SunPower is one of the leading solar panel and cell manufacturers in the world. It is known for its efficient and high-quality panels that come with patented IBC cell technology. If you want to switch to SunPower panels and don’t know which are the best SunPower solar panels you can buy, then this list will surely help.
Sunpower Solar Panels: What Series Are Available?
Before learning about the best SunPower solar panels, it is important to know about the different series of solar panels SunPower has. These are three different SunPower solar panel series you can choose from-
1. M Series
This series is currently being manufactured by Maxeon Solar Technologies, which took over SunPower’s manufacturing facility in 2019. This series provides the highest output or wattage. They are also the most efficient solar panels in SunPower’s lineup but they come with a premium charge.
The M series offers 5 output options: 420W, 425W, 430W, 435W, and 440W. Additionally, all SunPower Maxeon-produced solar panels are comprised of n-type, monocrystalline, half-cut solar cells.
2. X Series
Maxeon also manufactures SunPower’s X Series. In comparison to the M series, the X series panels are less costly but also lower in output. They are a good fit for budget solar shoppers. This series offers two output options: 360W and 370W.
3. U Series
U Series is the most recent addition to the budget series of SunPower solar panels. Frankly, still, a lot is not known about this series. For a change, this series isn’t manufactured by Maxeon, instead, it is manufactured by a few different solar companies like Aptos Solar Technology (a U.S.-based solar manufacturer) and potentially Waaree (a large India-based solar manufacturer). So, the metrics of the U series are still not fully clear.
Now that you have a basic knowledge of the three series offered by SunPower, you are now eligible to go through this list of 5 Best SunPower solar panels you can buy.
5 Best Sunpower Solar Panels You Can Buy
SunPower offers different series of solar panels, and each series has the best panel of its own. All the series cater to different groups of buyers. So as a buyer, you need to choose the best series for you and then the best solar panel it offers. This list of the best SunPower solar panels will help you select the ideal SunPower solar panel for you.
1. M-SERIES
a) SunPower 420-440W Residential AC Module
The SunPower 420-440W residential AC Module with Equinox is among the best solar SunPower solar panels. It is very efficient and has the highest AC density. SunPower provides a 25-year complete warranty on this solar system. It has Maxeon Gen 6 solar cells that are 5% bigger than the previous product line.
This product doesn’t need any extra hardware or connections. Additionally, it has an Equinox System that allows for added energy storage for a backup source during charge reductions or power outages.
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2. A- SERIES
a) 420-390 W Residential AC Module
The SunPower 420-390 W Residential AC Module is the most powerful solar panel the brand offers. It comes with a patented technology that prevents breakages.
This panel offers nearly 60% lifetime energy efficiency. It has the highest-power integrated AC module in the solar industry. Compared to the previous designs, this AC module is 60% lighter.
Additionally, this model panels use 66 Maxeon Gen 5 cells which are nearly 65% bigger than the X series.
b) 390-400W Residential BLK DC
This 390-400W Residential BLK DC model is quite efficient. It has even bigger solar cells than before. Even after its 25-year lifetime warranty, you can expect nearly 54% more energy. This product also uses 66 Maxeon Gen 5 solar cells within its panels and comes with a spectacular smooth look.
c) 430-450 W Commercial A-Series Panels
The SunPower 430-450 W Commercial A-Series Panels are among the most efficient and powerful commercial panels available in the market. SunPower offers a standard 25-year complete system warranty on these power-dense panels.
Different from the other two models of this series, this one uses 72 Maxeon Gen 5 cells which are 65% bigger than previous generations.
Also See: Jinko vs Sunpower Solar Panels
3. X- SERIES
a) X-Series Commercial AC Solar Panels
Compared to other conventional industry panels, the SunPower X series Commercial AC solar panels offer an impressive 60% of lifetime energy efficiency. These panels are known for their reliability.
These panels come with 25-year product defect protection. Additionally, they produce more energy over time. They are made up of 128 Maxeon Gen 3 solar cells. Additionally, they have also ranked first in the Fraunhofer durability test.
b) X-Series Commercial DC Panel for Helix
The SunPower Commercial DC Panel for Helix is an X-Series panel suitable for a helix roof. This panel comes with pre-installed clips that allow for a tool-free installation. The panel comes with a solid metal foundation and 96 Maxeon Gen 3 solar cells.
