For homeowners who are keen on sticking to a budget or for those who simply value getting the most bang for their buck, opting for cheap solar panels is a wise decision. Not only does it make solar energy more attainable, but it also ensures that you're making a cost-effective choice without compromising on the dream of powering your home with clean, renewable energy.
With solar tech getting better and more budget-friendly every year, it's becoming easier for homeowners to make the switch to solar. But, let's keep it real, there's still a wide price range between the cheapest solar panels and those fancy high-end ones.
Below, you'll find a roundup of our top 5 cheap solar panels. Keep reading to discover more about each option, along with essential information you'll want to consider before making a purchase.
In This Article
Compare The Best Cheap Solar Panel Brands
Top 5 Cheap Solar Panels of 2024
1. VSUN 400-132BMH
Pros:
High Efficiency: With an efficiency of 20.54%, the VSUN 400-132BMH panel is highly efficient, making it an excellent choice for generating more electricity even in limited spaces.
Extended Output Warranty: A 30-year output warranty is notably longer than many competitors, offering peace of mind and assurance of the panel's long-term performance.
Robust Build: Rated for resilience against snow, wind, hail, and fire, these panels are designed to withstand adverse weather conditions, ensuring continuous energy production.
Japanese Manufacturing: Originating from Japan, a country known for its high-quality manufacturing standards, adds an extra layer of trust in the product's reliability and performance.
Cons:
Slightly Higher Cost per Watt: At an average cost of $2.90/Watt, it's on the higher end of the market average. However, the panel's efficiency and warranty may justify the investment for those prioritizing quality and longevity.
Output Decline Over Warranty Term: The output is guaranteed at 80% after 30 years, which reflects a 0.62% annual degradation after the first year. This is a bit higher than some top-tier panels but still within a reasonable range for the price point.
Why We Choose Them:
The VSUN 400-132BMH solar panel is a solid choice for homeowners looking for a blend of high efficiency and durability, backed by a lengthy warranty. Its resilience to various weather conditions and the reputation for Japanese manufacturing quality make it a reliable option. While we consider the cost per watt is slightly above average, the panel's performance and extended warranty period offer a good return on investment over time. Ideal for those willing to invest a bit more upfront for quality and peace of mind.
2. Phono Solar Technology Twinplus X PS400M6H-18/VH
Pros:
High Efficiency: With an efficiency rating of 20.48%, this panel is among the higher efficiency options available in the market. This means it can convert a significant amount of sunlight into electricity, making it ideal for areas with limited space.
Solid Warranty Terms: Offering a 25-year output warranty and a 25-year materials warranty, Phono Solar demonstrates confidence in the longevity and durability of their panels. This is reassuring for homeowners looking for a long-term investment.
Good Temperature Coefficient: The temperature coefficient for PMax is -0.35, indicating that the panel's performance declines less than average with increasing temperatures. This is beneficial in hot climates where solar panels can get very warm.
Resilience: Rated for resilience against snow, wind, hail, and fire, these panels are built to withstand harsh weather conditions, ensuring continuous power generation
Cons:
Lack of Certifications: The product listing does not mention any specific certifications (like IEC or UL), which are important for ensuring safety and reliability standards. However, this might be an omission in the listing rather than an actual lack of certifications.
Why We Choose Them:
The Phono Solar PS400M6H-18/VH panel is a strong contender for homeowners looking for a balance between efficiency and durability. Its high efficiency and solid warranty make it a wise choice for those looking to maximize their return on investment over time. Especially suitable for areas with extreme weather conditions, its resilience adds an extra layer of reliability. However, potential buyers should consider the total cost in relation to their specific energy needs and possibly seek panels with well-documented certifications for peace of mind.
3. Mission Solar Energy TXI10-400108BB
Pros:
Competitive Efficiency: With an efficiency rating of 20.48%, this panel is on par with some of the best in the market, ensuring high electricity production from each panel.
Attractive Cost per Watt: At an average cost of $2.12/Watt, it offers a great balance between initial investment and long-term savings, making it an appealing option for budget-conscious homeowners.
Strong Warranty Terms: A 25-year output warranty coupled with a 0.5% annual degradation after the first year promises a minimum output of 84.8% at the end of the warranty period, indicating a reliable long-term performance.
Made in the USA: Being manufactured in the United States could appeal to those looking to support domestic products and might imply high manufacturing standards.
Cons:
Lack of Certifications Listed: No specific product certifications are mentioned, which are important for ensuring the panels meet safety and reliability standards.
Why We Choose Them
The Mission Solar Energy TXI10-400108BB solar panel is a solid choice for homeowners looking for a high-efficiency panel at a competitive price point. Its strong performance warranty and competitive efficiency make it suitable for those looking to maximize their return on investment over time. The fact that it's manufactured in the USA adds an additional layer of appeal for those prioritizing domestic products.
However, potential buyers should inquire about the materials warranty and seek confirmation on product certifications to ensure comprehensive protection and reliability and this is where we come in where we can help you enquire about the necessary details before making purchase.
4. Hyperion DH108P8-400
Pros:
High Efficiency and Power: With an efficiency of 20.5% and a rated power of 400W, the Hyperion DH108P8-400 panel is designed to produce a significant amount of electricity, making it ideal for maximizing energy production in limited spaces.
Extended Output Warranty: A 30-year output warranty is exceptional, providing long-term assurance on the panel's performance. This is coupled with a materials warranty of 25 years, indicating a strong commitment to durability and reliability.
