Let’s face it. Solar panels are a significant investment. Even though prices have reduced a lot, it’s still not chump change. Not all households have a large roof to take advantage of a lot of solar panels.  

That’s why solar panel efficiency is crucial. Efficient panels can help you save more and need less space. While there are many options available, Sunpower solar panels are the best. The efficiency of their panels ranges from 18-24%. It’s a staggering amount considering the market average is around 14-20%.  

But how are Sunpower solar panels so efficient? What will I gain from this efficiency? Well, we’re here to break down these panels for you. Read on to find out!  

Factors That Determine Efficiency

Before we dive into the solar panel, let’s have a look at what determines efficiency. 

1) Solar Cell Technology  

At the heart of each solar panel is a solar cell. Thus, the efficiency of the solar cell is vital. It will determine the efficiency of the whole panel. Some solar cells are more efficient than others. Cells that use pure Silicon are more efficient than cells that use other compounds. 

2) Panel Construction 

The solar cell material is only half of the equation. Producers need to lay down the material into a clear structure. Some panels have a single pure slab of Silicon. Others break them up into chunks and reconstitute them. 

Generally, unbroken slabs of Silicon are more efficient than others. Broken chunks of Silicon are more efficient than other compounds. Another factor is the solar grid. If producers do not optimize the solar grid in each panel, their panels may be less efficient.

3) Other Components  

There are other essential components to consider. The copper wires and metal framing of each panel also play a huge role. These components are critical in generating electricity from solar energy. They also help in circulating it around the house. If there is more heat loss from these components, then the solar panel will be less efficient.  

The Efficiency of Sunpower Solar Panels 

So, how are Sunpower solar panels so efficient? In short, they combine excellent construction with a smart design. Sunpower solar panels feature the highest-grade Silicon available.  

1) The Maxeon Solar Cell  

Compared to normal solar cells, Maxeon ones are far more efficient. They are a revolutionary technology that has seen widespread use. It’s no surprise that Sunpower solar panels have it too. But Sunpower has made some tweaks to get even more out of the Maxeon solar cell. This cell is the biggest reason why Sunpower solar panels are so efficient.  

You won’t find any grid lines on the cell. Having no grid lines is a good thing. A smooth surface ensures minimal reflection. But wait, doesn’t that sound wrong? Well, Maxeon solar cells consist of very absorbent material. More light energy can absorb into the cell this way. It’s only possible if the material is smooth and uninterrupted.  

If there are lines of metal paste in front of the cell, more sunlight reflects. This reflection happens because the metal is more reflective compared to the rest of the cell. The metal is also more prone to corrosion which reduces efficiency further down the line.  

2) Reinforced Copper Backing

Another brilliant feature of Sunpower solar panels is the solid copper backing. Normal solar cells don’t have this feature. They only have thin metal backing that doesn’t provide enough protection. The metal is also prone to corrosion.  

Compared to thin metal, the solid copper backing is more uniform and robust. Sunpower solar panels have outstanding durability thanks to this backing. The copper is also more resistant to corrosion. As a result, they can operate at peak efficiency for a more extended time. You also get excellent protection from the elements. Rain, hail, snow, or winds – Sunpower solar panels are here to last.  

What does all this mean? Well, you get much more endurance out of Sunpower solar panels. And in the solar energy world, durability is like long-term efficiency. Most panels produce less energy as they age. The loss is around 0.8 per cent per year. But for Sunpower solar panels, the loss is only 0.3 per cent per year.  

3) Strong and Thick Connectors

Many solar panels suffer from below-average connectors. During bad weather, the connectors contract or expand. This length change creates problems for the stability and integrity of the solar panel. If the connectors are weak, how can the solar panel stay upright? 

Sunpower solar panels have remarkable integrity and structure. This strength is thanks to the thick connectors that Sunpower uses. These connectors are great at withstanding temperature changes. Producers bake excellent strain relief and pliancy. Even if the connectors change length, the solar panel and array will still maintain their shape. The connectors are also great at withstanding a lot of weight.

What does all this mean? Well, you won’t have to worry about solar panel downtime. Even in bad weather, the panels will work at peak efficiency. This efficiency is possible thanks to the connectors that ensure the panels stay in line with the sunlight. 

4) Anti-Reflective Technology

Of course, all these features won’t matter if most of the light reflects out. That’s why Sunpower Solar panels have the best anti-reflective technology on the market. Aided by a smooth solar cell with no grid lines, the panels can absorb a lot of sunlight. 

More sunlight means more raw materials for the solar cells to turn into energy. More energy can convert to usable electricity that can flow back to the home circuit. Heat loss is common. No technology can fully eradicate it. But the best way to make heat loss negligible is to produce more efficiently. And Sunpower solar panels are the kings of efficiency. 

Conclusion

We hope this breakdown gave you valuable insight into what makes Sunpower solar panels efficient. With a robust set of features and top-notch engineering, these panels are fantastic for any user. If you’re a small homeowner, you can enjoy enormous energy savings right off the bat. If you own sizable commercial spaces, the higher efficiency will pay back in the long run. No matter who you are, the increased efficiency will help you save more. The return on investment will turn positive much faster. In the end, you stand to benefit the most.