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Our experts have reviewed the best solar panels in the UK by assessing which models came out on top in key areas, including efficiency, reliability and power. We also considered solar panel costs in our assessment.
Project Solar’s Evo Super Max panel came out on top in our evaluations, generating the expected amount of energy even on cloudy days, with an unparalleled warranty and good reliability.
The best solar panels for UK homes have efficiency ratings over 20 per cent and solid power outputs (anything from 420W upwards). They typically come with advanced features that increase their efficiency and longevity, and most can work in low-light and adverse weather conditions. The best solar panels are usually made from monocrystalline cells, which are more efficient than cheaper polycrystalline cells.
We’ve compared more than 50 solar panels from 13 best-in-class manufacturers, evaluating them to decide which panel is the best overall. We considered a range of factors to do so.
As part of our research, we also examined the manufacturers’ reliability and their expertise, experience, and ethical and sustainable practices. To find out more, read our article about how we review solar panels.
Top takeaways
The Evo Super Max 455 solar panels are the newest Project Solar has to offer. Their solid output and efficiency, combined with the most generous warranty there is on the market, lands them as the best solar panel overall.
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 6 to 12 percent. This efficiency boost comes from an additional layer placed on the cell’s rear side, which captures sunlight reflected back into the cell, providing another chance for energy conversion.
The Evo Super Max 455 can be integrated into a smart solar system, which uses real-time data to monitor energy production using smart meters and inverters. The Super Max will suit homes of all sizes thanks to its high efficiency of up to 21.01 per cent. It retains optimum performance in low-light conditions, meaning cloudy days and winter months shouldn’t affect its performance.
Read our full Project Solar review.
Top takeaways
SunPower’s Maxeon 7 couples a high output with a high efficiency rating of up to 24.1 per cent. The panels are designed to be crack-resistant, to withstand corrosion, and they have enhanced shade tolerance.
Generally, solar panels are designed so that the system is only as strong as its weakest panel; this can lower the efficiency of the whole array if there is an issue with a single panel. However, the Sunpower Maxeon solar panels are fitted so that each panel works independently, improving the system’s overall power by around 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 (MPPT), which enhances output when weather conditions are variable. This means that even on overcast days, the system output is optimised.
Read our full SunPower solar panels review.
Top takeaways
Jinko’s Tiger Neo panels have 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; SMBBs have a more sophisticated design that uses finer, more numerous, and denser bus bars. This improvement reduces the effect of shading and optimises the path the current takes, increasing the panel’s efficiency.
Better still, the Jinko Tiger Neo 420W N-Type 54 Cell includes reduced Potential Induced Degradation (PID). All solar panels degrade over time, losing the ability to harvest energy and becoming less efficient. This is caused by PID – the gradual leakage of electrical current from the solar cell to the panel frame. Jinko’s technology has lessened this leakage, meaning its panels hold their efficiency for longer than the average panel. They also deliver enhanced protection against extreme environmental conditions such as rain, wind and snow.
This makes them the most reliable solar panel in the UK as they’ll continue to be productive even in harsh weather. So if you live on the coast or if your home gets shaded when it’s particularly windy, you’ll still be able to generate a stable amount of energy using these panels.
Jinko offers a 25-year warranty on the product and 30 years on linear power – more than double the market standard of 12 years.
Read our full Jinko Solar solar panels review.
Top takeaways
JA Solar’s panels have the highest power output of our reviewed and best-rated solar panels. Designed with shading and weather in mind and packed with desirable features – such as PERC cells and a high resistance to hot spot degradation – they’re a sound addition to any home where energy usage is high.
The panels are quite heavy at 28.10kg, but their energy output easily compensates for the extra weight. Considering an output of 420W and above is standard for solar panels, JA Solar’s 525W to 550W panel is powerful – especially when paired with an efficiency rating of up to 21.3 per cent. In short, this means you can expect a healthy return of energy from these solar panels, even in lower light conditions.
Read our full JA Solar review.
