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January 23, 2024

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    When it comes to choosing panels for a home solar power system, many people prioritize panel efficiency, which dictates the amount of sunlight the panels can convert to usable energy. High-efficiency panels tend to generate more power, making them more likely to maximize your energy savings over time.

    In this guide, I will review the top seven most efficient solar panels brands in the clean energy industry you can install on your home and discuss how they compare to other performance metrics. I’ll also take a look at the other panel models available from the companies that manufacture the most efficient solar panels to help you decide if another option might suit you better.

    Highest Quality Panels

    4.4

    Installs high-quality Maxeon panels

    Outstanding customer support

    Best-in-class warranty lasts 40 years

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    Best Damage Protection

    3.7

    Affordable prices

    Excellent selection of panels and services

    Locations in 22 states

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    Best Solar Financing
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    4.3

    No payments needed for 18 months

    Provides in-house financing

    Offers top brands like LG and Trina

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    Best Customer Service

    3.9

    Highly rated customer service

    Provides  24/7 panel monitoring

    Solid A+ rating with the BBB

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    What Are the Most Efficient Solar Panels?

    I’ve spent several years researching and writing about solar panels and manufacturers, and I’ve found that the following are the best solar panels with the highest efficiency ratings you can buy for home solar projects:

    Maxeon: Most Efficient Panels

    I should mention that Panasonic panels were hitting efficiency ratings that were higher than some of these options, but the company has since stopped manufacturing its own panels. As such, I’m not including it as a solar panel brand on this list.


    What Should You Consider When Choosing Efficient Solar Panels?

    When you’re installing a solar array for $15,000+, the last thing you want is for the panels to underproduce and leave you with a monthly energy bill on top of the cost of the panels. One of the best ways to avoid that is to choose panels with a high-efficiency rating, but there are also some additional things you should look for, even among the highest-efficiency solar panels:

    Cost per watt: If you’re looking to maximize your panel efficiency for long-term savings, you’re probably concerned with getting the most value out of your solar panel system. A good way to do that is to select for high efficiency in combination with a low cost per watt. Doing so will help maximize your savings over time and reduce your up-front installation costs.

    Efficiency warranty: Industry-leading efficiency is great, but if the panel degrades more rapidly than others, then you might not see the same savings in the long run. That’s where an efficiency warranty comes in. This coverage guarantees a maximum degradation rate, which ensures that your panels will continue outperforming other models for decades to come.

    Manufacturer’s warranty: Even if you have a solid efficiency warranty, you should also ensure you’re protected from panel malfunctions and manufacturing defects, which can directly affect production. A lengthy equipment warranty will also help make sure your panels stick around and continue pumping out maximum energy for your home.

    Appearance/panel options: Although efficiency might be your top priority, you should also consider how the panels look. Most homeowners prefer all-black panels with no visible grid lines for a sleek, modern appearance, but not all manufacturers offer these options. I suggest you consider the appearance of the panels after these other three criteria to get a profitable system that you won’t mind looking at every day.


    Compare the Top-Rated High-Efficiency Solar Panel Manufacturers

    If you’re looking for the most efficient solar panels, you can’t do any better than Maxeon panels from SunPower. These have the highest efficiency rating in the entire industry — maxing out at 22.8% — and they also boast some other pretty impressive performance specs. I’ll include a look at how the different top manufacturers of high-efficiency solar panels compare in the table below.

    Panel ManufacturerOur Overall Score (Out of 5.0)Cost Per WattMax EfficiencyAll Black/No Grid Lines
    Maxeon4.3$2.80 – $3.0022.8%Yes
    Jinko Solar3.8$2.50 – $2.8022.65%No
    LONGi4.2<$2.5022.6%Some
    Canadian Solar4.0$2.50 – $2.8022.5%Some
    REC4.2$2.50 – $2.8022.3%Some
    Trina4.0$2.50 – $2.8021.8%Some
    QCells4.5$2.50 – $2.8020.9%Yes

    Most Efficient

    Sunpower Maxeon

    4.3

    Our Rating

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    Maxeon panels have the highest efficiency you can get in terms of residential solar panels, topping out at an impressive 22.8%. I recommend these panels to anyone who can afford them, which is a serious sticking point, given that they’re one of the most expensive brands available. I do think they’re worth the investment, though.

