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Best solar panels in the UK in 2024

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The Independent Advisor's top pick
SunPower Maxeon 6AC 445W

This panel has high efficiency, a good power output, and excellent warranties, making it a great choice for most homes. 

Our solar experts have evaluated over 50 solar panels and conducted a survey of more than 1,500 Independent readers who own solar systems to find the best solar panels in the UK. They considered key factors, including solar panel costs, efficiency, warranties, and reliability. Dr David Sprake, Programme Leader in Renewable Engineering and panel member at the Climate Regional COP Summit, also advised us on choosing solar panels. 

What are the best solar panels on the market?

The best solar panels for UK homes have power outputs of 420W or higher, efficiency ratings above 20 per cent, and advanced technologies enhancing their efficiency and durability.

Important note: Not every brand in this guide installs solar panels. To find the best deals on our recommended panels, compare quotes from local installers. Our short form makes it easy to get quotes from up to four trusted local providers.

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We’ve scored every solar panel in this guide based on several key criteria, including: 

  • Power output
  • Efficiency
  • Degradation rate
  • Product and performance warranties
  • Customer satisfaction 

The scores for each criterion were weighted and combined to provide an overall rating that helps consumers choose the best solar panel for their needs.

Independent Advisor’s top pick: SunPower Maxeon 6AC 445W

Degradation rate
9.5 / 10
9.5 / 10
Product warranty
10 / 10
10 / 10
Performance warranty
10 / 10
10 / 10
Efficiency
8.2 / 10
8.2 / 10
Power output
8.0 / 10
8.0 / 10
Customer performance rating
6.9 / 10
6.9 / 10

Top takeaways

  • 96 per cent of SunPower panel owners surveyed would recommend the brand
  • They have a very low annual degradation rate of 0.25 per cent

Key specifications

Independent Advisor score★★★★
PriceOn enquiry
Efficiency23 per cent
Warranty25 years standard or 40 years with registration
Power output445W
Degradation98 per cent power output is guaranteed in year one, with a maximum 0.25 per cent annual decrease thereafter. By year 30, efficiency will be 22.1 per cent.
Temperature coefficient-0.34%/°C
Weight21.8kg
Pros
40-year warranty
Factory-installed inverter
Cons
Limited availability

The Maxeon 6AC panel scores highly in our performance, durability and customer satisfaction categories, offering an excellent 40-year warranty, low degradation rate, and good efficiency. Together, these combined factors are the reason SunPower’s panel is our Independent Advisor’s pick. 

As well as having good energy output, SunPower’s Maxeon 6AC panels have a high efficiency rating of up to 23 per cent. These crack-resistant panels are ideal for all homes, especially those near the coast, as they’re designed to withstand corrosion caused by salty air.

Maxeon 6AC panels also have maximum power point tracking to monitor weather conditions and optimise each panel’s output. The panels are lead-free, and contain recycled materials. These innovative features boost the Maxeon’s appeal for homeowners. 

Each SunPower Maxeon solar panel works independently, which boosts the system’s power by about 50 per cent. One thing to note, though, is that this design means the system is typically only as strong as its weakest panel, so the entire system can be affected by a problem with a single panel.

Read our full SunPower solar panels review

Best warranties: Project Solar UK Evo Super Max Series 480W

Degradation rate
8.5 / 10
8.5 / 10
Product warranty
10 / 10
10 / 10
Performance warranty
10 / 10
10 / 10
Efficiency
7.4 / 10
7.4 / 10
Power output
7.2 / 10
7.2 / 10
Customer performance rating
9.0 / 10
9.0 / 10

Top takeaways

  • According to our survey, 97 per cent of Project Solar panel owners would recommend them to others
  • Project Solar’s product warranty is three times longer than every other panel we reviewed

Key specifications

Independent Advisor score★★★★½
Price£350
Efficiency22.18 per cent
WarrantyLifetime performance and product warranties
Power output480W
DegradationNot specified
Temperature coefficient-0.35%/°C
Weight23kg
Pros
10 per cent more energy generation per square metre than most other models
Designed to deliver optimal energy generation throughout the year
Lifetime guarantee
Cons
Expensive compared to competitors
Degradation rates only available on request

Project Solar’s newest modules are the Evo Super Max Series 455W solar panels, which come with the company’s impressive warranties for hardware and performance.

Due to their passive emitter and rear contact (PERC) technology, these panels achieve a 6 to 12 per cent increase in energy production. PERC adds an extra layer to the solar cells, boosting the overall efficiency of the panels by converting more daylight into energy.

