Solar Panels Comparison: Types & Brands (For Australian Homes)

There have never been more calls for renewable energy in Australia, with households and businesses looking to solar power to save money on their electricity bills and lower reliance on the grid.

Going solar is a win-win proposition for your budget and the planet, and that’s especially true in some sunny countries like Australia. Given the abundance of solar energy the government has to work with, it makes sense that an increasing number of Aussie households are choosing to go partly (or fully) off the grid.

It can be quite challenging to choose the best solar panel for your requirements since there are many options. In this guide, we’ll go through the major types of solar panels, the most popular brands, and provide a no-nonsense way to help you decide between them.

Types of Solar Panels

The three primary solar panel technologies available on the market are monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film. Each comes with its own set of advantages depending on your space, budget, and energy needs.

Monocrystalline Solar Panels

• Efficiency: These are produced from a whole silicon crystal and usually tend to be higher in efficiency than other types. They are generally 18% to 24% efficient.

• Space Requirement: Since they are so efficient, fewer panels are needed to match the energy output of other solar panels making these best for homes that have limited roof space.

• Lifespan: Monocrystalline panels are more robust and longer lasting (between 25-30 years), so they are well-suited for the harsh Australian climate where heat / UV levels may be high.

• Price: While they are on a higher initial expense, over time the ROI is superior.

• Best For: Homeowners with a small roof must pack more punch in fewer panels for the space.

Polycrystalline Solar Panels

• Efficiency: While not as efficient as monocrystalline solar panels, polycrystalline panels still offer good performance, especially in sunny climates like Australia’s. They typically have efficiency rates ranging from 13% to 16%, which is slightly lower than monocrystalline, but they are generally more affordable.

Polycrystalline panels are made from multiple silicon crystals, giving them a distinctive blue tint from the crystal fragments used in their construction.

• Space Requirement: Polycrystalline panels require slightly more roof space to produce the same energy output as monocrystalline panels.

• Lifespan: These panels are durable, but generally have shorter warranties compared to monocrystalline, usually around 25–30 years.

• Best For: Budget-conscious homeowners who have ample roof space and can accept a slightly lower energy conversion rate compared to the more expensive monocrystalline option.

Thin-Film Solar Panels

• Efficiency: While the least efficient of the three solar panel types, thin-film panels perform better in high temperatures and low-light conditions. This is because they are created by layering photovoltaic material on a substrate like glass or metal.

• Space Requirement: Thin-film panels require significantly more space to generate the same amount of energy as other solar panel technologies.

• Lifespan: Typically shorter than crystalline panels, thin-film panels are also generally less durable. As a result, they are less popular for home installations in Australia, though they can be a good option for commercial applications.

• Price: Thin-film solar panels have the lowest upfront cost, but their lower efficiency may result in higher long-term energy costs.

• Best For: Large-scale projects or installations in areas with less direct sunlight, where the thin-film panel’s performance advantages can be maximized.

Comparison Table

Sr. No.	Monocrystalline	Polycrystalline	Thin-Film
Efficiency	18% to 24% and higher	Perform well in sunny climates, Efficiency rates 13% to 16%	Least efficient, perform better in high temperatures and low-light conditions
Space Requirement:	High efficiency means fewer panels are needed to match the energy output	Requires more roof space to produce the same energy output as monocrystalline panels.	Require significantly more space
Lifespan	Last up to 25 years, robust, well-suited for Australia’s harsh climate with high heat and UV levels	Last upto 20 to 25 years, slightly shorter than monocrystalline panels.	shorter lifespan,  less durable. Lifespan between 10 to 25 years
Price	Higher initial cost	Slightly cheaper than monocrystalline panels but less efficient	Lowest upfront cost
Best For	Homeowners with small roofs	Budget-conscious homeowners	Used in large-scale operations, like utility and commercial power plants

Best Solar Panel Brands in Australia

Australia has a competitive solar market with many reputable brands offering high-quality panels. Let’s compare some of the leading names in the Australian solar industry.

LG Solar

• Reputation: LG is a well-established brand in the Australian solar market, known for producing high-performance monocrystalline panels.

• Efficiency: LG’s panels are among the most efficient, with some models reaching up to 22% efficiency.

