Probably the last thing which you'll call tricky in this age where technological advancements exceed your expectations is choosing among the various solar panels available online. After all, solar panel technology has been a work in progress since the 50s, so picking the best one might be challenging, especially if you're not familiar with the technology.
Solar panels have been known to be expensive, but given their usefulness, they are worth the investment. Before buying one, read on to learn about the variables to consider when getting your own solar panel system and choose among the 10 best solar panels on the market will prove to be worth your hard-earned peso.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
Solar panels, or photovoltaic modules (PV), are comprised of several individual solar cells. When these cells absorb the sun's energy, it initiates an electrical current that causes electricity to flow.
Solar energy has proved to be a source of clean and renewable energy, especially since most people nowadays are so into living green and mitigating the effect of climate change. Perhaps one of the best solar panel advantages is it helps give electricity to remote areas and provinces that don't have full access to power lines yet.
Here are some key points to consider:
For more detailed information, read through our reading guide below.
Do you need the solar panel for heating your water or just to help lower your paid electricity consumption? Your needs come first when thinking about which type to get for your home, office, and the like. Here are the types which you must get to know.
Due to their high silicon purity, monocrystalline panels are said to be the best at generating energy from photons. This corresponds to a pricier set of modules as well. However, monocrystalline types also produce the most waste in their manufacturing phase, so it may not be the right choice if your lifestyle is to go green.
We recommend testing it first on a smaller scale, say a panel at a time. This way, you can assess the production and cost per energy production before buying in bulk to slap on the roofs of your office or home.
Labeled as the 'greenest' option for solar panels, this type utilizes all of the silicon material they're manufactured with. They also generate less waste than monocrystalline panels. This means a lower price tag but also reduced efficiency.
However, because of the numerous crystals in each cell, there is less freedom for the electrons to move, resulting in a lower efficiency rating than the first type. Given the Philippines is a tropical country, polycrystalline solar panels are also highly discouraged since this type has a higher temperature coefficient that lessens their efficiency.
It is the most cost-efficient and lightweight panel, making it ideal for smaller homes. The materials used in this type also have a smaller ecological impact, making it an excellent choice if you're looking to save money or go green.
It's also more visually appealing compared to its counterparts. It's ideal for those new to solar panel technology because it's easy to install, has a wide range of applications, is cost-effective, and can be transported easily.
No solar energy will convert to usable power unless you back it up with an inverter. The inverter's job is to convert that DC power into the alternating current (AC) electricity that can be used in your home.
The price point is not its only edge against its counterpart. If your roof is completely sun-exposed, with no nearby trees nor shades, then go for this one. Using this inverter, all your panels feed all of the DC power they produce to a single inverter.
From the DC state, it converts it to AC, which could now be suitable for consumption. Besides being more affordable, string inverters suit houses with flat roofs and is a newer form of central inverters than MLPEs.
Having this incorporated into your solar power system helps lower energy conversion losses due to shading, module mismatch, and orientation mismatch. This is ideal for powering commercial establishments or production lines.
Solar panels are displayed outside most of the time and installed on roofs of any flat surface or any other angle where photon generation is most plausible. Naturally, it will be exposed to harsh weather conditions such as extreme heat, strong winds, heavy rains, and the like.
Look for panels that meet the IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) 61215, which lays down the design qualification requirements and type approval of terrestrial PV modules suitable for long-term operation. An IEC certification ensures your solar panels' durability, given general open-air climates.
If you need a durable and high-functioning solar panel to carry your electricity supply, this is the best pick for you! A household name in the electronics industry, LG has again upped its solar panel quality with this Neon 2 Monocrystalline Plug-in Solar panel. Known for durability and efficiency, this product has been manufactured to last for more than 25 years, even in harsh environments.
This item has an outstanding performance as it generates more power per square foot. Its all-in-one design combines the module and inverter in a single unit, making a cleaner appearance and increasing energy yield. With its plug-and-play philosophy in the AC module, all you need to do is sit back and watch your electric bills lower and lower with time.
Coming in a complete package of solar panels and inverter, this is fitted with a 30W solar panel set compact in design and great for indoor and outdoor use. With cell arrangement in a polycrystalline manner, this provides a conversion deemed both efficient and eco-friendly.
On top of the solar charging, this can also be charged via AC or DC. Made with glass tempered panels measuring 3.2mm, this proves to the lightweight and allows for greater portability. Its battery also has an LED that displays battery details, consumption levels, and the like.
This compact solar panel runs on a monocrystalline converter. For optimum protection of each cell, it has been mounted on braces to rid the junction box of unwanted exposure from harsh elements. The inverter has also been tested waterproof with its IP65 rating, making it suitable for outdoor use.
With a maximum power output of 25 watts and a voltage of 18 volts, these solar panels have proved to be efficient yet lightweight despite being fitted with a monocrystalline type panel. You may easily hook this up to car batteries and LED lamps, perfect for traveling solo and camping with a group of friends.
These solar energy-generating panels have a peak power capacity of 100 watts. Engineered with the most efficient solar panel type, it weighs no less than 6 kilograms, so it's lightweight. You may either install it separately or with other panels connected to a common inverter.
Graded with a Class A under the fire type concept, it has also been tested to be effective against severe fire test exposure. This makes it highly ideal for buildings or structures of all construction types, particularly residential and commercial ones.
Back in 2013, Panasonic developed a portable lantern as part of its commitment to helping far-flung areas have better access to light. This solar panel system is backed by that technology, if not better, with the addition of the 'Eneloop' solar storage. They have consistently donated these solar storages to non-profit organizations and charities for their cause.
