Most Efficient Solar Panels in the UK: Our Expert Picks (2024)

When it comes to making the most out of your solar panel system, solar panel efficiency is highly important. An efficient solar array, be it on roof or ground mounted solar panels, ensures longevity, optimises power generation, and maximises potential savings. In the UK, the average home could save up to £660 per year on their electricity bills. 

This guide aims to provide an overview of the top 5 most efficient solar panels currently available on the UK market. Our selections cover a wide range of power outputs to ensure that you can find a suitable match for your specific needs. 

Here are the most efficient solar panels in the UK, according to our research: 

The table below shows an overview of these solar panels and their most important specifications: 

The options listed in this article are some of the best solar panels in the UK. They have been chosen from our team's in-depth research and verified by our expert consultant, Joshua Pearce. 

Before taking a closer look at the most efficient solar panels, are you aware of the most efficient way to receive solar panel installation quotes? 

You could end up spending countless hours online looking up the best options near you, or you can use our exclusive quotes service. Simply fill in the form at the top of this page, then we'll direct you to up to 4 vetted installers based on the details you provide. Our quotes come free and with no obligations. 

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AIKO manufactures solar modules and solar batteries using self-developed core equipment alongside tailor-made equipment from their well-established suppliers. 

Founded in 2009, this Chinese company is world-leading in terms of its innovative products and cutting-edge technologies. Its technological achievements include the invention of all-back electrode technology in 2021, and it was the first to mass produce the all-back contact cell (ABC) worldwide the following year. This innovation has become a historical touchstone for the company's history, and for the global solar industry more widely.

Amongst its ABC panels is the 72-cell N-Type ABC White Hole Series. These modules offer efficiency rates of up to 24% and peak power output of 620W, making them one the most efficient and most powerful options available in the UK today.

ABC technology achieves remarkably high power generation throughout its lifetime thanks to its advanced conversion efficiency and temperature coefficient. These all-black panels have no metal grid lines on their front, which gives them a premium appearance and allows them to to absorb 100% sunlight. As such, these panels became a reddot winner in 2023.

While AIKO's product prices are not readily available, various online retailers price the N-Type ABC White Hole Series between £150 - £200 per panel, including VAT. This makes them a way to go if you’re searching for cheap solar panels in the UK. 

Renewable Energy Australia (REA) Solar manufactures various solar panel types, including residential and commercial solar cells, as well as battery storage products. Since it was established in 2010 in Australia, REA Solar strives to excel in the global green energy transition through its key focus on energy independence, smart technology for homes, and electric vehicles. 

With its industry partners, which include Tesla, Hyundai, and Samsung, as well as its own in-house team of engineers and installers, REA develops cutting-edge solar and storage solutions for a worldwide client base. 

These innovative solutions include the Fusion Energy 2 module, the only solar panels currently established by the company on the UK market. These panels are a great addition to any UK home, since they generate optimal energy levels even in oblique light conditions. 

This is achieved by the module's transparent double-sided (Bi-facial) casing to maximise sunlight exposure. It also gives the cells a sleek and smooth appearance. Remarkable efficiency is also achieved through the use of both N-Type crystalline and thin-film technology. These combine to create a superior solar cell that's resistant to damage and defects throughout its lifetime. 

These panels can achieve a power output between 400 - 480W, making them suitable for medium-sized homes with average energy demands. 
According to REA's UK supplier, the cost of solar panels from this range falls between £400 - £420.

Maxeon Solar Technologies, behind SunPower solar technology, distributes its cutting-edge solar products in over 100 countries through a vast network of 1,200 sales and installation partners worldwide.

Since 2007, SunPower technology has even claimed 11 world records for cell and panel efficiency. Its technological prowess and solar energy production capabilities power homes, carports, power plants, and even planes. 

SunPower manufactures a range of solar panels so that any kind of home can benefit from their products. SunPower Maxeon panels have remarkable efficiency rates, generating up to 35% more energy over their first 25 years of operation compared to conventional models.

Of its SunPower Maxeon range, the Maxeon 6 AC delivers peak efficiency rates of up to 23%, just above the Maxeon 3 DC range, which goes up to 22.7%. AC or DC coupling refers to how solar panels are connected to your home's electrical system. The electricity supplied to our homes is AC, resulting in minimal energy loss during transmission compared to DC power.

With no grid lines, Maxeon 6 AC panels absorb more sunlight thanks to back-contact conductivity. Their solid metal backing enhances durability and resists corrosion. Thick connectors also offer resilience against temperature fluctuations. Thanks to extensive testing, they also assure reliable performance with a minimum output of 98% in the first year and an annual degradation rate of just 0.25%.

