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Comprehensive Guide to the Top 10 Best Solar Panels in the UK for 2024

In Soly’s comprehensive guide to the top 10 best solar panels in the UK for 2024, we’re exploring different solar brands to help you decide which one best fits your needs.

There is a lot to consider when choosing which solar panels work for you, such as weather conditions, local temperatures, surrounding landscape, and the size of your home. The structure of each house and family is unique, so finding a brand that always has its customers in mind helps make the process a lot easier. 

Soly is committed to helping its customers understand the ins and outs of solar panels, which is why, in this guide, you’ll learn that there is far more to a solar panel than their ability to convert sunlight into energy. We’ll be reviewing the features, pros, cons, and more of the best solar panels on the market. Let’s explore the plethora of options together so that you can take the next step towards clean energy.

 

TL:DR


 

  • Soly Solar Energy: High efficiency (21.27%), visually pleasing design, long lasting panels, and great customer service, HIES accredited, comes with a 25-year warranty.
  • Jinko Solar Tiger Neo 420W: Best known for its sustainability, good efficiency, and high-performance cells.
  • SunPower Maxeon 5 AC 415W: Best known for its high efficiency (22.2%), low degradation rate, and a 25-year warranty.
  • Project Solar Evolution Titan 445W: Best known for its lifetime warranty, good efficiency (21.4%), aesthetic design, and durable panels.
  • JA Solar JAM72S30 550W: Best known for its high power output at the cost of a slightly lower efficiency.
  • Longi Hi-MO 6 Series: Best known for its overall performance, durability, and range of options when it comes to price.
  • Suntech Ultra V Mini 405Wp: Best known for its budget-friendly options with good efficiency (20.7%) but with a high degradation rate during the first year of use.
  • Canadian Solar HiHero Series: Best known for being affordable with good performance, but with a shorter warranty.
  • REC Alpha Pure-R: Best known for having advanced technology and high efficiency (22.3%) but costly.

 

Criteria Breakdown Summary


 

What are the best solar panels on the market? If you’ve recently asked yourself this question, then you’ve come to the right place for answers. When looking for the most efficient solar panels, there are four main categories to consider: efficiency, durability, warranty, and sustainability. These categories define what makes quality solar panels.

Solar panels are made up of photovoltaic cells, which turn light into energy. The quality and strength of the photovoltaic cells determine a panel’s efficiency, a crucial factor to consider when it comes to deciding which solar panels to choose. Most solar panels have an efficiency range of 15% to 22%; the higher the percentage, the more sunlight is turned into energy. This is what determines a high return on your investments. 

The next feature to consider is the durability of a solar panel. You never know when you’re going to get bad weather, and a good solar panel is capable of withstanding harsh conditions. Some brands specifically stand out for their durability and they’re ones you want to consider if you live in an area with frequent storms and strong winds. As long as bad weather doesn’t damage your solar panels, their minimum life span is 20 years. The higher the quality, the longer you can enjoy clean energy. 

In case of an emergency, or unforeseen hiccups, warranties guarantee that you’re never caught off guard. Warranties will cover the cost of solar panels that need to be repaired or replaced for a designated period of time. Different brands offer different ranges, but some even offer lifetime warranties. Investing in a warranty ensures that you get the most out of your purchase. 

The last factor to consider is sustainability. The most efficient solar panels provide enough energy to sustain your home and family with the least amount of environmental impact.

 

Soly Solar Energy – Top Choice for Solar Solutions


 

What Soly Solar Energy is Best Known For

Soly is best known for its customer service and high-performance solar panels. Ensuring customers understand the benefits of owning solar panels, including their efficiency, durability, sustainability, and warranty options, is at the top of Soly’s agenda. Their customer-focused outlook is one of the reasons why they’re leaders in the solar industry. At Soly UK, we use Jinko Solar 400-440 Wp solar panels, as well as Enphase panels, GivEnergy panels, among others. These brands stand out due to their innovation, durability, and long lasting quality.

