12 Major Solar Power Manufacturers! Introducing Features and Tips for Choosing!

By installing solar power generation, you can enjoy various benefits such as self-consumption of generated electricity and selling excess power.

However, there are various types of solar panels, each with significantly different characteristics and performance. Therefore, it is essential to carefully search for panels that match your purpose and budget.

In this article, we will provide a detailed explanation of the major manufacturers of solar power generation and their features, as well as how to choose the right panel for you.

Major Manufacturers of Solar Power Generation and Their Features

Let’s take a closer look at the major manufacturers of solar power generation and their features.

At first glance, you might think, “Aren’t they all the same?” However, each has its unique characteristics, so please use this information as a reference to avoid regrets after installation.

Q CELLS

Q CELLS is a manufacturer that was established in Germany in 1999.

It is now owned by the Hanwha Group in South Korea and is known as “Hanwha Q CELLS.”

It is a well-known manufacturer both domestically and globally, ranking sixth in the world in terms of shipment volume.

Panels that can maintain power generation even in rainy or cloudy weather are popular worldwide.

With a conversion efficiency of 20.6%, it competes well with major domestic manufacturers and significantly outperforms them in terms of cost.

Canadian Solar

Canadian Solar is a global solar panel manufacturer originating from Canada. It excels in balancing high power generation efficiency with cost, making it particularly popular among those who want to prioritize performance while keeping expenses low.

It adopts the half-cell technology that has become mainstream in recent years, allowing for stable power generation that is less affected by shading. Despite being a foreign manufacturer, it has a Japanese subsidiary, ensuring reliable domestic support and warranty systems for peace of mind.

Highly recommended for those looking for high-performance, reliable, and cost-effective solar panels!

Next Energy

Next Energy is a relatively new manufacturer established in 2003.

It features “half-cut cells,” which are traditional panels cut in half, allowing them to maintain normal power generation even at high temperatures.

Additionally, it is known for its affordability, making it a valuable manufacturer that can compete with foreign manufacturers on price while being a domestic company.

With comprehensive warranty coverage, it’s worth checking out if you want to install high-quality panels at a low cost.

Choshu Industry

Choshu Industry is a well-established manufacturer that has been producing solar panels since 1999.

Their high technical ability, performing all manufacturing processes in-house, is recognized globally.

They have unique advantages, such as utilizing ultraviolet rays that are typically not captured for power generation and maintaining stable power generation even in summer by suppressing temperature rise.

Moreover, if roof troubles or leaks occur after installation, they offer free repair services, making them a great choice for those who want to operate their systems with long-term peace of mind.

DMM Energy

DMM Energy is a domestic solar panel manufacturer operated by the DMM Group, which also runs e-commerce sites and English conversation schools.

Being a latecomer in the industry, it has less recognition and track record compared to other manufacturers.

However, if you install it together with a storage battery, there is a high possibility of reducing total costs compared to other companies, so if you’re interested, be sure to check it out.

Exsol

Exsol is a manufacturer with over 20 years of experience in the solar panel industry.

Solar panels tend to have reduced power generation efficiency on cloudy days or during extreme heat, but with Exsol’s solar panels, you can expect stable power generation.

The panel surface is treated with a “water drainage processing” that makes it difficult for dirt to adhere even on rainy days, which helps prevent a decrease in power generation efficiency and reduces maintenance efforts.

Solar Frontier

Solar Frontier develops solar panels using its unique technology called CIS.

The products from Solar Frontier prevent a decrease in power generation due to high temperatures and have minimal impact from shading, making them highly recommended for those who prioritize power generation efficiency.

While the panel’s power generation efficiency is around 15%, which may seem unreliable at first glance, the actual power generation is not inferior to other companies due to the aforementioned features.

Additionally, the lower prices compared to other manufacturers are a unique appeal of Solar Frontier.

Sharp

Sharp has been developing solar cells since 1959 and has a proven track record and history of leading Japan’s solar power industry.

It features world-class conversion efficiency, roof-fit designs that can accommodate complex roofs, and beautiful designs that harmonize with the roof.

With approximately 925,000 installations in Japan alone, it has gained top-class trust in the industry.

Moreover, the robust support system makes it a great choice for those who want to operate with peace of mind.

Kyocera

Kyocera develops solar panels known for their high durability.

With a power output reduction limited to 17.2%, some panels have been operational for over 30 years, making them perfect for those who want long-term use or to keep total costs down.

They offer various sizes of panels, including trapezoidal and compact options, making installation on complex roof shapes easier.

Panasonic

Panasonic has over 40 years of history as a solar power manufacturer.

As a major domestic manufacturer with abundant installation experience and high technical skills, it is especially recommended for those who prioritize quality.

In response to Japan’s climate and characteristics, which are prone to typhoons and earthquakes,

・Typhoon testing at wind speeds of 60m
・Seismic testing

are conducted, ensuring high durability.

Additionally, the system can only be installed by contractors recognized by Panasonic, which is a great benefit for users. With a wide variety of solar panels, power conditioners, and storage batteries available, those who prioritize quality should definitely check them out.

Maxion

Maxion is a manufacturer based in Singapore.

It features the industry’s longest 40-year warranty, gaining popularity due to its quality, durability, and comprehensive warranty.

Installed in over 100 countries worldwide, it guarantees output of 98% in the first year, 92% after 25 years, and 88.25% after 40 years.

With a return rate of just 0.005%, it is especially recommended for those concerned about the decrease in power generation and efficiency over time.

