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Best Solar Panels in the UK: Our Expert Picks (June 2025)
- We compared 30+ of the top solar panel manufacturers operating in the UK to determine the top 5 best solar panel models available today.
- We compared manufacturer data, independent reviews, and third-party accreditations for 300+ available solar panel models on the market.
- According to our findings, the brands with the best solar panels in 2025 include AIKO, Yingli, and Sunpower.
What is considered the "best" solar panel in the UK will vary depending on who you ask and what metrics you value. Some homeowners may prefer a low-cost solar panel over one that's highly efficient, for example. Others may be looking for efficiency or power output.
This is why, when determining the best solar panels out there today, we've categorised our picks according to what matters most to prospective buyers among the many solar manufacturers in the UK and abroad.
With this in mind, here's a summary of our picks:
| Category | Solar Panels | GreenMatch rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best overall | AIKO NEOSTAR 3N+78 | 4.3 |
| Most efficient | AIKO NEOSTAR 3N+78 | 4.3 |
| Most powerful | Yingli PANDA 3.0 Plus | 3.8 |
| Most durable | Solar Edge Smart Module | 3.2 |
| Longest warranty | Sunpower Maxeon | 3.1 |
| Best low-cost solar panel | Trina Vertex N | 3.8 |
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- Our selection process for the best solar panels
- Best overall: AIKO NEOSTAR 3N+78
- 1. Most efficient: AIKO NEOSTAR 3N+78
- 2. Most powerful solar panel: Yingli PANDA 3.0 Plus
- 3. Most durable: Solar Edge Smart Module 425W/430W
- 4. Longest warranty: Sunpower Maxeon
- Best aesthetic: Tesla solar roof
- How did we compare the best solar panels in the UK?
- Find the best solar panels for your UK home
- Frequently asked questions
Our selection process for the best solar panels
Our expert team has over 20 years of experience in the solar industry and in solar research. The process of determining the best picks out of 30+ brands and 300+ models, involved a data-driven analysis to ensure we only present the objective "best" according to these categories.
We consider performance metrics such as solar panel efficiency, durability, and power output based on manufacturer data. We've also considered industry accreditations and independent reviews. Our price estimates take an average from various third-party retailers to derive the price per Watt.
The use of price per Watt allows for an accurate comparison between varying prices and power outputs. Also key to deciding was our solar consultant, Joshua Pearce, whose expert insights we've included throughout this list.
Best overall: AIKO NEOSTAR 3N+78
The AIKO NEOSTAR 3N+78 stands out for its high 25% efficiency, strong durability (low degradation), and excellent value. It offers 675W–700W output, a solid 15-year product and 30-year performance warranty, and a competitive £0.17–£0.18 per watt price. With a GM rating of 4.3, it’s the top all-round choice for performance and reliability.
We evaluated solar panels using the following key metrics and scored each model accordingly:
- Efficiency: Higher efficiency means more energy from less space and reduced costs overall.
- Durability (degradation rate): Slower annual performance loss signals long-term reliability.
- Power output: Higher wattage panels deliver more electricity for higher energy needs.
- Warranty: Longer product and performance warranties signal manufacturer confidence and durability.
- Price per watt: Lower cost per watt offers better value for your investment.
Each category was normalised and scored out of 5. The final GreenMatch Rating is the average of these scores, helping identify the best all-round options.
1. Most efficient: AIKO NEOSTAR 3N+78
Ideal for: Large 4-5 bedroom homes or homes with limited roof space
| AIKO NEOSTAR 3N+78 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Model | Max. Efficiency | Durability (Annual degradation) | Power Output | Warranty | Price per Watt |
| AIKO | NEOSTAR 3N+78 | Up to 25% | ≤1% first year; ≤ 0.35% annually thereafter | 675W～700W | 15-year Product; 30 Year Performance | £0.17 - £0.18 |
The NEOSTAR 3N+78 is part of AIKO's third-generation solar module lineup, featuring significant upgrades that deliver enhanced performance, greater energy returns, and improved safety. With an outstanding efficiency range of 24.1% to 25.0%, it stands among the most efficient modules available today.