 

Brand Name
JA Solar            Bifacial Dual Glass 435Wp
Aiko Gen 2 455 WP
Longi Hi-MO X6 Explorer 435Wp
Eurener Icon Plus 450 WP
Jinko Solar Jinko 430 WP
Jinko Solar Jinko 435 WP
Eurener Nexa 480 WP

 

Features

There are a multitude of features that make Soly stand out in the market. Soly offers some of the most efficient solar panels, ensuring the highest return rate. Their customised installation service starts off with a no-obligation consultation to discuss the size and shape of your home and your unique needs, ensuring you get the most out of your purchase. Experts with over 10 years of experience are there to guide you through each step and continue looking out for you with the 25-year warranty. 

Soly’s solar panels are among the best solar panels, with an efficiency of 21.27%. Their design is meant to withstand harsh weather conditions. They use eco-friendly materials to reduce their carbon footprint while also staying on top of cutting-edge technology to improve their product. These solar panels require no cleaning, reducing the cost of maintenance, and making life easier for their customers while they enjoy the benefits of clean, renewable energy. 

 

Pros

  • Sustainable Energy Production

  • High Durability and Longevity

  • Visually Pleasing Design

  • Exceptional Customer Support

 

Cons

  • N/A

 

Criteria Evaluation

Efficiency: 5/5

Power Output: 4.5/5

Durability & Reliability: 5/5

Degradation Rate: 4.5/5

Warranty: 5/5

Cost: 4/5

Aesthetic Appeal: 4.5/5

Environmental Impact: 5/5

 

Community Reviews and Expert Recommendations.

Soly is proud to have served over 35,000+ happy customers, with an average 4.7-star rating. Customers rave about Soly’s customer service, noting that all their questions and concerns were answered during the no-obligation consultation. This process helped many decide which solar panels would work best for their home. Employees at Soly exhibited professional qualities that made each step of the process hassle and worry-free. Customers and experts both report that Soly has some of the best solar panels on the market. They have proven to be reliable time and time again during good and bad weather. Experts commend Soly for their commitment to sustainability and their amazing technological innovations. 

There are a few customers who felt that the customer service fell off at a certain point, either due to their representative or errors during installation, but Soly has made it their goal to reach out to each of these customers and resolve their complaints. Soly even included follow-ups to these complaints to explain how they reached a compromise with a customer who initially reached out to them publicly. Their drive to make sure each customer has a great experience when switching to solar panels is reflected in the way they approach each and every complaint. 

Price

High quality solar panels are worth every penny. The upfront cost is worth it when you consider long-term savings, quality materials, and warranty. Soly offers a variety of options, but its three most popular packages include installation, high quality solar systems, a dedicated installation manager, up to 25-year warranty, and a 12-year workmanship guarantee.

  • 6 Solar Panels + 2.6 kWh Solar Battery from €6,392 
  • 10 Solar Panels + 5.2 kWh Solar Battery from €6,846
  • 13 Solar Panels + 9.5 kWh Solar Battery from €8,420 

Soly also provides financing options and they’re happy to discuss your payment options during the consultation.  

Where to Find

For more information about Soly, solar panel pricing, or to begin a consultation, check out the official website at Soly-energy.co.uk.

 

Jinko Solar Tiger Neo 420W – Best Known for Sustainability


 

What Jinko Solar Tiger Neo 420W is Best Known For

The Jinko Solar Tiger Neo 420W is a solar panel brand best known for its sustainability and high performance with its N-type cells. The company excels in the development, research, and manufacturing of photovoltaic products, making it one of the leading brands in the global mainstream of PV cells. Their dedication is reflected in their high quality solar panels, which are available in 180+ countries. For the last five years, Jinko Solar has been one of the largest manufacturers in the world. Their eco-friendly practices make them a top choice for those who value clean energy and the environment. They work to reduce electricity consumption, GHG emissions, water usage, and water waste discharge. Their durable panels offer high resistance to rough environments, from strong wind storms to freezing temperatures, and are perfect for medium and large-sized homes. Jinko Solar’s goal is to reach 100% renewable energy for global operation by 2025. 

