Most Efficient Solar Panels 2024

Key takeaways

• Most home solar panels currently vary in efficiency from 19% to 21%, but many manufacturers are now achieving efficiencies of 22% and above.

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• The leading home solar panels today, developed by Maxeon, boast an impressive efficiency rating of 22.8%.

• Other notable high-efficiency panels include those made by REC, Jinko, Heliene, and Yingli.

• Opting for high-efficiency solar panels may increase your installation costs by approximately $2,000.

• The efficiency of solar panels is influenced by factors such as the type of solar cells used, installation methods, as well as local weather and climate conditions.

Understanding Solar Panel Efficiency

A solar panel's efficiency rating indicates how effectively it converts sunlight into usable electricity. The higher the efficiency rating, the more electricity can be generated by that panel.

Currently, most residential solar panels have efficiency ratings falling between 19% and 21%. However, due to advancements in solar technology, many manufacturers are now achieving efficiency ratings of 22% or even higher. Historical data from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory reveals that the average solar panel efficiency was merely 14.1% in the past. We have witnessed remarkable improvements in solar panel efficiency over the years.

While a 22% efficiency may not seem striking, it's worthwhile to consider that most systems do not operate close to 100% efficiency. For context, gasoline-powered vehicles have an efficiency of around 25%, and electrical power plants perform at only 36% efficiency.

Top Home Solar Panels for 2024

Maxeon continues to lead with the highest efficiency solar panels in 2024, attaining a maximum efficiency rating of 22.8%. Following closely is REC, which boasts an Alpha Pure-RX model capable of reaching 22.6% efficiency.

Here are the top five residential solar panels with the highest efficiency:

Solar panel model

Efficiency rating

SunPower Maxeon Residential AC 440 W

22.8%

REC Group Alpha Pure-RX 470 W

22.6%

Jinko Eagle G6 440 W

22.53%

Heliene 108 HC M10 TPC SL

22.49%

Yingli Panda 3.0 Pro

22.28%

1. SunPower Maxeon Residential AC 440 W

Maxeon’s SunPower Residential AC 440 W model holds the title of the most efficient residential solar panel. Maxeon utilizes patented technology from 2007, making it a leader in high-efficiency solar panels over the years.

The remarkable efficiency of 22.8% is credited to Maxeon's specialized interdigitated back contact technology, top-grade silicon, and integrated microinverters on the back of each panel.

While Maxeon panels are manufactured by the company itself, they can only be purchased through SunPower dealers. Nevertheless, other quality Maxeon models may be available through various non-SunPower companies.

Read our full Maxeon solar panel review to discover detailed insights from our solar experts.

2. REC Group Alpha Pure-RX 470 W

The REC Alpha Pure-RX 470-watt panel stands out with an efficiency rating of 22.6%. In recent years, REC has implemented half-cut technology to enhance the performance of its panels, offering remarkable results to date.

One Alpha PURE-RX panel occupies 22.4 square feet, which is slightly larger than a standard residential solar panel. This expanded size translates into greater power output, allowing for fewer panels to be installed to meet energy demands.

Explore our expert review of REC for insights on additional high-efficiency panels from the brand.

3. Jinko Solar Eagle G6 440 W

Jinko Solar's Eagle G6 440-watt panel achieves an efficiency of 22.53%, securing its position as the third most efficient option for homeowners. Jinko has adopted n-type TOPCon solar cells for the Eagle G6, which significantly reduce energy losses through recombination.

These advances in technology contribute to higher electricity generation from sunlight, ensuring homeowners benefit from optimal performance. Jinko has invested heavily in research and development to accomplish such impressive outcomes, with some models, like the Tiger NEO Mono 60 HC, achieving efficiencies of 22.71%, although these are not available within the U.S. market.

Discover more: Expert review of Jinko Solar

4. Heliene 108 HC M10 TPC SL All Black 440 W

Though Heliene may not be as widely recognized as other brands, its 22.49% efficiency panels deserve attention. Utilizing TOPCon cells, Heliene's 108HC TPC SL All Black Module performs better than many competitors in today's market.

Despite having a lower brand profile than companies like Panasonic, Heliene is classified as a Tier 1 manufacturer delivering powerful and quality solar panels.