Top takeaways
All solar panels will work to some extent in cloudy weather, but overall, low-light conditions are undesirable if you’re trying to generate power from solar. So if your home is shaded by trees, panels designed with low-light enhancements are a crucial investment.
The Ultra V series 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 more adverse weather conditions for a more consistent energy output during daylight hours.
Excellent weak light performance means that your solar panels could absorb light even in the early morning, so you won’t need to wait until peak hours, typically between 11 am and 4 pm, to start drawing on your home’s solar energy supply. Suntech’s Ultra V panels perform well at lower temperatures and can withstand wind and other harsh weather, including heavy snow.
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 years product warranty and performance warranty of 30 years
The Aiko Solar N-Type ABC White Hole offers almost 24 per cent efficiency, surpassing the average of around 20 per cent, and its 615W power output is among the highest of all panels on the market. Unlike other panels that can quickly lose efficiency over time, this model maintains approximately 89 per cent (about 550W) of its initial capacity after decades. This means that if you bought one now, by 2053, it might still outperform many new panels on the market. However, its price remains undisclosed, posing a challenge for cost comparison 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 performance and labour warranties of 25 years, but only if installed by a REC-certified installer. Panels installed by any other installers 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 per cent to 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 430 watts and an efficiency rate of 22.28%. It incorporates n-type technology, which is known for its superior resistance to sunlight-induced degradation, thus ensuring a more consistent performance over the panel’s lifespan.
Perlight’s manufacturing processes are certified under SA8000 standards, highlighting ethical production practices. This certification addresses labour conditions and environmental impact concerns, showcasing Perlight’s dedication to social responsibility and environmental stewardship in manufacturing its solar panels.
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Essentially, 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, work well on overcast days, are equipped to cope with harsh weather conditions and come with long warranties. They also have an excellent cost-per-watt ratio so you can maximise your investment.
But there’s no one best panel for every household; the best model for you will depend on the size and location of your property, as well as your energy needs. For example, if you live in an area with high sun exposure that doesn’t frequently experience harsh weather often, you’ll be able to opt for a panel with a lower power output and efficiency rating to generate the same amount of energy you may get from more efficient panels in less sunny areas.
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 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 – reduced electricity bills, decreased 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.
If you want to maximise your investment as soon as possible, or you want to live more off-grid, you should look for the panels with the highest power output and the highest efficiency percentage. You’ll also want to sign up for the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) to sell excess energy produced by your panels to the National Grid.
Make sure you speak to solar panel suppliers, national and regional installers from the moment you decide to invest in solar panels so you can clearly explain your requirements and understand how they can accommodate those needs. You can get in touch with installers quickly and easily with our free quote-finding form – simply fill it out to be matched with one of our trusted UK installers.
Finally, don’t be afraid to compare quotes or even to walk away if the suggested solar panels installation doesn’t suit your home or budget; solar panels are a big investment and you should be informed and confident in your decision.
The following are the key attributes to keep in mind when choosing the best solar panels for you.
Solar panels are given efficiency ratings which correspond 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.
Different factors such as roof pitch, your home’s location and the size of the solar panel system will also affect even the best solar panels’ efficiency. The aim is to ensure the panels are exposed to as much daylight as possible, but choosing solar panels with added features that increase their efficiency, and therefore their power output, is important especially if their position isn’t optimal.
A solar panel’s output is how much energy you can expect it to generate. The 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 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 means you may be able to generate a good amount of energy by installing 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 54c 415W N-Type | 420 | 1,785 |
| JA Solar JAM72S30 | 550 | 2,338 |
| Suntech Ultra V Mono 405Wp | 405 | 1,721 |
Essentially, solar panels capture daylight and turn it into usable power. 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 within 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 is made of and the quality of its build.
The elements below are the main parts of a solar panel:
Solar panels last between 30 and 40 years, but even the best panels will see their efficiency decrease over time.
Degradation is usually measured over a period of years from the installation, and this will be noted on the solar panel’s data sheet.
