There’s been a long ongoing debate about the who is the world’s leading solar panel manufacturer between LG and SunPower. It’s been mainly focused on efficiency and I think most people agree SunPower wins with the X series and the latest Maxeon 3 panels boosting efficiency above 22%, while the flagship panel from LG, the Neon R cranks in close behind at 21.7%.
But what about other factors like cost, reliability and what’s more practical and easier to install? What I’m talking about is panel voltage. This is big issue in Australia with a 600V limit on domestic rooftop installs, and this is where I believe the LG Neon R wins. The LG is a 60 cell panel which operates at a much lower voltage than the SunPower panels (which are now at 104 cells! Up 8 cells from the previous 96 cell E and X series).
Check out the specs below:
SunPower - 104 cells = Voltage (Voc) = 75.6V LG Neon R - 96 cells = Voltage (Voc) = 42.8V
Sunpower is almost double the Voc so when working out the maximum number of panels in a string we are looking at:
SunPower- strings of 7 panels for the Sunpower!
LG Neon R - strings of up to 13 panels for the LG!
The high voltage on the Sunpower panels can make it difficult to design an suitable array as most solar inverters have only 2 MPPT inputs, so 2 strings of 7 using the most powerful Maxeon 3 is only 5.6kW. There is always the option of parallel strings but with a max input current of 12A on many inverters, and a current rating on the Maxeons of 6.05A then this exceeds the current rating!
This begs the question - is the SunPower Maxeon 3 voltage too high to be practical!?
why would higher voltage be a problem? It might change the stringing if you are using a string inverter, or selecting the correct micro-inverter in you go that route… but in general the higher voltage (and output) is a GOOD thing because you need fewer panels to get the same output which means lower current and less labor with fewer panels. That being said, I view the max3 400w module as a marketing mistake just so they can say they have the most output in a single panel.
In our Dealership however we do not promote use of the 400w panels because they carry an (unreasonable) premium in price/watt over their regular 96cell modules… they also are physically larger, which tends not to fit as well on residential installs. commercial installs don’t use them much because of the price… preferring the lower efficiency of the P-19 because of the lower price.
technically I would compare the Sunpower 365w with LG Neon R 370w… giving the edge to LG these days because of wholesale price gives a little better margin with very nearly identical specs. The LG Neon-2 340 is even better, with only SLIGHTLY lower efficiency and slightly higher degradation. The LG Neon-2 340w are my current favorite product for best margin to Installer and best long term value to homeowner.
I have to agree with you the Neon 2’s are an all round winner.
Yes Micro’s are a good option but being limited to 600V on residential solar makes things much more difficult if you want longer strings or a larger 6.5kW system using the 104 or even 96 cell panels. It’s a frustrating and obsolete regulation that will hopefully be lifted to 1000V in the near future.
Although the issue might not be around for too much longer as SunPower’s next generation 'A series panels will use the larger format cells and most likely reduce cell count to 60 or 72 cells.
LG currently now at 345W for the NeON 2 and we are pushing factory to go to 350 pronto - that makes a lovely 6,650kw , Yes design wise LGs maybe a little easier , as we can place more in a string and at 17.1kg installers lover our panels - but both panel brands are a much better choice than the current 35c per watt "hope for the best " panel product coming in.
Not that I am aware… … we stick with 60 cells and 72 cells …
Kind regards
Markus Lambert
General Manager Solar & Energy LG Electronics Australia Pty Ltd | ABN 98 064 531 264
2 Wonderland Drive, Eastern Creek NSW 2766 Australia
LG and SunPower are both reputable manufacturers of solar panels known for their high-quality products. When choosing between them, you should consider various factors, including your specific needs, budget, and any voltage-related concerns.
Voltage Compatibility:
LG and SunPower produce solar panels with different voltage ratings. The choice between them may depend on your existing solar setup or the inverter you plan to use.
Ensure that the voltage output of the solar panels is compatible with the voltage input requirements of your inverter and electrical system. Mismatched voltages can lead to inefficient energy conversion or system compatibility issues.
Consult with a solar installer or electrician to assess your system’s voltage requirements and compatibility with either LG or SunPower panels.
2. Efficiency and Performance:
Both LG and SunPower panels are known for their high efficiency and performance. Consider factors like the efficiency rating, temperature coefficient, and degradation rate when comparing specific models.
Review independent third-party testing and customer reviews to gauge real-world performance and reliability.
3. Warranty and Longevity:
Examine the warranties offered by LG and SunPower. Typically, they offer product warranties ranging from 10 to 25 years, with some covering performance guarantees.
Consider the company’s reputation and track record for standing behind their warranties. This can be crucial for long-term reliability and peace of mind.
4. Cost and Budget:
Solar panel prices can vary depending on the model and brand. LG and SunPower panels tend to be on the higher end of the price spectrum due to their quality and efficiency.
Assess your budget and balance it with the expected long-term energy savings when choosing between the two.
5. Installation and Support:
Investigate the availability of local installers and support for LG and SunPower panels in your area. A reliable installation team can impact the overall success of your solar system.
6. Environmental Considerations:
Research the environmental sustainability practices of both companies if environmental impact is a priority for you. rooftop solar companies in india
