Support Centre for Businesses

Not all solar systems are created equal. Of all solar panels on the market, SunPower panels convert more sunlight into electricity. This means our solar panels generate more power than conventional panels1 within the same amount of space and you’ll need fewer solar panels to produce the energy you need. You can maximise your available roof space to choose the best, unobstructed location for electricity production. You'll save more money on electricity costs over time with SunPower.

Every single panel is electrically tested and inspected for cosmetic criteria at the end of the production line. Regardless of the cosmetic grade, the cosmetic effects do not affect performance or reliability.

SunPower Performance 6 solar panels are the predecessor of our latest generation, SunPower Performance 7 solar panels. The technology is different between generation 6 and 7, but both generations are exceptional when compared to standard panels.

There are a variety of key technical differences between SunPower Performance 6 solar panels and standard panels, including the design and layout of the solar cells, the conductive material used, and the electric architecture—which combine to enhance their reliability, performance and aesthetics.

To go into a bit more technical detail, we laser cut Mono PERC cells into six strips and layer them in a shingled configuration to create a ‘hypercell’. This shingled hypercell allows us to fit more active cell area into each panel, boosting power and efficiency. Using high-quality materials and premium encapsulants, they are built to last in harsh weather conditions. SunPower Performance 6 panels feature a unique parallel circuit architecture that significantly limits power loss in shade and soiling. The result is a superior shingled panel constructed with commodity cells, outperforming standard panels in efficiency, performance and reliability.

SunPower Performance 7 solar panels are different in many ways, they offer a combination of innovative technology and superior construction not seen in standard panels. One-third cut TOPCon shingled-cell technology is used to create high-efficiency Performance 7 solar panels, resulting in better sunlight capture than standard solar panels with lower efficiency. This translates to high power and reliable energy output, reducing electricity costs for customers. Additionally, the bifacial design allows energy generation from both sides of the panel, further optimising output and enabling solar design flexibility. 

Performance 7 solar panels are built to last. Using high-quality materials, they feature a glass-glass construction that shields them from harsh weather conditions. The flexible cell interconnections enable the panel to withstand temperature fluctuations, ensuring consistent energy production over the panel's lifespan. A low annual degradation rate helps Performance 7 solar panels to maintain their high-efficiency rate over time, whilst a low-temperature coefficient, guarantees optimal solar production even in hot climates. Experienced engineering and clever panel design incorporate strong shade management, offering resilience to a variety of shading scenarios that can detrimentally impact overall energy production. Performance 7 solar panels offer dependable energy output, durability, and long-term reliability not seen in standard panels.

SunPower Performance solar panels provide long-term cost savings for organisations due to several key factors. Firstly, their low annual degradation rate ensures consistently high energy production throughout their lifespan. Secondly, they utilise cell technology with a low-temperature coefficient which enables optimal energy production even in extreme weather conditions, leading to consistent savings year-round. Additionally, strong shade management minimises energy loss in a variety of shaded scenarios, maximising energy harvest in varying environments. Lastly, SunPower Performance solar panels robust durability and longevity eliminates the need for frequent replacements and lowers maintenance costs. These combined features make SunPower Performance solar panels a reliable and cost-effective solution for reducing energy expenses and achieving long-term financial benefits.

A better product, should have a better warranty, and that is why SunPower Performance panels have a comprehensive 30-year warranty that covers Power, Product and Service (subject to terms and conditions that can be found in our warranty documentation). 

Our latest generation, SunPower Performance 7 solar panels are manufactured for long-term durability—covering defects related to workmanship and materials for a full 30 years. The 30-year warranty for SunPower Performance 7 solar panels requires registration, otherwise our 25-year warranty applies, and this warranty is not available for earlier generation SunPower Performance solar panels, where a 25-year warranty applies. 

Some manufacturers of standard panels go as low as 12 years on their product defect warranty, which could leave your organisation open to risk if anything should go wrong with the panel. It is best to carefully review warranty documentation before investing in solar panels for your organisation.