Suntech Power

Suntech Power is a manufacturer with over 40 years of sales experience and more than 25 years of design experience in the solar power industry.

It boasts high stability in power generation, and real examples can be confirmed on its official website.

Having its own research facility called the Nagano Technical Support Center, it enhances quality testing and after-sales service, which is also appealing.

With a maximum output warranty of 30 years and a system equipment warranty of 10 to 15 years, it is ideal for those who want to use it with peace of mind for a long time.

Fuji Premium

Fuji Premium is a “pure domestic” solar panel manufacturer that develops and manufactures entirely within Japan.

The biggest feature is its design that allows stable power generation even in harsh environments, with “high durability and high-transmittance glass” and “structures that suppress power loss due to temperature rise.” This will be a significant reassurance for homeowners who prioritize longevity.

Additionally, it has a long-term warranty system with a 15-year product warranty and a 25-year output warranty, ensuring peace of mind in support.

How to Choose a Solar Power Manufacturer

As mentioned earlier, there are multiple solar power manufacturers, each with significantly different characteristics. With many popular manufacturers beyond those listed above, it can be challenging to decide which one to choose.

In such cases, please keep the following points in mind while searching for a manufacturer that fits your purpose and budget.

Conversion Efficiency

Conversion efficiency indicates how effectively a panel can convert sunlight into electricity. The higher the conversion efficiency of the panel, the more electricity can be generated from the same area.

Conversion efficiency varies by manufacturer and product, and high-efficiency models equipped with the latest technology can be expected to have higher conversion efficiencies. However, this also means higher costs, so you need to choose while considering your budget and long-term cost performance.

Warranty

When introducing solar power, it is essential to check the warranties offered by each manufacturer.

This is because the systems necessary for solar power installation, such as panels, power conditioners, and storage batteries, are very expensive. Generally, output warranties last 20 to 30 years, while product warranties typically range from 10 to 15 years, so please use these as a basis for comparison. Additionally, natural disaster compensation and extension of the warranty period often come at a cost, so consider these as needed.

Durability

The durability of the equipment is also a very important point when introducing solar power.

In particular, the durability of the panels affects the overall cost of power generation, so it must be checked thoroughly.

The lifespan of solar panels is generally said to be around 20 to 30 years, but if the durability is low, there may be cases of failure or malfunction before reaching the end of their lifespan. To avoid such troubles and to utilize them for as long as possible, it is advisable to choose panels with high durability.

Performance in Bad Weather

Solar power systems collect sunlight and convert it into electricity.

Therefore, in principle, the power generation efficiency decreases when the sun is obscured, such as during rain or cloudy weather. However, in recent years, more panels have been developed that perform well even in bad weather. Especially in Japan, where there is a rainy season and many typhoons, it is recommended to choose panels that are strong in adverse weather conditions.

Panel Size

The size of solar panels varies by manufacturer.

When it comes to size, it is necessary to choose based on the installation location. Some manufacturers design their panels to fit typical Japanese roofs or create triangular shapes to maximize coverage even in the corners of the roof, so be sure to check this out.

Price

Price is a very important factor when introducing solar power.

As you know, the initial costs of installing solar power can be quite high. Therefore, it is essential to carefully check the prices of related equipment, including solar panels. Domestic manufacturers tend to have higher prices due to their quality and warranty offerings, so be cautious.

That said, if you choose solely based on low prices, you may experience quick failures or malfunctions, or the power generation efficiency may drop, resulting in fewer benefits. Therefore, it is advisable to make a comprehensive judgment.

If you are considering the installation of solar panels, please consult Kakeru Koumuten Co., Ltd.

Our company handles a wide range of exterior renovations, including roofing work and wall construction, in Aoba-ku, Yokohama.
We have received requests from many customers, including renovation companies and real estate agencies, who have contacted us!

Kakeru Koumuten Co., Ltd. promises “high-quality renovations at low costs”, and we have received great feedback from numerous customers.
We continue to update our construction performance every year, and we will strive to improve quality to satisfy even more customers in the future.

Whether you want to “know about recommended solar panels”, “keep costs as low as possible”, or “just get an estimate”, we will provide the best solutions for your specific needs.
We will never propose unnecessary work that prioritizes profit!
We always take the customer’s perspective and will suggest the best construction plan!

We are confident that we will not be outdone by other companies in terms of cost, quality, and organization for exterior work!
We welcome competitive estimates as we are confident in our services!

Conclusion

Solar panels come from various manufacturers, each with distinct features and functionalities.

Of course, prices also vary by manufacturer, so let’s start by understanding the main manufacturers and their characteristics.

That said,

“There are too many options to choose from”
“I want to hear a professional’s opinion”

I’m sure there are many people who feel this way.

In such cases, please feel free to consult with Kakeru Koumuten Co., Ltd., which operates mainly in Kanagawa Prefecture and Tokyo.

Consultations via LINE are also very welcome◎

For roofing, guttering, and exterior work and repairs in Kanagawa, contact Kakerukoumuten Co., Ltd..

AAA is a young company with an average age in the early 20s, but our technology is second to none.

One of our greatest strengths is that we can do all of our own scaffolding, roofing, and painting work. In this industry, where work is generally divided, we are able to provide a complete set of services, which saves time and effort in management and reduces costs. Above all, if there is any trouble, we will come to you right away!

We can confidently declare this. We are the youngest and most friendly renovator in Kanagawa!