 

Features

The Jinko Solar Tiger Neo 420W boasts several notable features such as high-end aesthetics, weather-resistant panels, and high reliability. It’s on par with Soly’s efficiency, sitting at 21.27%. Their panels are made of N-type cells that are resistant to degradation induced by sunlight. This leads to a longer-lasting, more powerful system. Thanks to advancements in technology and their N-type cells, Jinko Solar has been able to reach these heights and continue to grow and create the best solar panels. Their solar panels are very durable, specifically against salt mist and ammonia. They’re some of the most efficient solar panels for those who want to enjoy clean energy by the beach. They’re also built to withstand wind loads of up to 2,400 Pa and snow loads of 5,400 Pa. They stand out as an affordable choice for many users who live in different climates. They offer a 25-year product warranty, guaranteeing that you get to enjoy your solar panels for many years.

 

Pros

  • Sustainable Practices

  • High Durability

  • Good Efficiency

 

Cons

  • Slightly Lower Efficiency than Top Competitors

 

Criteria Evaluation

Efficiency: 4/5

Power Output: 4/5

Durability & Reliability: 5/5

Degradation Rate: 4.5/5

Warranty: 4.5/5

Cost: 4.5/5

Aesthetic Appeal: 4/5

Environmental Impact: 5/5

 

Community Reviews and Expert Recommendations

Experts claim that the Jinko Solar Tiger Neo 420W is a game-changer in the industry, which is exactly what you want to hear when considering which solar panels are the best for you. Users state that the beautiful and innovative design is excellent for the price. There is an array of options and design elements to appeal to a plethora of customers. The Jinko Solar Neo has a low degradation rate and can withstand up to 140 mph winds. This is something to keep in mind if you live in an area that frequently gets tornadoes or really strong winds. However, customers can attest to its performance in various weather conditions, which still makes it one of the best solar panels. With the help of happy customers, Jinko Solar earned the #4 spot on SolarReviews’ Best Solar Manufacturers list in 2024

A few customers have complained that Jinko Solar panels are not as easy to clean as other options based on the way they were installed. There have been instances of sketchy solar retailers using Jinko Solar products, but purchasing straight from the company eliminates these issues. Despite Jinko Solar’s success and high ratings, SinoVoltaics reported Jinko Solar’s financial stability “at risk”, but the Jinko Solar Tiger Neo 420W is still one of the best solar panels on the market. 

 

Price

The Jinko Solar Tiger Neo 420W prices start at approximately £6000 for a 6-panel package. Jinko Solar Tiger Neo 420W begins at £125.40 for a single unit. They start at 5 panels, but are open to contact should you need less than 5 panels.

 

Where to Find

To learn more about the Jinko Solar Tiger Neo 420W, check out their website at https://jinkosolar.eu/.

 

SunPower Maxeon 5 AC 415W – Best Known for Efficiency

 


 

What SunPower Maxeon 5 AC 415W is Best Known For

The SunPower Maxeon 5 AC 415W is best known for its efficiency, with a remarkable 22.2%. This makes it one of the most efficient solar panels on the market today for residents. SunPower keeps real work environments in mind during the solar panel’s creation, so that they work flawlessly after installation. Because of their hindsight, their solar panels have proven to be reliable time and time again with uncompromised performance. Over 15 million panels have been shipped out and studied, and their return rate is less than 0.005%. Designed to deliver maximum power and output while maintaining a low degradation rate, SunPower Maxeon 5 is one of the best solar panels out there. With SunPower Maxeon, you’re sure to get a return on your investment with such high efficiency.

Features

The SunPower Maxeon 5 AC 415W comes packed with features like premium N-type ICB and shingled cells that make it one of the best solar panel brands. Its efficiency sits at 22.2%, putting it up there with the highest rates in the industry. Its durable cells are able to withstand high thermal stress. The Sunpower Maxeon has a low annual degradation rate of just 0.25% and a 25-year comprehensive warranty. Maxeon cell technology enhances its performance and overall power output. They use back contact conductivity to remove tacky grid lines, which also helps to enhance sunlight absorption for maximum productivity. It comes with a solid metal backing to prevent corrosion. These efficient solar panels have thick connectors to relieve the strain of fluctuating temperatures that cause them to expand, prolonging their life. These features put SunPower Maxeon 5 AC 415W on our list of the best solar panels in the UK. 

