What is the Efficiency Rating of Long Island Solar Panels?
Most solar panels installed on Long Island in 2026 have an efficiency rating between 20% and 22%. Some premium solar panels can have efficiency ratings exceeding 24.8%.
Learn why solar panel efficiency matters, and talk to one of the best-rated solar installers on Long Island to begin your energy savings evaluation.]
What is Solar Panel Efficiency?
Solar panel efficiency is a measurement of how much sunlight is converted into electricity. A solar panel with an efficiency rating of 20% converts one-fifth of the light that hits it into usable electricity.
Although the number might seem quite low, it’s actually high from a technological standpoint. Not all of the light wavelengths in sunlight can be converted into electricity, and a lot of the available energy is lost as heat or is reflected back into the atmosphere. There is also a loss from electrical resistance.
Although we don’t know the true ceiling for solar panel efficiency, the theoretical limit is about 33% with today’s technology. There have been major breakthroughs recently, but even the most advanced panels in laboratory conditions rarely exceed 30%.
Do You Need the Most Efficient Panels?
Higher efficiency means more energy generation, but the additional cost isn’t worth it for most families. The added cost for the most efficient panels is usually disproportionate to performance. The average home on Long Island will generate excellent savings with panels in 20% to 22% efficiency range.
Just a decade ago, most solar panels were made of polycrystalline and had an efficiency range of 15% to 17%. Even back then, families were saving money with solar. Installing residential solar in 2026 gives you much more efficiency, more electricity per hour, and the best savings so far.
High Quality Residential Solar Panels Installed By Power Solutions
At Power Solutions, we believe that the best savings come from a combination of careful planning, meticulous installation steps, and quality hardware. Most of our solar panel installations use solar panels from REC Solar and QCells. We maintain strong partnerships with the best solar manufacturers and suppliers to ensure you have the best options for your home.
- REC Solar Panels are regarded as some of the best in the industry. The N-PEAK Series achieves efficiency around 20%, while the Alpha Series can exceed 22%. REC Solar Panels have an extremely low failure rate and come with a 25-Year Warranty.
- QCells is a leader in photovoltaic technology. Panels in the Q.PEAK DUO range have efficiency ratings between 20.8% and 21.2%, while Q.TRON models can exceed 22%. All QCells panels also come with a 25-year warranty, and there is an extremely low failure rate (reportedly as low as 1 failure for every 10,000 panels produced).
When designing a system for your home, our engineers consider your budget, the available roof space, orientation to the sun, and your savings goals. Most homes don’t need super-high-efficiency panels, but in some cases, they are beneficial to maximize savings.
Get Your Free Home Solar Estimate on Long Island
Power Solutions is a solar installer near you, ready to help you learn about the financial and practical value of renewable energy. You can request a free ballpark estimate online. Initial estimates use satellite data. We will contact you to begin a detailed energy savings evaluation and prepare a cost/benefit report. We provide the information. You make the choice.
Call Power Solutions at (631) 348-0001 to talk about your Long Island solar panel options.
