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For the average 2-3 bedroom house
Best Solar Panels in the UK: Our Expert Picks (November 2024)
- We compared 30+ of the top solar panel manufacturers operating in the UK to determine the top 5 best solar panel models available today.
- We compared manufacturer data, independent reviews, and third party accreditations for all 322 available solar panel models on the market.
- According to our findings, the brands with the best solar panels include REC Group, Sunpower, and AIKO.
What is considered the "best" solar panel in the UK will vary depending on who you ask, and what metrics you value. Some homeowners may prefer a low-cost solar panel over one that's highly efficient, for example.
This is why, when determining the best solar panels out there today, we've categorised our picks according to what matters most to prospective buyers.
With this in mind, here's a summary of our picks:
- Best overall: REC AlphA Pure-RXr
- Most efficient: AIKO COMET 3N72 Mono-Glass
- Most powerful: Trina Vertex N
- Most durable: Sunpower Maxeon
- Best low-cost solar panel: LONGi Hi- MO 5m
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- Best overall: REC AlphA Pure-RXr
- Most efficient: AIKO COMET 3N72
- Most powerful solar panel: Trina Vertex N
- Most durable: Sunpower Maxeon
- Best low-cost solar panel: LONGi Hi- MO 5m
- How did we compare the best solar panels in the UK?
- Best solar panel companies in the UK (2024)
- Find the best solar panels for your UK home
- Frequently asked questions
Our best solar panels review process in short
Our expert team collectively holds over 20 years of experience in the solar industry and in solar research. The process of determining the best picks out of 30+ brands, and 300+ models, involved a data-driven methodology to ensure we only present the objective "best" according to these categories.
We consider performance metrics such as solar panel efficiency, durability, and power output based on manufacturer data. Our price estimates take an average from various third party retailers. We've also considered industry accreditations and independent reviews.
The metrics considered as part of this research include costs, efficiency, and warranty. Also key to deciding was our solar consultant, Joshua Pearce, whose expert insights we've included throughout this list.
Best overall: REC AlphA Pure-RXr
Ideal for: The average 2-3 bedroom household in the UK
| REC AlphA Pure-RXr | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Model | Max. Efficiency | Durability (Annual degradation) | Power Output | Warranty | Price per panel |
| REC | AlphA Pure-RX | 22.60% | 2% first year, 0.25% annual thereafter | 390 - 470W | 25-year Product; 25-year Power | £95 - £150 (inc. VAT) |
Not including the other solar panels on the list, we've identified REC's Alpha Pure-RXr solar panels as the best across all of the main categories that we've assessed. One of the most notable selling points is the 25-year product and performance warranty, a strong indicator of REC's quality craftsmanship.
The AlphaA Pure-RXr series matches the Sunpower Maxeon panels in terms of durability, while offering better value for money. It also has a similar output range, making it a perfect choice for medium-sized homes with moderate energy demands.
Based on the maximum power output 470W, you will require between 2-9 panels. The average 2-3 bedroom home will require 6 of these panels. These estimates account for external environmental factors.
- More power: N-type technology offers no initial power loss (no LID), so you get the full rated power.
- Better build quality: Gapless cell connections reduces cell stress for longer durability and higher output.
- Weather resistant: Withstands up to 7000 Pa, providing strong protection in harsh conditions.
- Eco-friendly: Lead-free design and minimal carbon footprint during manufacturing.
- Lower power output: The power output (390 – 470W) is on the lower side, making it unsuitable for large homes (4+ bedrooms) with high energy demands.
- Price range: Slightly more expensive than some competitors, particularly for higher-end models.
