Solar energy, a clean and efficient power source, significantly contributes to global power capacity. This has increased solar panel suppliers, and selecting the right one has become challenging. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive list of the top 20 solar panel manufacturers in the world, aiding in informed choices for a sustainable future.
Top 20 Solar Panel Manufacturers in the World
With growing concerns about climate change, solar energy is gaining popularity as a major source of clean power. Numerous solar companies worldwide produce solar cells and panels. To assist you in finding the top manufacturers, we’ve compiled a list of the top 20 solar panel manufacturers in the world:
1. SunPower
Since its establishment in 1985, SunPower has been at the forefront of the solar energy industry. Operating in all 50 states, the company established Maxeon, its solar panel manufacturing arm, offering four lines of highly efficient monocrystalline solar panels with efficiency ratings surpassing 20%. SunPower provides a comprehensive range of solar energy components and facilitates virtual consultations with solar experts on their website for system planning.
As a technological leader, this company ensures that all its systems are controllable and monitorable through a user-friendly mobile app and the EnergyLink monitoring system. It offers flexible options for consumers, including both purchase and zero-down lease choices. Despite occasional communication issues, SunPower maintains high overall consumer ratings. With a commitment to innovation and sustainability, it continues to play a pivotal role in the global transition to cleaner energy solutions and thus bags a place among the top 20 solar panel manufacturers in the world.
2. Jinko Solar
Jinko Solar, based in China, delivered 23.9 GW of solar panels and cells in 2022, with a cumulative total of 165 GW. In 2022, the company generated revenue of 83.53 billion CNY (£9.18 billion), marking a 105% increase from the previous year.
With over 14 factories, including one in the US, Jinko Solar ships its products to more than 160 countries. Their solar panels are suitable for both residential and commercial use, utilized in various projects, including the world’s largest hybrid solar-hydro plant in Yajiang County, Eastern Tibet.
In summary, Jinko Solar is among the top solar companies in the world, showcasing substantial production capacity, impressive revenue growth, and a wide-reaching market presence.
Also See: 20+ Most Powerful Highest Watt Solar Panels
3. Canadian Solar
Canadian Solar stands out as one of the top global manufacturers of solar PV modules, emphasizing research and innovation. The company is known for delivering high-quality products at competitive prices, focusing on manufacturing, engineering, and project development. While already a leader in solar PV technology, Canadian Solar continuously expands its product range and enhances manufacturing efficiency. Pioneering thin-film modules, the company is committed to offering customers top-notch products.
Since its establishment in 2001, with headquarters in Ontario, Canada, Canadian Solar has grown globally, boasting over 14,000 employees and offices in the United States, Europe, and Asia. The company’s dedication to innovation and global presence positions it as a key player in the solar industry. It is thus one of the top 20 solar panel manufacturers in the world.
4. Trinity Solar
If you’re on the East Coast and thinking about using solar power for your home, Trinity Solar might be the solution for you. Trinity is a family-run business specializing in solar on the East Coast, serving nine states from Florida to Massachusetts. They work with brands like Q-cells, Tesla, Generac, and SolarEdge.
Trinity offers well-known solar systems and components, and they provide financing, zero-down solar leasing, and a PPA option. The company also has referral rewards for its customers. While Trinity provides 25-year warranties for solar panels and five-year coverage for installations, the warranties for inverters last for 12 years unless you buy an extension for coverage up to 25 years.
5. Longi Solar
Longi Solar, a Chinese company, has a revenue of about 128 billion CNY (£14 billion). While Longi didn’t ship as many solar panels and cells in 2022 as the top companies, it still reached an impressive 29.2 GW.
In addition to making solar equipment, Longi is working on creating equipment for green hydrogen. They founded Longi Hydrogen in 2021. Longi sells its products to 150 countries and has production facilities in four nations, including China.
Also, check out our blog – Longi Solar Panels Review – Are They Good?
6. Sharp Solar
From its humble beginnings, Sharp Solar has experienced remarkable growth over the past few decades. Now a major player in solar panel manufacturing, the company operates globally, with offices in over 100 countries and a workforce exceeding 8,000. Headquartered in Japan, Sharp Solar boasts over 40 years of industry experience.
Dedicated to environmental sustainability, Sharp Solar stands out as one of the world’s most innovative solar panel companies. Leveraging its technology and expertise, the company actively contributes to reducing the global carbon footprint. Notably, Sharp Solar has developed some of the most efficient solar panels available today, catering to diverse needs, including homes, businesses, farms, and schools.
Also Read: 10 Best Solar Panel Company in India
7. Suntech
Founded in 2001, Suntech is based in Wuxi, China, and centers its efforts on researching and developing innovative solar technologies. With units in Australia, Hong Kong, South Africa, and the UAE, as well as a global business presence, this Chinese firm extends its reach worldwide. While most production facilities are situated in Asian countries, there is also a plant in Germany.
The company offers a diverse range of products, including panels with various capacities suitable for different applications. All these bags it a place in this list of the top 20 solar panel manufacturers in the world.
8. JA Solar
JA Solar, based on shipments, shipped out 36.2 GW worth of solar cells and panels in 2022. This Chinese company boasts over 32,000 employees and has developed solar cells with an impressive 25% efficiency, surpassing the average of 20%.
JA Solar reported an annual sales revenue of about 72.9 billion CNY (£8.04 billion) in 2022, a figure expected to increase. Notably, its revenue for the first half of 2023 has already grown by 43.5% compared to 2022 and is anticipated to continue rising.
