As more households switch to renewable energy, solar panels have been more popular than ever in Australia. There are a lot of reasons behind this, with the primary one focusing on cost reduction. Using solar energy is one great way to cut down on monthly bills or help you save more if you're using it for outdoor recreational purposes like camping. It adds value to any home and is eco-friendly as well. Put together all these benefits and it's easy to see why people are hopping in on the trend. However, if you're inexperienced in choosing solar panels, it might be tricky to find the best one that fits your needsand your budget. For a quick reference, we have compiled some of the top-ranking solar panels in the market and divided them according to their price.
Best Premium Solar Panels in 2022
SunPower Maxeon 3
Available in 370W to 400W for residential installations, the SunPower Maxeon 3 is the brand's flagship model and has a high price point. Currently, it's at $1.1 to $1.4 per watt and while this can be costly, the overall quality you will get mostly makes up for it. SunPower has long established its name in the solar field and is known as one of the best suppliers of solar panels. The Maxeon 3 uses high-performance monocrystalline IBC N-type cells combined with the new 104-cell format that results in increased power output. It has an impressive 22.8% maximum efficiency rating, making it one of the best solar panels not just in Australia but worldwide too.
Panasonic EverVolt
Apart from being under a well-known brand, the EverVolt Solar Panel incorporates heterojunction technology and is compatible with Panasonic batteries. Particularly, the EverVolt H Panel 410W is comprised of 66 half-cut panels and has an efficiency rating of 22.2%, making it another world-class solar panel for residential or outdoor purposes. It also has improved temperature coefficients for better performance on hot days, perfect for most Australian households. Currently, the EverVolt Series is priced at $1.0 to $1.4 per watt.
REC Alpha Series
Born from a fusion of innovation and rigorous testing, the REC Alpha Series solar panels also feature heterojunction, half-cut cells. They are also among the first solar panels to have multi-busbar cells with 16 microwires. Supported with an equally high strength frame, these work extremely well in high-temperature conditions and have a maximum efficiency rate of 21.7% at 380Wp. Their latest release, the REC Alpha Pure Solar Panel, is a real stand out with its lead-free manufacturing and gap-less cell technology that helps boost efficiency. Currently, Alpha Series is priced at $0.75 to $0.95 per watt.
Best Cost Effective Solar Panels in 2022
Hyundai HiES400UF
Incorporating the shingled cell technology, Hyundai's UF series solar shingles have a maximum panel efficiency of 21.3%. This is a tad lower than the previous solar panels discussed but at $0.60 to $0.72 per watt and 24 years of warranty, it's actually a good deal. This fixed solar panel is extremely compact and is comprised of smaller, 10 strings of 36 cells, unlike most solar panels that use larger cells.
Trina Solar Vertex S
Trina Solar is one of the top five solar panel suppliers worldwide and has been distributing actively across 30 countries. It's also known for its vertically integrated solar panels, with the Vertex S series being the most popular. These solar panels are smaller and lighter, ideal for both residential and commercial roofs. They incorporate the mono-PERC, MBB, high-density panel format, which gives an impressive 21.1% maximum efficiency rate. It's currently priced at $0.52 to $0.66 per watt, great for those who are on a budget.
JinKoSolar Tiger Pro 66TR
JinKoSolar started in 2006 and is now the largest solar panel manufacturer in the world. It has a reputation for supplying cost-effective, reliable solar panels, and its Tiger Pro 66TR is no exception. Following a modern, more advanced design, this solar panel features larger cells that are slightly overlapped to increase overall surface area and efficiency. Using a unique pressing process to join busbars together, this solar panel also reduces costs and eliminates the need for soldering. At $0.52 to $0.66, this solar panel is perfect for those who are looking for affordable solar options.
Premium-priced solar panels have their perks, but if you're after something more wallet-friendly, it's good to know that there are cheaper alternatives that don't compromise on quality as well. Here at Outbax, we also offer different types of solar panels that retail for competitive prices. We have a range of flexible solar panels, folding solar panels, and even solar blankets that are suited not just for homes but for outdoor adventures too. Keep in mind though, that when it comes to going solar, the key is not just solely on the solar panels. There are other factors to consider too, such as installation, location, application, and warranties. Keeping these in check will ensure you get the best value for your money and maximise whatever solar panel you purchase, regardless of its price.
