Most modern solar panels perform well. The differences that matter for a UK roof are efficiency (more power from limited space), warranty length and how slowly the panel loses output over time. Specs below come from each manufacturer’s datasheet.
| Product | Power range | Max efficiency | Product warranty | Performance warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| REC Alpha Pure-R | 400–430 W | 22.3% | 20 yrs (25 via REC ProTrust) | 25 yrs, 92% at year 25 |
| Aiko Neostar (A-MAH54Mb) | 445–465 W | Up to 23.3% | 15 years | 30 years |
| LONGi Hi-MO X10 (LR7-54HVH) | 475–490 W | Up to 24.0% | 25 years | 30 yrs, 88.85% at year 30 |
A 400–430 W heterojunction panel with a very low temperature coefficient and up to 25-year product cover through REC’s ProTrust installer scheme.
Suited to: Roofs that get hot in summer, thanks to the low temperature coefficient
Full specs & reviewsAn all-black 445–465 W back-contact (ABC) panel with up to 23.3% efficiency and a 30-year performance warranty.
Suited to: Smaller roofs where higher efficiency adds useful extra power
Full specs & reviewsA 475–490 W back-contact panel with up to 24.0% efficiency, a 25-year product warranty and a 30-year power warranty.
Suited to: Getting the most power from limited roof space
Full specs & reviewsHigher efficiency means more watts from each square metre. If your roof space is limited, a 23–24% panel can noticeably increase total system size.
Panels have two warranties: the product (manufacturing defects) and performance (power output over time). Product warranties range from about 15 to 25 years.
A lower annual degradation rate means more output in later years. Compare the guaranteed output at year 25 or 30.
Panels lose a little power as they heat up. A coefficient closer to zero (e.g. −0.24%/°C rather than −0.35%/°C) is better.
Use an MCS-certified installer (needed for Smart Export Guarantee payments) and compare at least three quotes. Some warranties are longer when fitted by an approved installer.
There is no single best brand. For most roofs, any reputable panel installed well will perform similarly. Prioritise efficiency if roof space is tight, and compare product and performance warranties and your installer’s workmanship guarantee.
A typical 3–4 bedroom UK home fits 8–12 panels (around 3.5–5 kWp). Use our solar calculator to estimate generation and savings for your roof.
Yes. Panels generate from daylight, not just direct sun, though output is lower on overcast days. UK systems typically produce most of their energy between April and September.
Solar panels and batteries installed in homes in Great Britain currently qualify for 0% VAT. Ask your installer to confirm it is applied to your quote.
Specifications come from manufacturer datasheets, checked 4 November 2026. We have not lab-tested these products and don’t give them scores; ratings shown are from moderated customer reviews only. We are not paid by manufacturers and these pages contain no affiliate links. How we compare products.