 

Pros

  • High Efficiency

  • Durable and Reliable

  • Excellent Warranty

 

Cons

  • Expensive

 

Criteria Evaluation

Efficiency: 5/5

Power Output: 4.5/5

Durability & Reliability: 5/5

Degradation Rate: 5/5

Warranty: 5/5

Cost: 3.5/5

Aesthetic Appeal: 4.5/5

Environmental Impact: 4.5/5

 

Community Reviews and Expert Recommendations

The majority of community reviews for the SunPower Maxeon 5 AC 415W are positive. Users praise the solar panels themselves as being efficient and durable, even during rough weather conditions. Customers report that they are happy with their choice. Experts praise SunPower Maxeon’s advanced cell technology and incredible warranty. 

However, many customers have taken to Reddit to review solar panels and warn others of SunPower’s lack of care for their clients. Despite excelling in efficiency, users state that they lack in customer service. There are numerous claims that representatives never called customers back, workers leave things unfinished, and that SunPower never picks up the phone when calling to get things fixed. They don’t stand out compared to other solar panel brands who care more for their customers and make an effort to uphold their warranty. 

 

Price

The SunPower Maxeon 5 AC 415W is priced at around £400 per panel. 

 

Where to Find

You can learn more about the SunPower Maxeon 5 AC 415W at sunpower.maxeon.com/uk/.

 

Project Solar Evolution Titan 445W – Best Known for Warranty


 

What Project Solar Evolution Titan 445W is Best Known For

The Project Solar Evolution Titan 445W is one of the best solar panels on the market because of its customer-convenient lifetime warranty, so you’ll never have to worry about damages. This panel mixes good efficiency with a sleek design meant to improve cell current and maintain temperature. It’s a good choice for those who live in areas that are frequently cloudy or have excess smog or dust, as it makes the most of every bit of sunlight that it gets.

Features

Key features of the Project Solar Evolution Titan 445W include its lifetime warranty, innovative structure, and high-density layout. Its design ensures that its efficiency is always performing at its highest, at 21.4% with a power output of 445W, making it one of the best solar panels to choose for your home. It has an additional cell layer, called a PERC, which allows it to generate more electricity than the average solar panel. Its sleep-ultra-black design enhances its durability and optimises its performance in low-light settings. These quality solar panels come with increased internal reflectivity to improve their cell current and help maintain their temperature to guarantee more efficient energy generation.

 

Pros

  • Lifetime Warranty

  • High Efficiency

  • Good Low-Light Performance

 

Cons

  • Heavier than Competitors

 

Criteria Evaluation

Efficiency: 4.5/5

Power Output: 4.5/5

Durability & Reliability: 4.5/5

Degradation Rate: 4.5/5

Warranty: 5/5

Cost: 4/5

Aesthetic Appeal: 4/5

Environmental Impact: 4/5

 

Community Reviews and Expert Recommendations

The Project Solar Evolution Titan 445W received praise from both users and experts stating it is one of the best solar panel brands. Community reviews highlight its excellent warranty and reliable performance, particularly in low-light conditions. Experts approve of its creative design which has allowed it to perform wonderfully for homeowners. Many customers are satisfied with the product and its output after years of owning it. They felt the process was smooth and the installation team did a great job. 

Unfortunately, there are a lot of negative reports on Trustpilot primarily focused on Project Solar’s customer care. Customers report surveyors not showing up for their appointments, a lack of professionalism, an unorganised maintenance department, pushy sales representatives, and an installation team that leaves behind scaffolding and other mess for weeks on end. While these are only a handful of reports amongst a lot of great experiences, they can be off-putting. Project Solar has since made an effort to reach out to these individuals to remedy their complaints. 

 

Price

The Project Solar Evolution Titan 445W is priced at around £400 per panel. While this is more expensive than the average solar panel, it comes with a lifetime warranty. 

 

Where to Find

Learn more about Project Solar Evolution Titan 445W at projectsolaruk.com

 

JA Solar JAM72S30 550W – Best Known for Power Output


 

What JA Solar JAM72S30 550W is Best Known For

The JA Solar JAM72S30 550W is best known for its power output. The average power output of a solar panel is 200-400W, but the JA Solar JAM72S30 comes in at a whopping 550W! This makes it one of the best solar panels on the market. Power output is crucial for estimating how much you’ll save on electricity and these panels can produce approximately 2.2 kWh daily, making it one of the best solar panel brands for those looking to save. These panels are perfect for larger households that consume a lot of energy throughout the year. 

