The Top 5 Solar Panels of 2024
Navigating the landscape of solar options in 2024 can be daunting, with a plethora of equipment types, installers, and financing choices available. The solar panel you select serves as the foundation of your system, making it crucial to find one that strikes the right balance between power and value.
1. Q-Cells Q.PEAK DUO BLK ML-G10+
Leading our list is the Q.PEAK DUO BLK ML-G10+ from Q-Cells, renowned for its blend of power, affordability, aesthetics, and warranty. Q-Cells has swiftly risen to prominence as the go-to brand for residential solar in the US, and it's easy to see why. The Q.PEAK is a bi-facial solar panel capable of harnessing sunlight from both sides, boasting a 25-year product and power warranty. With sleek black cells, frames, and backsheet, it offers an elegant look. At 400+ watts and with dimensions of 74” tall and 41.1” wide, it's an ideal fit for most residential roofs, often meeting all annual energy needs at a lower cost compared to competitors.
2. Q-Cells Q.TRON BLK M-G2+
Next on our list is the Q.TRON BLK M-G2+, the larger sibling of the Q.PEAK. Sharing similar aesthetics and brand reputation, the Q.TRON offers an enhanced power output warranty and a higher wattage of 425 watts. With dimensions of 67.8” tall and 44.6” wide and an efficiency rating of up to 22.5%, it presents a premium option, albeit at a slightly higher price point.
3. Meyer Burger Black
Entering at number three is the Meyer Burger Black, a newcomer in solar panel manufacturing. This panel adds aesthetic appeal to any home with its sleek, all-black appearance. Meyer Burger, known for producing machines for other solar panel manufacturers, now offers its own panels. At 69.3” tall and just under 41” wide, it boasts a compact footprint, often resulting in efficient roof designs. Backed by a 25-year warranty and one of the best 25-year power output warranties, it's a compelling choice.
4. REC Alpha Pure R Series
REC's Alpha Pure R Series emerges as a popular option for premium solar panels, closely sized to the Q.TRON 425-watt panel. While REC's offering stands at 420 watts, slightly lower than the Q.TRON, it remains a strong contender. With installation by a REC Pro Trust installer, homeowners can even benefit from a 25-year labor warranty. The Pure R is a high-voltage panel, often requiring a more expensive inverter if paired with a microinverter, resulting in a higher-priced system.
5. Maxeon 3 Solar Panel
Rounding out our top five is the Maxeon 3 Solar Panel, a product of Maxeon, a spin-off from solar finance provider SunPower. Boasting an exceptional 40-year product warranty, this all-black, sleek panel offers formats over 400 watts. With dimensions just over 71” tall and 41” wide, it's well-suited for most homes, though it comes at a premium price point compared to others on our list.