About Smart Green Solar Panels

Our success is built putting customer needs first
Benefits Of Solar Panels

Harnessing solar energy begins with understanding the intricate facets of solar panels, and how each contributes to maximizing efficiency and longevity. Below you will learn the importance of  power rating, efficiency and warranties when it comes to comparing solar panels

By understanding power rating, efficiency, and warranties, consumers are empowered to navigate the solar panel market with confidence. Below you will find a side-by-side comparison of three premium solar panels as well as a description of each category being compared. The goal is to illumine some of the confusion surrounding the differences of panels so that you can make an informed decision about solar panels.

Solar Panels Brand/Model REC Alpha Pure QCells Q.TRON BLK M-G2+ Silfab SIL - 420 BG
Power Rating 420 420 420
Solar Panels Efficiency 21.80% 21.50% 21.90%
Solar Panels Performance Warranty 92% Output at 25 Years 90% Output at 25 Years 89% Output at 30 Years
Solar Panels Product Warranty 25 Years 25 Years 30 years
Labor Warranty 25 Years None None

Download Our Solar Panel Comparison

Using our solar panel comparison guide is more than just highlighting panel specs; it’s about unlocking the door to a sustainable lifestyle. Download our free comparison guide today, hassle-free.
Power Rating

Power rating speaks to the production capacity of solar panels, denoting their capability to generate electricity under optimal conditions. Simply put, power rating signifies the output a solar panel can yield when exposed to direct sunlight, ideal temperatures, and optimal positioning.

For example, a 400W power rating signifies the capability of those solar panels to produce 400 watts of electricity under perfect conditions, devoid of obstructions or unfavorable weather.

Nevertheless, reality seldom mirrors perfection. External factors may occasionally limit your panel’s output below its rated power. Rather than a guaranteed output, the rating denotes the peak potential of your solar panels.

When coupled with insights into the average peak sunlight hours in your area, understanding power rating aids in determining the optimal number of PV panels for your solar power system. In the comparison above, we were careful to compare solar panels with the same power rating of 420W so that it can be the closest to an apples-to-apples comparison. Solar panels in today’s market range from 100W to 430W, with the higher end of that range representing premium panels with high productivity.

Solar Panels Efficiency

Solar panels, crucial for harnessing solar energy, vary in efficiency, indicating the percentage of sunlight they convert into usable electricity. The industry standard efficiency ranges from 18% to 21%, with premium solar panels boasting ratings of 22% or higher.

Qcells’ Q.TRON BLK M-G2+ panels exhibit efficiencies between up to 21.5%, achieved through half-cut solar cell technology. This innovation results in higher power output, reduced losses, and enhanced durability.

REC’s Alpha Pure solar panels offer slightly superior efficiency at 21.8%. REC employs heterojunction technology (HJT), leveraging layers of different photovoltaic materials to enhance the density of their solar panels, thereby generating more energy within the same footprint.

In a comparison between REC, and Silfab, Silfab has a slight edge in efficiency over REC, with 0.1% greater efficiency.

For consumers seeking optimal energy production from solar panels, considering efficiency ratings is essential. All three solar panels reviewed here provide high-quality options, but REC and Silfab stand out against Qcells in this efficiency category. That said, REC’s utilization of advanced HJT technology positions it as a frontrunner in the market, offering superior performance and energy generation capabilities.

Warranties

When investing in solar panels, longevity matters. With decades long lifespans, securing robust warranties is crucial to safeguarding your investment against potential issues. Solar panel Manufacturers typically offer two types of warranties tailored to assure your system’s reliability:
1. Product Warranty: This covers manufacturing defects in the solar panels, ensuring your investment is protected from the start.
2. Performance Warranty: Vital for ensuring consistent energy production over time, this warranty assures the performance reliability of your solar panels.

Industry standards usually include a 12-year product warranty and a 25-year performance warranty. Notably, leaders like Qcells, REC and Silfab excel in warranty offerings. REC and Qcells boast a remarkable 25-year product warranty, while Silifab extends their warranty to 30 years.

Qcells’ Q.TRON BLK M-G2+ model promises to maintain at least 98% of its total power within the first year, with a gradual annual degradation of 0.33%. REC’s Alpha Pure panel stands strong with a 98% performance guarantee in the initial year, followed by a 0.25% degradation annually, ensuring 92% performance over the 25-year span. Silifab, in turn, also guarantees 98% first-year performance, with 90.8% at year 25, and 89% at the end of their performance guarantee at year 30. Invest confidently in solar panels with warranties that prioritize durability and performance.

Labor Warranty

REC stands out in the industry with their 25 year labor warranty. Designed to elevate consumer confidence, this distinctive feature offers added protection for end customers. In the rare instance of service needs for an REC solar panel, your investment is safeguarded with comprehensive coverage. This benefit sets REC solar panels apart with their commitment to customer satisfaction and exceptional warranty support.

Find out with these 3 easy steps..
Is Your Home A "Good Fit" For Solar?
Annual Sun Hours By State - Smart Green Solar

How many sun hours do you have access to at your location? Find out the average sun hours and the breakdown month over month here using our free tool.

How much solar do you need to completely offset your electric bill? We can walk your through where to find this information or use our electricity bill calculator.

Why choose local solar installers vs nationwide brands? Find out here, plus get a better understanding of what other local customers paid for similar systems.

ITS FAST AND IT’S FREE! IT PAYS TO GO SOLAR!
Get a Free Saving Report

What will I get as part of the report?

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the power rating, efficiency, and warranties of solar panels is paramount when making informed decisions about your renewable energy investment. The power rating serves as a benchmark for performance potential under optimal conditions, guiding the selection of solar panels tailored to your energy needs. Efficiency, on the other hand, directly impacts energy conversion, with higher percentages translating to enhanced output and savings over time. REC’s innovative use of HJT technology underscores its commitment to cutting-edge solutions, setting a high standard for performance and reliability in the market. Additionally, robust warranties like the REC ProTrust Warranty provide invaluable peace of mind, ensuring long-term protection for your solar panel investment against unforeseen circumstances. By considering these factors holistically, consumers can confidently navigate the solar panel landscape, harnessing the full potential of renewable energy for a sustainable future.