Rating of the best solar panels in 2022

The sun is an inexhaustible source of clean energy. For a long time, mankind perceived the sun as a source of heat and light, without thinking about its fuller use for their own purposes. With the development of new technologies, it became possible not only to use the solar energy more fully, but also to accumulate it. Initially, the use of technologies for the use of solar energy was limited by the high cost of components and low productivity. Now, with the increase in the efficiency of solar systems and their gradual reduction in cost, it has become possible to use this energy source for domestic purposes on an individual basis.

Everyone, after weighing all the pros and cons, can switch to the use of clean solar energy and stop depending on a centralized power supply network. This is especially true when a country house is located far from power lines.In addition, solar systems can be used as an additional (backup) source of energy, protecting yourself from power outages.

The panels differ in production technology, quality, method of use, as well as many other parameters. Let's try to understand this variety of proposed solar modules and highlight the best of them.

Types of solar panels

A solar panel is a combination of photovoltaic cells that convert the energy of the sun into electrical current.

According to the production technology of photovoltaic cells, all solar panels are divided into two large groups: silicon and film. Their types and features will be discussed in the table below.

Group	Type of	Peculiarities	Efficiency, %
Silicon	Monocrystalline (mono-Si)	They are a single crystal of silicon. They are square in shape with rounded corners. Color gray or black to blue (with anti-reflective coating). Direct solar radiation is best converted. The most expensive.	from 15 to 22
Silicon	Polycrystalline (poly-Si)	A block of silicon crystals interconnected. They have a square shape. Color silver gray or blue (with anti-reflective coating). The absorption capacity of direct solar radiation is worse. It is best used to generate energy from scattered radiation. Cheaper than single crystals.	12 to 18
Silicon, film	amorphous	They occupy an intermediate position, tk. made of silicon, but in the form of a film. Represent a deposition of a silicon semiconductor on a base. Convenient to use. Within six months or a year they burn out in the sun, and therefore their power decreases.	5 to 6
Film	Based on cadmium telluride	They look like a film that is applied to glass. Mirror dark green or black. It is most often used in space and in Earth orbit. Toxic: emit harmful cadmium. Difficult disposal.	10 to 12
Film	Based on CIGS (copper indium selenide)	They look like a film, in which copper-indium selenide is used as a semiconductor. Color from dark gray to black. Subject to corrosion.	15 to 20
Film	Polymer	They look like a very thin film. Cheap in production, do not emit harmful substances.	5 to 6

Now, focusing on the types of solar panels, let's consider in what areas of human life each of them is used.

Scope of solar panels

Stationary panels

Solar panels can be used both in stationary conditions and be portable.

Fixed modules are applied in the following areas:

• at solar power plants;
• in autonomous, standby or hybrid power plants for home or summer cottages;
• for space heating and water heating (solar collector);
• in autonomous street lighting systems;
• to power billboards;
• in navigation and signaling systems;
• in pumping stations, etc.

Considering stationary solar power plants, we will dwell in more detail on those that are used to power the house. To provide a home with electricity using solar energy, you will need the following components:

• solar modules;
• battery (to store unused energy);
• voltage controller (increases battery life, but not required for installation);
• inverter (converts the direct current of the battery into the required alternating current for electrical appliances).

Home solar power plants in relation to centralized power supply can be:

• autonomous.

Autonomous, i.e. independent of other power sources, solar power plants are used where it is impossible for certain reasons (significant distance from settlements) to connect to a common power grid. Their use is advisable in the southern regions, where the daylight hours are longer and there are a large number of clear days. In any case, it is desirable to duplicate it with a combustible fuel generator. The main advantages of an autonomous station are its environmental friendliness, noiselessness, and minimal maintenance during operation. Minus - at night or on cloudy days, electricity will not be generated. In addition, for their operation, the above-mentioned components are required, which make the autonomous system quite expensive.

• reserve.

Reserve, or network, power plants are installed where there is a connection to the central electrical network. It is used as an additional source of electricity.The backup solar power plant starts its work in the event of a power outage from the network. Advantages - noiselessness, reliability, the ability to mount on the roof or facade of the building. Also a plus is the absence of a battery, controller and inverter, which significantly reduces the cost of the system.

• hybrid.

In fact, it is an autonomous station connected to the electrical network. The energy received from the Sun is used in the first place, with its shortage, the supply of electricity comes from a centralized power supply. Allows you to significantly save on payments for consumed electricity.

Mobile modules

Mobile devices for converting solar energy into electric current can be used:

• for charging mobile phones and other mobile devices;
• for powering radios during hiking, fishing;
• to power navigation systems during expeditions;
• for lighting at night during hiking.