Project Solar’s innovative drainage corners reduce the amount of maintenance required, but the company doesn’t provide any environmental information, such as recycling options or whether the panel is lead-free. The Evo Super Max’s sleek black appearance enhances kerb appeal, making it a popular choice despite its high price tag of £350.

Read our full Project Solar review.

Most efficient solar panel: Aiko ABC Neostar 3N54 495W

Degradation rate
9.7 / 10
9.7 / 10
Product warranty
4.5 / 10
4.5 / 10
Performance warranty
8.3 / 10
8.3 / 10
Efficiency
10 / 10
10 / 10
Power output
9.7 / 10
9.7 / 10
Customer performance rating
6.9 / 10
6.9 / 10

Top takeaways

  • 96 per cent of Aiko panel owners surveyed would recommend the brand
  • These panels have 24.8 per cent efficiency, making them the most efficient on this list

Key specifications

Independent Advisor score★★★★
PriceAround £80
Efficiency24.80 per cent
Warranty15-year product warranty and 30-year performance warranty
Power output495W
Degradation0.35 per cent annual degradation from year two to year 30
Temperature coefficient-0.26%/°C
Weight21kg
Pros
High efficiency
Attractive, full black design
Cons
Limited availability

The Aiko ABC Neostar is the most efficient panel we’ve reviewed at over 24 per cent efficiency, comfortably beating the average of around 20 per cent. 

While other panels can lose their efficiency quickly, this model is guaranteed to maintain approximately 89 per cent of its initial capacity after decades. This means that if you bought one of these panels today, by 2054, it could still be outperforming many new panels on the market.

Read our full Aiko solar panels review.

Best budget solar panel: JA Solar JAM72S30 LR 585W

Image shows the JA Solar JAM72S30 Mono PERC Half-Cell MBB.
Degradation rate
4.1 / 10
4.1 / 10
Product warranty
3.8 / 10
3.8 / 10
Performance warranty
7.0 / 10
7.0 / 10
Efficiency
6.7 / 10
6.7 / 10
Power output
7.1 / 10
7.1 / 10
Customer performance rating
6.5 / 10
6.5 / 10

Top takeaways

  • 95 per cent of owners said they would recommend JA Solar’s panels, according to our survey 
  • Aesthetically pleasing all-black panel

Key specifications

Independent Advisor score★★★
PriceAround £100
Efficiency22.1 per cent
Warranty12-year product warranty and 25-year linear power output warranty
Power output585W
Degradation0.55 per cent linear degradation over 25 years, giving them an efficiency of 19.55 per cent at year 30
Temperature coefficient-0.35%/°C
Weight28kg
Pros
Good power output for the price
Great weather resistance
Cons
Relatively short product warranty

JA Solar’s JAM72S30 panels are packed with desirable features such as PERC cells and a high resistance to panel degradation, so they make for a welcome addition to homes with high energy usage.

At 28kg, the panels are quite heavy, but their high energy output easily compensates for the extra weight. An output of 585W and above is standard for solar panels, so JA Solar’s 585W panel is certainly powerful – especially with its efficiency rating of up to 22.1 per cent. Even in low-light conditions, you can expect a healthy return of energy from these solar panels.

Although not lead-free, JA Solar panels contain recycled materials and the manufacturer recycles them at the end of their life.

Read our full JA Solar review.

Best low-light solar panel: Suntech Ultra V Pro Mini 515W

Image shows the Suntech Ultra V Mini 405Wp solar panel.
The Suntech Ultra V Pro Mini 515W (Suntech)
Degradation rate
8.8 / 10
8.8 / 10
Product warranty
4.5 / 10
4.5 / 10
Performance warranty
8.3 / 10
8.3 / 10
Efficiency
8.4 / 10
8.4 / 10
Power output
8.1 / 10
8.1 / 10
Customer performance rating
7.5 / 10
7.5 / 10

Top takeaways

  • 97 per cent of Suntech panel owners would recommend this brand, according to our survey
  • The all-black design provides a sleek, modern appearance

Key specifications

Independent Advisor score★★★★
PriceAround £150
Efficiency23.2 per cent
Warranty12-year product warranty and 30-year performance warranty
Power output515W
Degradation2 per cent in the first year and 0.40 per cent annually, which gives them an efficiency of around 17 per cent in year 30
Temperature coefficient-0.36%/°C
Weight23.5kg
Pros
Optimal power generation in shady conditions
Cons
Limited availability

Suntech’s Ultra V Pro Mini 515W panels use bigger silicon cells to capture more daylight, optimising power output even in shaded conditions and adverse weather. As well as performing well in lower temperatures, these panels can withstand wind and other harsh weather, including heavy snowfall.

