So you’re looking for the most efficient solar panels in Australia and want an unbiased and professional review.
We can help.
Energy Matters is here to provide you with comprehensive information about solar panels, including the criteria for choosing them, and a list of some of the best solar panels in Australia.
Whether it is to upgrade or buy a new model, we listed all the information you need to make an informed decision for your home or business.
On this page
Top 5 solar panels selection
- SunPower: Best Known for high efficiency, reliability, and aesthetics
- REC Solar: Second best. A top choice for installers
- Q Cells solar panels: Renowned for high efficiency, durability, and reliability
- Trina Solar: Renowned for high efficiency and innovation
- LONGi Solar: Pioneering efficiency and reliability in the solar industry
Solar Panel Efficiency:
Up to 23%
Warranty: 25 or 40 years
Performance Warranty: Min 92.0% after 25 years
What makes it best:
✓ Excellent long-term efficiency
✓ Class-leading efficiency
✓ Extended warranty of 40 years
✓ Elegant looks
Solar Panel Efficiency:
Up to 22.6%
Warranty: 12 to 25 years
Performance Warranty: Min 92.0% after 25 years
What makes it best:
✓ Superior panel quality and high reliability
✓ Efficient panel design and high power density
✓ Stylish full-black looks
✓ Low panel degradation rate
Solar Panel Efficiency:
Up to 22.6%
Warranty: 12 to 25 years
Performance Warranty: Min 84.8% after 25 years
What makes it best:
✓ High power output and low degradation
✓ A cost-effective choice
✓ Bifacial design for better performance
Best solar panels in Australia: A full review
By choosing the top solar panels in Australia, you will not only have a sustainable energy solution but also enjoy great value for your money.
Below, you’ll find our list of the best solar panel brands in the country:
- SunPower: SunPower is renowned for the high efficiency, reliability, and aesthetic appeal of its solar panels. Originating from the United States in 1985 and with decades of experience in the solar industry, it has established a reputation for producing solar panels that offer unparalleled efficiency rates of up to 23%. This remarkable efficiency ensures that SunPower panels can generate more electricity from the same amount of sunlight compared to other brands, making them a preferred choice for Australian consumers seeking to maximise their energy savings. Additionally, the durability and longevity of SunPower solar panels, coupled with their comprehensive warranty coverage, make them a wise investment for those looking to harness solar energy in Australia’s challenging climate.
2. REC Solar: Founded in Norway in 1996 and with its operational headquarters located in Singapore, REC Solar has become a top choice for installers and a leading solar panel brand in Australia, particularly known for its innovative approach and commitment to quality. With nearly three decades in the solar industry, REC has pioneered the development of half-cut (split-cell) technology, enhancing the efficiency and shade tolerance of its solar panels. REC Solar’s combination of advanced solar panel technology, robust warranties, and a strong commitment to sustainability makes it a preferred brand for Australian consumers looking for reliable and efficient solar energy solutions.
3. Q Cells: Founded in Germany in 1999 and now based in South Korea, Q Cells is a solar panel manufacturer renowned for its high efficiency, durability, and reliability. With over two decades in the industry, Q Cells produces high-efficiency solar panels that stand out in the global market for their advanced technology designed to combat potential induced degradation (PID), ensuring long-term reliability and performance. Recognised as a top performer by PVEL in their ‘PV Module Reliability Scorecard Report’ and the first to receive TÜV Rheinland’s ‘Quality Controlled PV certification’, Q Cells has solidified its reputation as a trusted brand for both residential and commercial solar solutions in Australia and beyond.
4. Trina Solar: Trina Solar, established in 1997 and headquartered in China, has positioned itself as a leader in the global photovoltaic (PV) industry through its dedication to innovation and efficiency. With over two decades of experience in the solar industry, it manufactures solar panels that are known for their high efficiency, robustness, and innovative design, such as the dual-glass panels that offer enhanced durability and performance. Trina Solar’s reputation for reliability and ability to uphold warranties have made it a preferred solar panel company among Australian homeowners and businesses alike.
