Solar panels are a great way to reduce your electricity bills, lower your carbon footprint, and increase the value of your property. But with so many options available on the market, how do you know which solar panels are best for your home?
In this blog post, we will help you answer this question by comparing some of the top solar panel brands in Australia based on their performance, warranty, efficiency, and durability. We will also give you some tips on how to find the best solar installer in your area and get a free quote for your solar system.
Performance
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing solar panels is their performance. This refers to how much electricity they can produce under standard test conditions (STC), which are different from real-world conditions such as weather, shading, and orientation.
The performance of solar panels is measured by their power output (in watts) and their energy yield (in kilowatt-hours per year). The higher these numbers are, the more electricity you can generate from your solar system.
However, performance is not everything. You also need to consider how well the solar panels perform over time and how they cope with variations in sunlight intensity.This is where the warranty proves to be valuable.
Warranty
Another key factor to consider when choosing solar panels is their warranty. This guarantees that the manufacturer will repair or replace any defective or damaged solar panels within a certain period of time (usually 25 years).
A longer warranty means that you have more peace of mind and less hassle if something goes wrong with your solar system. It also means that you can benefit from any future improvements or innovations in technology that may extend the lifespan of your solar panels.
While warranty provides assurance, it doesn’t encompass all possible scenarios or issues. You also need to check if there are any limitations or exclusions that may affect your claim. For example, some warranties may only cover defects caused by manufacturing faults or improper installation, while others may not cover degradation due to normal wear and tear or environmental factors.
Efficiency
A third factor to consider when choosing solar panels is their efficiency. This refers to how much sunlight they can convert into electricity using a specific technology called module technology.
The efficiency of solar panels is measured by their conversion efficiency (in percentage), which indicates how much of the incoming sunlight they can capture and use as electricity. The higher this number is, the more electricity you can generate from less space and less land.
However, efficiency is not a fixed number. It depends on various factors such as temperature, humidity, dust, shading, orientation, tilt angle, and wiring losses. Therefore, it is important to look at both nominal efficiency (the theoretical maximum) and actual efficiency (the average under STC) when comparing different models.
Durability
A fourth factor to consider when choosing solar panels is their durability. This refers to how long they can last without losing significant amounts of their original performance due to degradation over time.
Degradation occurs when some of the materials inside the solar cells wear out or break down due to exposure to sunlight or other environmental factors. Over time, the performance of solar cells diminishes as degradation leads to a decrease in both output and energy yield.
The durability of solar panels depends on several factors such as quality control standards, manufacturing processes, testing methods, installation practices, maintenance routines, and environmental conditions. Therefore, it is important to look at both degradation rate (the percentage loss per year) and degradation threshold (the minimum output required after a certain number of years) when comparing different models.
How We Ranked The Best Solar Panels in Australia
Based on these four criteria above, we have ranked some of the best solar panel brands in Australia for 2023 using data from various sources such as Solar Choice, CHOICE, JFKE Electrical, Comparing Expert, [Energy Matters], etc.
| Brand | Product | Warranty | Efficiency | Degradation Rate | Degradation Threshold |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| REC Alpha Pure Series | REC Alpha Pure Series 6-72W Mono PERC Module | 25 years product + 25 years performance | Up to 22.2% nominal efficiency + Up to 88% after 25 years actual efficiency + Up to 92% after 25 years degradation threshold + Up to 92% after 25 years degradation rate | Up to 92% after 25 years degradation threshold + Up to 92% after 25 years degradation rate | Up to 92% after 25 years degradation threshold + Up to 92% after 25 years degradation rate |
| Canadian Solar HiHero | Canadian Solar HiHero Series Mono PERC Module | 25 years product + Guaranteed energy yield | Up to -0.5% per year for up to -20 years | N/A (Information not provided) | N/A (Information not provided) |
Additional Factors to Consider
- Temperature Coefficient Consideration: Solar panels may encounter diminished efficiency in elevated temperatures. The temperature coefficient indicates how much the panel’s efficiency will decrease for every degree above 25 degrees Celsius.
- Aesthetics: Consider the appearance of the solar panels, especially if aesthetics are crucial for your home. Some brands offer sleek and visually appealing designs.
Related Post: Can I use solar power during a blackout
- Brand Reputation: Research the reputation of the solar panel manufacturer. Established and reputable brands often invest more in research and development, ensuring better product quality.
- Compatibility with Inverters: Ensure that the solar panels are compatible with the type and brand of inverter you plan to use. The synergy between panels and inverters is crucial for optimal system performance.
Conclusion
Choosing the right solar panels involves a careful balance of performance, warranty, efficiency, and durability. After evaluating these factors, you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
It’s advisable to consult with solar experts, read customer reviews, and consider the reputation of the brand before making a final decision. Additionally, obtaining quotes from multiple installers and comparing their offerings can help you secure the best deal for your solar system.
FAQs
Savings vary based on factors like system size, sunlight availability, and local electricity rates. On average, solar panel owners can significantly reduce their electricity bills over the system’s lifespan.
The size of the solar panel system depends on your energy consumption, location, and available roof space. A professional installer can assess your needs and recommend an appropriate system size.
Many countries offer incentives, rebates, or tax credits for solar installations. Check with local authorities to explore available financial benefits for installing solar panels.
Solar panels generally require minimal maintenance. Regular cleaning to remove dirt and debris and occasional system checks by professionals are usually sufficient to ensure optimal performance.
Yes, excess energy can be stored in batteries for later use. Adding an energy storage system allows you to harness solar power during the day and use it during periods of low sunlight or at night.