The solar panels’ low-light performance allows them to absorb light even in the early morning, so you won’t have to wait until peak hours – typically between 11am and 4pm – to start drawing on your home’s solar energy supply.

Read our full Suntech solar panels review.

Best solar panels at a glance

Product
Price
Efficiency
Warranty
Power output
Degradation
SunPower Maxeon 6AC 445W
(4)
POA
23.0%
25 years standard product warranty and 40 years with registration
445W
0.25% maximum annual degradation after year one
Project Solar UK Evo Super Max Series 480W
(4.5)
£350
22.2%
Lifetime product warranty and 30-year performance warranty
480W
Not available
Aiko ABC Neostar 3N54 495W
(4)
£80
24.8%
15-year product warranty and 30-year performance warranty
495W
0.35% annual degradation from year 2 to year 30
JA Solar JAM72S30 LR 585W
(3)
£90
22.1%
12-year product warranty and 25-year performance warranty
585W
0.55% annual degradation after year one
Suntech Ultra V Pro Mini 515W
(4)
£150
23.2%
25-year product warranty and 30-year performance warranty
515W
0.4% annual degradation after year one

Other solar panels we recommend

Jinko Tiger Neo 72HL4

Degradation rate
8.8 / 10
8.8 / 10
Product warranty
3.8 / 10
3.8 / 10
Performance warranty
8.3 / 10
8.3 / 10
Efficiency
8.6 / 10
8.6 / 10
Power output
8.4 / 10
8.4 / 10
Customer performance rating
6 / 10
6 / 10

Independent Advisor score: ★★★½
Price: £100
Efficiency: 23.4 per cent
Warranty: 12-year product warranty and 30-year linear power warranty
Power output: 605W
Degradation: 0.40 per cent annual degradation over 30 years, meaning that the performance rate at year 30 will be around 20.8 per cent
Temperature coefficient: -0.30%/°C

Pros
Small degradation factor – 0.4 per cent after year one
Jinko Solar is committed to sourcing 100 per cent of its electricity from renewable sources by 2025
Cons
Short product warranty

Jinko’s Tiger Neo panels use Super Multi Bus Bar (SMBB) technology, which means the panels have more thin copper bars or silver strips that connect the cells and carry the current. Having more bus bars reduces the effect of shading and optimises the path the current takes, increasing the overall efficiency of the panel.

Jinko panels have enhanced protection against extreme environmental conditions, including salt mist, making them highly suitable for coastal properties. The panels come with a 12-year warranty on the product and 30 years on linear power.

Read our full Jinko Solar solar panels review.

REC Alpha Pure RX Series 470W

Degradation rate
9.5 / 10
9.5 / 10
Product warranty
5.8 / 10
5.8 / 10
Performance warranty
7.0 / 10
7.0 / 10
Efficiency
7.8 / 10
7.8 / 10
Power output
7.5 / 10
7.5 / 10
Customer performance rating
7.1 / 10
7.1 / 10

Independent Advisor score: ★★★½
Price: £130 
Efficiency: 22.6 per cent 
Warranty: 25-year product warranty and 25-year performance and labour warranties (but only if installed by an REC-certified installer). Panels installed by any other company are only eligible for a 20-year product warranty
Power output: 430W
Degradation: 0.25 per cent after year one
Temperature coefficient: -0.24 %/°C

Pros
Lead-free manufacturing
High-strength frame design
Compact design
Cons
Unlike many other warranties, REC’s product warranty doesn’t cover inverters

REC’s lead-free Alpha Pure RX panels are ideal for smaller roof areas thanks to their compact design, measuring 1728 x 1205 x 30 mm, and being black, blend in with darker tiles.  

With a peak efficiency of 22.6 per cent, they boast a minimal annual degradation rate of only 0.25 per cent after the first year, which is significantly lower than the typical 0.5-0.7 per cent recorded by other panels.

Read our full REC solar panels review.

Perlight NTA 430W

Degradation rate
8.8 / 10
8.8 / 10
Product warranty
8.3 / 10
8.3 / 10
Performance warranty
8.3 / 10
8.3 / 10
Efficiency
8.2 / 10
8.2 / 10
Power output
8.0 / 10
8.0 / 10
Customer performance rating
7.2 / 10
7.2 / 10

Independent Advisor score: ★★★★
Price: POA
Efficiency: 23.0 per cent
Warranty: 30-year product and performance warranties
Power output: 450W
Degradation: less than 2 per cent in year one and 0.45 per cent in years 2 to 25
Temperature coefficient: -0.31%/°C

Pros
Simplified installation process
Manufactured with low lead levels and no fluorine, making them more environmentally friendly
Cons
No prices available

As well as offering good energy conversion rates, the Perlight PLM-435 DH8N 450W solar panel performs well even in low-light conditions, ensuring consistent energy production throughout the day. Its robust construction can also withstand harsh weather conditions, making it a dependable option.

