Kworld Trend / Top Affordable Solar Energy Options For Homeowners Thecoteriedc.com, As experts in solar energy, we understand the importance of finding affordable and reliable solar panels. While numerous options exist, we have researched and tested several to find the best and most cost-effective solutions. In this article, we’ll share our top picks for cheap solar panels that provide reliable energy while still being easy on your wallet.
The Best Cheap Solar Panels of 2023 | Top Affordable Solar Energy Options For Homeowners
Installing a solar power system for your home is an exciting endeavor. This foray into renewable energy can save you money on your energy usage, increase your property value and benefit your community and the environment. However, if you are considering converting your home’s energy to solar, then you’ve most likely noticed that it can be a considerable investment with high equipment and labor costs.
There are two chief ways to cut costs. The first is to find an inexpensive installer. The second is to identify cheap solar panels for either professional installation or to do it yourself (DIY). We should note that a DIY approach might lead to even more expenses over time when you factor in tools and equipment you probably don’t have on hand and potential mishandling. Therefore, we recommend learning about cheap solar panels and discussing them with one of the best solar installation companies instead.
At the Guides Home Team, we have researched dozens of solar panel manufacturers in creating our list of the top picks for cheap solar panels. In addition to pricing, we also evaluated each manufacturer on efficiency rating, reputation and warranty options.
Top Cheap Solar Panels of 2023
Here’s our list of the best affordable solar panels:
- Silfab: Our overall pick
- Panasonic: Our pick for premium panels
- Q Cells: Our pick for warranty options
- Canadian Solar: Our pick for affordability
- LG: Our pick for accessibility
- Trina Solar: Our pick for value panels
- SunPower: Our pick for efficiency
Silfab
- Cost per watt: $2.85–$3.05
- Warranties: 25-year product and 30-year performance warranty
- Efficiency: 19.2%–21.4%
North American manufacturer Silfab made it to the top of our list of best solar panels due to its high-performance panels backed by one of the longest warranties in the industry. The company offers fairly competitive efficiency rates for its price point. It is more affordable than others with similar offerings, such as Q Cells.
Panasonic
- Cost per watt: $2.44–$3.10
- Warranties: 25-year product and 25-year performance
- Efficiency: 18.4%–21.7%
Panasonic offers one of the most efficient residential solar panels on the market, EverVolt. As you might expect from a big brand name like Panasonic, it builds solar products for efficiency and durability. The company also offers its panels at fair prices.
Q Cells
- Cost per watt: $2.40–$3.16
- Warranties: 25-year product and 25-year performance
- Efficiency: 20%–20.9%
Q Cells offers some of the most affordable solar panels on the market. In addition to affordability, the company offers one of the best performance warranties in the industry, and it can extend its product guarantees by three years.
Canadian Solar
- Cost per watt: $2.70–$3.20
- Warranties: 12-year product and 25-year performance
- Efficiency: 15.88%–20.6%
The Canadian Solar offers well-rated and regarded solar panels in terms of durability and efficiency, and it offers them at reasonable prices. Canadian Solar does not feature the highest performance on this list, but it is an excellent option if you are searching for more affordable solar panels.
LG
- Cost per watt: $2.46–$3.38
- Warranties: 25-year product and 25-year performance
- Efficiency: 22.3%
We recommend LG’s solar panels if your home has a unique or complex roof structure. The company offers a lineup of panels that work well with almost any rooftop configuration. LG’s products have moderate to high efficiency ratings, but they also come at a relatively high price point.
Trina Solar
- Cost per watt: $2.31–$3.39
- Warranties: 10- and 15-year product; 30-year performance
- Efficiency: 16.2%–20.4%
Trina Solar’s panels come at a high price point. Even then, its panels are not as efficient as those offered by more expensive brands. The panel specs fall within the industry average, and Trina has taken measures to improve some past quality issues, such as ensuring its panels are protected against degradation or failure caused by standing water.
SunPower
- Cost per watt: $3.30–$3.74
- Warranties: 25-year product and 25-year performance
- Efficiency: 20.1%–30%
SunPower uses Maxeon, an independent company that originally was part of SunPower, to supply its solar panels. Its high-efficiency panels feature some of the lowest rates of degradation. These higher efficiency rates mean you could use fewer panels to produce your home’s required electricity, which may lead to a more cost-effective installation on a small rooftop. Overall, though, SunPower’s products are more expensive than most competitors.
Renogy 100 Watt 12 Volt Monocrystalline Solar Panel
The Renogy 100 Watt 12 Volt Monocrystalline Solar Panel is a great option for affordable and efficient solar panels. With a high conversion efficiency of up to 21%, this panel can produce more power with less sunlight than other models on the market. Additionally, it has a durable aluminium frame and tempered glass surface that can withstand harsh weather conditions. Top Affordable Solar Energy Options For Homeowners
Grape Solar 100-Watt Polycrystalline Solar Panel
The Grape Solar 100-Watt Polycrystalline Solar Panel is another great option for those looking for a cost-effective solar panel. This panel is made with high-efficiency polycrystalline solar cells that can convert sunlight into usable energy with an efficiency of up to 18%. It also has a sturdy aluminium frame and tempered glass surface for durability.
The HQST 100 Watt 12 Volt Polycrystalline Solar Panel is a reliable and efficient solar panel that won’t break the bank. It has a high conversion efficiency of up to 18.4% and can produce up to 500Wh daily. This panel also comes with a 25-year power output warranty, so you can rest assured that your investment will last.