    Why We Chose Maxeon

    It’s hard not to choose Maxeon panels as the most efficient since they have a higher efficiency than any other panel on the market. Not only that, but they have stellar degradation rates, which means that efficiency is going to stick around for longer than it would in most other brands. All in all, these combine to make Maxeon panels the most likely to maximize your savings and maintain high efficiency throughout the panel life span.

    Maxeon panels also have incredible warranty coverage, with some of the premium models coming with an unheard-of 40-year warranty. That’s nearly double the industry average, which means you not only get maximum performance but also peace of mind that your panels are going to last for decades to come.

    I also love the look of Maxeon panels, as all of the models are entirely black, super sleek, and don’t have visible grid lines. These are the panels I installed on my own home, which should go to show how much trust I — and thousands of other people — put in Maxeon as a brand.

    Our Review Scores
    What We Don’t Like

    The only real downside to Maxeon panels, in my opinion, is that they’re expensive. They average around $3.00 per watt, which is well above what most other panels go for. Compared to some of the more inexpensive brands that sit at $2.50 per watt, that’s an additional $4,500 you’re paying for the premium Maxeon panels. I do think it’s worth it, though.

    The only other downside is a minor one: Maxeon only has a few panel models currently available. This isn’t a huge deal, no matter what, but especially if you’re just looking for the most efficient solar panels available.

    Maxeon currently has two lines of panels available for home use:

    • Maxeon 3: These are slightly more affordable than the Maxeon 6 panels and have lower efficiency ratings — between 21.2% and 22.7%. These are also smaller than the Maxeon 6 panels, so they’re better for smaller roofs.
    • Maxeon 6: The Maxeon 6 panels have a record-setting peak efficiency of 22.8%, so they’ll deliver the highest energy production of any panel on the market. They’re quite a bit bigger than the Maxeon 3 line, so you may not be able to fit as many on your roof.
    Panel ModelEfficiency RatingPower OutputTemperature Coefficient (per degree C over 25)Power ToleranceEfficiency After 25 Years
    Maxeon 6Up to 22.8%410W to 440W-0.27%0/+5%92%
    Maxeon 3Up to 22.7%355W to 430W-0.27%0/+5%92%

    Maxeon panels come with some of the most appealing warranty coverage in the industry, which includes an unprecedented 40 years of coverage for manufacturer defects and a 40-year power production guarantee, both of which are better than the industry average. After 25 years, Maxeon panels are guaranteed to retain 92% of their starting efficiency, which is far better than the average, which is in the mid-80s.

    Installation Options

    Maxeon panels are available through the manufacturer’s sister company, SunPower. You can also get Maxeon panels through SunPower Master Dealers and certified installers.


    Most Affordable

    Jinko Solar

    3.8

    Our Rating

    Limited Time Offer:
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    Jinko Solar is based in China and has some of the most affordable solar panels with high efficiency. They’re great for homeowners who want maximum power output on a budget. However, they do have less impressive warranty coverage and other performance specs than most direct competitors on this list.

    Click here to find the Jinko Solar dealers nearest you.

    Why We Chose Jinko Solar

    Jinko’s top-of-the-line panels reach up to 22.54% efficiency, which positions the company as a top competitor for efficiency. While the Tiger Neo panels from Jinko that hit this number aren’t available in the U.S., the top panels from Jinko that are available in America still top out at an impressive 21.13%.

    Jinko’s pricing is pretty impressive as well, as it’s one of the only top panel brands with an efficiency of over 21% that comes in at below-average prices per watt. You could pay a few thousand dollars less for a system from Jinko than you would for a system with panels from a similar manufacturer.

    Jinko panels also have a below-average temperature coefficient of as low as -0.29%, making them a good option for homeowners in hot climates looking for a high-efficiency but affordable panel brand.

    Our Review Scores
    What We Don’t Like

    The biggest downside to Jinko panels, in my opinion, is that they only come with a ten-year manufacturer’s warranty. That’s less than half of what most other tier-one manufacturers offer. This calls into question the durability of the panels overall. Unless you’re prioritizing upfront price more than anything else, I’d recommend a different manufacturer overall for this reason.

    Another downside is that the degradation rate is worse than most other panels on this list. The first-year degradation is 3%, which is higher than almost every other tier-one manufacturer. The subsequent years’ degradation is 0.55%, which is, again, well above the average. These panels will produce above-average amounts of electricity in the first few years, but over time, they’ll degrade too much, in my opinion, to make them a true competitor in terms of efficiency.