2. Most efficient: AIKO COMET 3N72
Ideal for: Large 4-5 bedroom houses or homes with limited roof space
| AIKO COMET 3N72 Mono-Glass | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Model | Max. Efficiency | Durability (Annual degradation) | Power Output | Warranty | Price per panel |
| AIKO | COMET 3N72 Mono-Glass | 24.2 - 25.2% | ≤1% first year; ≤ 0.35%/annually thereafter | 625 - 680W | 15-year Product; 30-year Performance | £90 - £125 (inc. VAT) |
Although any of the options on this list offer excellent solar panel efficiency rates, the AIKO COMET series has the highest efficiency rate of up to 25.2%.
This means these panels are capable of converting 25% of the sunlight that hits them into electricity. Even in partially shaded conditions, these panels will perform well and retain their efficiency.
With a power output of 625 - 680W, these are also some of the most powerful solar panels we've included. This makes them ideal for larger homes with higher energy demands. Given a maximum power output of 680W, you'll need between 1 and 6 panels. For an average 2-3 bedroom house, 4 panels should suffice.
- Highest efficiency: Best-in-class efficiency rating of 25.2%.
- Partial shading optimisation: Efficient even in partially shaded conditions.
- Lower BOS (Balance of System): Reduces overall system costs.
- Award-winning design: Recognised with the Intersolar AWARD and a Reddot winner of the Red Dot Design Award in 2023 for innovation and aesthetics.
- Third-party quality assurance: BloombergNEF Tier 1 ranking for trusted, high-performance solar technology.
- Warranty: While the performance warranty is strong (30 years), the product warranty is shorter (15 years) unless extended to 25 years, which may incur additional costs.
- Slightly higher degradation rate: 0.35% annual degradation is higher than the REC Alpha and Sunpower models, meaning slightly lower long-term performance.
3. Most powerful solar panel: Trina Vertex N
Ideal for: Large homes that require high energy output
| Trina Vertex N | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Model | Max. Efficiency | Durability (Annual degradation) | Power Output | Warranty | Price per panel |
| Trina | Vertex N | 22.1 - 22.9% | 1% first year; 0.4% annually thereafter | 685 - 710W | 12-year Product; 30-year Power | £70 - £185 (inc. VAT) |
Trina's Vertex N solar panel range takes the pick for the most powerful solar panels on today's market, with a power output between 685 - 710W. This makes them a great option for large homes with high energy demands, or even for very small homes with limited roof space, as solar expert Josua Pearce explains:
If you are extremely roof-area limited, however, you will want the highest efficiency modules so you can generate the most energy to attempt to cover your entire load.
One potential downside is the 12-year product warranty. This is shorter than most competitors, which might impact confidence in long-term product reliability, barely covering the panels for half of their lifetime.
With a 710W power output per panel, you may need anywhere from 1 to 6 panels to cover your electricity needs. Typically, a 2-3 bedroom home will need about 6 panels.
- Higher power output: Delivers 685W – 710W, ideal for high energy demands.
- Durable design: Innovative non-destructive cutting minimises micro-cracks.
- PID resistance: Ensured resistance to Potential Induced Degradation for better long-term reliability.
- Harsh environment resistance: Performs well in salt, ammonia, sand, high heat, and humidity.
- Bifacial design: Excellent energy production even under low irradiation, validated by third-party testing.
- Shorter product warranty: The 12-year product warranty is shorter than most competitors, potentially impacting confidence in long-term product reliability.
- Higher degradation rate: 0.4% annual degradation is on the higher side compared to some other model.
- Price variation: The price can be quite high for the upper range of models, costing 2.5 times more.
4. Most durable: Sunpower Maxeon
Ideal for: Small to medium size households of 1-3 bedrooms
| Sunpower Maxeon | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Model | Max. Efficiency | Durability (Annual degradation) | Power Output | Warranty | Price per panel |
| Sunpower | Maxeon | 22.60% | 2% first year, 0.25% annual thereafter | 355 - 475W | 40-year Product; 40-year Power | £250 - £300 (inc. VAT) |
Solar panel performance will naturally degrade over time. However, different products will degrade at different rates. Of all the cases we examined in making this list, Sunpower's Maxeon range has the most impressive first year, and annual degradation rate in the UK today.