This module delivers between 675W and 700W of power, making it an excellent choice for medium to large homes with high energy needs. It also maintains excellent long-term reliability, with a low degradation rate of no more than 1% in the first year and only 0.35% annually thereafter.
The NEOSTAR 3N+78 is supported by a premium warranty package, offering a 15-year product warranty and a performance warranty of up to 30 years. Its impressive temperature coefficient of -0.26%/°C ensures a stable performance, even in hotter climates or during seasonal fluctuations.
- Industry-leading efficiency: With up to 25.0% efficiency, it’s one of the most efficient panels currently available.
- Low degradation rate: Retains long-term performance with just 1% loss in the first year and 0.35% annually after.
- Aesthetics: Sleek design provides improved visual appeal, great for visible rooftop installations.
- Partial shading optimisation: Maintains strong performance even in shaded conditions.
- Temperature performance: Excellent -0.26%/°C temperature coefficient means less efficiency loss in hot climates.
- Micro-crack resistance: Built with Infinite Technology to resist cracking and extend the module’s lifespan.
- Lower BOS (Balance of System): Higher efficiency reduces the number of panels and associated hardware needed, cutting system costs.
- Shorter standard product warranty: At 15 years, the default product warranty is slightly lower than some competitors offering 20–25 years (unless extended).
- Panel size and weight: Higher wattage panels are often larger, which may not suit smaller or complex roof layouts.
2. Most powerful: Yingli PANDA 3.0 Plus
Ideal for: Large 4-5 bedroom homes or homes with limited roof space
| Brand | Model | Max. Efficiency | Durability (Annual degradation) | Power Output | Warranty | Price per Watt |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yingli | PANDA 3.0 Series Plus | 23.20% | 1% first year, 0.40% annual thereafter | 695-720W | 12-year Product; 30-year Power | £0.15 - £0.20 |
The Yingli PANDA 3.0 Plus stands out as the most powerful solar panel on this list, delivering up to 720W of output per module. This is ideal for those who want to generate maximum electricity using fewer panels, which is especially useful in tight roof spaces or for energy-hungry households.
If you are extremely roof-area limited, however, you will want the highest efficiency modules so you can generate the most energy to attempt to cover your entire load.
Yingli’s PANDA N-type monocrystalline bifacial technology brings industry-leading efficiency, durability, and backside energy yield. These modules can capture reflected sunlight from the rear surface, boosting overall power output by up to 30%, especially on reflective rooftops like metal or white membrane surfaces.
Developed using N-TOPCon (Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact) technology, these panels offer superior performance in low-light conditions, extended service life, and high reliability.
- Highest wattage output: Delivers up to 720W, making it the most powerful panel on this list.
- Bifacial power boost: Rear-side power generation increases yield by up to 30% in ideal conditions.
- N-TOPCon cell tech: Offers improved efficiency, reliability, and excellent low-light performance.
- Backside & low-light performance: Superior yield even in shaded or indirect light conditions.
- Wide applicability: Well-suited to both residential and commercial applications.
- 30-year performance warranty: Ensures long-term peace of mind.
- Lower efficiency: While powerful, its 23.2% efficiency is below that of the AIKO NEOSTAR or SunPower models.
- Shorter product warranty: Standard 12-year product warranty is below industry leaders that offer 15–25 years.
- Higher degradation: 0.40% annual degradation is slightly higher than that of competitors.
3. Most durable: Solar Edge Smart Module 425W/430W
Ideal for: Small to medium size households of 1-3 bedrooms
| Brand | Model | Max. Efficiency | Durability (Annual degradation) | Power Output | Warranty | Price per Watt |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Solar Edge | Smart Module 425W/430W | 24.66% | >1% first year, 0.32% annual thereafter | 425-430W | 25-year Product; 30-year Power | £0.15 - £0.20 |
The SolarEdge Smart Module 425W/430W earns its spot as the most durable solar panel on our list. With an incredibly low 0.32% annual degradation rate after the first year, it retains more of its performance over time compared to most panels on the market, meaning better long-term energy savings and efficiency.
