Best 20 Solar Panel Manufacturers : 2024 Ultimate Guide

The solar industry in the United States has been booming. With a combination of year-round sunshine and government policies supporting renewable energy, solar panels made in USA are in high demand. Whether you are a homeowner looking to add solar panels to your home, or a business thinking of investing in renewable energy, it is essential to know the best American made solar panels. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the largest solar panel manufacturers in the US, giving you an insight into the local industry.

Primroot.com – Professional Solar Panel Manufacturer

Location (Headquarters): Shenzhen, China
Year Established: 2013

Primroot.com is a leading-edge professional solar panels & inverter manufacturer based in the high-tech hub of Shenzhen, China. Fueled by the creative spirit and expertise of our world-class research and development team, we are at the forefront of the Photovoltaic (PV) and inverter industry, driving innovative solutions that reshape the energy landscape. Our robust supply chain and exceptional manufacturing capability, ensure we maintain an unmatched level of quality and efficiency.

At Primroot.com, we understand that your unique needs demand bespoke solutions. This understanding is at the heart of our OEM/ODM services, which have been designed to seamlessly integrate with PV panels & inverters, and module manufacturers worldwide. We are committed to delivering products that are both high in quality and efficiency, ensuring you get the most out of your investment.

1. Shenzhen, China

China is the world’s largest producer of solar panels, and Shenzhen stands out as a key city in this regard. Shenzhen is home to many tier 1 solar panel manufacturers and PV panel suppliers, making it a significant hub in the solar industry’s supply chain. The city’s robust infrastructure, skilled workforce, and advanced technology have made it a preferred location for solar manufacturing companies. Shenzhen’s manufacturers are known for their high-quality Rigid Solar Panels and Portable Solar Panels, which are exported worldwide.

2. Penang, Malaysia

Malaysia, specifically Penang, has emerged as a major player in the solar industry. With favorable government policies, a strategic location in Southeast Asia, and a strong focus on renewable energy, Penang has attracted several PV panel manufacturers and solar inverter manufacturers. The city’s manufacturers specialize in producing Flexible Solar Panels and Folding Solar Panels, contributing to the global solar supply chain. Penang’s commitment to sustainable practices and innovation has helped it become a significant player in the solar industry.

3.Chennai, India

India’s solar industry has been growing rapidly, with Chennai becoming a significant center for solar PV manufacturing. The city hosts several PVT solar panel manufacturers and a Renewsys solar panel distributor, making it a key player in the solar supply chain. Chennai’s manufacturers are known for their high-quality solar panels and inverters, and the city’s strategic location on the Bay of Bengal allows for easy export to other countries. The Indian government’s push for solar energy has also helped Chennai become a major hub for solar manufacturing.

The United States is home to several solar panel manufacturers. Among these, three regions stand out as the largest centers for US made solar panels.

North Carolina:

North Carolina is another key player in the American solar panel manufacturing scene. The state’s policies promoting renewable energy have made it an attractive place for companies such as LG Solar Panels. LG Solar Panels, made in the USA, are known for their quality and efficiency. Additionally, North Carolina is home to a thriving market for RV solar panels made in USA and is one of the leading US photovoltaic manufacturers and solar inverter manufacturers in USA.

Oregon:

Oregon has attracted several solar cell manufacturers in USA due to its business-friendly policies and skilled workforce. Companies like SunPower and SolarWorld have established production facilities here. SunPower, known for its high-efficiency solar panels, has a significant manufacturing plant in Hillsboro, Oregon. Similarly, SolarWorld, which is one of the largest solar manufacturers in the US, has been operating in Oregon for several years.

Ohio:

Ohio is the third major hub for solar panel manufacturing in the USA. First Solar, an American company that’s one of the largest solar panel manufacturers in the world, has its manufacturing facility in Perrysburg, Ohio. They specialize in thin-film solar panels and are known for their innovation and high-quality products.

SunPower

SunPower, headquartered in San Jose, California, is a solar panel manufacturer with over 35 years of history. They have been pioneers in the solar industry and are known for producing solar panels with the highest efficiency in the market. Their product range includes the Maxeon series and Performance series.

SunPower’s Maxeon series are renowned for being incredibly efficient and durable. Their Performance series combines conventional cells with SunPower’s manufacturing, ensuring robust design for various applications. SunPower’s solar panels made in USA cater to residential, commercial, and utility-scale projects, making them one of the best US-made solar panels.

First Solar

First Solar, based in Tempe, Arizona, is one of the leading global providers of photovoltaic (PV) solar systems. Founded in 1999, it is one of the largest solar manufacturers in the US. The company specializes in thin-film solar panels made from cadmium telluride, which is different from the conventional crystalline silicon used in most solar panels.

First Solar’s thin-film technology offers excellent performance in real-world conditions. Their Series 6 and Series 6 Plus modules deliver higher energy yields and stand out for their quality, reliability, and environmental credentials. The company’s modules are predominantly used in utility-scale solar installations.