 

Features

There are many noteworthy key features for the JA Solar JAM72S30 550W, including a maximum power output of 550W with a 21.3% efficiency rate. These solar panels are supported by PERC cell technology, making JA Solar one of the best solar panel brands. PERC cells are modified cells that enable solar panels to produce 6-12% more energy than conventional solar panels. While you need sunlight for solar energy, harsh rays can oftentimes damage the panels, but the JA Solar JAM72S30 has a high resistance to hot spot degradation. JA Solar offers a 25-year linear power output warranty to ensure you’re always getting the most output, making it at the top of the best solar panel brands. Most warranties for JA Solar run between 12-15 years with a low to medium price range.

 

Pros

  • High Power Output

  • Suitable for Large Homes

  • Durable

 

Cons

  • Lower Efficiency Compared to Some Premium Options

 

Criteria Evaluation

Efficiency: 4/5

Power Output: 5/5

Durability & Reliability: 4.5/5

Degradation Rate: 4/5

Warranty: 4/5

Cost: 4/5

Aesthetic Appeal: 3.5/5

Environmental Impact: 4/5

 

Community Reviews and Expert Recommendations

Community reviews for the JA Solar JAM72S30 550W highlight its impressive power output and reliability. Customers praise it as one of the best solar panels for the UK. Users appreciate its ability to meet the energy demands of large households, with some users reporting that their electric metre is now at a standstill since they’ve switched to the JA Solar JAM72S30 550W. The system has proven to be strong, and customers report that the installation team was neat and tidy, proving that JA Solar is one of the best solar panel brands. Both customers and experts are impressed by the solar panel’s quality for its price, its durability, and its advanced cell technology. 

There are very few customer complaints and negative reviews to be found. One expert has stated that nothing about the JA Solar JAM72S30 550W’s design stands out, but if you’re looking for simplicity then this solar panel is the way to go.

 

Price

The JA Solar JAM72S30 550W is priced around £1,640 for a 4.5kW system. 

 

Where to Find

If you’d like to learn more about JA Solar JAM72S30 550W, you can click here to check out their website.

 

Longi Hi-MO 6 Series – Best Known for Overall Performance


 

What Longi Hi-MO 6 Series is Best Known For

The Longi Hi-MO 6 Series is known for its overall performance. It balances all the best features, efficiency, durability, and advanced technology, to give you the best solar panels. This series has high-efficiency cells and Hybrid Passivated Back Contact (HPBC) technology, enhancing its efficiency and durability. These cells are known to produce more energy under high temperatures and low irradiation conditions. They’ve also got great power degradation performance. This series of solar panels is designed without the busbar in order to look aesthetically pleasing, and the modules have improved resistance to cracking. 

There are four solar panels in the series: the Explorer, Scientist, Guardian, and Artist. Even the most basic version in this series, the Explorer, comes with a high efficiency.

 

Features

The Longi Hi-MO 6 Series produces high quality solar panels with features like HPBC technology, leading to market reliability, high-efficiency cells, and aesthetic appearance. They have enhanced durability with rear-sided passivation and back-contact soldering. 

The Explorer is a basic, but efficient, solar panel with 580W power output and a 22.5% efficiency rate. It comes with a 15-year product warranty and 25-year power warranty. The Explorer is perfect for those getting solar panels for the first time. The Scientist is very similar but it has a power output of 590W. It’s designed for those who want a little bit more power in their clean energy. The Guardian has real-time optimisation and data analysis monitoring as well as rapid shutdown features for emergencies to keep you and your property safe. Lastly, the Artist has similar features as the other efficient solar panels in the series but it comes with embellished colours that make for a beautiful design. 

 

Pros

  • High Efficiency

  • Durable

  • Various Power Ratings

 

Cons

  • Price Varies

 

Criteria Evaluation

Efficiency: 4.5/5

Power Output: 4.5/5

Durability & Reliability: 4.5/5

Degradation Rate: 4.5/5

Warranty: 4.5/5

Cost: 4/5

Aesthetic Appeal: 4/5

Environmental Impact: 4.5/5

 

Community Reviews and Expert Recommendations

Community reviews for the Longi Hi-MO 6 Series are positive, with users praising the performance and wide array of options. They state that the Longi Hi-MO 6 Series is cost-effective and dependable. It’s one of the more reliable priced solar panels on the market that also features long-term performance and advanced technology. Many have praised it as the best solar panel on the market after their monthly electric bill dropped in half. 

