Best Sunpower Solar Panels
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-
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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%.
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.
Residential Solar AC Panels
Residential DC Panels
Commercial Solar AC Panels
Commercial Solar DC Panels
Performance Series (Large Scale Solar)
How to Choose a SunPower Solar Panel?
Let’s learn what are the Best SunPower solar panels in different segments-
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Olivia is committed to green energy and works to help ensure our planet’s long-term habitability. She takes part in environmental conservation by recycling and avoiding single-use plastic.
Sunpower maxeon gen3
Built specifically for use with the SunPower Equinox ® system, the only fullyintegrated solution designed, engineered and warrantied by one manufacturer.
Highest Power Density Available
The patented, solid-copper foundation Maxeon Gen 6 cell is over 5% larger than prior generations, delivering the highest-efficiency all-black AC solar module available.
Highest Lifetime Energy and Savings.
Designed to deliver 60% more energy over 25 years in real-world conditions like partial shade and high temperatures.
Best Reliabilty. Best Warranty.
With more than 42.6 million and 15 GW of modules deployed around the world, SunPower technology is proven to last. That’s why we stand behind our module and microinverter with the industry’s best 25-year Combined Power and Product Warranty, including the highest Power Warranty in solar.
SAVKAT ® Connecticut71 Dolphin Rd.Bristol, CT 06010(860) 288-7557
SunPower X Series Solar Panels: Should You Choose Them for Your Project?
X Series solar panels by SunPower are among the best photovoltaic (PV) modules available. They feature cutting-edge technology and certified durability. These modules are among the different solar solutions by SunPower, delivering 60% more energy than conventional modules during their 25-year lifespan.
If you want to learn more about the SunPower X-Series, this SunPower X-Series review is for you. Here we will analyze the technology featured in these modules, their technical specs, strengths advantages, compare them against other options, and explain which applications are better suited for them.
Technology featured in the SunPower X Series solar panels
SunPower X-Series feature Maxeon Gen III solar cells, one outstanding solar technology available. In this section, we explain how this technology works.
Maxeon Gen III Solar Cell
Maxeon Gen III Solar Cells feature cutting-edge technology with a 24.3% efficiency, delivering 25% to 35% more power than traditional cells. The technology implements high-quality monocrystalline silicon wafers with a black antireflection coating at the front, and Interdigitated Back Contact (IBC) or All-Back contact technology with a copper metal grid with tin-coating at the back of the cell.
These cells make SunPower X Series modules resistant to Light-Induce Degradation (LID) while delivering a low-temperature coefficient and great performance in broad light spectrums. The cells are also eco-friendly by featuring entirely lead-free components.
Technical specs details of the X Series solar panels
Residential X-Series
Residential X-Series includes the X21 and X22 variations. The X21 features a traditional design with superior aesthetics and a power output of 335W, while the X22 modules are the latest technology, featuring a superior performance with a power output of up to 360W.
- Module Efficiency: Up to 22.2%.
- Nominal Output Power: 335W – 360W.
- Temperature Coefficient:.0.29%/ºC
- Operating Temperature:.40ºF to 185ºF
- Dimensions: 61.3 x 41.2 x 1.8 in.
Residential SunPower X Series modules are designed to deliver more power with fewer modules installed. Featuring 96 Maxeon III solar cells with a conversion efficiency of up to 22.2%, X Series modules can deliver up to 360W for the highest power-rated module in the series, while the All-Black design can deliver up to 335W.
Each SunPower X Series module features a Class A appearance and it is protected by a high-transmission tempered anti-reflective glass with a Class 1 black anodized frame. The modules are resistant to extreme climates and are covered by SunPower’s 25-year warranty.
Commercial X-Series
Commercial X-Series features a slight variation between the X21 and the X22 options. The X21 features 128 solar cells for a power output of up to 470W, while the X22 modules feature 96 cells for an output of 360W.
- Module Efficiency: Up to 22.2%.
- Nominal Output Power: 360W / 445W – 470W
- Temperature Coefficient:.0.29%/ºC
- Operating Temperature:.40ºF to 185ºF
- Dimensions: 61.4 x 41.2 x 1.8 in. / 81.4 x 41.2 x 1.8 in.
Commercial SunPower X-Series is designed for commercial and utility-scale applications, featuring 96 and 128 Maxeon Gen III solar cells to deliver 360W for the X22 and 445W-470W for the X21 options. The size between both options also varies.
These modules feature a B Class appearance and are protected by a high-transmission tempered anti-reflective glass with a Class 2 silver anodized frame. They have a slightly lower resistance to extreme climates than residential variations but are also covered by a 25-year warranty.
Strengths advantages of the SunPower X-Series
SunPower X-series features many strengths and advantages, making them excellent solar solutions for various applications. These are some of their main strengths advantages:
Durable Resistant Design
A tin-copper and slightly flexible design for the Maxeon Gen III solar cells makes the SunPower X-Series resistant to corrosion and cracks. They are also resistant to Light-Induced degradation, resulting in a higher power energy output of 2% to 3%.
energy is delivered during its lifetime
Combining high durability with outstanding performance, SunPower X Series modules can deliver 60% more energy compared to traditional modules. In the first year, these modules deliver 45% more power than traditional options, but by their 25 th year, they are producing 81% more power than conventional ones.