Keep an eye out for enhanced potential induced degradation (PID) resistance, as this helps maintain the panel’s generation rates over time. Without this feature, panels are more prone to seeing their power output decrease year after year.
Performance guarantees are another important detail to look out for. Make sure to check how long your panels’ power output efficiency is covered for so that should it decrease quicker 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. Some manufacturers offer a combined guarantee for both product and performance. We’d recommend reading the terms and conditions carefully when you choose solar panels, as warranties vary greatly. You should also find out how to report any complaints you have with your solar panels.
Most people who invest in solar panels do so in part for environmental reasons, so considering your chosen manufacturer is important. For instance, you might want to look into the brand’s stance on ethics and sustainability, as well as its treatment of customers and staff.
Solar panels often contain trace amounts of lead, particularly in the solder used to connect the solar cells together. Lead is used 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 (FEP) in some thin-film solar panels and as a component in the protective coatings of many solar panels to enhance their durability and performance. So, look out for low/no lead or fluorine use in production.
Most solar panels can be connected to smart meters and solar monitoring apps, so ask your supplier or solar panel installer for details about this; it’s a good way to keep track of how much energy your panels are producing, and how reliant you still are on the National Grid. It’s also especially useful if you’re eligible for the SEG, as you could make cash back for any energy you put back into the grid.
Once you’ve chosen the right solar panels for your energy needs, you’ll want to make sure you’re getting the best possible deal before you invest.
Our solar quote process is easy, transparent and straightforward. Simply follow the following steps to get solar panel quotes tailored to your needs and budget in no time.
Fill out our form with basic information about your home and energy usage. This enables us to show you only the most relevant quotes.
You’ll receive customised quotes from some of our trusted suppliers based on the information you provide. Most installers use Google Earth to check the location and orientation of your property, as well as how much roof space you have available.
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 they offer. This guide should give you all the information you need to compare the quotes side-by-side so you can make an informed purchase decision.
Once you’ve reviewed all the quotes, armed with our expert advice, you should be ready to choose the right solar panel system for your needs and sustainability goals.
The best solar panels for your home will depend on your budget, property size and orientation and your household’s energy usage . Start your search by comparing quotes and speaking to various installers about what they have in stock, costs, and what will work best for your home.
The key elements to be aware of when researching the best solar panels are efficiency, power rating and enhanced design, like for example, if it’s built with Passivated Emitter and Rear Contact (PERC) cell technology and whether it runs off a string or microinverter system.
Researching the supplier you’re buying from is important, too – so be sure to thoroughly explore existing customer reviews and speak with neighbours who have installed solar panels for an honest, accurate perspective.
Monocrystalline solar panels are the most efficient type of panel, with efficiency rates of 15 to 22 per cent, but they come at a higher cost. Polycrystalline panels, while more cost-effective, deliver lower efficiency rates (around 12 to 17 per cent). Additionally, monocrystalline panels are much more durable, with lifespans extending up to 40 years.
The best angle for solar panels is between 30 and 40 degrees. During the solar panel installation process, your installer should consider the angle of your roof. The orientation and angle of your roof affect how much sunlight your solar panels will receive. Roofs at optimal angles maximise sunlight exposure and tend to convert more solar energy into usable electricity.
Different brands offer varying levels of efficiency, durability, and warranties. Some specialise in high-efficiency panels, ideal for maximising energy in limited spaces, while others offer more budget-friendly options. Reputable brands provide stronger warranties and customer support, ensuring long-term performance and reliability.
Comparing brands allows you to choose panels that best align with your energy needs, budget, and desired return on investment.
Finding the best solar panels is all about finding which product is right for your home and individual circumstance. Take into account your home position, orientation and energy usage. You should also consider any location concerns, for instance overhanging trees, shade from other buildings, or if you’re often exposed to harsh weather. Your decision to find the best solar panels should also include if you want to export excess energy back to the grid, or if you want to install solar battery storage alongside your array.