Experts state that its advanced HPBC technology makes it a great choice for a wide range of applicants at a reasonable cost. The HPBC cells have placed the Longi Hi-MO ahead of the game, making it one of the top innovators of solar technology. There are a few complaints out there. Some state the panels’ dimensions make the size awkward and there are a couple of reports that customers didn’t receive what they purchased. Overall, the Longi Hi-MO 6 Series has proven to consist of the most efficient solar panels.

 

Price

The price of the Longi Hi-MO 6 Series varies depending on model and power rating. The Explorer is the cheapest in the series, with the Scientist and Guardian sitting in the middle. The Artist, with its unique design, comes in at the most expensive. While the Longi Hi-MO 6 Series may be on the higher end when it comes to cost, its advanced and innovative technology combined with its overall performance make it one of the best solar panels.

 

Where to Find

Visit longi.com to learn more about the Longi Hi-MO 6 Series

 

Suntech Ultra V Mini 405Wp – Best Known for Budget-Friendly Option


 

What Suntech Ultra V Mini 405Wp is Best Known For

The Suntech Ultra V Mini 405Wp is known for offering quality solar panels at a budget-friendly price. Despite being affordable, their performance doesn’t suffer, and they’re considered one of the best solar panels because of this. The panels are made of tempered glass and half-cell technology that gives it a higher power output while reducing system costs. This panel offers decent efficiency and has good low-light performance. With its weaker light performance and strong durability, these panels are perfect for those who live in an ever-changing climate, where it’s sunny one second and raining the next. Suntech Ultra strives to provide long-lasting solar energy solutions for everyone.

 

Features

Key features of the Suntech Ultra V Mini 405Wp include tempered glass framed by anodised aluminium alloy. This all-black panel has a decent efficiency rate of 20.7%. Despite having a slim frame design, these high quality solar panels are still very durable and work well in weak light conditions. While the degradation rate is 2% in the first year, a little higher than the average, it’s only 0.55% annually thereafter. These panels also offer lower operating temperatures to increase power output. Their reliable quality leads to better sustainability even in harsh environments, making them the best solar panels for those who live near a desert, farm, or coastline. The Suntech Ultra V Mini 405Wp has a 15-year product warranty and a 25-year performance warranty.

 

Pros

  • Affordable

  • Good Efficiency

  • Good Low-Light Performance

 

Cons

  • Higher Degradation Rate in First Year

 

Criteria Evaluation

Efficiency: 4/5

Power Output: 3.5/5

Durability & Reliability: 4/5

Degradation Rate: 3.5/5

Warranty: 4/5

Cost: 5/5

Aesthetic Appeal: 3.5/5

Environmental Impact: 4/5

 

Community Reviews and Expert Recommendations

The Suntech Ultra V Mini 405Wp is well-received by users for its budget-friendly options. Community reviews highlight its affordability, high performance, and great low-light performance. Experts appreciate its cost-effectiveness and reliability. Suntech has served over 1,500+ happy customers. They report amazing sustainability in coastal areas and excellent system output. 

Users state that their solar panels are some of the best solar panels they’ve owned. They’ve performed just as described and look great on their roof. Suntech has maintained a wonderful relationship with both its customers and employees. Suntech’s equipment is occasionally hard to come by since their products are made in China and they’re known to have weak warranties, but overall they’re considered one of the best solar panel brands and their budget-friendly options are unbeatable.

 

Price

The Suntech Ultra V Mini 405Wp is priced around £170 per panel, which is a little lower than the average solar panel. 

 

Where to Find

If you’d like to learn more about the Suntech Ultra V Mini 405Wp, you can check out their website at solarpvshop.co.uk.

 

Canadian Solar HiHero Series – Best Known for Value for Money


 

What Canadian Solar HiHero Series is Best Known For

The Canadian Solar HiHero Series is best known for its value for its money. Canadian Solar is one of the world’s largest and best solar panel brands that produce solar technology. They use renewable energy to provide solar and battery energy to more than 160 countries. Their mission is to make solar energy affordable to everyone. The Canadian Solar HiHero Series is a popular choice for homeowners on a budget. They offer some of the best solar panels for both commercial and residential projects. 

