Update Notice: We have recently added new data on ECO4 Innovation Measure eligibility to save time for UK solar purchasers and procurement managers,.
The UK’s solar landscape has experienced unprecedented growth, with installed capacity exceeding 16GW by mid-2025. Choosing a reliable solar panel manufacturer is critical for ensuring a high return on investment over a 25 to 40-year lifespan. This guide analyzes the top brands based on efficiency, warranty, and UK-specific reliability,.
Our Methodology: How We Ranked These Brands
To provide an authoritative ranking, our experts evaluated 10 manufacturers based on:
1. Conversion Efficiency: Panels exceeding 21% are considered premium,.
2. Warranty Terms: Distinguishing between product and performance guarantees.
3. UK Support: Availability of UK-based offices and legal accountability under UK law,.
4. Policy Alignment: Eligibility for government grants like ECO4,.
1. UK Solar Power
Founded in 2014
Address: Unit 3, The Courtyard Business Centre, Lonesome Lane, Reigate, Surrey RH2 7QT
Products and services: Solar panels, batteries, inverters, solar pumps, street lights, solar cables and accessories
Company introduction: UK Solar Power is an award-winning global solar product manufacturer and installer that uniquely provides a comprehensive solution for projects; from manufacturing to planning to installation their teams in Europe Africa & the Middle East are at hand to bring your project to life; this unique ability makes them one of the most popular in the industry for government & NGO projects.
• Key Advantage: Specializes in "Innovation Measure" modules that help secure higher funding for UK projects.
• Trust Metric: Rated 4.9/5 for product quality and global endorsement.
2. UKSOL Ltd
Founded in 2015
Based in Buckinghamshire, England
Products and services: Solar panels, optimised modules, bifacial modules and installation
Company introduction: UKSOL is a premier British brand known for its ethical procurement and "no-quibble" 30-year British warranty. They utilize cutting-edge N-Type TOPCon technology, reaching outputs up to 720W.
• ECO4 Uplift: Their Innovation Measure modules provide a 45% funding uplift for eligible ECO4 projects.
• Global Reach: Exports to over 50 countries as an official "UK Export Champion".
3. TW Solar
Founded in 2007
Based in Polysolar Ltd, Level 39, One Canada Square, Canary Wharf, London EC14 5AB, United Kingdom
Products and services: Solar panels, batteries, inverters, chargers, controllers, mounting systems and accessories
Company introduction: TW-Solar is part of the Tongwei Group, the world’s largest vertically integrated solar manufacturer. World leaders in both Polysilicon and Solar cell production, TW-Solar is also one of the top 10 global PV module manufacturers, producing for the domestic market and as an OEM for others. The brand however is largely new to the United Kingdom and European market. Polysolar, a long established British solar BIPV developer and producer has taken on the Authorised Distributorship for TW-Solar to make it the leading brand in the UK.
4. Solar Trade Sales
Founded in 2010
Based in Essex, England
Products and services: Solar panels, inverters, mounting systems, cables and connectors
Company introduction: Solar Trade Sales is a leading supplier of solar PV products to trade customers across the UK. They offer high-quality products from reputable brands such as LG, Panasonic, JA Solar, Huawei and SMA. They also offer competitive prices, next day delivery and friendly customer service.
5. SolarShop
Founded in 1993
Based in Berkshire, England
Products and services: Solar panels, batteries, inverters, chargers, controllers, lighting systems and accessories
Company introduction: SolarShop is one of the oldest and most experienced solar PV suppliers in the UK. They have been providing solar solutions for over 25 years to domestic and commercial customers. They offer a wide range of products from leading manufacturers such as Victron, Morningstar, Steca and Phocos. They also offer installation, maintenance and consultancy services.
6. Sunshine Solar
Founded in 2004
Based in Norfolk, England
Products and services: Solar panels, batteries, inverters, chargers, controllers, kits and accessories
Company introduction: Sunshine Solar is a family-run business that specialises in solar PV products for off-grid applications. They cater to customers who want to power their caravans, motorhomes, boats, sheds, cabins and remote locations with solar energy. They offer high-quality products, low prices and fast delivery.
