Best solar panels in the UK 2023

                The UK solar market is growing at a rapid rate. While that’s great news for hopeful prosumers that want to invest in a greener future and energy independence, it can also make sifting through all the options a real challenge. In this guide, we’ll show you everything you need to know when evaluating solar panels for your needs. Plus, we’ll introduce you to some solar panels worthy of your consideration in the UK.

Types of solar panels

                When considering a solar panel installation for your UK home, it's important to understand the different types of solar panels available. Each type comes with its own unique characteristics and benefits. The most common types include:

• Polycrystalline Solar Panels: These panels are made from multiple silicon crystals, giving them a speckled appearance. They are an affordable option with good efficiency and are suitable for homes with ample roof space.

• Monocrystalline Solar Panels: Crafted from a single silicon crystal, monocrystalline panels ensure high efficiency. They are space-efficient and ideal for smaller roofs, performing well even in low-light conditions. However, they tend to be more expensive due to advanced manufacturing.

• Thin Film Solar Panels: Created using thin layers of photovoltaic material on various substrates, thin film panels are lightweight and flexible. While they have lower efficiency, they excel in low-light and high-temperature conditions. They are suitable for unconventional installations and shaded locations.
  
  

For a comprehensive overview of solar panel types, you can refer to our dedicated article on the different types of Solar Panels, which will provide you with a solid foundation to make an informed choice.

What to look for when choosing solar panels?

         Selecting the right solar panels for your UK home involves considering a range of factors that impact their performance, longevity, and overall effectiveness. Often, choosing the optimal solar panel setup involves a balancing act between many of these factors as well as your personal situation (home size, energy needs, budget, etc.) and environmental factors (local climate, weather, etc.). 

However, you can use the advice below as a good rule of thumb when it comes to selecting the best solar panels in most cases. With that in mind, let's delve into the key aspects to look for when making your decision:

Power

Power output is arguably the most obvious and important factor to consider when it comes to choosing solar panels for your home or business. Measured in watts (W), it indicates the amount of electricity the panel can generate under specific conditions.

Today, residential solar panels range from roughly 350W-450W. Larger commercial panels may produce up to 600W.

Higher-watt panels are generally more expensive. You also need to consider the available space and roof layout as well. While higher-wattage panels are often larger, you may save space in multi-panel installations because you need fewer panels overall. You’ll need to balance your overall energy requirements with space availability and cost.

Efficiency

Efficiency, measured as a percentage, indicates how effectively the panel converts sunlight into electricity. Higher efficiency panels generate more power from the same amount of sunlight, making them advantageous for limited roof space or regions with lower sunlight. 

Today, you can expect an efficiency of around 15-23% from most residential panels. Cutting-edge technologies, like Tandem Perovskite cells, may push efficiency to 30% in the coming years when it becomes commercially viable.

However, higher efficiency often comes with a higher price tag. Evaluate your available space, budget, and desired energy output. Balance the efficiency against the cost to determine the best fit for your needs. 

You also need to consider environmental conditions in your area as they will impact your solar system’s efficiency. For locations with ample sunlight, a moderate-efficiency panel might provide a cost-effective solution. We’ll discuss efficiency in the UK in detail below.

Product Warranty

Solar panels from reputable manufacturers are remarkably reliable devices. Look for warranties that span around 20-25 years, ensuring long-term reliability. A comprehensive product warranty covers manufacturing defects, assuring you of panel durability and performance. Also, check whether the warranty is backed by a reputable manufacturer or company. 

A strong warranty reflects the manufacturer's confidence in their product's quality. Additionally, inquire about warranty terms, such as coverage for labour costs, shipping, and potential degradation. 

Weight

For residential purposes, solar panels are most often installed on the roof. You need to Opt for panels that strike a balance between sturdiness and weight, ensuring your roof can support them without compromising its integrity.

Typical crystalline solar panels weigh around 20 to 25 kilograms (40 to 50 pounds) per panel. Thin film panels can be significantly lighter at 3 to 5 kilograms (6.6 to 11 pounds). However, you need to bear in mind that thin panels are less efficient, so you’ll need more of them.

Lighter panels simplify installation and reduce stress on your roofing structure. However, if your roof can handle it, slightly heavier panels might provide durability and resistance to harsh weather conditions. Regardless, always prioritise panels that align with your roof's load-bearing capacity.

Heat resistance

Contrary to expectations, solar panels lose efficiency in heat because higher temperatures increase the resistance within the semiconductor materials, reducing the panel's ability to convert sunlight into electricity. Heat or extreme temperature variations can also degrade a panel’s performance and condition.