 

Features

The Canadian Solar HiHero Series is one of the best solar brands to choose from because of its efficiency range, which varies between 16% to 22.5%, and decent power output of 430W to sustain various applications. It’s proven to be durable with a low power degradation rate and high energy yield. Its energy yield increases in hot climates, making it a great option for areas that receive little cloud cover. It has better shade tolerance than most quality solar panels, and its design minimises micro-crack impacts. It can withstand heavy snow loads up to 5400 Pa and wind loads up to 2400 Pa.  It has a shorter warranty compared to most options on our list, but it’s still one of the most reliable solar panels you can get. 

 

Pros

  • Affordable

  • Good Efficiency

  • Reliable Performance

 

Cons

  • Shorter Warranty

 

Criteria Evaluation

Efficiency: 4/5

Power Output: 4/5

Durability & Reliability: 4/5

Degradation Rate: 4/5

Warranty: 3.5/5

Cost: 4.5/5

Aesthetic Appeal: 4/5

Environmental Impact: 4/5

 

Community Reviews and Expert Recommendations

Community reviews for the Canadian Solar HiHero Series centre around its affordability and great performance. They’re some of the best solar panels for those on a tight budget. Customers praise Canadian Solar for their long warranties, stating that their panels are still doing brilliantly even after six years. Many are happy with the installation, and they love the look of the black panels, which blend into their rooftop. Multiple customers stated their panels, which are salt resistant and can withstand high winds, were perfect for their home on the coast. Experts are impressed by the Canadian Solar HiHero Series’ temperature coefficient features, giving it the means to thrive in many different climates. There are very few complaints from customers and experts, besides the mention of a hiccup or two during installation, when it comes to Canadian Solar. Canadian Solar’s stellar reputation  is just another reason why it’s one of the best solar panel brands.

 

Price

While some models, like Canadian Solar 430W HiHero Heterojunction Mono Black Frame, start off at roughly £109.34 per panel, it’s always best to reach out to a representative through their website to discuss your options.

 

Where to Find

You can find out more information about the Canadian Solar HiHero Series on their website at infinite-solar.co.uk.

 

REC Alpha Pure-R – Best Known for Advanced Technology


 

What REC Alpha Pure-R is Best Known For

The REC Alpha Pure-R is known for its advanced technology, offering quality performance compared to many other panels on the market. With a peak efficiency of 22.3%, this panel is designed to deliver high energy output and durability. REC Alpha has been trusted to make quality products since 1984. It exercises technical excellence and sustainable ethos. REC Alpha produces some of the most efficient solar panels with low claim rates and outstanding warranties. They offer premium products, and their solar panels are ideal for increasing energy yields. There’s a lot of power packed into the REC Alpha Pure-R. It has a solid black design for remarkable aesthetics. REC Alpha manufacturers use lead-free materials when designing their solar panels, keeping their carbon footprint as low as possible.  

 

Features

Key features of the REC Alpha Pure-R include a peak efficiency of 22.3% (as stated above) and a low degradation rate of only 0.25% annually after the first year. REC Alpha guarantees that their high quality solar panels will still function at 92% power after 25 years, which is way above the average of 80%. These are considered some of the best solar panels that the industry has to offer with better performance in hot conditions. The REC Alpha Pure-R is made of heterojunction cells, larger cells to capture more light for more energy generation. It also has N-type cells, advanced gapless cells, and anti-reflective glass. The REC Alpha Pure-R solar panels can withstand up to 7000 Pa. In case of an emergency, REC Alpha offers a 25-year product and performance warranty, with an option to extend to 30 years. 