5. LONGi Solar: Originating from China in 2000, LONGi Solar has been a pioneering force in the solar industry for the past 24 years. It is known for its technological innovation, especially in the efficiency and reliability of monocrystalline silicon wafers, cells, and modules. LONGi Solar has become a key player in Australia’s solar market since it began offering its products in the country in 2017. With a strong focus on energy-efficient solar technology and affordability, it has introduced groundbreaking advancements such as PERC (Passivated Emitter and Rear Contact) and bifacial technology. Moreover, as the world’s largest manufacturer of solar products, it has played a significant role in the industry’s shift towards more efficient monocrystalline PERC cells, setting new efficiency records with N-type TOPcon cell technology and offering innovative solutions like the Hi-MO 4 and Hi-MO 5 solar modules. These achievements underscore LONGi’s dedication to enhancing their solar panels’ lifespan and performance.
6. Jinko Solar: Jinko Solar, established in 2006 in China, has carved out a reputation for innovative solar solutions since its inception and has significantly impacted the Australian and global solar markets. With a commitment to research and development, particularly in collaboration with the Australian UNSW Solar Research Centre of Excellence, Jinko Solar has set several efficiency records, showcasing its dedication to advancing PV cell technology. Jinko Solar is also the largest solar panel manufacturer by volume in China. It offers a diverse range of affordable and reliable solar panels, making it a preferred choice for Australian customers and contractors seeking high-quality solar energy products.
7. Canadian Solar: Canadian Solar, established in Canada in 2001 and with its manufacturing operations based in China, is renowned for its robust combination of quality, performance, and affordability, as well as its commitment to sustainability. In Australia, it is known for offering some of the best-value solar panels, making it a go-to choice for both residential and commercial installations. Canadian Solar’s commitment to innovation is evident in its use of advanced technologies like PERC and split-cell technology. These advancements enhance their solar panel efficiency and reliability, ensuring that users in Australia can get high power output even in the country’s diverse climatic conditions.
8. Panasonic: Panasonic, a well-known Japanese corporation established in 1918 in Japan and with over two decades of experience in manufacturing solar panels, has an extensive lineup of products that might not be the most powerful but are among the best solar panels in terms of efficiency. It is known for providing high-quality solar panels that leverage advanced heterojunction (HJT) solar cell technology. This technology is distinguished by its high efficiency and superior performance in high temperatures, making Panasonic’s solar panels an ideal choice for the hot Australian environment.
Below is a table comparing the abovementioned solar panel brands in terms of their pricing, panel efficiency, product warranty, performance warranty, manufacturer’s financial health, and availability of support offices in Australia:
What are the best brands of solar panels in Australia?
| Brand | Pricing | Solar Panel Efficiency | Product Warranty (Years) * | Performance Warranty (Years) * | Manufacturer’s Financial Health | Support Office in Australia |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SunPower | Medium to Very High | Up to 23% Best | 25 or 40 | Min 92.0% after 25 years | Founded in 1985 Bloomberg Tier 1 | |
| REC | Medium to High | Up to 22.6% Second Best | 12 to 25 | Min 92.0% after 25 years | Founded in 1996 Bloomberg Tier 1 | |
| Q Cells | Medium | Up to 21.8% | 12 to 25 | Min 86.0% after 25 years | Founded in 1999 Bloomberg Tier 1 | |
| Trina Solar | Low to Medium | Up to 22.5% | 12 to 25 | Min 87.4% after 25 years | Founded in 1997 Bloomberg Tier 1 | |
| LONGi | Low to Medium | Up to 22.6% | 12 to 25 | Min 84.8% after 25 years | Founded in 2000 Bloomberg Tier 1 | |
| JinkoSolar | Low to Medium | Up to 22.5% | 12 to 25 | Min 84.8% after 25 years | Founded in 2006 Bloomberg Tier 1 | |
| Canadian Solar | Low to Medium | Up to 22.8% | 12 to 25 | Min 84.8% after 25 years | Founded in 2001 Bloomberg Tier 1 | |
| Panasonic | High | Up to 22.2% | 25 | Min 92.0% after 25 years | Founded in 1918 Bloomberg Tier 1 | |
| * Warranty coverage for solar panels may differ based on the specific model, location, and country. Performance warranty figures reflect the best-performing panels offered by the manufacturer with the least degradation. Please consult the manufacturer’s warranty terms for your region. | ||||||
Australian-made solar panels
Tindo Solar, Australia’s sole manufacturer of solar panels, has been operating from its facility in Adelaide, South Australia, since 2011. With its commitment to sustainability and innovation, the company specialises in the production of high-quality solar panels, designed to have a 30-year lifespan and tailored for the Australian market with an emphasis on durability, efficiency, and performance under the Australian climate.