After one year, the Maxeon's warranted power output will likely fall by 2%, and degrade a further 0.25% every year after. After 25 years, these panels will retain as much as 92% of their power. To put this into perspective, some panels might fall as much as 20% in this time.
These panels standout in multiple ways, such as for the very comfortable warranty period of 40 years for both product and performance. The only factor that kept it from taking out "Best Overall" pick was that they are by far the most expensive cost of solar panels on the list.
With a maximum power output of 475W, this Sunpower range is the least powerful of the panels listed. This makes it a nice option for small or medium-sized homes but less appropriate for large homes, as you will need more panels to meet your energy demands.
Depending on the 470W maximum output, you'll require between 2 and 9 panels. For a typical 2-3 bedroom home, 6 panels are usually needed. These estimates include external environmental factors.
- Lowest degradation rates: 0.25% annual degradation rate, and a minimum warranted power output 92% after 25 years.
- Proven reliability: Field-tested over 8 years with 800,000 panels, nearly 4x stronger reliability than conventional panels.
- Longest warranty: 40-year product and power warranty ensures unmatched long-term peace of mind.
- Top performer recognition: Awarded as a Top Performer in the 2021 PVEL PV Module Reliability Scorecard.
- Exceptional lifespan: Proven useful life of 40 years with an ultra-low return rate of less than 0.005%.
- Very expensive: Significantly more expensive than the other models. Around £100 more expensive than REC’s solar panel range of a similar wattage.
- Lower power output: Despite its durability, the power output range (355W – 475W) is on the lower end comparatively.
- Not widely available: The company’s recent panels may not be as available after reports Sunpower is scaling down in many markets.
5. Best low-cost solar panel: LONGi Hi- MO 5m
Ideal for: Medium to large households that are seeking budget-friendly solar panels
| LONGi Hi- MO 5m | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Model | Max. Efficiency | Durability (Annual degradation) | Power Output | Max. Warranty | Price per panel |
| LONGi | Hi- MO 5m | 21.90% | ≤2% first year, 0.55% thereafter | 545 - 565W | 12-year Product; 25-year Power | £60 - £160 (inc. VAT) |
LONGi's Hi- MO series ranges from £60 - £160 (inc. VAT). This includes models that go up to 630W, which is excellent value for money, especailly compared to the other options included in this list.
The most affordable option within this range is the LONGi Hi- MO 5m, with a power output range of 545 - 565W, which will easily provide for medium-sized or larger homes or those with high electricity demands.
Despite it's affordability, it's worth noting that LONGi's solar panels tend to run less efficiently that the other options, and even below the market standard, at 21.9%. According to Joshua Pearce, today the highest efficiency modules are over 22%.
The lowest cost of a panel does not matter as a low cost might be because the panel is small or not very powerful. Homeowners should, however, look for the lowest cost per unit power (Watt) (e.g., $/W). All solar panels are tested under standard conditions, so the power directly indicates how much energy can be expected.
You will likely need between 2-8 of these panels at 565W to cover your annual electircty needs, also accounting for external environemtal factors. The average 2-3 bedroom home will need around 5 of these Longi panels.
- Most affordable: Budget-friendly option, offering great value for money.
- Smart soldering technology: Increases power and efficiency while enhancing the module’s load capacity.
- Durable design: Large-format modules with M10 wafers and dual-glass framing ensure strength and durability.
- Gallium-doped technology: Prevents LID (Light-Induced Degradation), ensuring consistent long-term power generation.
- Bifacial design: Additional power generation from the backside increases overall energy yield, validated by customer and third-party tests.
- Lower efficiency: With 21.9% efficiency, it’s the least efficient among the listed models, meaning slightly less energy converted from sunlight.
- Higher degradation rate: 0.55% annual degradation after the first year is the highest of the group, potentially leading to faster performance decline.