These monocrystalline panels are designed for durability, with solid metal and crack-resistant backing as well as reinforced connections between cells. They are also backed by a 40-year warranty. The Maxeon 6 AC range will also suit any medium-sized home, with a power output range of 420 - 445W. Maxeon panels promise a 40+ year useful life with an incredibly low warranty return rate of 0.005%.

Our research concludes that the SunPower Maxeon 3 will cost between £350 - £400 per panel, including VAT. 

Finding the right solar panels for your home is one thing, but finding a reliable installer to fit them correctly is also crucial. It can be difficult to know where to look and who to trust, especially with so many installer options out there. With GreenMatch, we can streamline the process for you by directing you to 4 vetted installers for your to compare. All of our quotes are free and come with no obligations.

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Yingli Solar, established in 1998, is a leading global solar panel manufacturer. In addition to its headquarters in Baoding, China, Yingli has several branches across the globe and sells its solar panels to over 132 markets, including the UK. Yingli panels have powered notable projects like the Gullen Range Solar Farm and Allianz Stadium. Yingli was also a sponsor of the FIFA World Cup in 2010 and 2014.

Its PANDA N-type TOPCon Series incorporates cutting-edge N-type monocrystalline TOPCon cell technology. Using bifacial technology, sunlight is absorbed from both the front and back sides of the panels. This leads to superior energy generation compared to standard monofacial options. 

The Yingli PANDA Bifacial144 Cell has an efficiency rating of 22.5%, the highest in the series, coupled with an output of 390-415W. This makes them suitable for small to medium-sized homes. Additionally, it offers a 12-year product warranty and 25-year power warranty. 

Unlike conventional modules, PANDA Bifacial panels collect reflected and scattered light from their surroundings, significantly boosting power output, especially in high-albedo environments. Additionally, their high bifaciality factor ensures efficient power production even when the module is not facing direct sunlight. 

This technology also ensures higher durability with its double glass construction, enhancing long-term mechanical performance and resistance to harsh environmental conditions such as salt mist, ammonia, and dust.

Yingli PANDA Bifacial 144 Cell solar panels are very reasonably priced between £150 - £200, according to our research. 

Founded in Norway in 1996, REC has evolved into a global leader in sustainable and clean energy solutions, producing over 43 million panels by the end of 2021. Their latest innovation, the REC Alpha Pure family, uses cutting-edge Heterojunction (HJT) cell technology. These panels feature no LID and haveleading temperature coefficients and higher power density, ensuring optimal energy generation even in limited spaces.

REC Alpha Pure-RX panels incorporate advanced cell connection technology for enhanced durability and performance. With a sleek design and gapless cell layout, these panels maximise sunlight absorption, reaching impressive power densities of 226 Watts/m². REC's pioneering designs, including the Twin and Pure-R series, ensure continued energy production, even in shaded conditions.

REC ProTrust warranty guarantees product, performance, and labour coverage for 25 years. The Pure-RX Series also has a maximum temperature coefficient of -0.24%/°C, 0.25% annual degradation, and can retain 92% of its power after 25 years. 

Pure-RX solar panels by REC offer a power output ranging from 450 to 470 Watts, making them most suited to medium-sized homes in the UK. They also have an efficiency rating of 22.3% to 22.6%

These panels cost between £250 to £300, according to our market research. 

Choosing the most efficient solar panels in the UK means looking out for certain specifications that will contribute to their efficiency, as seen in most of the options listed:

Choosing the right solar panels for your home involves considering various factors beyond just efficiency. While we have selected 5 of the most efficient options out there, other factors will help determine which is the best for your circumstances. Here's what we considered when we chose the most efficient solar panels in the UK:

Now that you're acquainted with the most efficient solar panels available on today's market, you'll soon be ready to move forward with the purchase and installation process. However, when doing so, it's essential to ensure you're not overspending on installation services.

With numerous installation companies operating in the UK, it's easy to become perplexed about whether you're getting a fair deal. Yet, conducting thorough research into a company's background, customer testimonials, and pricing can consume hours of your time – a luxury you might not have.

Save yourself the hassle by getting your quotes with GreenMatch– our free quotes comparison service helps you get quotes in a few simple steps.

By completing our brief form, you can receive quotes from up to 4 local solar panel installers. This allows you to compare the quotes provided, identify the best-priced solar panels in your area, and select the installer you prefer. All of the installers in our network are carefully vetted, and chosen for you based on the details you provide. 

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