Also Read: JA Solar Panels Review – Are They Good?
c) X-Series Residential DC Panel
The X-Series SunPower Residential DC Panel is one of the best SunPower solar panels because of its sustainability and minimalism. This panel is made up of 96 Maxeon Gen 3 cells.
This X series solar panel comes with 25-year power and product protection. It has also ranked first on Silicon Valley Toxics Coalition 2015 Solar Scorecard. Additionally, it is also the first panel to have achieved Bronze Cradle to Grave Certification.
d) X-Series SunPower Residential AC Module
The X-Series SunPower Residential AC Module is used with the SunPower Equinox system. It has a reputation for the fast and simple installation of an integrated microinverter. It also has quick shutdown capabilities.
This solar panel type is comprised of 96 Maxeon Gen 3 solar cells. Additionally, it comes with a 25-year power and product warranty.
4. E- SERIES
a) SunPower E-Series Commercial DC Panel
The SunPower E-Series Commercial DC Panel is among the most efficient and reliable panels in the market. This panel is made up of 96 Maxeon Gen 2 solar cells (or 128 Maxeon Gen 2 cells in the Helix version). This sturdy and efficient solar panel provides 12% more power over 25 years.
This panel ranked first in Silicon Valley Toxics Coalition 2015 Solar Scorecard, achieved Silver recognition in the Cradle to Grave Certification, and contributed to LEEDS categories more than conventional solar panels.
b) SunPower E-Series Residential AC Model
The SunPower E-Series Residential AC solar panel is known for its power and minimalistic feel. It is designed to work with the SunPower Equinox system.
This model offers a factory-integrated microinverter which allows you to install the system quite easily. It is comprised of 96 Maxeon Gen 2 solar cells. Over its 25-year power and product warranty, you can expect 12% more power.
c) SunPower E-Series Residential DC Panel
The SunPower E-Series Residential DC Panel is known for its solid durability and high efficiency. It is a quality product comprised of 96 Maxeon Gen 2 solar cells. Compared to conventional panels, this panel gives you 45% more energy over its 25-year warranty.
It has ranked first in Silicon Valley Toxics Coalition 2015 Solar Scorecard, achieved a Bronze Cradle to Grave certificate, and also contributes significantly to LEEDS categories.
5. P- SERIES
a) SunPower Performance Series 1000V
The SunPower Performace Series is designed for power performance. It comes with improved reliability due to the flexible solar cells. This is an ideal panel for elevated rows or ground rows. It comes with a 25-year power and product warranty. It has a minimal power decline of about 0.6% per year.
b) SunPower Performace Series 1500 Volt
The SunPower Performance Series 1500 Volt solar panels are designed for harmonious performance over decades. It comes with a 25-year warranty and a minimal power loss that ends at about 82.6%.
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Which is the Best SunPower Solar Panel?
After getting a brief oversight about the best SunPower solar panels in the market, it’s time to dig deeper into the technical aspects of these options.
1. Residential Solar AC Panels
Parameters | E-Series Residential AC Module | X-Series Residential AC Modules | A-Series 420-390W Residential AC Module | M-Series 420-440W Residential AC Model |
---|---|---|---|---|
Maximum Continuous Output Power (VA) | 315 | Around 315 | 349 | 384 |
Efficiency | 19.9%-20.4% | 20.4-22.7% | 20.9-22.5% | 22.8% |
Size | 61.6 inches long, 15.5 inches wide | 61.3 inches long, 15.5 inches wide | 72.2 inches long, 40 inches wide | 73.7 inches long, 40.6 inches wide |
Weight | 19.5 kg | 19.5 kg | 21.1 kg | 21.8 kg |
Impact Resistance | 1-inch hail at the rate of 52mph | 1-inch hail at the rate of 52mph | 1-inch hail at the rate of 52mph | 1-inch hail at the rate of 52mph |
Operating Temperatures | -40 F to 185 F | -40 F to 185 F | -40 F to 185 F | -40 F to 185 F |
Also See: Longi Solar Panels Review – Are They Good?