With N-type TOPCon technology and built-in S-Series Power Optimisers, these modules ensure maximum energy output from each individual panel. The system constantly tracks the Maximum Power Point (MPPT) per panel, allowing for real-time optimisation and improved production even in uneven shading conditions.
What really sets the SolarEdge Smart Modules apart is their robust safety features and extreme weather resistance. With SafeDC™ technology and Sense Connect arc fault detection, they are among the safest solar panels available today. The durable 1.6mm double-glass construction also provides superior protection against environmental stressors, making these modules ideal for both residential and commercial applications.
- Durability: One of the lowest degradation rates available at just 0.32% annually, preserving power output for decades.
- Long warranty coverage: Industry-leading 25-year product warranty and 30-year performance warranty.
- Smart module technology: Built-in S-Series Power Optimisers ensure each panel performs independently at its best.
- Advanced safety features: Includes SafeDC™ shutdown and Sense Connect to help prevent electrical faults and fire risks.
- Bifacial and high-efficiency N-type TOPCon cells: Boost performance in both direct and reflected light.
- Easy integration: Works perfectly within the SolarEdge Home ecosystem with smart monitoring and easy installation.
- Lower wattage per panel: With a max output of 430W, you’ll need more panels compared to high-wattage options like the Yingli PANDA 3.0 Plus.
- Slightly higher first-year degradation: Although degradation drops significantly afterwards, the first-year rate is slightly over 1%.
4. Longest warranty: Sunpower Maxeon
Ideal for: Small to medium size households of 1-3 bedrooms
| Brand | Model | Max. Efficiency | Durability (Annual degradation) | Power Output | Warranty | Price per Watt |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunpower | Maxeon | 22.60% | 2% first year, 0.25% annual thereafter | 355 - 475W | 40-year Product; 40-year Power | £0.52 - £0.63 |
What truly sets the SunPower Maxeon apart is its industry-leading 40-year warranty, covering both product and performance. This is the longest warranty available on any residential solar panel, offering decades of reliability, support, and peace of mind that no other brand currently matches.
While solar panels naturally degrade over time, SunPower Maxeon panels are built to last. Even after 25 years, they’re warranted to retain at least 92% of their original output. This is thanks to a low 0.25% annual degradation rate after the first year. In comparison, many competitors may lose 15 - 20% of their capacity in that same timeframe.
Although the Maxeon series doesn’t have the highest wattage (topping out at 475W), its exceptional reliability, proven durability, and low failure rate make it an ideal choice for smaller homes where space is less of an issue, and long-term performance is the top priority.
- 40-year warranty: Industry-best coverage for both product and performance, offering four decades of security.
- Lowest long-term degradation: Just 0.25% per year after the first year, ensuring consistent energy production over time.
- Proven reliability: Tested across 800,000+ panels, with failure rates nearly 4x lower than average.
- Exceptional lifespan: Designed to last 40+ years with a return rate of under 0.005%.
- Top-tier performance recognition: Named a Top Performer in the PVEL PV Module Reliability Scorecard.
- High cost: Among the most expensive solar panels on the market — up to £100 more per panel than similarly-rated competitors.
- Lower power output: With a range of 355W–475W, they produce less energy per panel than higher-wattage models like AIKO or Yingli.
- Limited availability: SunPower has scaled back in several markets, potentially making newer Maxeon models harder to source.
5. Best low-cost solar panel: Trina Vertex N
Ideal for: Large homes with high energy demand
| Brand | Model | Max. Efficiency | Durability (Annual degradation) | Power Output | Warranty | Price per Watt |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trina | Vertex N | 22.1 - 22.9% | 1% first year; 0.4% annually thereafter | 685 - 710W | 12-year Product; 30-year Power | £0.10 - £0.25 |
If you’re looking to maximise power without breaking the bank, the Trina Vertex N is a great choice. With prices starting as low as £0.10 per watt, these panels offer some of the best value in the market while delivering up to 710W of power per panel.
This makes the Vertex N a perfect fit for large homes with high electricity needs, or even small homes with limited roof space that need high-output panels without overspending. Despite the low cost, Trina hasn’t compromised on features. These panels include a bifacial design, excellent environmental resistance, and materials that help minimise long-term degradation.