    Jinko Solar has six different panel lines, but only four are available in the U.S.:

    • Eagle G6: This is the highest efficiency and most expensive option from Jinko. It’s also the only one to use TOPCon technology to boost efficiency. These panels are the largest available from Jinko (in the U.S.), so they might not be suitable for you if you have a small roof.
    • Eagle G5: The G5 panels have the second-highest efficiency rating of the four but are also the second-most expensive. These panels are also quite large, so they’re not ideal for solar systems on small roofs.
    • Eagle G4: These panels have a slightly lower efficiency rating than the G5, although the difference is nearly negligible. These are much smaller, making them better for homeowners with limited roof space.
    • Eagle Continental: These panels are also about average in size and will fit on most roofs. They are the most affordable option, but the efficiency is quite a bit lower at 19.88%.
    Panel ModelEfficiency RatingPower OutputTemperature Coefficient (per degree C over 25)Power ToleranceEfficiency After 25 Years
    Eagle G6Up to 22.65%440W to 565W-0.29%0/+3%89.4%
    Eagle G5Up to 21.13%525W to 545W-0.35%0/+3%85.8%
    Eagle G4Up to 20.96%380W to 400W-0.35%0/+3%84.25%
    Eagle ContinentalUp to 19.88%380W to 400W-0.35%0/+3%84.25%

    Jinko’s warranty coverage isn’t ideal. Although most of the panels have a 25- to 30-year power production warranty, the degradation rates are above average for most of the panel options. Plus, the manufacturer’s warranty for many of the panels is just 12 years, which is less than half of what most direct competitors provide.

    Installation Options

    Jinko Solar doesn’t have exclusive relationships with any solar installers, so you should have some options. However, these panels are less popular in the U.S. than most others on this list, so you may have some difficulty finding an installer near you that carries Jinko products.

    Most Reliable

    LONGi

    4.2

    Our Rating

    Limited Time Offer:
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    LONGi is the largest solar panel manufacturer in the world and for good reason. Its panels are highly reliable and durable, so although the warranty coverage isn’t the best, countless customers rely on them and get peace of mind from the fact that they perform well and usually for decades.

    Click here to find the LONGi dealers nearest you.

    Why We Chose LONGi Solar

    LONGi panels top out pretty close to Maxeon at 22.6%, which is still well above the industry average. These panels are very likely to generate sufficient power for you to see substantial savings on your electric bills for many years.

    LONGi panels are well known in the industry to be reliable, usually lasting quite a bit longer than the 15 years the company covers manufacturer defects.

    LONGi panels are not only reliable, but they’re also quite affordable, which means you’re likely to pay several thousand dollars less than you would for an equivalent system with panels from Maxeon or another premium manufacturer.

    LONGi panels are massive, averaging around 575 watts, compared to the industry standard of around 375 watts. This means each panel provides more power, although they will take up more space on your roof.

    Our Review Scores
    What We Don’t Like

    The one major downside to LONGi panels is that the warranty coverage for manufacturer defects only lasts for 15 years, which is ten years shorter than the industry average. This isn’t a huge deal because the panels are known to be durable, but you won’t get the same peace of mind you would from a company that delivered the full 25 years or one like Maxeon that goes above and beyond in terms of coverage.

    Additionally, while the panels being larger than average could be seen as an upside, homeowners with small roofs might be hindered by their wattage. Smaller roofs are less likely to be able to fit the proper number of these panels.

    LONGi has four main panel options available in its new Hi-Mo 6 line-up:

    • Hi-Mo 6 Scientist: These have the highest efficiency of solar panels available from LONGi, and they’re also the largest. As such, they deliver the most impressive power output per panel.
    • Hi-Mo 6 Explorer: The Explorer panels have a lower temperature coefficient than the other options, meaning they will lose less efficiency in higher temperatures. These might be best for you if you live in an extreme climate.
    • Hi-Mo 6 Guardian: The Guardian panels use self-optimizing technology to maximize production. If your roof is in partial shade or you see a lot of cloudy weather, these panels might be best for you.
    • Hi-Mo 6 Artist: The Artist line-up is one of the only panel options in the industry that comes in different colors, allowing you to customize the appearance of your system.
    Panel ModelEfficiency RatingPower OutputTemperature Coefficient (per degree C over 25)Power ToleranceEfficiency After 25 Years
    Hi-Mo 6 ScientistUp to 22.6%580W to 590W-0.29%0/+3%88.9%
    Hi-Mo 6 ExplorerUp to 22.1%560W to 570W-0.29%0/+3%88.9%
    Hi-Mo 6 GuardianN/AN/AN/AN/AN/A
    Hi-Mo 6 ArtistN/AN/AN/AN/AN/A

    LONGi lags behind the competition in some cases when it comes to the warranty coverage that’s included with its panels. The manufacturer’s warranty only lasts for 15 years in some cases, which is well under the industry average of 25 years. The panel degradation in the first year is below average at just 1.5%, as is the subsequent years’ degradation at 0.4%.