2. Residential DC Panels
Parameters | E-Series Residential DC Panel | X-Series Residential DC | A-Series 390-400 W Residential BLK DC |
---|---|---|---|
Nominal Power | 320-327 Watts | 350-370 Watts | 390-400 Watts |
Efficiency | 19.6-20.1% | 20.6-22.7% | 20.9%-21.4% |
Size | 61.3 inches long, 41.2 inches wide | 61.3 inches long, 41.2 inches wide | 72.2 inches long, 40 inches wide |
Weight | 18.6kg | 18.6kg | 20 kg |
Impact Resistance | 1-inch hail at the rate of 52mph | 1-inch hail at the rate of 52mph | 1-inch hail at the rate of 52mph |
Operating Temperatures | -40 F to 185 F | -40 F to 185 F | -40 F to 185 F |
3. Commercial Solar AC Panels
Parameters | X-Series Commercial Solar Panels | A-Series 430-450 W Commercial Panel | M-Series 450-475 W Commercial Panel |
---|---|---|---|
Nominal Power (Watts) | 445-470 Watts | 430-450 Watts | 450-475 Watts |
Efficiency | 20.6-21.7% | 21.2-22.2% | 20.2%-22.3% |
Size | 81.4 inches long, 41.2 inches wide | 78.7 inches long, 40 inches wide | 80.6 inches long, 40.9 inches wide |
Weight | 25.4 kg | 22.3 kg | 20.67 kg |
Impact Resistance | 1-inch hail at the rate of 52mph | 1-inch hail at the rate of 52mph | 1-inch hail at the rate of 52mph |
Operating Temperatures | -40 F to 185 F | -40 F to 185 F | -40 F to 185 F |
Also Read: Longi Vs LG Solar Panels – Which is Better?
4. Commercial Solar DC Panels
Parameters | E-Series Commercial DC Panels | E-Series Commercial DC Panels for Helix | X-Series Commercial DC Panels | X-Series Commercial DC Panels for Helix |
---|---|---|---|---|
Efficiency | 19.6-20.1% | 20.1% | 21.3-21.7% | 21.2-22.1% |
Nominal Power | 320-327 Watts | 435 Watts | 460-470 Watts | 345-360 Watts |
Impact Resistance | 1-inch hail at the rate of 52mph | 1-inch hail at the rate of 52mph | 1-inch hail at the rate of 52mph | 1-inch hail at the rate of 52mph |
Operating Temperatures | -40 F to 185 F | -40 F to 185 F | -40 F to 185 F | -40 F to 185 F |
Size | 61.4 inches long, 41.2 inches wide | 81.6 inches long, 42.2 inches wide | 81.4 inches long, 41.2 inches wide | 61.4 inches long, 41.2 inches wide |
Weight | 18.6 kg | 25.4 kg | 25.4 kg | 18.6 kg |
5. Performance Series (Large Scale Solar)
Parameter | P-Series 1000 V | P-Series 1500V |
---|---|---|
Nominal Power | 330-350 Watts | 335-355 Watts |
Efficiency | 16-17% | 16.2-17.2% |
Size | 81.4 inches long, 39.3 inches wide | 81.4 inches long, 39.3 inches wide |
Weight | 23.1 kg | 23.1 kg |
Impact Resistance | 1-inch hail at the rate of 52mph | 1-inch hail at the rate of 52mph |
Operating Temperatures | -40 F to 185 F | -40 F to 185 F |
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How to Choose a SunPower Solar Panel?
Let’s learn what are the Best SunPower solar panels in different segments-
1. Residential Panels AC Panels
- Size: E-Series residential AC module is the smallest.
- Efficiency: M-Series 420-440W Residential AC Model is the best in terms of efficiency.
- Maximum continuous power output: The panel with the highest maximum continuous power output is A-Series 390-400 W Residential BLK DC.
- Weight: if you are looking for a light solar panel module then go for X-Series Residential AC Module and E-Series Residential AC Module.
If power and efficiency are what you’re after but don’t mind extra weight and inches then the M-Series 420-440W Residential AC Model is the best option.
On the contrary, if you need slightly less output and smaller size, then the A, E, and X series panels are what you should go for.
2. Residential DC Panels
If you want to go for residential DC panels, these are the best aspects:
- Size: E-Series Residential and X-Series Residential DC Panel are the smallest.
- Efficiency: The most efficient panels are from X-Series Residential DC.
- Nominal Power: The A-Series 390-400 W Residential BLK DC has the highest nominal power.
- Weight: the X-Series Residential DC Panels and E-Series Residential SC Modules are the lightest.