Portable batteries have become an indispensable accessory for country travelers and tourists traveling to wild places where there is no electricity. Since modern life, even on a desert island or in the mountains, is impossible without various gadgets, they are recharged from chargers that convert solar energy. Portable solar panels are most often produced on the basis of single-crystal silicon. They differ in size, shape, power. Compact batteries with low power can fit in your pocket, while large and powerful batteries can be mounted on the roof of a car. In addition, they are equipped with all kinds of adapters for connecting various equipment.

What to look for when choosing solar panels

Due to the fact that the use of solar energy for domestic purposes has not yet become commonplace, and the choice of solar panels causes certain difficulties, we offer a list of the most important parameters. So, when buying such a module, you should pay attention to the following points:

• manufacturer.

It is important to pay attention to how long this manufacturer has been on the market for this product, and what is its production volume. The longer a manufacturer has been in the industry, the more they can be trusted.

• area of ​​use.

For what purposes will the received energy be used: for charging small equipment, for powering large electrical appliances, for lighting, or for a full-fledged power supply at home. The choice of the output voltage and power of the panels depends on the purpose for which the solar module is bought.

• voltage.

For small electrical appliances, 9 V is enough, for charging smartphones and laptops - 12-19 V, and for providing the entire power system at home - 24 V or more.

• power.

This parameter is calculated on the basis of the average daily energy consumption (the sum of the energy consumed by all appliances per day). The power of solar panels should cover consumption with some margin.

• quality of photovoltaic cells.

There are 4 quality categories of photocells that make up the solar panel: Grad A, Grad B, Grad C, Grad D. Naturally, the first category is Grad A. The modules of this quality category do not have chips and microcracks, are uniform in color and structure, have the highest efficiency and are practically not subject to degradation.

• life time.

The service life of solar panels varies from 10 to 20 years.Of course, the duration of the full operation of such a power system depends on the quality of the batteries and the correct installation.

• additional technical parameters.

The most important are efficiency, tolerance (power tolerance), temperature coefficient (the effect of temperature on battery performance).

Having understood the main technical characteristics, we offer you a rating of the best solar panels in 2022.

The best solar panels

Delta SM 150-12P

Polycrystalline battery with a nominal power of 150 W and a voltage of 12 V, consisting of 36 photocells. In its manufacture, elements of the first quality category (Grade A) were used. The panel is focused on collecting scattered solar energy in cloudy weather and the cold season. The operating temperature of the module is in the range from -40 to +85°С. Normal operating temperature without power loss +47°С. The power temperature factor is -0.45%. Photoelectric conversion efficiency (COP) 17.12%. Warranty period of operation - 10 years. Manufacturer - China.

The cost is from 5950 rubles.

• high performance even in overcast conditions;
• tempered glass of high transparency;
• durable aluminum profile and rigid construction protects the panel from deformation.

• decrease in power with increasing temperature.

Exmork FSM-100P

36-cell polycrystalline silicon module with a nominal voltage of 12V and a power rating of 100W. Quality class — Grade A. Operating temperature range from -40 to +80°С. Normal operating temperature +45°C. The efficiency of the photovoltaic cell is within 17.3%. The warranty on the panel is 10 years. Battery manufacturer - China.

Cost: from 4000 rubles.

• light transmission of glass 97%;
• tempered glass withstands even large hail;
• withstands wind at a speed of 60 m / s;
• the service life declared by the manufacturer is at least 30 years.

• not found.

TOPRAY 100 watt 12V

Monocrystalline silicon flexible solar panel. Voltage 12 V, power 100 watts. The battery consists of 32 cells. Photovoltaic cells are of Grade A quality category. Their conversion efficiency can reach more than 20%. Temperature conditions of work from -40 to +85 °C. Service life at the correct operation reaches 20 years. Manufacturer - China.

Cost: from 9960 rubles.

• thin and light;
• effectively converts the direct radiation of the Sun;
• works effectively in the cold.

• applicable only for direct radiation.

Feron PS0303 150W

Portable panel with a maximum power of 150 W and an output voltage of 17.6 V. Designed to power electrical appliances designed for a voltage of 12-14 V, as well as to charge car batteries. Operating temperature from -40 to +85°С. Warranty period: 3 years. Made in China.

The cost is 18700 rubles.

• easy-to-transport folding model;
• PWM controller is equipped with LED indication of charge level, connected load;
• the battery is protected from overcharging, overdischarging and overloading;
• carrying bag included;
• Mobile devices can be charged via USB.

• short warranty period.

Delta SM 200-12P

A solar panel made of polycrystalline silicon with a power of 200 W and a voltage of 12 V. Silicon cells belong to the A quality category. The photovoltaic module includes 72 cells.The operating temperature ranges from -40 to +85°C. The most optimal temperature for operation without power loss is +47°C. The efficiency of the photoelectric conversion of the element is 17.4%, of the entire module - 15.5%. Warranty period of operation - 10 years. Manufacturer - China.

Cost: from 8800 rubles.

• power loss for 10 years no more than 10%;
• durable tempered glass 3.2 mm thick;
• effectively converts scattered solar energy.

• not found.