Tindo Solar prides itself on offering local solar panel alternatives, providing exceptional customer service, and ensuring reliable warranty support. While the company mostly caters to Australian customers, in 2023, it also began exporting residential and commercial solar panels to Vietnam. In January 2024, Tindo Solar expressed plans to build a new $100 million plant by 2025 to significantly increase production and compete in the growing local market for solar panels.
Types of solar panels
It is essential to understand the different solar panel types and choose the right one for your specific situation. This way, you can maximise your solar energy production, meet your electricity needs, and get the best value for your money.
These are the three main types of solar panels:
- Monocrystalline panels: Monocrystalline solar panels are popular due to their superior efficiency and longevity. Made from single-crystal silicon, they offer the highest efficiency rates of approximately 20% at a premium price. This makes them ideal for scenarios where space is limited or where the goal is to maximise energy production.
- Polycrystalline panels: Comprising multiple silicon crystals, polycrystalline solar panels present a modest efficiency range of 16 to 18%. The advantage of these solar panels lies in their cost-effectiveness, serving as a balanced option for residential setups where space is more plentiful.
- Thin-film panels: Characterised by their flexibility and lower efficiency of around 10-12%, these solar panels are adaptable to a variety of surfaces where traditional panels might not be suitable. While they are the least expensive, they typically require a larger installation area due to their lower efficiency metrics.
How much solar panels cost
The price range for solar panels in Australia in 2024 is quite broad, influenced by factors like system size, component quality, and installation specifics. A standard 6kW residential solar system is priced between $4,000 and $6,000, while the cost of a 10kW setup varies from $7,500 to $10,500.
Opting for a premium solar panel system, which includes higher-quality solar panels, may cost you an additional 20 to 30%. For instance, premium packages for a 3kW to 10kW set up in cities like Adelaide and Brisbane can range from $4,670 up to $11,540.
Commercial solar installations follow a similar pricing trend, where larger systems tend to offer more value per kW installed. An average 10kW commercial system might hover around $10,050, with slight variations depending on the location.
For example, such solar power systems might cost around $9,370 in Adelaide and about $9,440 in Perth.
These figures include the goods and services tax (GST) and the Renewable Energy Target’s upfront incentive known as the small-scale technology certificate (STC) discount.
The overall investment can also be affected by several factors, including the choice of solar panels and inverters, the installation complexity, the property location, and the impact of exchange rates, given that the majority of solar modules are imported.
It’s also worth noting the impact of solar rebates, which can significantly reduce the initial outlay. The rebate value varies by solar panel system size and geographical zone, with a 5kW system rebate ranging from approximately $1,611 to $2,201, depending on your zone.
Criteria for choosing solar panels
Now that we have discussed the best solar panel brands, the different types of solar panels, as well as the price range of solar panel systems, we will also explore the factors you need to consider to make sure you’re selecting the right solar panels for your home or business:
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Solar efficiency
The efficiency of solar panels indicates how effectively they can convert sunlight into usable electricity. Higher-efficiency panels generate more electricity per square metre of surface area, making them particularly valuable in situations where space is limited or the highest possible power output is desired. Opting for high-efficiency solar panels ensures you can generate the maximum possible electricity, thereby achieving better value for your investment while contributing to sustainability goals.
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Performance in extreme heat
A solar panel’s temperature coefficient indicates how much its output is reduced when the temperature rises or falls above or below the optimal range. A lower temperature coefficient is better, as it means the panel’s performance is less affected by high temperatures, maintaining better performance on hot days – this is particularly relevant in Australia’s often hot climate, especially in the northern and central regions.
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Panel size and power output
Panel size and power output directly impact the efficiency and effectiveness of a solar system. Measured in watts, power output indicates how much electricity solar panels can produce under optimal conditions. Larger panels typically have a higher solar power output, which can generate more electricity and potentially cover a larger portion of a household’s or business’s solar energy needs. They might also reduce installation costs by requiring fewer solar panels to achieve the desired system size. However, the available roof space and aesthetic preferences may influence the choice of panel size. It is important to balance these considerations with budget constraints and specific energy requirements to select the most suitable solar panels for your needs.