Low Degradation Rate: The panel promises an output of 84.95% at the end of the warranty term, with a yearly degradation of only 0.43% after the first year, which is better than many competitors, ensuring sustained performance over time.
Cons:
Higher Cost per Watt: With an average cost of $2.87/Watt, it's priced above the market average. While the high efficiency and long warranty may justify the cost, it's something budget-conscious buyers will need to consider.
Manufacturing Location: Produced in Thailand, which might not appeal to those specifically looking for panels manufactured in their home country or with a preference for products from regions known for specific manufacturing standards.
Why We Choose Them:
The Hyperion DH108P8-400 solar panel stands out for its high efficiency, robust warranty terms, and excellent durability against environmental factors. It's a compelling choice for homeowners looking for a long-term investment in solar energy, offering sustained performance and energy saving systems over decades. The slightly higher cost per watt may initially seem steep, but for those prioritizing efficiency and reliability, it represents a worthwhile investment.
5. Talesun Monofacial 400W
Pros:
Competitive Efficiency: With an efficiency of 20.1%, the Talesun Monofacial 400W panel offers solid performance, suitable for homeowners looking to optimize their energy production without occupying too much roof space.
Affordable Cost per Watt: Priced at an average of $2.60/Watt, it presents a good balance between cost and performance, making solar energy more accessible to a broader range of homeowners.
Good Resilience: Rated to withstand snow, wind, hail, and fire, these panels are built to endure harsh weather conditions, ensuring continuous energy production.
Cons:
Shorter Materials Warranty: The 12-year materials warranty is shorter than some competitors, which might raise concerns about the long-term durability and quality of the panels.
Higher Degradation Rate: With an annual degradation of 0.71% after the first year, the panels may lose efficiency slightly faster over time compared to some other options on the market.
Why We Choose Them:
The Talesun Monofacial 400W panel is a viable option for those seeking an affordable entry into solar energy with respectable efficiency. Its cost-effectiveness and solid performance make it suitable for a wide range of residential solar projects. While the materials warranty is somewhat shorter than industry leaders, the competitive cost per watt and efficiency rating offer a compelling value proposition. Homeowners should weigh the slightly higher degradation rate against the overall savings potential. As with any solar investment, verifying the panel's certifications for safety and reliability standards is advisable to ensure it meets your expectations for quality and performance.
What to Consider When Selecting Affordable Solar Panels?
Choosing cheap solar panels for your home involves more than just eyeing the price tag. It’s about ensuring you get the most value for your investment, both now and in the long run. Here’s a breakdown of what to consider to make an informed decision:
Cost per Watt
The cost per watt is your first clue to how much bang you're getting for your buck. It's a straightforward figure that tells you the price of the solar panel relative to its power output. While a lower cost per watt might seem like the best deal at first glance, it's not the only factor to weigh. Sometimes, paying a bit more per watt for a panel means better efficiency or a longer lifespan, which translates to more savings over time.
Efficiency Rating
Efficiency is all about how well a solar panel converts sunlight into electricity. A higher efficiency rating means more power generation and, consequently, more savings on your energy bills. Panels with higher efficiency might come with a higher cost per watt, but they can be more cost-effective in the long run by maximizing your energy production, especially in limited spaces.
Degradation Rate
Solar panels don't stay 100% efficient throughout their lifespan—they gradually produce less electricity. This is where the degradation rate comes into play. A lower degradation rate means your panels will retain more of their initial efficiency year after year. Investing in panels with a slower degradation rate might cost more upfront but can lead to greater savings as they'll continue to perform at a high level for longer.
Performance or Output Warranty
The performance warranty guarantees that your solar panels will maintain a certain level of efficiency over time. A longer warranty period is indicative of a panel's durability and the manufacturer's confidence in their product. Panels with a higher cost per watt but a longer performance warranty can end up being more economical, ensuring that your panels save you money on your energy bills for many years to come.
Equipment Warranty
Lastly, the equipment warranty covers you against manufacturing defects or failures. A comprehensive equipment warranty offers peace of mind and protects your investment, ensuring that any issues will be resolved without additional cost to you. Longer equipment warranties can be a sign of a manufacturer's trust in their product's longevity and reliability, contributing to long-term savings and satisfaction.
So when you’re on the hunt for cheap solar panels, look beyond the initial cost. Consider the efficiency, degradation rate, and warranty terms to truly gauge what you’re getting for your money. These factors will help you find a solar panel that not only fits your budget but also stands the test of time, maximizing your energy savings and contributing to a greener planet.
Bottom Line
Looking for solar panels that won’t break the bank? From what we’ve seen, these five solar panels offer some great deals. Hyperion’s panels are top-notch with a 30-year warranty, making them a smart pick for the long haul. If you’re watching your wallet a bit more closely, Talesun’s panels give you a good bang for your buck with solid performance and a sweet price.
Choosing the best panel comes down to what you need and how much you’re willing to spend. Efficiency, warranty, and price are key things to think about.
Our tip? Shop around. Talk to a few different solar installers in your area to see what deals they have. Prices can vary a lot depending on who you go with. Ready to save on solar? Reach out to us to grab free quotes. Compare your options and find the perfect fit for your home and wallet.
FAQ
Are cheap solar panels worth it?
Yes, cheap solar panels can be worth it if they meet your energy needs and come with solid warranties. It's important to balance cost with quality and long-term performance.
Can I really save money with cheap solar panels?
How long will it take to see a return on my investment in solar panels?
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