SOLAR BATTERY 30W

Solar panel with mounting power 30 W and voltage 12 V. Operating temperature from -40 to +50°C. Designed to be used as a backup power source. Warranty: 1.5 years. Service life - 10 years. Producer: "Bastion" - Russia.

Cost: from 7600 rubles.

• swivel arm allows you to rotate the panel following the movement of the sun;
• can be used at 100% humidity;

• the manufacturer does not indicate the type of photocell.

BioLite SolarPanel 5

5W monocrystalline solar panel. It has two outputs: USB and micro USB. Made in USA, assembled in China.

Cost: from 5690 rubles.

• stand allows you to install the battery on various surfaces;
• built-in sundial helps to adjust the optimal angle of the panel;
• There is an indicator showing the charge strength.

• not found.

Feron PS0401

Portable rechargeable solar panel with lithium-ion battery. Operating temperature +10 - +45°С. Rated voltage of the module is 9 V, power is 3 W. Manufacturer - China.

The cost is from 2900 rubles.

• the kit includes 2 bulbs, a power supply and various cables needed to charge mobile devices;
• compact, convenient to take on a hike or fishing;

• narrow operating temperature range.

NESL AM-SF7

Mobile compact folding solar system. It consists of a folding panel and a drive (powerbank). Solar panels are sewn into a cover made of dense synthetic fabric. The panel has a USB output that can be used to charge small mobile devices or to connect a storage device. Temperature mode of use from -20 to +50 °C. The solar energy conversion efficiency is over 17%. Service life can reach 20 years. Manufacturer - China.

The cost is from 3990 rubles.

• storage capacity 6000 mAh;
• the set includes a cord for phones with different connectors;
• ideal for relaxing in places devoid of energy sources.

• A powerbank cannot be solar charged and power a device at the same time.

Solar Pack SW-H05

This model is a portable charger. This solar panel, according to the manufacturer, has high performance and an efficiency of 18.5%. USB 5 output allows you to charge various phones, video and camera, iPhone, IPOD, etc.

Cost: from 1300 rubles.

• compact;
• stylish;
• convenient to use on outdoor recreation.

• There is very little information about this product on the web.

TOPRAY Solar TPS-102-15

Portable solar panel based on thin-film technology. Solar cells absorb solar energy not only from direct rays, but also from scattered radiation in cloudy weather.The battery is enclosed in a durable aluminum case, and the outside is covered with double impact-resistant glass. This model is focused on charging batteries (12 V), as well as on powering household appliances. Manufacturer: China.

Cost: from 4680 rubles.

• minimal power loss during heating;
• battery clips, adapters included.

• not found.

Comparison of the technical characteristics of the considered models

Model	Rated voltage, V	Rated power, W	efficiency	Dimensions, mm	Weight, kg
Delta SM 150-12P	12	150	17,12	1485x668x35	11,6
Exmork FSM-100P	12	100	17,3	1000x670x35	8,8
TOPRAY 100 watt 12V	12	100	20	1100x570x2.5	2,2
Feron PS0303 150W	17,6	150	17	1340x780x35, folded 664x758x75	15,1
Delta SM 200-12P	12	200	15,5	1330x990x35	16,4
SOLAR BATTERY 30W	12	30		540x430x150	5,6
BioLite SolarPanel 5		5		257x208x24	0,34
Feron PS0401	9	3		220x135x17	0,9
NESL AM-SF7	5	7	17	250x480, folded 25x17x1	0,44
Solar Pack SW-H05	5	5	18,5	227x196x10	0,12
TOPRAY Solar TPS-102-15	12	15		970x340x20	5,5

Conclusion

The sun is not only a source of light and heat, but also a source of inexhaustible energy. If earlier alternative solar energy was used most of all in the space and industrial sectors, now it has rapidly entered the domestic sphere. Solar-powered water heaters, photovoltaic lighting fixtures, photovoltaic chargers for gadgets are all real examples of the use of solar energy in everyday life.

If initially only its environmental friendliness and inexhaustibility were attributed to the advantages of using solar energy, now the list of advantages has expanded. So, the advantages of solar energy and its use:

• independence from third-party power systems;
• the constancy of the supply of electric current (no power surges);
• long service life (20-30 years depending on quality);
• independence from the season of the year (polycrystalline panels capture scattered radiation even in rainy weather);
• minimum service maintenance (cleaning the front of the panel from dust).

Such an item as profitability is difficult to attribute specifically to pluses or minuses. The fact is that the full provision of a country house with electricity through the installation of solar panels requires a one-time large investment (this can, in a sense, be a minus). But in the long run, all costs pay off with interest (this is a plus). It is important to calculate everything correctly in advance and find the best option for a particular situation.

The only significant disadvantage of solar power systems is that they do not work at night. This requires the installation of energy storage devices. We hope that our tips and reviewed the best solar panels will help you start using the clean energy of the Sun.