    They maintain around 88.9% of their starting efficiency after 25 years, which is better than average but not as good as Maxeon panels.

    Installation Options

    Unlike Maxeon, LONGi doesn’t favor any specific installer. As the largest panel manufacturer in the U.S., there are very likely a variety of installers in your area that install LONGi panels.

    Best Value

    Canadian Solar

    4.0

    Our Rating

    Limited Time Offer:
    No current offers available

    Canadian Solar panels deliver outstanding value, as they’re positioned below the average price per watt of competitors but also come with above-average efficiency ratings and are known to last a long time. The panels degrade a bit more quickly than average, and some models don’t have the best warranty coverage, but they’re still a great high-efficiency option.

    Click here to find the Canadian Solar dealers nearest you.

    Why We Chose Canadian Solar

    Canadian Solar is a reliable brand that has gained a lot of popularity in the U.S., primarily because of the panel quality for the price. If you don’t need to max out your efficiency and your energy production but you still want a high-performance panel at a great price, Canadian Solar might be the ideal option for your solar project.

    Canadian Solar is also great for customers who want to prioritize cost entirely, as it’s one of the few high-end manufacturers that also carries polycrystalline panels. These have lower efficiency, but the easier manufacturing process makes them significantly cheaper than monocrystalline solar panels.

    Canadian Solar’s warranty coverage on its high-end models is also excellent and either in line with or better than the industry average, depending on which model you purchase.

    Our Review Scores
    What We Don’t Like

    While the warranty coverage for the premium models is great, it’s lacking for the more affordable options, which is kind of to be expected. Most Canadian Solar panels outside of the new line-up of HiHero panels only come with a 15-year warranty for manufacturer defects, compared to the industry standard of 25.

    Plus, the panels from Canadian Solar degrade more rapidly than many of the other top-efficiency panels. After 25 years, your panels will drop to 84.8%, which is just below the industry average and well below what you’d get from Maxeon and other leaders in panel durability.

    Canadian Solar has a ton of panel options available, all of which fit into four main product lines:

    • HiKu: The HiKu line is one of the most affordable options from Canadian Solar, but it also has lower efficiency ratings. The HiKu panels have efficiencies as low as 19.4%.
    • BiHiKu: The BiHiKu line also has lower efficiency ratings than many others, although they’re a bit more efficient than the HiKu panels. These are quite a bit larger, at up to 550W, making them a better option for homeowners with a large roof who are on a budget.
    • TOPHiKu/TOPBiHiKu: This product line uses TOPCon technology, which brings the efficiency up to 21.4% for great performance. The TOPBiHiKu panels are larger and come in sizes up to a massive 695W, the largest from the manufacturer.
    • HiHero: The HiHero panels have the highest energy efficiency of the lot, up to 22.5%. They use heterojunction (HJT) solar cell technology, and they are the most expensive option from Canadian Solar.
    Panel ModelEfficiency RatingPower OutputTemperature Coefficient (per degree C over 25)Power ToleranceEfficiency After 25 Years
    HiHeroUp to 22.5%420W to 445W-0.26%0/+10%90.6%
    HiKu 7Up to 21.6%640W to 670W-0.34%0/+10%84.8%
    BiHiKu 6Up to 21.4%520W to 550W-0.34%0/+10%87.2%
    BiHiKu 7Up to 21.4%640W to 665W-0.34%0/+10%87.2%
    TOPHiKu 6Up to 21.4%420W to 570W-0.29%0/+10%89.4%
    TOPBiHiKu 6Up to 21.4%555W to 575W-0.29%0/+10%89.4%
    TOPBiHiKu 7Up to 21.4%615W to 695W-0.30%0/+10%89.4%
    Hiku 6Up to 21.3%445W to 555W-0.34%0/+10%84.8%

    The warranty coverage for Canadian Solar panels varies based on the model you install on your home. The top-of-the-line options come with 30 years of coverage, which is a little longer than average, while the more affordable and less efficient options only come with 15 years of coverage, which isn’t ideal.