So, look for panels designed to cope with temperature variations, which can affect efficiency and longevity. Also, consider your geographical location and the local climate when assessing how temperature-tolerant your panels should be. Luckily, the UK has a moderate temperature range, and its average temperature falls below the global mean.

Performance warranty

Solar panels typically only lose about 0.5%-1% of efficiency per year, so make sure you’re covered in the event of abnormally high degradation. A reliable warranty provides assurance that your panels will consistently generate the expected amount of energy within acceptable degradation limits. 

Consider manufacturers with a track record of honouring warranties, as this reflects their commitment to delivering panels that sustain optimal performance. As solar panels last up to 25 years or more, their long-term performance is essential when it comes to what return you’ll get from your investment.

Eco-friendly

Many owners opt for solar power in order to do their part in becoming sustainable and protecting the environment. However, not all solar panels are manufactured with the same level of eco-friendly practices. Opt for panels made by manufacturers with a demonstrable track record of minimising their environmental impact. 

In the UK, there are several eco-friendly certifications or memberships that solar panel manufacturers may qualify for:

• Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS)
  
  
• Solar Trade Association Membership
  
  
• Energy Saving Trust Recommended
  
  
• BRE Global Certification’s BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method)
  
  
• ISO 14001 Certification

Panels with a low carbon footprint throughout their lifecycle are preferable. Additionally, choose manufacturers committed to responsible disposal or recycling processes. This way, you’ll ensure that you’re not inadvertently offsetting some of your progress in using solar panels to reduce your carbon footprint and live sustainably.

Price

In the UK, solar panel installation costs can vary widely based on factors like system size, location, and type of panels. On average, a residential installation of a 4 kW system might range from £4,000 to £6,000. Larger systems, such as 10 kW, could cost between £9,000 and £12,000. Commercial installations' costs vary greatly, starting from around £10,000 for smaller systems and increasing with capacity.

Compare the energy production potential of your system with the initial cost to calculate your expected payback rate. You might even save more or earn by taking advantage of government schemes like the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG). You can expect a full payback within 4-9 years in the UK.

Solar panel efficiency in the UK

          As mentioned, the performance of solar panels is not only tied to the individual panel’s efficiency but also to the local environment. Altitude, latitude, and the local climate can all impact the performance and efficiency of solar panels under real-world conditions. 

The efficiency of solar panels is usually established under laboratory conditions in controlled environments with optimal lighting and temperature conditions. So, generally speaking, solar panels will almost always perform worse in the real world.

The UK is situated on a northerly latitude, which means it has an angular tilt with regard to the sun. The average direct normal radiation (amount of sunlight that reaches a specific area on the earth’s surface) is 3.3–4.3kWh/m2/day. In the UK, it’s slightly less at 1.24–2.79kWh/m2/day. The UK also has roughly 150+ days of cloud cover per year, where solar energy will be lower.

The UK also has a relatively high seasonal variance. So, you can expect higher efficiencies in Summer and Spring with lower efficiencies in Autumn and Winter. In fact, solar energy production can be 3-4 times higher in the Summer vs the Winter. Also, keep in mind that there will be regional differences in the UK, with efficiency increasing as you head further south.

While conditions in the UK aren’t ideal for solar energy, it’s still a feasible solution. In fact, solar adoption in the UK has soared in recent years. In fact, it’s estimated that 1.3 million UK homes have solar panel installations today. Between January and March of 2023 alone, another 50,700 homes installed solar power, the highest in seven years. It’s also estimated that solar power would work for over 65% of homes in the UK. 

However, you may need to plan your solar installation more carefully in the UK to ensure that you maximise your savings and meet your energy requirements year-round. While it will significantly increase the cost of your installation, a solar battery system may be worthwhile.

The best solar panels you can buy

         Now that you know how to find the best solar panels for your needs, let’s look at some of the top options on the UK market today:

• REA Fusion Energy Solar Panels

Utilising high-efficiency N-type M10 Topcon solar cells, these panels boast a sleek bifacial (double-sided) design, available in black or silver. Micro-inverter-optimized for low-light performance, they outperform other options even on cloudy days. 

With Enphase microinverters, each panel independently generates AC power for increased efficiency. Their double-glazed build ensures longevity as well. Monitoring capabilities, double-sided power generation, and resilience against shade and dirt further underline their quality.   

