Rooftop solar panels have come a long way, with significant advancements in both affordability and efficiency. But does having the most efficient panel always make a difference for homeowners?
As solar energy becomes more popular due to rising energy costs, generous tax incentives, and a stronger push for sustainability, many homeowners are considering solar panels to power their homes. The question arises: should you opt for the most efficient solar panels for your home? CNET’s experts have researched and compiled a list of the best-performing solar panels based on their efficiency.
Top Choice: Maxeon 7 The Maxeon 7 holds the title of the most efficient residential solar panel currently available. Launched in February 2024, the Maxeon 7 set new industry standards, surpassing previous leaders like Maxeon and Canadian Solar panels. The panel achieved a groundbreaking 24.9% efficiency in laboratory tests, with real-world efficiency estimated to be around 24.1%. Maxeon’s dominance in the solar panel market is no surprise, given the company’s consistent performance in efficiency over the years.
U.S. buyers will have to wait for the Maxeon 7 to hit the market, as it won’t be available until later in 2025. Additionally, Maxeon is restructuring its business and focusing on building a strong solar manufacturing presence in the U.S. to avoid potential tariffs and customs hurdles.
Solar Panel Efficiency and Savings If you’re wondering how solar panels can help you save money, it’s important to consider more than just panel efficiency. While Maxeon 7’s impressive 24% efficiency may sound appealing, the overall cost and output of your entire solar panel system are more important factors. Efficiency gains from higher-end panels may not always justify the increased cost, especially when multiplied by the size of the solar installation. For those with limited roof space or areas with heavy shading, high-efficiency panels like the Maxeon 7 may still make sense, though.
Emerging Technologies from Other Brands Maxeon is no longer the only company leading the charge in solar panel efficiency. Jinko Solar has introduced its Tiger Neo 3.0 panels, which boast a 24.8% efficiency—just a fraction behind the Maxeon 7. These panels use Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact (TOPCon) technology to deliver better performance, especially in residential systems.
Other companies are also advancing in solar technology. Longi Green Energy recently achieved a world record with its hybrid passivated back contact 2.0 module, reaching 25.4% efficiency. Although currently only available for commercial shipments, this technology holds great promise for future residential installations. Meanwhile, Trina Solar set a new benchmark with a 25.9% efficiency for its N-type TOPCon cell, marking a milestone outside of lab conditions. These innovations suggest that the solar industry will continue to evolve rapidly, and we may soon see even higher efficiency levels for both residential and commercial applications.
What Is Solar Panel Efficiency? Efficiency refers to how effectively a solar panel converts sunlight into usable electricity. For example, a panel with 20% efficiency means that 20% of the sunlight hitting it is converted into electricity. A higher efficiency panel, like the Maxeon 7, captures more of the sun’s energy, providing more electricity for the same amount of sunlight. As a result, you can reduce your energy costs more effectively over time.
It’s important to remember that while efficiency matters, it’s not the only factor to consider when choosing solar panels for your home. You’ll need to balance factors like cost, performance, and aesthetics, and ensure that the panels available to your installer align with your needs.
While more efficient panels like the Maxeon 7 offer notable performance, the real question for homeowners is whether the cost of those efficiency gains is worth it. Smaller efficiency improvements may not justify the price hikes, especially considering the size and cost of a complete solar installation. Still, for those with limited roof space or unique needs, high-efficiency panels can be a smart choice. Solar technology continues to evolve, making it an exciting time for homeowners looking to adopt renewable energy.