Along with the attached 1.5W and 5W straight tube LED lights, this solar panel comes with solar storage fitted with an interface for stored solar power, battery levels, and solar indicators. Eco-friendly with a heart for the less privileged, Eneloop will go a long way in lighting up the world with this innovation at their fingertips.
This solar panel is perfect for you if you live in a location where the weather isn't always the best. NSS's Solar Panel Mono boasts a sturdy aluminum frame that surrounds the waterproof and lightning-proof solar panel system. It also has a toughened glass cover that guarantees protection against hails and strikes while maintaining good light transmission.
This is ideal if you frequently experience thunderstorms or rainfall. You can even choose from different wattages depending on your needs. Another good thing about this item is that it has a wide range of applications. This solar panel mono can support your power needs from automobiles to small household appliances.
Maintaining a sufficient operating voltage of 12V, this solar power supply is perfect for your car, camping, ship, motor, and other motor rechargeable batteries. Measuring 402mm by 330mm, it could flatly fit your car roof or be a portable power supply as you go.
Reviewers laud it for its quality and ease of use. It also claims to have a long service life of 40 watts. The wide array of applications for this item has encouraged more consumers to invest in the product itself - the controller to this solar panel sports options for timer, voltage setting, and lock control protection.
Highly efficient, easy to install, and applicable to various DC appliances, this item may be the best option for outdoorsy individuals who want to amp outdoor experiences with a consumable and portable solar energy supply. In fact, it is geared toward those who have motorbikes, caravans, boats, cars, or recreational vehicles.
It has been fitted with a charge controller to protect the battery from overcharging and over-discharging. For ultimate battery management, the battery has also been engineered with a large LCD to monitor the PWM charging. Coupled with adjustable parameters, you may rest assured that your battery and solar panels will be working at optimum levels.
From the maker of reliable appliances and home equipment comes a solar panel that promises to be worth every penny you spend on it. Working on a low wattage of 2 watts capable of powering up common home gadgets, this will prove to be a bargain in the long run.
With no maintenance or repairs needed from time to time, Firely solar panels are anodized aluminum frame, rated IP65 – weather-resistant. The 18 solar cells connect to a module with a 16% efficiency. With an efficiency commended by satisfied users, it's only a matter of time before you laud this compact solar panel component yourself.
If you've been thinking of using solar panels but are unsure if it's a totally good investment, you can purchase an OOKAS Solar Light first. They have solar panels that go up to 200W but you can opt for the 20W to test it out. It is quite portable and easy to install, perfect for first-timers!
Do take note that you have to charge the solar light for at least 48 hours before you use it for the first time. On regular sunny days, it needs around 4 to 5 hours to reach full charging capacity. During cloudy or rainy days, it needs 10 hours of charging time. The solar light can be controlled by a remote to conveniently adjust brightness and active time.
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by the mybest team.
The number of solar panels you need always depends on what you will use them for. If it's going to be your main power source, you'll of course need more than 10 solar panels for your home. But if you intend to use it for a single appliance only, say an aircon, you need around 6 solar panels to power it.
Solar panels are usually waterproof. It will be a big hassle if it isn't, since the weather can't be controlled. To be sure, always ask sellers or sales representatives to confirm if the solar panel you're buying is waterproof.
Typically, solar panels are on roofs since that's the optimal location to catch the sunlight. If the roof is not an option, you can also mount it on the ground. Just make sure it faces the sun's rays most of the time!
The worst-case scenario we could imagine is not that we don't have solar panels over our roofs yet. It's when there isn't even electricity to get us through the day. In times of emergency, readiness is king and it pays to check out these items.
Author: A. Ugay
Re-editor: Ronadine Amata
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.
Beauty
Body care, Makeup, SkincareCameras
Camera supplies, Digital cameras, Drones and multirotorsHealth
Beauty supplements, Medical supplies, Feminine careHousehold goods
Air treatment, Bath and shower supplies, BlanketsPCs and laptops
Computer accessories, Computer components, Desktop pcsHome appliances and electronics
Air conditioners and coolers, Air treatment, Blenders, mixers, and food processorsFood and drinks
Alcoholic beverages, Baked goods and desserts, BakingKitchen supplies
Baking tools, Coffee and tea accessories, Food containersClothing
Brands and shops, Men's coats and jackets, Men's innerwearShoes
Men's shoes, Other shoes and footwear, Outdoor footwearAccessories
Bags, Accessories and jewelry, BeltsMom and baby
Baby books and toys, Baby food and snacks, Baby suppliesInterior and furniture
Beds, Carpets and rugs and mats, ChairsHobbies
Animes, Arts and crafts, Board gamesOutdoor
Camping beds and cots, Camping stoves, CoolersDIY and tools
Sports and fitness
Accessories, Badminton, BasketballPets
Cat supplies, Dog supplies, Fish and aquarium suppliesBooks, CDs, and DVDs
Books and magazines, CDs, Linguistics, dictionaries, and phrase booksGames
Console accessories, PC and console gamesCars and motorcycles
Car accessories, Car seats, Car suppliesGifts
Christmas-related gifts, Gifts for kids, Gifts for menHome improvement and tools
Door hardware and locks, Electrical, Gas stovesSmartphones and tablets
Smartphone accessories, Smartphones, StorageBanking and finance
Credit cards, Debit cards, Services and appsInsurance
Car insurance, Life insurance, Medical insuranceAudio
Earphones, Gaming, HeadphonesSmartphone applications
Business apps, Dating apps, Education appsOthers
Others, Merch, Recreation