- Shorter product warranty: Only 12 years of product coverage, which is lower than many competitors.
Now that you have an idea of the most important elements to look out for when investing in new panels, you might be ready to get the ball rolling by consulting installers. Save yourself hours of stressful research by using our free quotes service. Fill out our 30-second form and we’ll connect you with up to 4 of the top-rated installers in your area. Compare their free quotes to get the best deal.
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How did we compare the best solar panels in the UK?
Determining these top picks involved a rigorous process, comparing specifications from over 300 models. We then identified the best according to the most important categories for homeowners considering new solar panels.
Below we've gone into more detail about what makes these categories so important. In general, prospective buyers should seek out solar panels that perform well across all of these criteria.
Efficiency
Efficiency measures how effectively a solar panel converts sunlight into usable electricity. A higher efficiency means more energy is generated from the same amount of sunlight, making it an important consideration for those with limited roof space or those seeking maximum energy output. Panels with high efficiency are often more expensive, but they provide greater energy savings over time.
While solar panels can achieve up to 25% efficiency, 22% or higher is considered highly efficient.
Power output
Power output refers to the total amount of electricity a panel can produce, measured in watts. Panels with higher power output can generate more energy, making them ideal for large homes or installations with high electricity demands, especially in regions with lower sunlight. Power output is determined by both the size and efficiency of the panel.
Typically, solar panels are sold within the 300-500W range. The ideal wattage depends on your energy needs and available roof space.
Durability
Durability refers to how well a solar panel can withstand environmental stress over time, including extreme weather conditions like heavy rain, high winds, or temperature fluctuations. This is indicated by annual degradation rates. Durable panels are also less likely to suffer from issues like micro-cracking.
Solar panels will naturally degrade year-on-year, however, the best quality panels will degrade only 10% or less in 30 years.
Warranty
Warranty coverage offers a safety net that ensures the panels are protected against defects in materials or workmanship for a set period, typically 20–25 years. A strong warranty also often covers performance guarantees, ensuring that the panel maintains a certain level of energy production over time.
Solar panels usually come with 20-25 year warranty. This will cover the best years of their lifetime and so these options are favourable.
Best solar panel companies in the UK (2024)
Use the table below to compare the solar panel manufacturers listed above.
| Best solar panel companies | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Best for | Price per panel | Power Output Size | Efficiency | Warranty Period |
| REC | Best overall | £95 - £150 (inc. VAT) | Up to 430W | Up to 22.6% | 25-year Product; 25-year Power |
| AIKO | Efficiency | £90 - £125 (inc. VAT) | Up to 670W | Up to 25.2% | 25-year Product; 30-year Power |
| Trina | Most powerful | £70 - £185 (inc. VAT) | 685 - 710W | Up to 22.9% | 25-year Product; 25-year Power |
| Sunpower | Most durable | £250 - £300 (inc. VAT) | Up to 400W | Up to 22.6% | 25-year Product; 30-year Power |
| LONGi | Most affordable | £60 - £165 (inc. VAT) | Up to 630W | Up to 22.8% | 25-year Product; 25-year Power |
Find the best solar panels for your UK home
Identifying the best solar panels for your home is one thing, but ensuring that they are properly installed is just as, if not, even more important. Even with the top-most quality solar panels, a dodgy installation job will affect their performance, longevity, and maybe even your energy bills.
Therefore, it's crucial to shop around for the best installers around your area. Rather than going for the cheapest option available, it's best to compare the quotes from a shortlist of carefully vetted options. This is where GreenMatch can help you.
We have an entire network of licensed solar panel installers, based across the UK, who we can connect you with in a few short clicks. Fill in our 30-seconds quotes form, then you'll be contacted by the best options in your area, based on your preferences.
You can then compare their fixed, exclusive quotes and take comfort in knowing you're selecting the best possible option for your home. The best part? Our service is completely free and you're under no obligation to accept any of the quotes you receive.
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