5. Yingli Solar Panda 3.0 Pro 435 W

Yingli Solar, a veteran in the industry since 1998, offers panels that provide great value in terms of performance and cost. The Panda 3.0 Pro series employs TOPCon solar cells and a multi-busbar design, boosting efficiency ratings to 22.28%.

Cost Implications of High-Efficiency Solar Panels

Investing in high-efficiency solar panels typically incurs a higher price, often adding more than $2,000 to your total installation costs. For example, a 7 kilowatt (kW) solar system using premium efficiency panels may approximate $23,100, while the same system utilizing standard efficiency panels could be closer to $19,900.

Nevertheless, the pricing of high-efficiency solar panels is gradually decreasing due to companies such as Canadian Solar and LONGi, which provide quality solar panels with commendable efficiency ratings at significantly lower prices compared to premium brands like SunPower. As these companies innovate, the costs may stabilize while efficiency continues to improve.

How much will a solar system cost for your home?

Factors Affecting Solar Panel Efficiency

The electricity generation efficiency of solar panels is influenced by several factors, including the type of solar panels, their orientation and angle during installation, as well as weather and climate conditions.

There are three primary types of solar panels: monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film. Monocrystalline panels dominate the residential solar space due to their superior efficiency and aesthetic appeal!

As monocrystalline panels continue to prevail in most installations, it’s essential to understand the various technologies that enhance their efficiency. Popular solar cell technologies currently include Passivated Emitter and Rear Contact (PERC), Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact (TOPCon), Heterojunction (HJT), and bifacial cells.

As solar technology evolves, we may witness even higher efficiencies in the coming years! A promising development in solar technology is perovskite solar cells, which have the potential to achieve efficiencies up to 38%. However, manufacturing costs must decrease before perovskite panels can reach the mainstream market.

Optimal Direction and Angle for Solar Panels

In the United States, the most efficient configuration for solar panels is a south-facing installation, as that direction captures the maximum sunlight due to the sun's trajectory. Though east or west installations can also generate electricity, their output will generally be lower in comparison.

The angle at which solar panels are mounted is also significant. The ideal angle varies based on your home's latitude, with general recommendations ranging between 20 and 45 degrees for optimal solar energy capture.

Impact of Weather and Climate on Solar Panel Efficiency

Weather conditions can affect how efficiently solar panels generate electricity. For instance, panels covered in snow will not be able to produce power!

Interestingly, solar panels perform better in cooler temperatures; as panel temperature rises, efficiency tends to decline slightly.

Factors such as cloud cover and shading can also diminish energy output, but most solar installers will consider these elements when designing your solar system, ensuring it generates the necessary power despite such conditions.

How many solar panels will you need where you live?

Maximizing Your Solar System Efficiency

To maintain your solar panels at peak performance, consider the following three steps:

1. Monitor performance: Utilize solar monitoring software to observe the performance of your solar system. This enables immediate action should an issue arise!

2. Optimal installation placement: While some homeowners prefer unobtrusive placements, choosing directions that enhance sunlight exposure is crucial for efficiency.

3. Ensure cleanliness: Solar panels hindered by dirt or debris will not generate electricity efficiently. Regular maintenance and professional cleaning should be considered if your roof collects significant debris.

Your solar panels won’t operate at 100% efficiency! Fluctuations in actual power generation from the previous day's output levels are normal! Design considerations account for typical variations, although significant or prolonged dips in output warrant attention.

What to Look For When Buying Solar Panels

The efficiency rating alone doesn't define a good solar panel; assessing power output is equally essential, as it indicates the actual power capacity of the panel.

Another vital aspect is the warranty coverage. Most modern solar panels offer performance warranties lasting 25 years and product warranties ranging from 12 to 15 years. Anything less could signal potential quality concerns.

Your solar panel choice will also depend on the system type you want to set up. For example, if you’re aiming for off-grid capabilities, investing in higher efficiency may be worthwhile to maximize power output.

Our solar experts emphasize acquiring panels from reputable manufacturers given that solar panels represent a long-term investment. Although solar panel failures are uncommon, ensure the manufacturer will be around to uphold their warranties. Based on our Solar Industry Survey, the most frequently offered brands by installers notably include Qcells and REC group.

Importance of Choosing the Right Installer

Ultimately, selecting the right solar installation company is critical for a successful solar energy transition. At SolarReviews, we firmly assert that identifying a reliable solar installer is pivotal for achieving the most effective solar system possible.