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Degradation rate
The degradation rate is a statistic indicated in the solar panel datasheets’ performance warranty section. Solar panel manufacturers use it to calculate and specify the performance warranties, which typically guarantee that the panels will not degrade faster than a certain rate, ensuring they will retain a significant percentage of their solar panel efficiency over the warranty period. For example, a common performance warranty might guarantee that the solar panels will produce at least 80% to 90% of their original solar power output after 25 years. Understanding the degradation rate and how it affects the performance warranty helps you compare the long-term value and reliability of different solar panel brands and models. Panels with lower degradation rates and more favourable performance warranties are generally seen as higher quality and potentially offer a better return on investment.
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Quality and reliability
The manufacturing quality of solar panels, which includes their physical durability and resilience to weather conditions, ensures long-term reliability and performance under various environmental conditions. Solar panels should also meet Australian and international standards for quality and safety. Certifications can indicate that panels have been tested and meet specific performance and reliability criteria.
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Manufacturer’s reputation
The Bloomberg Tier 1 rating is an assessment of a solar panel manufacturer’s financial health and bankability. It indicates the manufacturer’s ability to honour warranties over the long term, which is especially significant since solar panel warranties can extend up to 25 years. Given the substantial investment in solar technology and the expectation of its performance over decades, choosing solar panels from a financially stable and reputable solar panel manufacturer ensures that you, the consumers, are protected against potential future issues, such as product failures or warranty claims. This approach mitigates the risk of investing in solar panels from a company that might not be operational in the future to support its products.
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Warranty
A strong warranty from a reputable manufacturer can serve as an indicator of solar panels’ quality. In Australia, the duration of a solar panel product warranty (also known as a manufacturer’s warranty) typically ranges from 10 to 15 years, with some manufacturers offering extended warranties up to 25 years. As for solar panel performance guarantees, premium solar panels offer a 90% or higher performance warranty after 25 years, compared to the industry average minimum of 80%.
However, the real value of these warranties depends on the manufacturer’s financial stability and long-term presence in the market – this emphasises the importance of the previous point, which is choosing solar panels from reputable, financially stable companies who are likely to honour their warranty commitments over the long term. Also, make sure that the solar panel manufacturers you’re considering have an office and representatives in Australia.
This often indicates their dedication to the Australian market; if they do not maintain an office in Australia, warranty claims will be far more challenging.
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After-sales support
Through reviews and testimonials, gauge customer satisfaction with solar panel companies’ after-sales service, ensuring they provide reliable assistance. Assess how quickly and effectively they respond to enquiries and resolve issues. Also, verify that their technicians have the certification and expertise to diagnose and troubleshoot issues with solar panels. Furthermore, check if they provide easy access through multiple communication channels, such as phone, email, and live chat.
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Cost vs value
To select the best solar panels at a reasonable cost, it’s crucial to weigh the balance between upfront investment and long-term benefits. While more expensive, as mentioned earlier, high-efficiency solar panels can generate more solar electricity per square metre of roof space – this makes them a wise economic choice for homes and businesses aiming to maximise their space’s power generation potential. In addition, although the initial cost of solar panels with high-efficiency panels is higher, evaluating the difference in power-generating output over a 25-year timeframe is essential. The potential for additional solar power capacity may justify the extra upfront cost of solar panels, offering a better return on your investment in the long term.
Conclusion
Choosing from the vast array of solar panels in Australia in 2024 requires a thorough consideration of various factors, including the panels’ efficiency, quality, cost, and after-sales support. From the high-efficiency and aesthetically pleasing solar panel options offered by SunPower to the innovative and reliable solutions provided by brands like REC Solar, Q Cells, Trina Solar, LONGi Solar, Jinko Solar, Canadian Solar, and Panasonic, you have access to a range of premium solar panels that cater to the specific requirements of your home or business. You also have the opportunity to support local manufacturing through Tindo Solar panels, which are suited to the unique Australian climate.
By investing in high-quality solar systems, you will not only reduce your carbon footprint and electricity bills but also enjoy a sustainable energy solution for decades to come. We encourage you to take action by reaching out to us at Energy Matters to explore solar quotes. Our solar panel expertise can provide valuable insights, allowing you to make a well-informed choice tailored to your needs and goals.
Energy Matters has over 18 years of experience in the solar industry and has helped over 40,000 Australian households in their journey to energy independence. Let us discuss and choose the best quote that suits your needs and budget. Use our free solar quote system to get up to 3 free solar quotes from our network of trusted, local installers. Complete our quick quiz and begin your solar journey today!
Originally published on 29 November 2022. Updated on 17 February 2024.