    Installation Options

    Canadian Solar is another panel manufacturer that doesn’t work with specific installers. You should be able to find a solar panel installation company in your area that carries and installs panels from Canadian Solar.

    Most Durable

    REC

    4.2

    Our Rating

    Limited Time Offer:
    No current offers available

    REC is one of the most popular solar manufacturers in the United States, primarily because it combines stellar efficiency and panel durability that is second to none. The panels are a little on the expensive side, but I feel they’re worth the investment.

    Click here to find the REC dealers nearest you.

    Why We Chose REC

    REC’s most efficient panels make use of HJT technology to reach efficiency ratings of up to 22.3%, which is lower than the top competitors but still well above the industry average. Not only are the panels highly efficient, but they also have some of the most impressive degradation rates in the industry. The most premium option from REC matches Maxeon and maintains 92% of its efficiency after 25 years.

    REC’s warranty coverage is usually quite good and in line with the industry average, which is what we like to see. Most of the panels include a 25-year warranty for manufacturer defects and power production to help guarantee energy savings for you and your home.

    Finally, REC panels have a temperature coefficient of just -0.26%. That makes them one of the best options in the industry for hot climates, as they will maintain their efficiency better than most other panels, even when temperatures are high.

    Our Review Scores
    What We Don’t Like

    There’s not much I can say about REC that isn’t positive; it’s one of the most prevalent panel options in the country for a reason. The only downside is that they are more expensive than many competitors. Plus, if cost isn’t an issue, I’d sooner go with the Maxeon panels for better performance.

    REC has three main product lines, each delivering a varying level of performance and coming in at different price points:

    • Alpha Pure: The Alpha Pure line-up has two models available, both of which have the highest efficiency ratings available from REC — between 21.6% and 22.3%. These are the most expensive, but I’d recommend them if you’re looking to maximize energy production and offset the most consumption. These contain HJT solar cells.
    • N-Peak: These panels are monocrystalline and have the lowest efficiency rating available from REC of 20.3%. They’re middle-of-the-road in terms of cost per watt from the manufacturer.

    TwinPeak: The TwinPeak line boasts efficiency ratings of up to 20.5%, but they’re still the most affordable option from REC. These are the smallest of the bunch, coming in as low as 360W, so they’re the best from the company for homeowners with small roofs. This product line is being phased out, so it may not be available for much longer.

    Panel ModelEfficiency RatingPower OutputTemperature Coefficient (per degree C over 25)Power ToleranceEfficiency After 25 Years
    Alpha Pure-RUp to 22.3%410W to 430W-0.26%0/+5%92%
    Alpha PureUp to 21.6%385W to 410W-0.26%0/+5%92%
    TwinPeak 4Up to 20.5%360W to 375W-0.34%0/+5%92%
    N-Peak 3Up to 20.3%390W to 400W-0.34%0/+5%92%
    N-Peak 2Up to 20.3%360W to 375W-0.34%0/+5%92%

    REC’s high-end panels in the Alpha Pure series come with a 25-year warranty for the equipment, while all other options get a slightly below-average 20-year warranty. The power production guarantee is the same for all models, though, which ensures that your panels lose no more than 2% efficiency in year one and 0.25% per year after that for a full 25 years. That leaves you with an industry-leading 92% efficiency after 25 years, which is in line with Maxeon.

    Installation Options

    REC doesn’t have exclusive relationships with any installers, and countless solar companies work with REC panels. In fact, it’s one of the most popular panel brands in the country. REC does offer a more impressive warranty if you choose a REC-certified installer, though.

    Consumer Favorite

    Trina Solar

    4.0

    Our Rating

    Limited Time Offer:
    No current offers available

    Trina has been manufacturing solar panels since 1997, so it has decades of research and experience behind it. The panels go through rigorous testing, which helps ensure long-term panel performance and durability. These panels are sleek and modern, and they’re more affordable than other options that are comparable.

    Click here to find the Trina dealers nearest you.

    Why We Chose Trina

    Trina has a few lines of panels available for residential solar arrays, the most efficient of which hit impressive efficiency ratings of 21.8%. Like other manufacturers near the top in terms of efficiency, Trina makes panels that are less efficient than Maxeon but still well above the industry standard.

