The top 6 picks for the best solar panels on the market. You can also check out our buyer’s guide to help you make your decision.
So, whether you’re looking for residential or commercial solar panels, read on for the best options available!
Things to Consider When Buying Solar Panels
Here are a few things to keep in mind when purchasing solar panels in Australia. The first thing to consider is that the type and size of solar panels you will need will completely vary depending on whether you’re looking for commercial solar panels or solar panels for your home.
First, you’ll need to decide whether you want residential or commercial solar panels. Commercial solar panels are typically large and more powerful than residential solar panels. However, they also tend to be more expensive.
Are you looking for the best value? Then consider the efficiency of the solar panel. The higher the efficiency, the less energy it will take to generate electricity.
You also want to consider the warranty of the solar panel. Some manufacturers offer up to 40 years of coverage on their products. Others offer 25 years as standard.
Finally, you need to calculate how many solar panels you need for your home or business. The exact number will depend on your energy needs and how much space you have.
So… Which Brands Are Producing the Best Solar Panels in 2022?
To simplify things, the results for the best solar panels to buy in 2022 are in two categories: Overall Best and Best-Value-for-Money panels.
We’ve listed the top 3 in each case. The results for each are according to votes from CEC approved solar installers.
Best Overall – No Budget Restrictions
The top 3 solar panel brands in Australia for 2022 are:
1. SunPower
Australian solar installers have long trusted SunPower to provide high-quality panels, and this year is no exception. SunPower leapfrogs into the first position for 2022, from third last year.
And great news! SunPower recently announced a new product warranty of 40 years for its Maxeon solar cells. SunPower has plenty of data that suggests they are the most durable on the market.
However, their Maxeon panels don’t come cheap. The cost per watt is three times that of a low-cost solar panel.
SunPower is an ideal option if you want high performance for your money. They offer high efficiency and the best warranty in the industry (25 years).
2. REC Solar
REC Solar retains its well-earned second place in 2022, thanks to the Alpha panels it offers that peak at 410W, adored by many installers who use them.
REC’s Alpha Pure is a new option for 2022. Why the name Pure? Because it contains no lead. Homeowners in Australia also rate REC solar panels highly, at 4.8/5.0.
3. Q-Cells
For 2022, a new entrant to the top 3 solar panel rankings is Hanwha Q-Cells. Hanwha owns Q-Cells and operates from Korea.
Their range of panels includes the top-end Q.Peak and Q.Peak Duo and the more affordable Q.Maxx and Q.Boost.
These solar panels offer outstanding low-light performance! Homeowners give a 4.8 rating for Q-Cells solar panels.
What about LG?
Not long ago, if you wanted the best solar panels available in Australia, you would consider LG Solar Panels.
However, earlier this year, the company announced its withdrawal from the global solar panel production market.
For this reason, we decided not to include LG Solar Panels in the list – even though installers voted them into second place behind SunPower.
Best Value / Bang for Your Buck
Now, it’s one thing to choose the best solar panels when you have an unlimited budget for solar power – but what if you need the best bang for your buck?
These are the three best-value-for-money solar panel options in 2022:
1. Trina Solar
Trina Solar is taking the solar industry by storm. In 2021, Trina Solar leapfrogged from fourth place to second place worldwide in the solar panel industry.
And Australian installers rate them highly! In 2022, Trina retained the title in the Best Value category in Australia, according to CEC approved solar installers.
Trina Solar panels have also received high marks from Australian consumers, with an average rating of 4.7.
2. Jinko Solar
Jinko Solar retains second place in the Best Value category for solar panels in 2022.
Another favourite of Australian installers, Jinko solar panels have an overall rating of 4.7 from homeowners.
3. Q-Cells and Canadian Solar
Yes, there was nothing in it. Third place is a tie between Q-Cells and Canadian Solar among installers.
Q-Cells achieved a podium spot in the Best Overall category for its top-end, high-efficiency solar panels. But Q-Cells’ more affordable Q.Maxx and Q.Boost panels offer excellent value for money at an affordable price.
Canadian Solar shares third place, and its solar panels have a solid reputation among installers in Australia.
How do homeowners rate these two solar panel manufacturers? Canadian Solar received an average of 4.7, and Q-Cells 4.8.
Our Partnership With Best Value Solar Brands
Trione Energy has been focused on providing the best possible solar systems, from industry-leading brands at the best possible price since 2009!
Trione Energy is proud to partner with Trina Solar panels – the #1 best-value solar panel in 2022 – to offer customers the best possible solar power system – at the best price!
We also install the other top brands featured as the best solar panels to buy in 2022: SunPower, REC, Q-Cells, Canadian Solar, and Jinko solar panels!
If you’re looking for the best solar panels, then look no further than Trione Energy.