Updated February 2025
Selecting the best solar panels for your system is crucial for maximising your return on investment. With solar technology advancing rapidly, understanding which panel suits your needs best can be challenging. This guide explores ten of the top solar panels available in 2025, providing key insights into their efficiency, performance, and suitability for different installation types.
For those looking for a quick decision, here are the top recommendations based on installation type and key considerations:
1- What to Look for in a Solar Panel
1.1 Standard vs. Jumbo Panels
1.2 Solar Panel Efficiency
1.3 N-Type vs. P-Type Semiconductors
1.4 Temperature Coefficient
1.5 Warranty Considerations
2. Detailed Breakdown of Each Panel’s Advantages and Disadvantages
2.1 AIKO NeoStar 2 & 3
2.2 Eurener NEXA 500W
2.3 REC Alpha RX
2.4 JA Solar 440W
2.5 DMEGC 450W
2.6 SunPower Maxeon P7
2.7 AIKO Comet 1N (Jumbo Panel)
2.8 LONGi Hi-Mo X6 Explorer (Jumbo Panel)
2.9 DMEGC 585W (Jumbo Panel)
3. Best Panels for Each Situation
3.1 Best for Pitched Roof Installations
3.2 Best for Ground-Mounted or Flat Roof Systems
3.3 Best for Shaded Roofs
3.4 Best for In-Roof Installations
3.5 Best for Ethical Manufacturing
The first consideration when choosing a solar panel is its size. Standard panels are commonly used for residential installations, while jumbo panels can optimise roof space, particularly on larger or commercial installations. For example, the 625W AIKO Comet 1N is a jumbo panel designed to maximise generation per square metre, making it ideal for larger projects.
It's important to note that jumbo panels are primarily designed for commercial installations, and some models may not be MCS certified, which is required for certain domestic solar installations in the UK. Always check certification before selecting a jumbo panel for residential use.
Efficiency is a key metric that determines how much power a panel can generate per square metre. The most advanced panels now reach efficiencies of 23% to 24%, such as the upcoming AIKO NeoStar 3, which is expected to hit 24.3% efficiency.
With the NeoStar 3’s impending release, many homeowners might wonder if it’s worth waiting for this model. While this panel offers incremental improvements over the NeoStar 2, delaying installation means missing out on potential energy savings and financial returns that would accumulate over time. Given that solar returns are tax-free, investing sooner rather than later often makes better financial sense.
N-type semiconductor panels are preferable to P-type because they suffer less from light-induced degradation and provide better long-term performance. Panels like the AIKO NeoStar 2 and REC Alpha RX use N-type silicon to improve longevity and output.
Solar panels perform better at lower temperatures. The temperature coefficient tells you how much efficiency drops as the panel heats up. A high-quality panel will have a coefficient of -0.3% per degree Celsius or better, with leading models like the REC Alpha RX achieving -0.24% per degree Celsius.
This factor is particularly critical for in-roof solar installations, where panels tend to operate at higher temperatures due to reduced airflow beneath them. A panel with a lower temperature coefficient, such as AIKO NeoStar 2 or 3, will help mitigate performance losses in these conditions.
Solar panels come with two types of warranties:
The Eurener NEXA 500W provides an industry-leading 30-year product warranty when installed by a Eurener premium partner.
Choosing the right solar panel depends on your specific installation type, budget, and energy needs. AIKO NeoStar 2 and 3 remain strong all-around options, while Eurener NEXA 500W excels in ground-mounted setups due to its bifacial capabilities. REC Alpha RX is the best for shaded conditions, and AIKO Comet 1N is ideal for large commercial projects.
Balancing efficiency, cost, durability, and warranty coverage is key to making the best decision. Consulting a trusted solar installer can refine your choices to maximise your return on investment.
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