The company’s global reach extends to over 135 countries, including the UK, where it ships its products. It is thus among the top solar companies in the world.
Also Read: JA Solar Panels Review – Are They Good?
9. Hanwha Q Cells
Hanwha Q Cells, a South Korean company, specializes in manufacturing solar cells and modules. Currently, it holds the top market share position in both residential and commercial markets in the United States. The company provides high-quality products for projects on a global scale, including residential, commercial, and utility-scale initiatives.
Being one of the world’s largest PV manufacturers, Hanwha Q Cells can offer competitive prices for its products. Utilizing cutting-edge technologies, the company produces high-quality solar panels that require less space to generate sufficient electricity for residential use. Notably, its products rank among the most efficient solar panels available in the market today.
10. MUST Solar
Established in 1998 in China, MUST Solar is now based in Hong Kong. It produces high-quality solar panels containing 60-72 single-crystal cells, offering a maximum power output of 250-300 watt-peak with an average efficiency of around 18.3 percent. This company provides a wide range of products.
In addition to PV modules, the company is involved in the development, manufacturing, sales, and after-sales service of inverters, energy storage solutions, monitoring devices, and more. It is truly one of the top solar companies in the world.
11. Talesun Solar
Talesun Solar is among the top 20 solar panel manufacturers in the world. It is a Chinese firm that stands out as a leader in PV module and cell manufacturing. Headquartered in Suzhou, the company boasts an annual production capacity of 5 gigawatts for solar modules and 4 gigawatts for cells. Overall, Talesun Solar has played a role as an investor and developer for over 6 gigawatts of photovoltaic stations and has shipped more than 10 gigawatts of modules.
Also See: 5 Top Solar Panel Manufacturers in India listed in Stock Exchange
12. REC Solar
Founded in 1996 in Norway, this U.S.-based company has evolved into one of the leading global solar energy firms. REC supplies solar modules that power installations worldwide. As of the turn of 2019-2020, the company has produced approximately 38 million high-quality and reliable PV panels. REC’s solar products undergo rigorous internal testing, third-party certification, and approval, boasting the lowest claim rates in the industry.
13. First Solar
First Solar engages in the development, financing, engineering, construction, and operation of some of the world’s largest grid-tied photovoltaic stations. Their solutions prioritize reliability, dependability, and cost-effectiveness. First Solar leads in research and development investment, enabling a rapid increase in energy yield, minimizing the levelized cost of electricity, and ensuring stability in grid integration.
First Solar’s technology delivers energy during peak hours, helping to stabilize costs for electricity users and making the levelized cost of energy competitive with conventional sources. It is truly one of the top solar panel companies in the world.
14. Panasonic
While Panasonic is well-known for manufacturing electronic devices like smartphones, cameras, and air-conditioners, it is also a producer of solar panels. The PV modules from Panasonic are recognized for their exceptional reliability. Among their best series is the 330N HIT, consisting of 96 solar cells and boasting a 19.7% efficiency rate.
What sets Panasonic’s panels apart from competitors is their extremely low temperature coefficient of only -0.258%/°C, compared to the standard -0.4%/°C. This is crucial because as the temperature rises above 25°C, the performance of solar modules typically decreases. Panasonic’s devices excel even in the hottest weather, a feature not found in many other solar products.
You can also go through our comparison blog – REC Vs Panasonic Solar Panels
15. GCL-SI
GCL-SI from Hong Kong started three decades ago and has seen significant growth over the years. In 2018, it supplied nearly 30% of the world’s wafer production and 22.2% of silicon manufacturing. With total assets reaching almost $3.3 billion, GCL is now among the largest solar energy firms globally.
16. Blueleaf Energy
Blueleaf Energy aims to create, implement, and manage safe, high-quality, and ethical renewable energy projects. Their goal is to contribute to a greener energy mix and reduce power bills. They focus on the development, financing, construction, and operation of renewable energy and storage assets throughout the Asia-Pacific region. Thus the company holds a firm place among the top solar panel companies in the world.
17. Kyocera
Founded in Kyoto over 60 years ago with an initial staff of only eight people, the Japanese corporation has consistently produced high-quality products using innovative materials and components. Now an international group manufacturing a diverse range of goods, Kyocera includes a solar energy unit situated in Mesa, Arizona. This unit is responsible for producing photovoltaic panels and solar energy generation systems.
Also See: 9 Best Portable Solar Panels For Cloudy Days
18. Samsung
Founded in Seoul in 1954, Samsung is a renowned manufacturer of household utilities. In its solar department, the company produces both single-crystal and multi-crystalline PV panels at facilities in South Korea. With a robust research and development unit, Samsung can patent its photovoltaic solutions. The solar modules come with a 25-year performance warranty, and all products have IEC, CEC, and UL certificates.
19. Yingli Solar
Yingli Solar is a Chinese company that has global production and logistics expertise, supplying over 24GW to 90+ countries across Europe, Asia, America, Africa, and Australia. Their dependable solar panels are certified to operate in various climate conditions worldwide.
20. Schott
For many years, the German company has been working on solar technology solutions. Schott’s products have distinct features that set them apart from competitors, including high-standard hermetic cable penetration, special glass tubes, and borosilicate glass. All this makes it notable among the top solar panel companies in the world.
Finding authentic solar panel manufacturers is now simplified. This compilation of the world’s top 20 solar panel manufacturers in the world eliminates the need for extensive research. You might also like to read about the top solar racking manufacturers.