One of the Perlight solar panel’s key advantages is its user-friendly installation process. Its pre-installed cables and connectors simplify its setup and reduce installation time, lowering the cost.

Throughout the manufacturing of its solar panels, Perlight is committed to social responsibility and environmental stewardship.

Our research into the best solar panels

To choose an overall winner, we compared more than 50 solar panels from 13 best-in-class manufacturers. We also conducted a nationwide survey of 1,544 Independent readers who own solar panels to learn about their experiences with each panel brand.

We considered various factors as part of our scoring methodology, grouping them into the following categories:

  • Durability and reliability (35 per cent)
  • Performance (35 per cent) 
  • Customer satisfaction (30 per cent)

Each panel was scored according to the following criteria:

  • Efficiency: the percentage of daylight each panel converts into electricity under ideal conditions
  • Durability: the robustness of the panelPower output: the amount of electricity a panel generates under ideal conditions
  • Degradation rates: the panel’s performance over time (lower degradation rates ensure the panel will last longer, giving you a better return on investment)
  • Warranties: the product and performance guarantees for each panel
  • Customer satisfaction: the survey respondents’ experience of each panel brand

Cost was not considered as some panel prices are unavailable. However, we did factor in how our survey respondents rated their panel in terms of value for money under our ‘customer satisfaction’ criteria. 

As part of our research, we examined each manufacturers’ track record, as well as their expertise, experience and ethical and sustainable practices. To learn more about our process, read about how we review solar panels.

50+
Panels reviewed
300
Customer reviews read
13
manufacturers compared
50
hours comparing products

Get quotes on the best solar panels in your area

Discover how much solar panels would cost for your home by answering a few quick questions

What to consider when choosing the best solar panels

Want to maximise your investment as soon as possible? 

Focus on panels with the highest power output and efficiency percentage. You’ll also want to sign up for the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) scheme to sell any excess energy your solar panels produce back to the national grid.

Get quotes from several national and regional installers. By doing so, you can clearly explain your requirements, understand how they can accommodate those needs and compare the various quotes. You can get in touch with trusted installers in the UK – quickly and easily – with our free quote-finding form.

Finally, don’t be afraid to walk away if a particular quote doesn’t suit your home or budget. After all, solar panels are a big investment, so you should be informed and confident in your decision.

Katharine round image

Why choosing the right solar panel for you matters – Katharine Allison, Energy Saving Expert

Every household requires a solar panel system tailored to its specific needs, reflecting the versatility of solar technology. Custom systems address different environments, energy requirements, and physical constraints, whether it’s high-efficiency panels for limited spaces, robust systems for coastal areas, or aesthetically integrated options. This ensures benefits like reduced bills, decreased carbon footprint, and increased energy independence are accessible to all, highlighting the importance of selecting the right solar panels for optimal performance and value.

As you research the best solar panels for you, keep the following key features in mind.

Solar panel efficiency

Solar panels’ efficiency rate is based on their electricity production: higher ratings indicate a better performance. Efficiency typically ranges between 18 and 22 per cent, with the best solar panels boasting more than 23 per cent. Selecting panels with features that enhance efficiency and power output is crucial, particularly if your roof’s direction and angle aren’t ideal.

Solar panel power output

A solar panel’s output is the energy it can generate in ideal conditions. Selecting panels with higher power outputs can help generate more energy with fewer panels – ideal for smaller roofs and keeping your system costs down. 

Solar panel components

Solar panels capture daylight and turn it into usable power. The best solar panels are made from silicon cells, set in an aluminium frame, and protected by a sheet of glass. 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’s made of and the quality of its build.

The different parts of a solar panel (Image credit: Adobe)
  • Frame: Encases and supports the solar panel structure; aluminium offers the best durability and rigidity.
  • Glass cover: Tempered glass protects solar cells while allowing daylight to pass through.
  • Polymer sheet: Adds another layer of protection.
  • Cells: Made from silicon, these convert sunlight into electricity.
  • Bus bars: Thin copper or silver strips that transport electricity from the cells.
  • Backing material: Protects the rear of the cells and supports durability. The best solar panels feature reflective material to bounce daylight back onto the cells, boosting output.

Guarantees and solar panel degradation

Solar panels can last 30-40 years, but efficiency decreases over time due to PID – the leakage of electricity. The best panels employ PID resistant technology to maintain performance. 

Most domestic solar panels come with a 12-year product warranty, while performance warranties typically start at 25 years. Warranties vary greatly, with some manufacturers offering a combined guarantee for both product and performance.