Reputable solar firms typically gather positive consumer feedback, refrain from pressuring customers, maintain at least five years of experience, and employ certified, well-trained personnel.

Need help locating the best installers near you? Our solar calculator can help estimate the number of solar panels you need and inspects potential savings on your electricity bills. We will connect you with trusted local solar companies in your vicinity.

Are you searching for reliable solar installers nearby?

Methodology: Evaluating the Top Solar Panels

Our analysis encompassed solar panels from 28 different brands, scrutinizing their most efficient residential models. The reviewed residential panels contained up to 66 cells or 132 half-cells.

Panels falling outside this size threshold were excluded unless the brand specifically marketed them as “residential.” Additionally, we did not evaluate models equipped with bifacial cells unless they were the sole offering from a specific brand, such as those from the REC Group.

Below is a comprehensive list of the reviewed solar panels along with their respective efficiency ratings:

Solar panel brand

Panel model

Efficiency rating

Maxeon

SunPower/Maxeon 6 AC 440 W

22.8%

REC Group

REC Alpha Pure 410 W

22.6%

Jinko Solar

Eagle 54 G6R 440W

22.53%

Heliene

108HC M10 TPC SL 440 W

22.49%

Yingli

Panda 3.0 Pro 430 W

22.28%
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REC Group

REC Alpha Pure 410 W

22.2%

Panasonic

EverVolt EVPV410H

22.2%

Silfab

Silfab Prime NTC 430 W

22.1%

SEG Solar

SEG Yukon N-Series 430 W

22.02%
VSUN (Vietnam Sunergy)

VSUN430N-108BMH

22.02%

JA Solar

Deep Blue 3.0 PRO 440 W

22.0%

Qcells

Q.TRON BLK M-G2+ 440 W

22.0%

LONGi

Hi-MO 5m 425 W

21.8%

Phono Solar

Twinplus X Series 420 W

21.51%

Axitec

AXIblackpremium XXL HC 420 W

21.5%

Sunspark

SST7F54M(H) 415 W

21.30%

Trina

Vertex S DEO9C.05 405 W

21.1%

ZNShine

ZXM6-NH132 Series 420W

21.03%

United Renewable Energy Co., Ltd.

Peach FBK410MFG 410 W

21%

SolarEver

HC 108 410W

20.97%

Aptos

DNA-108-BF10-410

410 W

Hyundai

XG BK Series - Black Max 280 W

20.86%

Waaree

Arkra Series 415 W

20.78%

Boviet

Gamma Series 415 W

20.7%

Certainteed

Solstice 440 W

20.5%

Solaria

PowerX 400 W

20.5%

Freedom Forever

400 W module

20.48%

Mission Solar

MSE PERC 66

19.9%

Solar Panel Efficiency FAQ

Are you considering investing in solar panels for your home? Here is a comprehensive guide on how to buy the right solar panels for your specific needs.

1. Assess Your Energy Needs

Before purchasing solar panels, calculate your average daily energy consumption. This will help you determine the size and number of panels you need to meet your energy requirements.

2. Understand the Types of Solar Panels

Solar panels come in different types, such as monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so research and choose the one that best suits your needs.

3. Consider the Efficiency of the Panels

The efficiency of solar panels determines how much sunlight they can convert into electricity. Higher efficiency panels may cost more upfront but can save you money in the long run by generating more power.

4. Look for Warranties and Certifications

When buying solar panels, make sure to check for warranties and certifications. A reliable warranty ensures that your investment is protected, while certifications indicate the quality and performance of the panels.

5. Get Multiple Quotes

Don't settle for the first quote you receive. Shop around and get multiple quotes from different solar panel providers to compare prices, warranties, and services offered.

6. Consider Installation and Maintenance Costs

Factor in the installation and maintenance costs when budgeting for solar panels. Installation costs can vary depending on your location and the complexity of the installation, so make sure to get a clear estimate upfront.

7. Evaluate Financing Options

There are various financing options available for purchasing solar panels, such as loans, leases, and power purchase agreements. Consider the pros and cons of each option to find the best fit for your financial situation.

By following these steps and doing thorough research, you can make an informed decision when buying solar panels for your home. Investing in solar energy not only reduces your carbon footprint but also saves you money on your electricity bills in the long term.

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