 

Pros

  • High Efficiency

  • Advanced Technology

  • Low Degradation Rate

 

Cons

  • Higher Cost

 

Criteria Evaluation

Efficiency: 4.5/5

Power Output: 4.5/5

Durability & Reliability: 4.5/5

Degradation Rate: 4.5/5

Warranty: 4.5/5

Cost: 4/5

Aesthetic Appeal: 4/5

Environmental Impact: 4.5/5

 

Community Reviews and Expert Recommendations

Reviews for the REC Alpha Pure-R’s quality solar panels are overwhelmingly positive. Users and experts are impressed by the REC Alpha Pure-R’s advanced technology, such as the heterojunction, N-type, and gapless cells that make its performance better than most solar panels. Experts highlight its low degradation rate and durability, making it a top choice for those seeking high-performance solar panels. Customers are happy with the smaller panel sizes for optimised space and an amazing warranty. 

Users report that their system output is still good on cloudy days and that they’ve seen a drop in their electric bills. They’re happy to say that their REC Alpha Pure-R solar panels are performing exactly as advertised. Customers are satisfied with the install team, who were efficient and got the job done in 1 to 2 days. These are some of the best solar panels on the market, so they can be very expensive. Only a handful of customers out of thousands have reported poor performance.

 

Price

The price of the REC Alpha Pure-R varies depending on the specific model and power rating. While it comes at a higher cost, its advanced features and high efficiency justify the investment. A solar panel that produces 410W is roughly £102.10 while a solar panel that produces 420W is  £124.75. These prices can also vary based on location and installer. On average a 6kW system is  £7,013.35, an 8kW system is  £9,666.13, and a 10kW system is £12,724.57. 

 

Where to Find

You can learn more about the REC Alpha Pure-R and which model works for you at windandsun.co.uk.

 

Notable Mentions


 

The Aiko Solar N-Type ABC is known for manufacturing PV core products. It was founded in 2009 and was the first to launch ABC modules in 2022. By 2023, these modules exceeded an efficiency rate of 24%.

The Perlight NTA 430W is known for its high quality materials that are both efficient and durable. Their panels optimise energy conversion to ensure maximum output. They do rigorous testing to ensure they are up to standard.

The SunPower Maxeon 7 has some of the most efficient solar panels. They’re designed to maximise energy and work well in low light. These panels are made of crack-resistant cells so they can withstand severe weather. They offer high performance in high temperatures. 

The Jinko Tiger Neo 72HL4 has a power range of 570-590W. It comes with a 12-year product warranty and has a low degradation rate, with 30 years of at least 87.4% output power.

 

FAQ


 

How long do solar panels last?

The average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years. More often than not, high quality solar panels that are well-maintained can last even longer. 

 

What factors should I consider when choosing solar panels?

When choosing which solar panel is the best for you, there are multiple factors to consider such as efficiency, power output, durability, degradation rate, warranty, cost, and aesthetic appeal.

 

Are solar panels worth the investment?

If you’re wondering whether or not it’s worth getting solar panels, then the short answer is yes! The best solar panels are worth the investment since they can significantly reduce your electric bill, reduce your carbon footprint, and make your home more energy efficient. 

 

How do I maintain my solar panels?

They claim that even the best solar panels need the occasional cleaning to remove dirt, dust, moss, and debris. However, Soly’s panels don’t need cleaning, which is one of the many advantages of Soly as we provide the best solar panels in the UK.

 

Final Thoughts


 

Understanding which solar panels fit your needs based on your lifestyle will make the transition from the electric grid to clean energy smooth and simple. Keep in mind the four key factors that we discussed throughout this comprehensive guide to the top 10 best solar panels in the UK for 2024. With so many options available, considering the solar panel price vs. value and how much you’ll save in the long run is a huge talking point. Efficiency plays a significant role in decision-making for many users who want to maximise their energy output and have a high return on their investment. 

The best solar panels are durable and ensure long-lasting performance even during severe weather. Since you never know when trouble will strike, having a warranty provides security, so you never have to go without clean energy. Switching to solar panels as a sustainable source of energy will lower your carbon footprint, so picking a solar panel brand that values the environment is a great place to start. 

With solar panel technology rapidly growing, we are closer than ever before to eliminating the need for non-renewable resources. The brands mentioned in this guide are focused on innovation and bringing the best they have to offer to their customers. Soly’s amazing customer service will bring you the peace of mind you need to make informed decisions with their no-obligation consultations. Together, we can  work towards a cleaner, brighter future. Contact Soly today to take your first steps towards harnessing the power of the sun!

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Soly blog

Welcome to the Soly Blog, where we share our expert advice on all things solar!
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