Solar Panels Rankings - 2020
Top 3 solar panels in Australia | Compare all the major solar panel brands
Comparing prices for solar panel costs can be a difficult task with the amount of online shops and price comparison websites advertising different panel prices for their solar power systems. That’s why we’ve created this simple guide that compares prices to give you a clear answer on the cost of each of the major solar panel brands.
This total cost can be reduced with the help of the Federal Government’s solar rebates, which can offer discounts on the installation costs based on the number of STCs (Small-scale Technology Certificates) that your system earns. For a more precise esalignnonetimate based on your location, you can find an STC calculator here. If you would like to learn more about the Government’s renewable energy subsidy scheme, have a look at our article on Solar Rebates.
The Best Three Solar Panels to Install
1. Q Cell
QCell Solar Panels are the best option for those who are less concerned with price than they are with the quality and performance of their panels. Q Cells are some of the best panels on the market. They are made from a Tier 1 manufacturer and consistently produce ultra high results. These panels can be combined with battery storage, or can send the excess electricity into the grid for the benefit of feed-in tariffs, if you’re grid connected. The Q Cells Maxx Panels come with a 12 year warranty, while the Duo G5+ comes with an extended 25 year warranty. For a deeper analysis, visit our Q Cell Solar Panel review.
2. JA Solar
JA are ideal for those looking to balance cost and performance. These panels are a high quality, affordable option with a reliable product warranty. JA Solar Australia is based in Newcastle, NSW and they have warehouses in every major city. As with the other two recommended panels, JA are a Tier 1 manufacturer with proven quality and reliability in their warranties. Take a deeper dive into the JA panels with our JA Solar Panel review.
3. Eging
Our analysis has found the Eging Solar Panels to be the best choice for those who are focused on the cost and warranty. As a Tier 1 manufacturer, Eging are a highly affordable brand for their level of performance. Their panels have excellent durability and power. As one of the largest panel manufacturers in the world, Eging can be relied upon for their warranty. For more information and specs on the Eging solar panels, take a look at our Eging Solar Panel review.
Solar Panel Price Index
| Manufacturer | 6.6kW (basic inverter) | 9.9kW (basic inverter) | 6.6kW (premium inverter) | 9.9kW (premium inverter) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | $8500 – $9500 | $12500 – $13500 | $10000 – $9500 | $14000 – $15000 |
 | $6000 – $7000 | $8500 – $9500 | $7500 – $8500 | $10500 – $11500 |
 | $5000 – $6000 | $7000 – $8000 | $6500 – $7500 | $9000 – $10000 |
 | $5000 – $6000 | $7000 – $8000 | $6500 – $7500 | $9000 – $10000 |
 | $5000 – $6000 | $6500 – $7500 | $6000 – $7000 | $9000 – $10000 |
 | $5000 – $6000 | $6500 – $7500 | $6000 – $7000 | $9000 – $10000 |
 | $5000 – $6000 | $6500 – $7500 | $6000 – $7000 | $9000 – $10000 |
 | $5000 – $6000 | $6500 – $7500 | $6000 – $7000 | $9000 – $10000 |
 | $5000 – $6000 | $6500 – $7500 | $6000 – $7000 | $9000 – $10000 |
This solar panel cost comparison table provides a clear view of the range of prices between the major solar energy brands and the price jump between the different sized solar systems.
One notable price difference is between systems with a basic inverter and a premium inverter. Inverters convert the DC electricity created by your solar panels into usable AC electricity that can power your home and everything in it. The higher the quality of your inverter, the greater the efficiency of the conversion. This means that your inverter plays a large role in the amount of electricity you can get out of your panels. The premium inverters have a steeper upfront cost, however over the lifetime of your solar panels this can result in a greater return on investment.
The Price of Extra Features
| Feature | Extra Cost |
|---|---|
| Double Storey | $500 – $1500 |
| Split Array | $150 – $350 |
| Switchboard Upgrade | $800 – $1800 |
| Optimizers | $85 – $150 |
| Monitoring Units/Export Limiters | $350 – $1000 |
| Tilt Kits | $50 – $100 |
FAQ - About Solar Panels
Tier 1 Panels are the top ranking solar panel manufacturers based off the Bloomberg Financial Review of their Financial Position. This certifies that the Manufacturing company can cover its warranties and will be in business in 25 years. It also means that these companies have the backing to do more Research and Development on their products, giving them more of an edge in the market.
Poly panels are the cheapest solar panel technology on the market. You can tell a Poly Panel from the inconsistent blue colour on the face. Poly panels are a good option for those prioritising affordability and with plenty of roof space.
Mono panels are significantly higher performing than the Poly panels. They are distinguishable by their jet black face without blue colouring. Mono panels are an excellent choice for those looking for strong performance and with limited roof space.
Bi-facial panels have cells on both the front and the back, giving them two faces from which to convert sunshine. This gives bifacial panels an increased power output and efficiency as they’re able to absorb both the direct sunlight and the second-hand light from the rear.
In a standard full cell solar panel, one portion of shade can stop the whole circuit from working. Half cell panels split the panel into two circuits, allowing one half to function while the other is impeded by shade.
Product warranties refer to the material and workmanship of the product. This type of warranty generally covers defects and equipment failure for the duration of the warranty.
A performance warranty refers to the guarantee of a baseline electrical production output for the duration of the warranty. Solar panels are generally built to last 25+ years. There is some natural decline in the performance and efficiency of the panels over the course of their lifetime, however this is generally no more than 10-20% in total. If your panel production drops below the guaranteed levels, then your warranty will allow you to have your system fixed or replaced.
Temperature coefficient measures the effect of high temperatures on the productivity of your solar panels. High heat impedes on the performance of electronics. Temperature coefficient for solar panels is expressed as a percentage of output lost for every 1°C of temperature increase. Solar panels are tested at a base temperature of 25°C, making this the reference point for temperature coefficient.
While the effects of temperature on your panels are generally negligible, they can help to calculate a more accurate estimate for the output of your system.
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