Sustainable credentials

Solar panels typically contain trace amounts of lead and fluorine for durability and performance, but the industry is moving towards lead-free and fluoride-free alternatives. To minimise environmental impact, choose panels with low or no lead and fluorine.

Dr Sprake headshot

The environmental impact of solar panels

The best solar panels significantly reduce carbon dioxide emissions compared to fossil fuels, despite the energy used in their production and transport. Over their lifetime, solar panels have a much smaller carbon footprint than traditional energy sources, and as the manufacturing process is working to reduce carbon, this footprint will decrease further. Solar panels also produce no air pollution during operation.”

 

Dr David Sprake PhD, BEng (Hons), CEng, MEI, Chartered Energy Engineer, FHEA

Lecturer and Programme Leader in Renewable and Sustainable Engineering

Where to get the best solar panels

When looking at your options for solar panels, we highly recommend that you source them directly from a professional solar installer, whether regional or national. The benefits of this include:

  • Expert advice: professional installers offer advice tailored to your specific energy needs, location and roof type, ensuring you get the most efficient and cost-effective system
  • Comprehensive service: by purchasing from a professional installer, you benefit from an all-inclusive service. This includes site assessment, custom system design, installation and maintenance, ensuring optimal performance and longevity of your solar panel system
  • Quality assurance: installers often have access to higher-quality products that meet UK standards and are more durable than those you might find online. Their transporter will also provide better care than you’d get with an online purchase
  • Warranty and support: professional installers typically offer robust warranties and after-sales support, ensuring any issues are promptly addressed
  • Industry compliance: make sure your installer is certified by the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS). This ensures high-quality installations and compliance with industry standards. It’s also necessary for exporting excess energy through SEG.

How to get the best deals on solar panels

Once you’ve chosen the right solar panels for your energy needs, you’ll want to make sure you’re getting the best possible price.

Our solar quote process is transparent and straightforward. Simply follow the steps below to quickly get quotes for solar panels tailored to your needs and budget.

1. Submit your details

Enter basic information about your home and energy usage. This enables us to present you with only the most relevant quotes.

2. Get customised quotes

Receive tailored quotes from our trusted suppliers. Installers use Google Earth to assess your property’s location, orientation, and roof space, offering options from advanced to budget-friendly panels.

3. Compare your options

Compare the benefits and costs of each quote, including the features offered.

4. Make an informed decision

Once you’ve reviewed all the quotes and armed yourself with our expert advice, you’re ready to choose your new solar panel system.

Solar panels calculator

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The data used to power this calculator is sourced from various solar companies and industry bodies, including the UK government, the Energy Saving Trust and Ofgem. Please note that costs are estimated and based on a UK average, and should not be taken as the exact price you would pay. If you’d like to get an accurate quote for solar panels, then you can use this form to get an estimate from one of our trusted partners.

Best solar panels FAQs

Different brands offer varying levels of efficiency and durability as well as different warranty lengths. Reputable brands tend to offer more efficient panels, longer and more comprehensive warranties and better support, ensuring long-term performance and reliability.

Finding the best solar panels comes down to pinpointing the right product for your home and individual circumstances. Consider your home’s position, roof orientation and energy usage, as well as whether you wish to export excess energy to the grid or use solar battery storage to optimise your solar setup.

The best solar panels for your home depend on your budget, property size, orientation and energy usage. Start by comparing quotes and consulting installers about their stock and costs, focusing on key elements such as efficiency, power rating and design features. Research suppliers thoroughly by reading customer reviews. For even more reliable feedback, speak with neighbours who have already installed solar panels.

The best angle for solar panels is between 30 and 40 degrees. Your installer should consider your roof’s orientation and angle to maximise sunlight exposure and optimise energy conversion.

Bigger solar panels are not necessarily better. Larger panels can produce more power, but they may not be efficient if you have limited roof space or shading issues. To achieve the most power in a limited space, choose a panel with a higher power output and a smaller surface area. 

Katharine Allison

Energy Saving Writer

As Independent Advisor’s energy saving expert, Katharine, a keen advocate for sustainability, is an authority on solar panels, double glazing, and cutting-edge renewable energy technologies. Her dedication merges with a commitment to enlighten and steer readers toward embracing eco-friendly solutions and the latest trends in sustainability.

With over 10 years of experience, she has worked with some of the UK’s leading companies and publications, including the Federation of Master Builders, Architectural Digest, and Denon Construction. 

Katharine is particularly passionate about consumer causes and animal welfare and has art, philosophy, and psychology degrees. She lives with her sled dogs in East Sussex.