    Trina delivers great quality for the money in terms of warranty coverage, efficiency, and durability. The panels are typically a little above the average, but they’re less expensive than options from some direct competitors in the above-average efficiency space.

    They come in a pretty wide variety of sizes, ranging from 335 watts, which is much smaller than the typical size, up to a massive 600 watts, which is great for maximizing power production for homeowners with large roofs. This alone makes them a versatile panel option in the U.S.

    Our Review Scores
    What We Don’t Like

    Trina panels have a rather high-temperature coefficient, averaging around -0.39% across their panel options. As such, they will lose more efficiency than most other panel brands in hotter climates. I wouldn’t recommend Trina as a brand unless you live in a moderate or cold climate for this reason.

    Another potential downside for some homeowners is that less than half of the models available from Trina aren’t all black with non-visible grid lines. Some of the more affordable panel options aren’t going to look as sleek or modern as those from other companies.

    Trina manufactures six different lines of solar panels for home photovoltaic (PV) systems:

    • Vertex N: This is the biggest option — up to 600 watts — from Trina, which makes it great for homeowners with large roofs. It also has the highest efficiency rating available from the manufacturer.
    • Vertex S+: These panels are smaller than the Vertex N option, but they still boast high-efficiency ratings of up to 21.8%.
    • Vertex: The Vertex line is all black, but there are visible grid lines, which I find a lot of homeowners don’t like. They have a slightly lower efficiency rating of 21.4%, but they’re a little more affordable.
    • Residential: The Residential panels are smaller than the other options, coming in between 335 watts and 365 watts. They’re more affordable than the Vertex product lines, but the efficiency ratings are lower, topping out at 20.6%.
    • TallMax: The TallMax line is, as the name suggests, taller than most competing panels, and they’re also thinner. This shape makes them a great option for homeowners with long, thin roof sections that need panels.
    • DUOMax: The DUOMax panels are great for homeowners looking to keep installation costs down, as they are the most affordable option from the company. However, they also have the lowest efficiency rating of all product lines, with a maximum efficiency of just 18.4%.
    Panel ModelEfficiency RatingPower RatingTemperature Coefficient (per degree C over 25)Power ToleranceEfficiency After 25 Years
    Vertex N21.8%350W–370W-0.30%0/+5%85.5%
    Vertex S+21.8%380W–435W-0.30%0/+5%87.4%
    Vertex21.6%530W–635W-0.36%0/+5%84.8%
    TallMax21.0%435W–460W-0.34%0/+5%84.8%
    Residential20.6%310W–380W-0.36%0/+5%83.1%
    DUOMax18.4%345W to 365W-0.39%0/+5%85.5%

    All of Trina’s panels come with solid warranty coverage, which includes 25 years of protection for the panels themselves, as well as a 25-year production guarantee. The panels from Trina do degrade more rapidly than many direct competitors, though, with the highest degradation rate leading to just 83.1% remaining power after 25 years.

    Installation Options

    Trina offers its panels to any installer that wants to carry them, so there are no specific companies you need to look for if you want Trina panels.

    Best Product Warranty

    QCells

    4.5

    Our Rating

    Limited Time Offer:
    No current offers available

    QCells is a super popular panel brand in the U.S., in large part because the panels come with outstanding warranty coverage and have some of the lowest panel failure rates in the industry. I’d trust these panels to last longer than most others, although they do have lower efficiency ratings than many direct competitors.

    Click here to find the QCells dealers nearest you.

    Why We Chose QCells

    Hanwha QCells is best known in the solar industry for putting its panels through an absurdly rigorous testing protocol, which means the panels perform more reliably than most other brands out in the field. They have a low failure rate and are known to last for decades.

    Since the panels are so durable, QCells is able to offer a 25-year manufacturer’s warranty and a 25-year power production warranty on most of its panel models. Plus, the company has a great track record of holding up its end of the bargain when it comes to responding to warranty claims.

    QCells panels have efficiency ratings of up to 21.4%, which is well above the industry average. That means your panels are likely to generate plenty of power to maximize your energy savings over time. They also have a wind load resistance that’s around 30% higher than the average, so they’re great in areas that see extreme weather.

    Finally, QCells panels come in at a lower price per watt than most direct competitors, so they deliver great value for the money.

    Our Review Scores
    What We Don’t Like

    The degradation rate of QCells panels isn’t ideal, as it sits a little above the industry average and well above direct competitors, like Maxeon.

