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Solar panel systems are catching on quickly in Australia, and for good reason: they can nearly halve one’s yearly energy costs.
If you want to hop on this trendy train and make hay while the sun is shining, you’ll need to know what the best solar panels in Australia are.
Check our detailed solar panel comparison to help you do just that!
Brand
Rating
Highlights
Price Range
SunPower Maxeon 3
10
Best Overall
- Highest efficiency panels anywhere (22.6%)
- 25-year combined power and product warranty
- 2021’s top-performing solar panel in the PVEL PV tests
From AU$510
LG NeON H
9.8
Most Experienced Manufacturer
- At least 90.6% of initial performance after 25 years
- Modern HTAR glass for increased output
- 60-years of manufacturing expertise
From AU$479
Tindo Karra 400P
9.5
Most Readily Available
- Engineered in Australia for Australia
- Superior Polyolefin Encapsulant for increased longevity and performance
- Aesthetically pleasing square cells with black frames and thin wires
From AU$549
REC Alpha Series
9.3
Best for the Environment
- Heterojunction cell design for optimal performance in hot climates
- Lead-free cells and connections for 81% reduced lead content
- Super-strong frame that withstands loads of up to 7,000 Pa
From AU$750
WINAICO Gemini
9
Most Comprehensive Insurance Policy
- Tested and passed three times beyond the IEC standards
- Triple insurance for damages, loss of yield and interruption of service
- Superb multi-busbar, half cell, and reflective wire design for better power yield
From AU$300
Solaria PowerXT Pure Black 400+
8
Best Looks
- Sub-strings attached in a parallel fashion to minimise shading loses
- Pure Black technology with no visible circuitry and zero wasted space
- PID resistance for stable energy generation over the long term
From AU$970
Note: Prices vary depending on location, inverter brand and which installer is used.
The Top 6 Solar Panels Compared
Ready for our detailed choice of the best solar panels in Australia based on criteria like warranty, efficiency, price, etc.? Read on to find out more.
1. SunPower Maxeon 3—Best Overall
- Rating: 10/10
- Power range: 370 W–400 W
- Power tolerance: +5/0%
- Panel efficiency: 20.9%–22.6%
- Weight: 19 kg
- Warranty: 25 years
The majority of the SunPower reviews out there praise the company’s Maxeon 3 lineup since you get one of the most powerful, durable, and reliable panels on the market built with smart technology, seamless backup, and the signature sleek SunPower design.
The unparalleled SunPower efficiency is maintained in the Maxeon 3 series with the help of its new 104-cell array of monocrystalline Maxeon Gen III cells arranged in an 8 x 13 array.
Furthermore, the top-tier combined SunPower warranty guarantees that both the product and its power delivery system will perform at optimal levels for at least 25 years.
Finally, when it comes to value for money, the SunPower solar panel pricing is steep, but justified, since you get arguably the best solar modules anywhere.
PROS:
- Power output up to 400 W in the flagship model
- Solid metal foundation for durability
- Cradle to Cradle certification for sustainability
CONS:
- Costlier than the rest
2. LG NeON H—Most Experienced Manufacturer
- Rating: 9.8/10
- Power range: 370 W–390 W
- Power tolerance: +3/0%
- Panel efficiency: 20.1%–21.2%
- Weight: 18.5 kg
- Warranty: 25 years
Building on their storied 60-year experience in manufacturing, LG has perfected the solar panel formula, and the company’s latest addition attests to that fact.
With a power output of up to 390 W and a host of nifty modern additions, like the new and revolutionary monocrystalline N-type cells and half-cut technology, the LG NeON H does not leave a lot on the factory floor, albeit at a premium price.
Thus it comes as no surprise that the LG solar panels were voted Most Trusted Brand in 2020 and 2021 by Reader’s Digest in Australia.
PROS:
- Great low-light performance
- Retains top-tier efficiency in hot weather
- Acclaimed and reputable brand
CONS:
- Mostly sold through dealerships
3. Tindo Karra 400P—Most Readily Available
- Rating: 9.5/10
- Power range: 400 W
- Power tolerance: +5/0%
- Panel efficiency: 20.1%
- Weight: 22 kg
- Warranty: 25 years
Are Tindo solar panels made in Australia? Yes. Are Tindo solar panels good? Also yes. By relying on the country’s proud tradition of high-quality solar panel research, Tindo has been providing the best Aussie-made panel for more than ten years.
The company’s most powerful module—the Tindo Karra 400P—has been designed as the perfect fusion of performance and aesthetics.
To illustrate, it employs a modern 5-busbar technology for minimal resistance and increased reliability, efficiency, and annual yield, as well as larger square Mono PERC cells with minimal back sheets, thin wires, and black frames for a striking visual appearance.
Since these Australian-made solar panels are produced locally, the Tindo solar panel price is very competitive. Also, they are distributed and installed by the manufacturer, so consumers retain easy access to replacement parts, modules, and highly-trained maintenance staff.
PROS:
- Tindo designs, produces, distributes and installs its panels
- Prospective clients can take a Tindo factory tour
- Flexible no. of solar panels per pallet upon request
CONS:
- Not included on the Bloomberg Tier 1 list
4. REC Alpha Series—Best for the Environment
- Rating: 9.3/10
- Power range: 360 W – 380 W
- Power tolerance: +3/0%
- Panel efficiency: 20.6%–21.7%
- Weight: 19.5 kg
- Warranty: Up to 25 years
The latest addition to the REC solar panels—The Alpha Series—boasts more than respectable efficiency and advanced cell technology! And in a true environment-friendly fashion, a lead-free build that attests to REC’s ongoing efforts to reduce its overall carbon footprint.
