As demand for solar energy soars, more people are investing in American-made solar panels. The U.S. solar industry reached a major milestone in Q1 2024, according to the U.S. Solar Market Insight Q2 2024 report, surpassing 200 gigawatts (GW) of total installed capacity. This growth was driven by a record 11 GW of new domestic solar manufacturing capacity coming online - the largest quarterly increase ever. The country now has over 26 GW of annual solar module production ability, with projections of installing another 40 GW in 2024.
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Purchasing U.S.-made solar equipment supports domestic manufacturing and jobs while potentially qualifying buyers for federal tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act.
This comprehensive guide explores the top American solar panel brands, the advantages of choosing domestic panels, and how to select the best option for your solar system—whether you want to reduce your carbon footprint, save on utility bills, or maximize government incentives.
Top American Solar Panel Manufacturers in 2024
While many American solar manufacturers produce great, high-quality, well-performing panels, here are our top three.
We’ve gone through the leading manufacturers, choosing and ranking them based on the following factors:
- Product Warranties: How long does the manufacturer stand behind manufacturing-related issues?
- Performance Warranties: Ensure the panels will maintain a specified efficiency level for the duration of the warranty—the rate at which they will degrade
- Panel Efficiency: The percentage of electricity the panels can produce vs. the energy they receive
- Price
Q Cells
US Production Location: Dalton, GA | Headquarters: South Korea
Q CELLS (formerly Hanwha Q CELLS) was founded in Germany and is now headquartered in South Korea. With a long history in the solar industry, it’s become one of the world's leading solar producers. In 2019, its solar assembly facility in Dalton, Georgia, became the largest in America and the entire Western Hemisphere.
Here’s how they do on the four factors:
Product Warranty: 12 years, with the option to upgrade to 25 years on select models
Performance Warranties: 25-year linear warranty at 86%
Efficiency: 20.6% to 21.4%
Price: $$
JinkoSolar
US Production Location: Jacksonville, FL | Headquarters: China
Chinese-based JinkoSolar is a world leader in the solar industry, according to its website, having produced one out of every ten solar panels in the world. Its Jacksonville, FL, module assembly facility creates panels that ship to its network of warehouse facilities across the country.
Here’s how their solar panels stack up:
Product Warranty: 12 years
Performance Warranties: 25-year linear warranty at 83.1%–84.8%
Efficiency: 19.78% to 21.16%
Price: $$
Silfab Solar
US Production Locations: Bellingham & Burlington, WA | Headquarters: Canada
Silfab is one of the leading solar manufacturers in North America. Headquartered in Canada, they have production facilities in Washington, creating millions of high-quality solar panels specifically for the American market. With truly substantial warranties and impressive efficiencies, their panels have earned the business of the US Military and the FAA.
Here’s what you can expect from Silfab panels:
Product Warranty: 12 years for all; 25 years if installed by a registered Silfab installer
Performance Warranties: 30-year linear warranty at 82.6%
Efficiency: 20.2% to 21.4%
Price: $$
Why Choose American-Made Solar Panels?
While imported solar panels are often cheaper upfront, investing in American-made equipment offers several compelling advantages:
Economic Impact: The U.S. solar industry employs over 264,000 people across manufacturing, installation, and other roles. Purchasing domestic panels directly supports job creation and economic growth in this booming sector.
Tax Incentives: Under the Inflation Reduction Act, systems with at least 40% U.S.-made components qualify for an additional 10% federal tax credit, making American panels more cost-effective long-term. (The specifics of how the 40% will be calculated still need to be released, but we would assume it would include solar panels, inverters, and other system components.)
Innovation: Government funding and incentives drive domestic solar R&D, leading to more efficient, accessible, and sustainable solar technologies from U.S. manufacturers like First Solar and Silfab.
By choosing American-made solar, you'll save money via tax credits, help secure economic growth, and contribute to energy innovation at home.
Buyer's Guide: How to Choose the Best American Solar Panels in 2024
With new federal incentives and a growing number of domestic manufacturers, now is an excellent time to invest in American-made solar panels. Follow these steps to select the best U.S. panels for your home or business:
- Assess Your Energy Needs: Calculate your average monthly/yearly energy consumption to determine the required system size and panel capacity. This will ensure that you install enough panels to effectively meet your needs.
- Research Top Brands: Leading American brands like Silfab, Q Cells, and Mission Solar offer high-efficiency monocrystalline panels with 20%+ efficiency ratings and 25-year performance warranties. Compare specs, customer reviews, and after-sales support.
- Prioritize Quality and Warranties: Look for industry-leading product and performance warranties to protect your investment.
- Partner with an Experienced Installer: Work with a local, experienced solar company. They'll ensure proper system design, sizing, incentive paperwork, and quality installation.
By following these steps, you can confidently select high-quality, cost-effective American-made solar panels backed by robust warranties and top-notch customer support.
And if you want help selecting the best panels for your solar installation, talk to our team.
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