    QCells panels also have an above-average temperature coefficient of -0.39%. As such, I wouldn’t recommend them for solar customers who live in particularly hot climates, as the panels lose more power than most others on this list for every degree above 77 degrees (F) the temperature rises.

    QCells only has two-panel models available for residential use, and they’re quite similar:

    • Q.PEAK DUO BLK ML-G10+: This is the more efficient of the two, with an efficiency rating topping out at 20.9%. These panels are a little larger, so they might not be ideal if you have a small roof.
    • Q.PEAK DUO BLK-G10+: These panels have a slightly lower max efficiency of 20.6%. They’re smaller, with options as low as 350 watts. That means they’re more likely to fit on smaller roofs.
    Panel ModelEfficiency RatingPower OutputTemperature Coefficient (per degree C over 25)Power ToleranceEfficiency After 25 Years
    Q.PEAK DUO BLK ML-G10+Up to 20.9%385W to 410W-0.34%0/+5%86%
    Q.PEAK DUO BLK-G10+Up to 20.6%350W–370W-0.34%0/+5%86%

    QCells provides a 25-year warranty for the equipment, which is average, but its power production guarantee is longer than average, lasting for 25 years as well. QCells has an impressive track record for highly durable panels that rarely see warranty claims, and it also is known to respond quickly when a claim is filed.

    Installation Options

    QCells doesn’t work with specific installers, so any company that wants to carry its panels is free to do so. QCells is a popular option in the U.S. as well, so you should have no issue finding a solar installer near you that carries QCells products.


    Compare the Top-Rated Most Efficient Solar Panels

    Overall, I recommend going with the Maxeon 6 panels from Maxeon. These are one of the most expensive options in the entire industry, but they have the leading efficiency. Plus, they boast a bunch of other impressive performance specifications, like an industry-leading degradation rate for long-term performance and a better-than-average temperature coefficient for high performance in basically any climate.

    I personally have the Maxeon 6 panels on my home, which should go to show just how much faith I have in these panels.

    The table below includes a side-by-side comparison of the top performers from each manufacturer on this list in case you want to see how the best of the best stack up against one another.

    Panel ModelEfficiency RatingPower OutputTemperature Coefficient (per degree C over 25)Power ToleranceEfficiency After 25 Years
    Maxeon 6Up to 22.8%410W to 440W-0.27%0/+5%92%
    Jinko Solar Eagle G6Up to 22.65%440W to 565W-0.29%0/+3%89.4%
    LONGi Hi-Mo 6 ScientistUp to 22.6%580W to 590W-0.29%0/+3%88.9%
    Canadian Solar HiHeroUp to 22.5%420W to 445W-0.26%0/+10%90.6%
    REC Alpha Pure-RUp to 22.3%410W to 430W-0.26%0/+5%92%
    Trina Vertex N21.8%350W–370W-0.30%0/+5%85.5%
    QCells Q.PEAK DUO BLK ML-G10+Up to 20.9%385W to 410W-0.34%0/+5%86%

    So, What’s the Best High-Efficiency Solar Panel?

    Maxeon is the clear leader, in my opinion, not only in terms of efficiency but also when it comes to most other performance specifications and warranty coverage. The Maxeon 6 panels have the highest efficiency in the entire industry, a below-average temperature coefficient (lower is better), and the industry-leading degradation rate.

    These panels also come with an incredible 40-year warranty. Combined with the fact that they maintain 92% efficiency after 25 years, this makes them the best option for up-front power production but also long-term energy savings.

    Even if you think the Maxeon panels are for you, I do recommend you get a few free quotes with different options just so you can compare and find the best deal. You can use the tool below to get multiple quotes quickly and easily from reliable installers (check out dependable solar companies) in your area that carry the brands discussed in this review.

    While many people are looking into going solar in the near future, some are still considering how the technology’s efficiency will improve over time, which we dive into in our article about whether or not solar cell efficiency will overcome its current values.

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    I get a lot of questions about the most efficient solar panels and whether or not conversion efficiency is as important as people say it is. I’ll answer some of the questions I see frequently below.

    FAQs About the Most Efficient Solar Panels

    Which type of solar panel is most efficient?

    Of the three types of solar panels — monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film solar panels — monocrystalline panels are generally the most efficient in standard test conditions. Monocrystalline silicon panels are made from a single silicon crystal, which helps boost efficiency and reduce losses as opposed to the other types. There are some additional technologies that monocrystalline panels can make use of that boost efficiency even further, like heterojunction (HJT) solar cells, passivated emitter rear contact (PERC) cells, and tunnel oxide passivated contact (TOPCon) cells.