To optimize performance and enhance longevity, the Alphas utilize top-of-the-range N-type, high density, and heterojunction (HJT) half-cut cells, all packed in a sturdy yet lightweight frame with over 80% reduced lead content.
With an impressive peak efficiency and an excellent temperature coefficient, the REC panels make a solid choice for anyone looking for both a reliable and extra ‘green’ energy solution.
PROS:
- Minimised carbon footprint
- Gapless cells for a compact look
- REC-certified installers for best-in-class service
CONS:
- Shorter standard warranty than competitors
5. WINAICO Gemini—Most Comprehensive Insurance Policy
- Rating: 9/10
- Power range: 360 W – 380 W
- Power tolerance: +5/0%
- Panel efficiency: 19.8%–20.9%
- Weight: 20.6 kg
- Warranty: 25 yearsWarranty
Built in state-of-the-art automated manufacturing facilities, the WINAICO Gemini solar panels are a recent entry in the top-tier solar power market that strive to stand out from the rest with a multi-busbar and reflective wire design, as well as 3-in-1 comprehensive insurance.
The monocrystalline cells in the WST-MG Gemini modules are designed and assembled by premium Taiwan manufacturers to provide excellent efficiency and power yield even in low-light conditions thanks to their anti-reflective coating and PID-free tech.
Backed by thousands of satisfied customers, as well as their Bloomberg Tier 1 classification, WINAICO is definitely one of the top six solar panel brands in Australia.
PROS:
- Sydney offices for better long-term customer support
- Awarded the customer-driven EUPD “Top Brand PV” seal
- Corner inserts that significantly improve drainage
CONS:
- Low annual production volume
6. Solaria PowerXT Pure Black 400+—Best Looks
Rating: 8.8/10
Power range: 400 W – 430 W
Power tolerance: +3/0%
Panel efficiency: 19.9%–20.4 %
Weight: 21 kgWarranty: 25 years
The superior Pure Black technology used to build some of the best U.S. panels—the Solaria PowerXT lineup—produces sleek, gorgeous, and most importantly efficient solar panels.
To get the all-black look, Solaria uses solder and ribbon-free cell-to-cell design that also contributes to the panel reliability—a feature that supports its top-tier 25-year warranty that covers both parts and labour.
In addition to looking great on any home, the Solaria solar panels are optimized for next-gen module-level electronics (MLPE) and feature enhanced performance under the shade. So if you are in the market for a modern, efficient, and attractive panel, Solaria is the right pick.
PROS:
- All-black design
- Sturdy and reliable build
- Uses Module-Level Power Electronics (MLPE)
CONS:
- Harder to get by in Australia
How to Choose the Best Solar Panels in Australia
Aussies are investing in solar power at an increasing rate recently as the prices of the most popular solar panel brands are decreasing. But, which solar power unit should you choose?
Well, if you were bitten by the green bug, consider the following factors.
The Size of the Solar Panel Array
If you are wondering how many solar panels to get, consider several factors: your roof size, the amount of sun exposure you get, and your household’s energy demands.
Typically, for a five-person home, customers get 5kW solar panel packages that combine 20 individual solar panels in a surface area of 32 m².
The bigger solar systems often include a battery. For more details, read our guide on the size of solar panels.
Do You Need Solar Storage Batteries?
This energy-storage device lets you use the electricity you capture via the solar panel array (or from the grid) at a later time. For example, you can generate electric power during the day and use it throughout the night, or you can drain the battery during power outages.
However, this nifty invention comes at a premium price that you might not be able to pay off in a long time. Therefore, carefully consider whether or not you will generate electricity that you will store for future use, or even export to the grid, to justify its purchase.
Generally, storage batteries don’t make total economic sense for most homes. If you’re considering adding a battery, visit our guide to solar storage batteries to understand the pros and cons.
Solar Panel Types & Installation
If you need a highly efficient panel that degrades slowly and can be used in limited spaces, go with a monocrystalline panel. However, choose the cheaper polycrystalline option if you live in a remote area with a changing climate. Buy a quasi-monocrystalline system for the best of both worlds (albeit with unpredictable prices and availability).
Any solar panel comparison should also include the costs to hire accredited installers since end consumers should not set up the product on their own. Those who take that risk will void the product warranty, and they might damage the product or hurt themselves.
Cost & Warranty
Most solar panel ratings include price as the top factor to consider when converting to solar energy. However, while high prices equal high quality most of the time, you should review your exact needs to ensure you do not overpay, thus enjoying a quicker payback period.
The best indicator that you are getting the best performance and durability per dollar is the warranty duration combined with the brand’s reputation. Getting a panel from a reputable brand like WINAICO, covered by a 25-year warranty, is a sure sign that you are buying right.
Ending on a Sunny Note
Installing a solar panel system is undoubtedly a significant investment, and making the wrong choice could end up costing you more in the long run. Hence, carefully go through our best solar panels in Australia review, shop around, and compare different prices to make sure you find the best value for your money.
FAQs
1. Which solar panels are the best in Australia?
Australia’s best-reviewed solar panel brands include SunPower, WINAICO, REC, Tindo Solar, and LG. Scroll up for the details on their best solar panel products and links to our thorough comparisons.
2. Which solar inverter is best in Australia?
The best solar inverters excel for several different reasons, such as the duration of their warranty (10+ years), certifications they carry (must be CEC-approved), whether or not they offer anti-islanding protection to power your home during blackouts, and more.
Ultimately, your use case (budget, sun coverage, etc.) determines the best inverter for you.
3. What are the best and most efficient solar panels?
Some of the best solar panels in Australia are the SunPower Maxeon 3, WINAICO Gemini, REC Alpha Series, LG NeON H, and Tindo Karra, all of which boast high efficiency. The standout panels in this group are the SunPower Maxeon 3, with an impressive 22.6% efficiency rate.