While the 12-year product warranty is shorter than top-tier competitors, the 30-year performance warranty and solid track record make them a safe investment for those focused on affordability and strong power output.
- Best price-per-watt value: Starting at just £0.10/W, making it the most affordable option on this list.
- High power output: Generates 685W–710W, rivalling premium models at a fraction of the cost.
- Reliable performance: Built with non-destructive cutting and advanced materials to reduce micro-cracks and lower long-term degradation.
- Bifacial technology: Captures additional light from the rear side for improved efficiency in low-light or reflective environments.
- Built for tough conditions: Performs well in salt, ammonia, sand, heat, and humidity, making it great for coastal or challenging climates.
- Shorter product warranty: The 12-year product warranty is below average compared to industry leaders offering 15–25 years.
- Higher annual degradation: At 0.4% per year, it’s not as low as more premium models.
- Price variation: Some Vertex N models at the upper end of the range can cost 2–2.5x more than the base price, depending on the supplier and version.
Now that you have an idea of the most important elements to look out for when investing in new solar panels, you might be ready to get the ball rolling by consulting installers. Save yourself from hours of stressful research with our free quotes service. Fill out our 30-second form and we’ll connect you with up to 4 of the top-rated installers in your area. Compare their free quotes to get the best deal.
- Quotes from local engineers
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6. Best aesthetic: Tesla Solar Roof S
| Brand | Model | Max. Efficiency | Durability (Annual degradation) | Power Output | Max. Warranty | Price per Watt |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tesla | Solar Roof S | 20.6% | 2% first year, 0.5% annual thereafter | 430W | 10-year Product; 25-year Power | £2.27 |
Tech giant Tesla has some tricks up its sleeve when it comes to solar tiles. While their tiles can be expensive compared to standard solar panels, the quality speaks for itself. These can be especially handy in their solar roof solutions, making them one of the best solar brands in that space, offering multiple types of roof tiles to fit any kind of roof.
With the Solar Roof S, Tesla provides better efficiency than the H series. While this is still lower than that of other on-roof solar panels listed above, it is the most efficient for solar tiles.
- Best for new-builds: Instead of building a regular roof, why not opt for one that makes back money? With a Tesla Solar Roof, you also receive a very durable roof material that is fit for housing.
- Aesthetically matches roof materials: The Tesla roof tiles can faithfully match the home’s look. It comes in a variety of colours and shapes for better aesthetic matching.
- Most efficient tiles: The Solar Roof S provides industry-leading efficiency (for solar tiles) at 20.6% and has a low degradation rate. This means that they will last a long time with little loss in energy efficiency.
- Expensive: Compared to standard monocrystalline solar panels, the roof can be more expensive. The cost can be even higher when including the cost of replacing a preexisting roof.
- Requires elaborate installation: Since it replaces the roof, these solar panels will be far more expensive to install.
- Lower performance than panels: Tesla’s solar roof has pretty good performance for a solar tile brand, but it can be a fair bit lower than on-roof panels. They are also more expensive, so other options are more suitable for most homes.
How did we compare the best solar panels in the UK?
Determining these top picks involved a rigorous process, comparing specifications from over 300 models. We then identified the best according to the most important categories for homeowners considering new solar panels.
Below we've gone into more detail about what makes these categories so important. In general, prospective buyers should seek out solar panels that perform well across all of these criteria.
Find the best solar panels for your UK home
Identifying the best solar panels for your home is one thing, but ensuring that they are properly installed is just as, if not even more, important. Even with the highest quality solar panels, a dodgy installation job will affect their performance, longevity, and maybe even your energy bills.
Therefore, it's crucial to shop around for the best installers in your area. Rather than going for the cheapest option available, it's best to compare the quotes from a shortlist of carefully vetted options. This is where GreenMatch can help you.
We have an entire network of licensed solar panel installers, based across the UK, who we can connect you with in a few short clicks. Fill in our 30-second quotes form, then you'll be contacted by the best options in your area, based on your preferences.
You can then compare their fixed, exclusive quotes and take comfort in knowing you're selecting the best possible option for your home. The best part? Our service is completely free, and you're under no obligation to accept any of the quotes you receive.
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