• Warranty: LG offers a 25-year product and performance warranty, providing long-term assurance for homeowners.

• Best For: Homeowners seeking premium, reliable solar panels who are willing to make a long-term investment. LG’s exceptional efficiency, excellent warranty, and robust reputation for quality make their panels well-suited for Australia’s weather extremes.

SunPower

• Reputation: SunPower is renowned for its cutting-edge technology and high efficiency.

• Efficiency: Their monocrystalline panels can reach efficiencies of over 22%, making them top-of-the-line.

• Warranty: Ranging from 25-30 year product and performance warranty ensures reliability, excellent track record of performance in harsh climates.

• Price: Like LG, SunPower is on the premium side, but its superior performance makes it worth the investment.

• Best For: Those looking for top-tier performance and willing to pay a premium for it.

Trina Solar

• Reputation: Trina Solar is known for providing reliable and affordable solar panels, making them a popular choice among budget-conscious Australians.

• Efficiency: While not as high as premium brands like LG or SunPower, Trina’s polycrystalline panels offer a solid balance between cost and performance with efficiency around 22.3%.

• Warranty: Trina panels typically come with a 12-25 year product warranty and a 25-year performance warranty, ensuring reliable performance in diverse weather conditions.

• Price: As one of the more affordable solar options, Trina panels provide quality without breaking the bank.

• Best For: Homeowners seeking a balance between cost and performance will find Trina Solar panels to be a great choice.

Jinko Solar

• Reputation: Jinko Solar has established a reputation in Australia for producing affordable, high-quality solar panels. As one of the largest global solar panel manufacturers, Jinko’s panels are widely installed across Australia.

• Efficiency: Jinko’s solar panels offer impressive efficiency, upto 22.3% depending on the model.

• Warranty: Jinko provides a robust warranty package, including 25 years product warranty and a 30-years performance warranty.

Jinko Solar panels are a great choice for Australian families looking to start their solar journey without breaking the bank.

• Price: Jinko panels are competitively priced, making them a popular option for Australians looking for value.

• Best For: Those who want affordable yet reliable solar panels with a good reputation.

REC Solar

• Reputation: REC Solar is a trusted brand known for its high-performing solar panels that offer a good balance of affordability and efficiency.

• Efficiency: Their panels offer efficiency upto 22.3%.

• Warranty: REC offers a 20-25 year product and performance warranty, depending on the model.

• Price: Mid-range, offering a good balance between price and performance.

Which Solar Panel is Right for You?

When choosing a solar panel for your home, it’s essential to consider several factors beyond just brand and efficiency. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Climate

Australia’s sunny climate makes solar panels a smart investment overall, but some regions experience more intense heat or cloudier conditions than others. Ensure the panel you choose performs well under the specific climate conditions in your local area.

• Roof Space

How much usable roof space do you have? This can influence whether you opt for more efficient but pricier monocrystalline panels, or go with more budget-friendly options like polycrystalline or thin-film panels. If you have limited roof space, the higher efficiency of monocrystalline may be worth the investment. With ample roof area, polycrystalline could be a cost-effective choice.

If you have a small roof, opt for more efficient monocrystalline panels. With a larger roof, polycrystalline could be a good budget-friendly option.

• Energy Needs

How much energy does your household consume? Smaller homes may not require the most efficient (and most expensive) panels, while larger homes will likely benefit from higher efficiency to meet their greater energy demands.

• Warranty

Solar panels are a long-term investment, so choosing a brand that offers a robust warranty is crucial for peace of mind. Always check the warranty period – a longer warranty often indicates better quality and durability.

Final Thoughts

Australia’s abundant sunshine makes it an ideal location to invest in solar panels. Whether you prioritize maximum efficiency, best value, or resilience to extreme conditions, a wide range of solar options are available. Trusted brands like LG, SunPower, and others are renowned across the country for their performance and durability, empowering homeowners to generate clean energy and lower power costs.

Going solar is a smart decision, and this guide brings you one step closer to finding the right solution for your home. Keep in mind that local incentives, rebates, and your specific energy needs will also factor into your choice, so consulting a professional installer is recommended to ensure you get the most from your investment.

So, which solar panel will power your Aussie home?