operate well in low light and adverse weather conditions, providing a more consistent energy output during daylight hours.
Excellent low-light performance means that your solar panels could absorb light even in the early morning, so you won’t have to wait until peak hours – typically between 11am and 4pm – to start drawing on your home’s solar energy supply. Suntech’s Ultra V panels also perform well at lower temperatures and can withstand wind and other harsh weather, including heavy snowfalls.
Read our full Suntech solar panels review.
Efficiency: 23.9 per cent
Power output: 615W
Degradation: 0.35 per cent annual degradation from year two to year 30
Temperature coefficient: −0.26%/°C
Price: Approximately £188
Warranty: 15-year product warranty and 30-year performance warranty
The Aiko Solar N-Type ABC White Hole offers almost 24 per cent efficiency, which beats the average of around 20 per cent. Its 615W power output is among the highest of all panels on the market. Unlike other panels, which can quickly lose efficiency, this model maintains approximately 89 per cent (about 550W) of its initial capacity after decades. So, if you bought one today, it might still be outperforming many new panels on the market by 2054. Unfortunately, its price is undisclosed, making it difficult to compare costs with similar models.
Read our full Aiko solar panels review.
Efficiency: 22.3 per cent
Power output: 420W
Degradation: 0.25 per cent after year one
Temperature coefficient: –0.24%/°C
Price: £160
Warranty: 25-year product warranty and 25-year performance and labour warranties – as long as they’re fitted by a REC-certified installer. Panels fitted by any other companies are only eligible for a 20-year product warranty
The REC Alpha Pure-R panel stands out with its advanced technology, offering superior performance compared to others on the market. Constructed from 80 silicon cells, these panels are assembled with lead-free, gapless technology, encased in 3.2mm glass and framed with black aluminium. They achieve a peak efficiency of 22.3 per cent and boast a minimal annual degradation rate of only 0.25 per cent after the first year – significantly lower than the typical 0.5-0.7 per cent for other panels.
Read our full REC solar panels review.
Efficiency: 22.28 per cent
Power output: 430W
Degradation: less than 2 per cent in year one, 0.45 per cent in years 2-25
Temperature coefficient: –0.31%/°C
Price: POA
Warranty: 30-year product and performance warranties
The Perlight NTA 430W solar panel has an output of 430W and an efficiency rate of 22.28 per cent. It incorporates n-type technology, giving it superior resistance to sunlight-induced degradation and ensuring a more consistent performance over the panel’s lifetime.
Perlight’s manufacturing processes are certified under SA8000 standards. This certification addresses labour conditions and environmental impact concerns, highlighting Perlight’s dedication to social responsibility and environmental stewardship throughout the manufacturing of its solar panels.
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Solar panels capture daylight and turn it into usable power. The best solar panels are usually made from silicon cells or another semiconductor material set in a metal frame with a glass casing. When daylight hits these cells, electrons within the cells move, creating an electric current. This electricity is then used to power your home.
The best solar panels are highly efficient, generate plenty of electricity, perform well on overcast days, are designed to cope with harsh weather conditions and come with generous warranties. They also have an excellent cost-per-watt ratio, allowing you to maximise your investment.
However, there’s no single best panel to suit every household. Your ideal model will depend on the size and location of your property, as well as the energy needs of your household. For example, if you live in an area with high sun exposure – that doesn’t often experience harsh weather – you could go for a panel with a lower power output and efficiency rating and still generate the same amount of energy you may get from more efficient panels in less sunny areas.
Want to maximise your investment as soon as possible or live more off the grid? Then focus on panels with the highest power output and efficiency percentage. You’ll also want to sign up for the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) scheme to sell any excess energy your solar panels produce back to the national grid.
As soon as you decide to invest in solar panels, make sure you consult with several suppliers, as well as a number of national and regional installers. By doing so, you can clearly explain your requirements, understand how they can accommodate those needs and compare the various quotes. You can get in touch with trusted installers in the UK – quickly and easily – with our free quote-finding form.
Finally, don’t be afraid to walk away if a particular quote doesn’t suit your home or budget. After all, solar panels are a big investment, so you should be informed and confident in your decision.
As you research the best solar panels for you, be sure to keep the following key attributes in mind.
The idea that every household requires a solar panel system tailored to its specific needs is a testament to the versatility and adaptability of solar technology. Solar energy isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution: different environments, energy requirements and physical constraints demand a customised approach. Whether they’re compact, high-efficiency panels maximising output in limited spaces, robust systems designed to endure high winds or corrosive salt mist in coastal areas, or options focused on aesthetic integration with existing architecture, the best solar panels address a broad spectrum of challenges.
This customisation ensures that the benefits of solar energy – including reduced electricity bills, a lower carbon footprint and increased energy independence – are accessible to everyone, regardless of their unique circumstances. It underscores the importance of considering your individual requirements when selecting solar panels for your home, ensuring that your system delivers optimal performance and value.
The following are the key attributes to keep in mind when choosing the best solar panels for you.
Solar panels are awarded efficiency ratings according to how much electricity the solar panels will produce. The higher the rating, the better, and most panels tend to range between 18 and 22 per cent.