If your priority is weight, size, and efficiency but don’t mind a low-power output panel, the X-Series Residential DC Panels are amazing. However, if you want maximum power, the A-Series 390-400 W Residential BLK DC is great.
Also Read: Are Solar Panels Worth it in BC?
3. Commercial AC Panels
If you are considering AC panels for your business then this will help-
- Nominal Power: the M-Series 450-475 W Commercial Panel has the highest nominal power.
- Efficiency: The most efficient panel is definitely the A-Series 430-450 W Commercial Panel.
- Weight: As per weight, you should go for the M-Series 450-475 W Commercial Panels as they are the lightest.
- Size: If you want to go for the smallest panel go for the A-Series 430-450 W Commercial Panel.
If you want an efficient solar panel and don’t mind some extra weight then the A-Series 430-450 W Commercial Panel is for you. On the contrary, if you want a panel with great power and lightest weight then the M-Series 450-475 W Commercial Panel is the best choice. But to be fair, both these panels are quite close in terms of power and measurement. So, the choice between both is based on your personal preference.
4. Commercial DC Panels
If you want to go for a DC commercial setup, these are some optimal aspects of solar panel options:
- Nominal Power: The X-Series commercial DC panel has the highest nominal power.
- Efficiency: The X-Series Commercial DC Panel is a very efficient solar panel.
- Weight and Size: The E-Series Commerical DC panel are the lightest and smallest panels.
In this category, X-series is the most efficient one. It is for people who want the most power. However, if you need a lighter and smaller structure then the E-series is for you.
Also See: Are Solar Panels Worth it in Arkansas?
5. DC Panels for Helix
- Nominal Power: E-Series Commercial DC Panel for Helix has the highest nominal power in this category.
- Efficiency: In this segment, the most efficient panel is the X-Series Commercial DC Panel for Helix.
- Size and Weight: The X-Series Commercial DC Panel for Helixis is the lightest and smallest panel in this segment.
If you want to buy a panel with maximum power, the E-Series is great for you.
6. Large Scale Performance Panels
For bigger solar setups like solar farms, you can use the following solar panels:
- Power and efficiency: In these aspects, the P-Series 1500V is the top choice.
- Size and Weight: The P-Series 1000V and 1500V are equal in terms of size and base.
So, it boils down to your power needs when choosing an appropriate panel in this segment.
Also Read: Q Cell Vs LG Solar Panels Which is Better?
What are the Advantages and Disadvantages Of SunPower Solar Panels?
Learning about the best SunPower solar panels isn’t enough. To make the right investment decision, learning about the advantages and disadvantages of SunPower solar panels is also a must.
Pros of SunPower Solar Panels
- Product Warranty: SunPower solar panels come with one of the most comprehensive and extended warranties. They have a 25-year product warranty. Additionally, if you register your panels, they also provide a 40-year 88.25% warranty.
- Battery System Compatibility: Apart from solar panels, SunPower also offers the SunVault storage system. This allows you to install a completely integrated solar system under a single company.
- Great Efficiency: Currently, these panels are the most efficient panels available in the marketplace.
Cons Of SunPower Solar Panels
- Cost: These panels are quite expensive. So, if the price is a major concern for you, these panels aren’t for you.
- Manufacturing: SunPower no longer manufactures its own panels. However, this isn’t a direct disadvantage.
Also See: 4 Leasing Solar Panels Pros and Cons
How Much Do SunPower Solar Panels Cost?
For most homeowners, price plays a pivotal role when selecting solar power equipment. So, just knowing the best SunPower solar panels isn’t enough, learning about their cost is also essential. The total price you’ll bear for a solar energy system with SunPower panels varies based on the equipment (like mounts and inverters) used in the installation. Additionally, the characteristics of your roof also determine the price.
Typically, most SunPower systems are priced between $3.48 and $4.10 per watt– these panels are on the pricier side. This means that for a 6kW system, you’ll need to approximately pay anywhere from $20,880 to $24,600 (this is without subtracting any tax credits or other incentives)
To find the best price on SunPower solar panels, you should analyze quotes from different installers. Finally, choose the profile of the installer on the basis of your preference.
With this, you have learned about the best SunPower solar panels you can buy. There isn’t a single best solar panel in SunPower, there are many. This company offers different series of solar panels and these series have their own best panels. On the basis of efficiency, output, size, weight, price, operating temperature, and impact resistance, you can choose the panel that is the best fit for you.
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