          Key specifications:

• Power: 400-480 watts
• Efficiency: 22-24%
• Warranty: 25 years
• Performance Warranty: 85% after 25 years
• Heat Resistance: 0.27% per ° C
• Weight: 22.8kg
• Cost per Panel: £400 to £420

          Pros:

• Ideal for UK's low-light conditions
• AC-optimized for safety
• Bi-facial design for dual-sided power generation
• 25-year insurance-backed warranty
• 24/7 panel monitoring
  
  

          Cons:

• Higher initial cost compared to alternatives

• Jinko Tiger Neo 420W N-Type 54 Cell

From Shanghai's Jinko Solar comes the Tiger Neo 420W, a panel that balances low pricing with high-end performance and longevity. This panel boasts an average of 21.51% efficiency. It’s designed with a high degree of resistance to salt mist and ammonia resistance, making it great for the UK’s rainy climate or in coastal regions. It also features a substantial 420W power output that surpasses the market average. 

With an annual degradation rate of only 0.44% over 30 years, it outperforms most panels that degrade up to 2% in just the first year. Jinko Solar's 25-year warranty, coupled with a 30-year power output warranty, solidly safeguards your investment.

          Key specifications:

• Power Output: 420W
• Efficiency: 21.51%
• Warranty: 25-year product warranty, 
• Performance Warranty: Linear 0.4% annual degradation 30-year power output warranty
• Heat Resistance: 0.3% per ° C
• Weight: 22kg
• Cost per Panel: £170 to £200

         
          Pros:

• Highly affordable high-performance panel
• Low annual degradation rate
• Bi-facial design for dual-sided power generation
• 30-year output warranty
• Performs well under different conditions

         
          Cons:

• Lower efficiency than premium competitors

• SunPower Maxeon 3 (Top-Tier Solar Panels)

SunPower is one of the most highly-regarded names in the solar industry. With an efficiency range of 20.9% to 22.6%, the Maxeon 3 surpasses typical panels' 15-20% range thanks to its high-tech Interdigitated Back Contact (IBC) solar cells. IBC cells enhance efficiency, performance, and longevity, contributing to the impressive four-decade warranty. 

These panels have an excellent eco-friendly profile, with recycled materials being used to manufacture them.

The Maxeon 3's performance warranty also stands out, retaining 92% of initial efficiency after 25 years and over 88% after four decades. The only downside is that, due to its advanced technologies, installation can be more challenging than most other panels.

         Key specifications:

• Power: 370-400 watts
• Efficiency: 20.9-22.6%
• Warranty: 40 years
• Performance Warranty: 88.2% after 40 years
• Heat Resistance: 0.27% per ° C
• Weight: 21.2kg
• Cost per Panel: £300 to £350

         Pros:

• Remarkably efficient
• High power output
• Exceptional durability with extended warranty

       
        Cons:

• Complex installation process
• Relatively higher cost.
  
  
  
  
• LG NeON R (Affordable High Performer)

The LG NeON R is another affordable yet highly capable option. Plus, you have one of the biggest names in consumer electronics behind it. With a 66-cell layout, it delivers almost 4% more power than most of the market. 

Back-fitted wiring eliminates shading concerns and enhances performance. Weighing just 18.5kg, it's one of the most lightweight options. Plus, LG's 25-year warranty ensures the NeON R sustains 92.5% of its initial power output over time.

          Key specifications:

• Power: 350-440 watts
• Efficiency: 18% to 22.3%
• Warranty: 25 years
• Performance Warranty: 80% after 25 years
• Heat Resistance: 0.38% per ° C
• Weight: 22kg
• Cost per Panel: From £300

          Pros:

• Robust build quality
• Strong energy efficiency
• 25-year warranty
• Lightweight construction
  
  

          Cons:

• Falls slightly behind competitors in overall value for money.
  
  
  

• Panasonic HIT N 245W
  
  

Panasonic is another household name in consumer electronics, which also offers decent solar solutions. The HIT N 245W is perfect for limited roof space, with a compact design suitable for tricky locations. 

With dimensions under 160cm in length and 80cm in width, this lightweight 15kg panel is a versatile choice. While not the most powerful, its efficiency reaches up to 19.4%. It comes in a range of design options that cater to various preferences. Plus, it performs surprisingly well in high temperatures.

          Key specifications:

• Power: 245 watts
• Efficiency: Up to 19.4%
• Warranty: 25 years
• Performance Warranty: 88.2% after 40 years
• Heat Resistance: 0.27% per ° C
• Cost per Panel: £250 to £295
• Weight: 15kg

         Pros:

• Cost-effective
• Compact and lightweight
• Ideal for small roofs

         Cons:

• Power and efficiency lags behind alternatives
• It may not suffice for larger roofs.
  
  
  

Summary

          Hopefully, this article helped you discover some of the top solar panels in the UK for 2023, maximising power, energy efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. By knowing what factors to evaluate when choosing a solar panel system, you’ll be able to minimise your carbon footprint while maximising your savings in the long term. This guide will bring you one step closer to making an informed eco-friendly investment, reducing energy bills, and embracing renewable solar energy.