ECO-WORTHY 100-Watt Monocrystalline Solar Panel
The ECO-WORTHY 100-Watt Monocrystalline Solar Panel is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise efficiency. With a conversion efficiency of up to 18.2%, this panel can produce up to 500Wh per day. It also has a durable aluminium frame and tempered glass surface for long-lasting use.
Pros:
- can lower or eliminate your energy costs
- can result in savings on your energy cost.
- Low upkeep Negatives
- Not functional during a power loss
- Pricey compared to off-grid setups
- Solar Energy Systems Off-Grid
You’ll need a battery backup system to store excess energy for usage when the sun isn’t shining because an off-grid solar energy system is not connected to the utility grid. Off-grid systems are often utilized in distant areas where connecting to the utility grid is impractical or expensive.
Pros:
- can provide electricity even when there is no power
- No ongoing energy costs
- can be applied in distant places
Cons:
- Pricey compared to grid-tied systems
- extra upkeep is necessary
- Solar hybrid energy systems
A hybrid solar energy system connects to the utility grid and uses a battery backup system to store extra energy, combining the best features of both types of systems. This means you will have a backup power source in case of a power outage and the ability to consume electricity from the grid when your solar panels aren’t producing enough. Top Affordable Solar Energy Options For Homeowners
Pros:
- can lower or eliminate your energy costs
- can provide electricity even when there is no power
- Low upkeep Negatives
- Pricey compared to grid-tied systems
- Considerations for Selecting a Solar Energy System
There are various things to think about when selecting a solar energy system for your home:
Your Needs for Energy
How much energy do you consume every day? This will enable you to estimate the number of solar panels you’ll need to set up to meet your energy requirements.
You’re Budget
What are your financial limits for a solar energy system? Before making a purchase, having a budget in mind is crucial because solar energy systems can be expensive.
How Big Your Roof Is
The number of solar panels you can install will depend on your roof size. You may place more solar panels on a more extensive roof, which can provide more power.
What Angle Is Your Roof?
The orientation of your roof may also impact the performance of your solar panels. Since it receives the most sunlight throughout the day, the top facing south is typically the best orientation for solar panels in the Northern Hemisphere.
How Much Sunlight Does Your Roof Gets
Your solar panels’ efficiency may also be impacted by how much sunlight your roof receives. Your roof might not be the best place for a solar energy system if nearby trees or structures shade it.
Top Solar Energy Options at Affordable Prices for Homeowners
After reviewing the fundamentals of solar energy systems, let’s look at the best, most inexpensive solutions for homeowners:
Solar cells
The most well-known and widely-used kind of solar energy system uses solar panels. They comprise photovoltaic cells, which use sunshine to create electricity. You can put solar panels on the ground or your roof depending on your energy needs. Top Affordable Solar Energy Options For Homeowners
Compare The Top Cheap Solar Panels
| Solar Panel Brand | Category | Overview |
|---|---|---|
| Silfab | Premium | Manufactures high-quality, durable panels at a reasonable price |
| Panasonic | Premium | Carries the weight of a long-standing tech industry giant |
| Q Cells | Value | Offers multiple warranty options, including a lengthy performance guarantee |
| Canadian Solar | Value | Provides an affordable alternative to other solar panels |
| LG | Premium | Panels work with most roof configurations |
| Trina Solar | Value | Makes some of the best panels in the value category |
| Sunpower | Premium | Panels have the highest efficiency rating of any other provider on our list |
Pros:
- can lower or eliminate your energy costs
- can raise your house’s worth.
- Can be mounted on your roof or the ground Negatives:
- more expensive than some alternative sources of solar energy
- possibly requiring a more significant initial outlay
WindyNation 100-Watt Solar Panel
The WindyNation 100 Watt Solar Panel is a versatile and affordable option for those seeking solar power. This panel has a high conversion efficiency of up to 18.4% and can be used in various applications, from powering RVs and boats to providing backup power for homes. It also has a sturdy aluminium frame and tempered glass surface for durability.
In conclusion, when it comes to finding affordable solar panels, there are numerous options on the market. However, by considering factors such as conversion efficiency, durability, and warranty, we have determined that the Renogy 100 Watt 12 Volt Monocrystalline Solar Panel, Grape Solar 100 Watt Polycrystalline Solar Panel, HQST 100 Watt 12 Volt Polycrystalline Solar Panel, ECO-WORTHY 100 Watt Monocrystalline Solar Panel, and WindyNation 100 Watt Solar Panel are some of the best options available. By investing in these panels, you can harness the sun’s power and enjoy reliable energy without breaking the bank.
Solar Panel Cost
Various factors influence the overall cost of solar panel installation. The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) estimates the national average cost of a residential solar panel system at $2.94 per watt.* This per-watt price translates to just under $11,000 for a 5 kW system, which is the average size of a standard residential solar system in the United States.
*Based on a June 2021 report
System Panels and Equipment
The number of panels you need and the type of panels you select will significantly affect solar panel prices. The average home solar system is 5 kW, although larger homes may require a 6 kW system. For example, a system that uses 250-watt photovoltaic panels equates to approximately 20 panels per home, at the cost of roughly $11,000.
Home solar systems also require an inverter to convert the power and a solar battery to store power outside sunlight hours. Most solar companies will design your solar system with these components included, but selecting specific inverters or batteries, such as a Tesla Powerwall, may increase your overall cost. Top Affordable Solar Energy Options For Homeowners 2023