Various factors, such as roof pitch, your home’s location and the size of the solar panel system will affect efficiency – this applies to even the best solar panels. In choosing a system, the aim is to ensure the panels are exposed to as much daylight as possible. It’s also important to choose solar panels with added features that increase their efficiency and, therefore, their power output – especially if their position isn’t optimal.
A solar panel’s output is defined as the amount of energy you can expect it to generate. Pmax is a metric that defines the maximum power output of a solar panel module in clear and bright conditions. As with efficiency ratings, the higher the Pmax number, the better. You can find a solar panel’s Pmax in its product description or data sheet.
If you have a small roof space, choosing panels with a higher power output may allow you to generate a good amount of energy even with fewer panels.
Energy generated per solar panel per day
| Module brand and type | Watts per module | Energy generated per panel/day* (watts) |
|---|---|---|
| Project Solar Evolution Titan 445 | 445 | 1,891 |
| SunPower Maxeon 7 | 445 | 1,870 |
| Jinko Tiger Neo 72HL4 | 605 | 2,380 |
| JA Solar JAM72D40 | 595 | 2,370 |
| Suntech Ultra V Mono 430Wp | 430 | 1,730 |
Essentially, solar panels capture daylight and turn it into usable energy. The best solar panels are made from silicon cells or another semiconductor material and typically set in a metal frame with a glass casing. When daylight hits these cells, electrons inside them move, creating an electric current. This electricity is then used to power your home.
When choosing a solar panel, it’s important to consider what it’s made of and the quality of its build.
The elements below are the main parts of a solar panel:
Although solar panels can last between 30 and 40 years, even the best panels on the market will see their efficiency decrease over time.
Degradation is usually measured over a period of years from the installation date, and this will be detailed on the solar panel’s data sheet.
Look for enhanced PID resistance, which helps maintain the panel’s generation rates over time. Without this feature, panels are more prone to decreasing their power output with each passing year.
Performance guarantees are another important detail to look out for. Make sure to check how long your panels’ power output efficiency is covered. That way, if performance decreases more quickly than expected, you’ll be able to get a replacement or another form of compensation.
Most domestic solar panels come with a 12-year product warranty, while performance warranties tend to start at 25 years. It’s important to note that warranties vary greatly, with some manufacturers offering a combined guarantee for both product and performance. As you shop for solar panels, we strongly recommend that you read the terms and conditions carefully. You should also find out how to report any issues with your solar panels.
As most homeowners who invest in solar panels do so, in part, for environmental reasons, it’s important to research your chosen manufacturer. For example, you might want to look into the brand’s stance on ethics and sustainability, as well as its treatment of employees.
Solar panels often contain trace amounts of lead, particularly in the solder used to connect the solar cells. Lead is highly rated for its electrical conductivity and durability, but due to environmental and health concerns, the industry is moving towards lead-free alternatives.
Fluorine is found as fluorinated ethylene propylene in some thin-film solar panels. It can also be a component in the protective coatings of other solar panels to enhance their durability and performance. Be sure to look for panels produced with little to no lead or fluorine.
Most solar panels can be connected to smart meters and solar monitoring apps, helping you to keep track of how much energy your panels produce and how reliant you are on the National Grid. This type of monitoring is especially useful if you’re eligible for the SEG scheme, as you could earn cash for any energy you export to the grid. Ask your supplier or solar panel installer for more details on smart connectivity.
When looking at your options for solar panels, we highly recommend that you source them directly from a professional solar installer, whether regional or national. The benefits of this include:
Once you’ve chosen the right solar panels for your energy needs, you’ll want to make sure you’re getting the best possible price.
Our solar quote process is transparent and straightforward. Simply follow the steps below to quickly get quotes for solar panels tailored to your needs and budget.
Enter basic information about your home and energy usage. This enables us to present you with only the most relevant quotes.
Based on the information you’ve provided, you’ll receive customised quotes from some of our trusted suppliers. Most installers use Google Earth to check the location and orientation of your property, as well as the available roof space.
Each quote should offer various options, from the most advanced solar panels to more budget-friendly choices – all tailored to your specific needs.
Take your time to compare the benefits and costs of each quote, including the features offered. With this guide for reference, you should have all the information you need to compare the quotes side by side.
Once you’ve reviewed all the quotes and armed yourself with our expert advice, you should be ready to choose the solar panel system that best matches your needs and sustainability goals.
Different brands offer varying levels of efficiency and durability as well as different warranty lengths. Reputable brands tend to offer more efficient panels, longer and more comprehensive warranties and better support, ensuring long-term performance and reliability.
Finding the best solar panels comes down to pinpointing the right product for your home and individual circumstances. Consider your home’s position, roof orientation and energy usage, as well as whether you wish to export excess energy to the grid or use solar battery storage to optimise your solar setup.
The best solar panels for your home depend on your budget, property size, orientation and energy usage. Start by comparing quotes and consulting installers about their stock and costs, focusing on key elements such as efficiency, power rating and design features. Research suppliers thoroughly by reading customer reviews. For even more reliable feedback, speak with neighbours who have already installed solar panels.
The best angle for solar panels is between 30 and 40 degrees. Your installer should consider your roof’s orientation and angle to maximise sunlight exposure and optimise energy conversion.
