Solar Panel Brands & Product Comparisons

Introduction

Choosing the right solar panel brand is one of the most important decisions UK homeowners face when investing in solar energy. Not all panels perform equally in the UK’s climate, and differences in efficiency, warranty, price, and installer support can have a big impact on your system’s long-term value. This guide compares the most popular solar panel brands available in the UK, helping you make an informed, cost-effective choice.

What should UK homeowners consider?

Efficiency: How well panels convert sunlight to electricity—especially in cloudy, low-light conditions.
Warranty: Product and performance guarantees (often 12–40 years).
Price: Upfront cost versus long-term savings.
Performance in UK weather: Panels that excel in low-light/cloudy conditions.
Installer support: Availability of certified UK installers and aftercare.

For more on what to look for, see our Solar Panel Buying Guide.

2. Leading Solar Panel Brands in the UK

These brands are popular and widely available in the UK market. Each offers a range of products suited to different needs and budgets.

2.1 JA Solar

Company background: A global leader with a strong UK presence, known for reliable and affordable panels.
Key technologies: PERC and half-cell technology for improved efficiency and durability.
Flagship products: JAM60S20, JAM72S30.
Typical efficiency range: 19%–21%.
Warranty terms: 12-year product, 25-year performance.
Strengths/weaknesses: Affordable, robust; fewer ultra-premium options.
Learn more about JA Solar panels.

2.2 SunPower

Company background: US-based, renowned for innovation and premium quality.
Unique features: Maxeon cell technology for maximum efficiency and durability.
Flagship products: Maxeon 3, Performance 6.
Efficiency/performance: Up to 22.6%, excellent in low-light—ideal for UK weather.
Warranty terms: 25–40 years (industry-leading).
Strengths/weaknesses: Top-tier performance, highest price point.
See our SunPower solar panels review.

2.3 LG Solar

Company background: Major electronics brand; solar division winding down but panels still available in the UK.
Notable product lines: NeON R, NeON H.
Efficiency, warranty, price point: 19%–22%, 25-year warranty, mid-to-high price.
UK installer availability: Stock limited; check with local installers.
Explore LG Solar panels in the UK.

2.4 Trina Solar

Company background: One of the world’s largest panel manufacturers, strong UK distribution.
Product range: Vertex S, Honey M series.
Strengths for UK homeowners: Good value, reliable performance, MCS-certified.
Read our Trina Solar panels guide.

2.5 Canadian Solar

Company background: Global reach, strong presence in the UK, known for affordability.
Product range: HiKu, BiHiKu.
Performance and warranty: Good for budget-conscious buyers, 12-year product and 25-year performance warranty.
Full details: Canadian Solar panels UK.

2.6 Q CELLS

Company background: German engineering, highly regarded in the UK.
Technologies and UK relevance: Q.ANTUM, anti-LID; efficient even on small roofs and in variable weather.
More info: Q CELLS solar panels UK.

2.7 Panasonic (if available in UK)

Company background: Well-respected global brand, though less common in the UK market.
Notable products: HIT series.
Note: Availability may be limited—check with your installer.
Discover Panasonic solar panels.

3. Comparison Table

Brand	Model	Efficiency	Warranty	Price Range	UK Availability	Key Features
JA Solar	JAM60S20	20.4%	12/25 years	£-££	Widely available	PERC, robust design
SunPower	Maxeon 3	22.6%	25–40 years	££££	Premium	Maxeon cells, top warranty
LG Solar	NeON R	21.7%	25 years	£££	Limited	High efficiency, compact
Trina Solar	Vertex S	21.1%	15/25 years	££	Widely available	Value, MCS-certified
Canadian Solar	HiKu	20%	12/25 years	£	Good	Budget, reliable
Q CELLS	Q.PEAK DUO	20.9%	12/25 years	££	Good	Q.ANTUM, compact
Panasonic	HIT N340	20.4%	25 years	£££	Limited	HIT tech, heat resistance

Compare more models in our solar panel comparison tool.

4. Best Solar Panels for UK Conditions

Top picks for different needs:

Cloudy weather performance:
SunPower Maxeon 3, Q CELLS Q.PEAK DUO—excellent efficiency in low-light.
Small roofs:
LG NeON R, Q CELLS Q.PEAK DUO—high output per m².
Budget-conscious buyers:
Canadian Solar HiKu, JA Solar JAM60S20—affordable, reliable.
Maximum warranty:
SunPower Maxeon (up to 40 years), LG NeON R.

See our full guide: Best Solar Panels for UK Homes.

5. User Reviews & Ratings

Here’s what UK homeowners and installers say:

SunPower: “Expensive, but delivers top performance—especially in UK winters.” (Trustpilot)
JA Solar: “Solid value, good aftercare from UK installers.”
Trina Solar: “Great for the price, no issues in 3+ years.”
LG: “Panels work well, but harder to source now.”
Canadian Solar: “Affordable, does the job for most homes.”
Q CELLS: “Efficient, especially on small roofs.”

See more solar panel reviews.

6. FAQs

Which solar panel brand is best for the UK?
SunPower leads for efficiency and warranty, but JA Solar and Canadian Solar offer great value.

Are premium brands worth the extra cost?
If you want maximum efficiency and the best warranty, yes. For most homes, mid-range brands are more cost-effective.

How do I choose between brands?
Compare efficiency, warranty, and price. Always get quotes from multiple MCS-certified installers.