Are solar panels efficient?

Most solar panels are at least 20% efficient, but the best ones are over 22% efficient. We reviewed the efficiency ratings of hundreds of home solar panel models and found that five brands stood out: Maxeon, Qcells, Canadian Solar, REC, and Panasonic.

Which residential solar panels have the highest efficiency ratings?

Our CNET experts have found the market's top performers with the highest efficiency ratings. The most efficient residential solar panel right now is the Maxeon 7, which dethroned the older Maxeon and Canadian Solar panels when it launched in February 2024.

Which solar panels are the most efficient?

Trina Solar, a Chinese company that makes this kind of panel, set a world record in June 2025 by creating a 30.6% efficient model. With a 360W power rating across a 1.185m² panel, this product would easily top our list – except it hasn’t been released to the public yet, and likely won’t be for years.

Do solar panels produce more power?

Given the same amount of sunlight shining simultaneously on two equal-sized solar panels with different efficiency ratings, the more efficient panel will produce more power than the less efficient panel. Solar panels comprise multiple silicon solar cells, which determine their overall efficiency rating.

Do you really need the most efficient solar panels on your roof?

Larger, utility-scale solar panels can be more efficient than residential panels and technology still in research phases has almost doubled that efficiency. Solar technology keeps getting better, but do you really need the most efficient panels on your roof?

Are high-efficiency solar panels a good investment?

High-efficiency panels tend to generate more power, making them more likely to maximize your energy savings over time. In this guide, I will review the top six most efficient solar panels brands in the clean energy industry you can install on your home and discuss how they compare to other performance metrics.