7. Wind & Sun
Founded in 1984
Based in Herefordshire, England
Products and services: Solar panels, batteries, inverters, chargers, controllers, wind turbines, hydro turbines and accessories
Company introduction: Wind & Sun is one of the pioneers of renewable energy in the UK. They have been supplying and installing solar PV, wind and hydro systems for over 35 years. They offer a comprehensive range of products from leading brands such as SMA, Fronius, Outback, Rolls and Hoppecke. They also offer design, installation and training services.
8. Solarcentury
Founded in 1998
Based in London, England
Products and services: Solar panels, batteries, inverters and installation
Company introduction: Solarcentury is one of the most respected solar companies in the world. They have been involved in some of the largest and most innovative solar projects in the UK and abroad. They offer high-performance products that are designed to last for decades. Solarcentury also offer a 25 year product warranty and a 10 year performance warranty.
9. Viridian Solar
Founded in 2003
Based in Cambridgeshire, England
Products and services: Solar panels, mounting systems and installation
Company introduction: Viridian Solar is a leading manufacturer of roof-integrated solar panels that blend seamlessly with the roof tiles. They offer a sleek and elegant solution that enhances the aesthetics of any building. They also offer high-efficiency products that are easy to install and maintain.
• Compliance: They helped define the UK standards for wind resistance and weatherproofing in integrated systems.
10. Perlight Solar
Founded in 2006
Based in Essex, England
Products and services: Solar panels, optimised modules, bifacial modules and installation
Company introduction: Perlight Solar is a subsidiary of the Baolite Group, a global manufacturer of solar PV products. They offer a range of high-quality products that use advanced technologies such as PERC, half-cut cells and bifacial cells. Perlight also offer a 25 year product warranty and a 30 year performance warranty.
Key Advantage: Class-leading efficiency of 26% with their Black Grid series.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Solar Panels in the UK
1. The Importance of MCS Certification
Ensure your manufacturer and installer are MCS certified. This is the industry standard in the UK; without it, you cannot export energy back to the grid via the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG).
2. Efficiency vs. UK Weather
While peak efficiency matters, low-light performance is more critical for the UK’s cloudy climate. Look for brands like UKSOL or REA Solar that offer "bifacial" or "half-cut" technology to capture more energy on overcast days.
3. British-Owned vs. British-Made
• British-Owned: Brands like UKSOL and Anglo Solar are owned and supported in the UK, offering British warranties, though their high-volume manufacturing often occurs in globally audited factories.
• British-Made: GB-Sol is one of the few brands that actually manufactures modules on-site in the UK (Wales).
4. Maximizing Grants (ECO4)
If you are eligible for the ECO4 scheme, prioritize brands with "Innovation Measure" approval. Using modules from UKSOL or Anglo Solar can result in a 45% funding uplift, making your transition to green energy significantly more affordable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do solar panels work in the UK's cloudy weather?
A: Yes. Modern solar panels work on daylight, not just direct sunlight. They can still produce significant energy on cloudy days.
Q: Are there any solar panels actually made in the UK?
A: Yes, GB-Sol has a factory in South Wales. Other companies like Viridian and UKSOL are British-owned with local support, though manufacturing may occur in specialized facilities abroad.
Q: What is the best warranty for a UK homeowner?
A: For absolute length, SunPower (40 years) or Project Solar (Lifetime) are top choices. For local support, UKSOL’s 30-year British warranty is highly recommended.
Q: Does the brand of solar panel really matter?
A: Yes. A modern, certified (MCS) and trustworthy brand ensures you have access to repairs and performance guarantees for the next 25+ years,.
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Transparency & Responsibility: We take full responsibility for the authenticity of the data and technical specifications provided in this 2026 guide. However, since every project is unique, we advise that specific collaborations require direct communication and vetting between the purchaser and the manufacturer to ensure all local building codes and technical requirements are met.
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Conclusion
The above are the ten British solar panel manufacturers we found based on factors such as reputation, product quality, service, etc. If you want to find a Chinese solar panel manufacturer with the same product quality as these British manufacturers, Jinmeit has been producing solar panels in China for many years. Time, focusing on the innovation of solar panels and inverters, is able to complete projects with high quality and high service. It has projects in Vietnam, Switzerland, China and other regions.
If your project needs to be completed in the UK or elsewhere, we can serve you, please contact us and speak to an expert.
