Energy13.01.2025

Best solar panels in South Africa

According to a major solar power product distributor and installer, six highly reputable solar panel brands offer the best performance and aftersales support for South African consumers.

Photovoltaïc (PV) solar panels can convert both direct and indirect sunlight into electrical energy, allowing households to become energy-independent or realise significant cost savings over buying all their electricity from a utility.

The technology has improved significantly in the past few years — with better efficiency and durability to ensure optimal performance lasting multiple decades.

It is not unusual for a solar panel to have a performance warranty of 25 or 30 years, providing peace of mind that it will still provide over 80% of its original capacity after this period.

Continuous research and design will likely see further improvements in the future, including in unconventional applications like vertical installations and the use of perovskite cells instead of silicon-based modules.

Energy product distributor Rubicon previously told MyBroadband that making reliable solar panels was no small undertaking.

For that reason, Rubicon recommends customers use panels that are rated as Tier 1.

A Tier 1 ranking ensures an independent PV analyst has considered several criteria in a manufacturer’s product and business processes and rated highly in:

  • Experience
  • Financial position
  • Manufacturing scale
  • Deployment scale
  • Durability and quality
  • Technical Performance
  • Vertical integration
  • Insurance and backing
  • Service and support

In recent feedback, Rubicon’s sustainable technology and e-mobility managing director Greg Blandford said the company typically recommends customers buy from brands in the top 10 of global manufacturers.

He listed six of Rubicon’s preferred brands — Canadian Solar, Longi, JA Solar, Seraphim, Jinko, and Trina — all of which are Tier 1 manufacturers.

Blandford said the technology and quality of materials used in panels could have a big influence on their long-term lifespans and efficiencies.

In addition to strong technical features and local aftersales support, Blandford said that aesthetics could also be important in some cases.

For example, some consumers required black panels because these were preferred by estates for a more uniform exterior design.

Aftersales support essential

AWPower managing director Christiaan Hattingh said that Canadian Solar, JA Solar, and Longi were their preferred brands, and these also dominated the market share in South Africa.

“In terms of volumes, they are bringing in the most panels, so that translates to the most cost-effective rand-per-watt,” Hattingh said.

Hattingh said the most important consideration when buying any solar products was to ensure their suppliers offer good warranties and long-term aftersales support.

“There is no use in adoptng a brand that seems fantastic on paper, but shortly after installation, you have issues that cannot be sorted out,” Hattingh said.

Another major solar power installer — Solar Advice — previously also advised that buyers consider the following factors when buying solar products.

  • Does this product have a good rating online?
  • Compare product parameters with other brands.
  • Compare warranties with other brands.
  • Is there an aftersales service available should the equipment be or become faulty?
  • Are the products compatible with each other?
  • Does the brand offer technical support?
  • Are the replacement parts readily available in South Africa?
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