Better performance at high temperatures
Maxeon Gen III solar cells feature a low-temperature coefficient of.0.29%/ºC. This means that SunPower X Series modules can produce around 1-2% more energy at a high temperature of 35-40ºC, making them extremely suitable for regions with hot climates.
Increased performance under different light conditions
The performance of SunPower X Series modules is improved in overcast and low-light conditions, thanks to the cutting-edge technology in Maxeon Gen III solar cells. This increases the energy output of the SunPower X Series by around 1% compared to traditional modules.
25-year warranty
SunPower X-Series are designed to be lasting and durable, which are covered by SunPower’s 25-year warranty for the product and performance.
Highly aesthetic design
The X21-Series features the key signature All-Black design of SunPower, delivering a great power output without disrupting the aesthetic of the house. This feature makes them a unique solar solution in locations where aesthetics is a key factor for the installation of PV modules.
Comparing SunPower X-Series
To comprehend the reach of the SunPower X-Series, it is better to compare them against competitor options and even other modules designed by SunPower. In this section, we make these comparisons.
SunPower X-Series vs. 360W DNA 120 Aptos Solar
DNA 120 solar panels by Aptos Solar, are a popular option in the U.S. as well that competes against the SunPower X-Series. Let us contrast both options against each other.
Both companies have designed PV modules featuring a 360W power output, but they feature different technologies. Maxeon Gen III solar cells have an efficiency of 22.2%, while DNA split cells only reach an efficiency of 19.73%. This makes that for Aptos Solar modules to produce 360W, they have to be larger and 4.09 lbs. heavier than the SunPower X-Series.
The temperature coefficient is another key difference between both modules. With a temperature coefficient of.0.29%/ºC, SunPower X-Series has a better performance in hot climates than DNA 120. The only aspect where Aptos Solar’s DNA 120 surpasses SunPower X Series is in the warranty; these modules feature a warranty 5 years longer, for a total warranty of 30 years.
SunPower X-Series vs. M-Series
Comparing the SunPower X-Series vs. M-Series, allows us to learn key differences between the two solar solutions designed by SunPower.
There are several differences between the SunPower X-Series vs. M-Series, like their technology, power output, and signal output type. M Series modules feature 66 Maxeon Gen VI cells which are larger and feature a conversion efficiency of 22.8%. The M-Series featuring a larger size, reach a power output of 440W, which is far superior to the 360W of the X-Series.
The built-in inverter of the M-Series creates another major difference. This inverter produces an AC output of M Series modules, instead of the typical DC output in the SunPower X-Series. While these are similar panels, the M-Series has several advantages over the X Series.
SunPower X-Series vs. A-Series
The SunPower X-Series vs. A-Series generates another interesting contrast. The A-Series is highly similar to the M-Series, including the AC output but featuring a slightly older Maxeon solar cell technology.
SunPower A-Series features Maxeon Gen V cells with an efficiency of 22.8%, featuring 65% larger cells than the Maxeon Gen III. The A-Series also features a larger size and weight, but instead of having the 360W for the M-Series, the nominal output goes up to 425W.
Performance in hot climates remains the same since both of them feature the same temperature coefficient. They also feature the same warranty.
When to choose the X-Series for your project?
SunPower X Series modules feature older technology than the A- and M-Series, but they have similar conversion efficiencies and are far better than conventional options in the market.
Residential projects looking to produce higher power outputs on small rooftops can benefit from the SunPower X-Series. These modules can be a game changer on rooftops with limited space since smaller modules can be rearranged in different shapes to better fit the roof. This makes it easier to fit more X Series modules than A- or M-Series which have a larger size.
Using Sunpower solar cells at the World Solar Challenge
In this article I tell something about the use of solar cells at the World Solar Challenge and other contests.
How to calculate the effective area of a Sunpower solar cell
For the solar panels, there is a maximum allowed solar panel area of, for example, 4 m2, and for this you have to know the exact area of your solar cells. It concerns the active surface of the solar cells (so it makes no sense to make the cells square if you know what I mean). I couldn’t find any calculation anywhere on the internet and therefore I have calculated it for everyone and once and for all.
To calculate, I divided the PV cell into triangles (area 1) and pie segments (area 2). The effective area is 8 area1 4 area2. I’ve used Wolfram Alpha which can simplify the formula automatically.
Calculation effective area Sunpower solar cell The initial long formula was4((PI /2-2(arccos(s/d)))/(2PI)d^2(PI/4))8(s/2)(1/2(d^2-s^2)^0.5)/2s=wide, d=diameterThe simplified formula iss sqrt(d^2. s^2) 1/2 d^2 (π/2. 2 cos^(-1)(s/d))
Example for Maxeon gen 3 solar cells
Using Sunpower solar cells at the World Solar Challenge s=0.125, d=0.166
Calculation effective area solar cell with Wolfram Alpha
This text is from the World Solar Challenge 2023
Example calculation: The area of a SunPower cell with a width of 125 mm and a diagonal diameter of 166 mm is less than 0.0155063 m2, and so the area of 257 cells is less than 3.9852 m2 and the area of 322 cells is less than 4.9931 m2.
Solar cell minimum bend radius
I have measured the minimum bend radius of the 125mm solar cell while it just doesn’t break, this is about 110mm.
Maxeon Sunpower solar cell bend radius 110mm