    Is a 90% efficient solar panel possible?

    While the most efficient solar panel for residential use sits at 22.8% efficiency, scientists have discovered a few technology advancements that have gotten solar panels to around 90% efficiency (but they convert sunlight to heat, not electricity) in a lab setting. This was first done in the early 2010s at the University of California in San Diego. The technology included a high-performance solar cell with a spray designed to concentrate incoming solar electrons applied to the face. The highest efficiency panel is 47.1%, so it’s unlikely that 90% will ever be reached for a panel alone.


    Will solar panels ever reach 50% efficiency?

    The likelihood is that residential solar panels will eventually reach 50% efficiency as solar cell efficiency continues to rise. Solar modules in lab settings have hit close to this number, around 47%. The only reason these more capable panels aren’t available for residential use is that the production process is lagging behind the budding technology. Eventually, panels for home use will probably hit 50% and still be affordable for homeowners to purchase.


    How much does a solar panel cost?

    The cost of a solar panel varies greatly depending on many factors, but the average cost is just under $1,000. This assumes the average solar panel size of 375 watts and the national average cost of a solar panel of around $2.66 per watt. Larger panels will naturally cost more because they have higher wattages, and panels with higher efficiencies tend to cost more as well. Cost can also vary based on durability, efficiency degradation rate, and other factors.


    What is the most efficient solar panel in the world?

    The most efficient panel ever produced hit 47.1% efficiency and was created by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). However, scientists at the University of California were able to capture 90% of the available sunlight for heat under strict testing conditions using a high-efficiency panel and solar energy concentrating spray.


    Methodology: How We Reviewed the Most Efficient Solar Panels

    I have spent years writing about residential solar panels, and I’ve done tons of research on individual panel brands for my own solar array and learned about the best of the best. In my review process, I focus on four main factors, which I’ll explain below.

    • Tier (20%): In the solar industry, solar panels are separated by tiers, with tier-one panels having the best performance and durability over tier-two panel brands. Companies with the tier-one designation also have better reputations for providing quality products and service, especially when it comes to warranty coverage. I’ve chosen only to include tier-one panels in this review, as they’re the only ones I’d consider installing on my own home and the only ones I recommend other homeowners install as well.
    • Efficiency rating (15%): Of course, the most important thing I look at when searching for the most efficient solar panels is the efficiency rating. The efficiency rating tells you what percentage of the available sunlight a panel can convert to usable electricity (check out solar panels' power generation capacity), so the higher this number, the more energy savings you’ll see from your panels. I consider the maximum efficiency available from each brand, as well as the overall efficiency among the panel options.
    • Cost per watt (20%): Solar equipment is undeniably expensive, even after solar incentives like the federal tax credit, and high-efficiency panels aren’t worth much if no one can afford them. In addition to efficiency rating, I also rate companies based on their pricing, usually as an average price per watt or based on a typical range. More affordable panels score higher because they not only provide above-average efficiency ratings for long-term performance but also have lower upfront costs that make them more widely available and valuable.
    • Panel options (25%): Next, I consider the types of panels each company manufactures. When it comes to optimizing for panel efficiency, monocrystalline (mono) panels are the clear favorite. However, companies that also provide polycrystalline solar panels more often have options at lower price points for affordability. I also rate companies based on how many of their panel options meet the preferred aesthetic, which is all-black coloration and non-visible grid lines for a sleek appearance.
    • Warranty coverage (20%): Finally, I consider the warranty coverage offered by each manufacturer. Panels are expensive, so I rank companies higher that keep their equipment protected for many years. The highest ratings go to companies that have at least a 25-year equipment warranty and a 20-year production guarantee, which are the industry averages. I also consider the degradation rate guaranteed by the production guarantee. Panels with more efficiency remaining after 25 years — like Maxeon and REC, the industry leaders in degradation — will provide superior efficiency not only right after installation but also decades later.
    Editorial Contributors
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    Dan Simms

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    Lora Novak

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    Lora Novak meticulously proofreads and edits all commercial content for Today’s Homeowner to guarantee that it contains the most up-to-date information. Lora brings over 12 years of writing, editing, and digital marketing expertise. She’s worked on thousands of articles related to heating, air conditioning, ventilation, roofing, plumbing, lawn/garden, pest control, insurance, and other general homeownership topics.

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