Tesla

Tesla is a renowned American electric vehicle and clean energy company based in Palo Alto, California. In recent years, Tesla has also emerged as a significant player in the solar panel manufacturing industry. With its solar division called Tesla Energy, the company aims to complement its electric vehicles with renewable energy products.

Tesla Energy offers sleek and low-profile solar panels, with no visible mounting hardware. They also manufacture the Solar Roof, which integrates solar energy production with roof tiles. Tesla’s solar panels are highly efficient and come with an integrated approach to energy storage with the Powerwall battery.

SolarWorld Americas Inc.

SolarWorld Americas Inc., a subsidiary of the German company SolarWorld, is one of the largest solar panel manufacturers in the United States. With headquarters in Hillsboro, Oregon, the company has a rich history of over 40 years in solar manufacturing. Their focus has been on making high-quality solar panels made in America.

SolarWorld offers a wide range of products including Sunmodule Plus, Sunmodule Protect, and Real Value. The Sunmodule Plus series is known for its high performance and durability, even under high-temperature conditions. SolarWorld ensures robust quality checks for their products, catering to the residential, commercial, and industrial sectors.

LG Solar

LG Solar is part of the LG group, a globally recognized brand. Though not an American company, it has a significant presence in the USA with its high-quality solar panels. LG’s NeON 2 and NeON R series are particularly popular, known for their high efficiency and modern aesthetic appeal.

In the US market, LG Solar is known for its high-performance modules with high power outputs. LG solar panels are recognized for their durability, efficiency, and outstanding warranties. Their technology also ensures better performance on cloudy days. LG has become a favorite choice for homeowners looking for high-quality solar installations.

Panasonic

Panasonic, a Japanese multinational electronics corporation, is also one of the top players in the solar industry in the United States. With a long-standing history of over 100 years in technology innovation, Panasonic has been producing solar panels since the 1970s. They have established themselves as a provider of high-efficiency solar panels in the American market.

Panasonic’s HIT® solar panels are known for their high efficiency and excellent performance in various weather conditions. The innovative heterojunction technology ensures maximum production and efficiency. With a low degradation rate and high power output, Panasonic’s solar panels are an excellent choice for both residential and commercial installations.

REC Group

While REC Group is a Norwegian company, it is an important player in the US solar market. With a reputation for reliability and high-performance products, REC has established a prominent presence among US solar panel producers.

REC’s Alpha Series is known for high power output and efficiency. Made using advanced heterojunction technology, these panels offer outstanding performance even in low-light conditions. REC Group’s focus on innovation and sustainability makes it a preferred choice for residential and commercial installations in the United States.

Q CELLS America

Q CELLS, a part of the Hanwha Group, is a global solar company with offices in the United States. It has made a significant impact on the US solar market, thanks to its high-performance solar panels.

Q CELLS’ product line, including the Q.PEAK DUO series, is known for performance, reliability, and innovation. These solar panels offer a unique combination of high-efficiency monocrystalline technology with cutting-edge cell separation and innovative wiring. Their solar solutions cater to residential, commercial, and industrial clients.

Silfab Solar

Silfab Solar, with its manufacturing center in Bellingham, Washington, is a leading North American manufacturer of high-performance solar panels made in the USA. The company leverages over 35 years of experience in solar technologies to produce some of the highest efficiency and lowest defect rate panels in the industry.

Silfab’s product range includes the SLA and SLG series of monocrystalline panels. These panels are designed with superior back-contact technology and materials that ensure maximum output and minimal performance degradation over time. Silfab Solar’s dedication to quality and performance has earned it a strong reputation among residential and commercial customers.

SolarTech Universal

SolarTech Universal is a high-tech solar panel manufacturer based in Riviera Beach, Florida. The company prides itself on using innovative manufacturing techniques and materials, ensuring the production of high-quality solar panels.

SolarTech Universal’s SmartWire Technology helps in increasing panel efficiency by providing better shading response and increased light harvesting. The company also employs a unique triple-redundant sealing system to protect against environmental degradation and ensure the longevity of the panels.

Seraphim USA

Seraphim USA is part of the global Seraphim Energy Group, and its manufacturing facility is located in Jackson, Mississippi. They produce high-quality solar panels for the American market.

Seraphim specializes in research, development, production, and sales of solar PV products. Their panels, including the Eclipse series, are known for high efficiency and innovative module design. With a focus on reliability and sustainability, Seraphim USA continues to make significant contributions to the US solar industry.

Auxin Solar

Location and History: Auxin Solar, headquartered in San Jose, California, was founded in the year 2008. With over a decade of experience, this US-based solar panel manufacturer has established itself as a reliable name in the solar industry.

Product Range and Advantage: Auxin Solar produces a wide range of solar panels, including monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels. Their solar panels are known for high efficiency and durability. The company is also one of the few that offer customizable solar panels, catering to specific customer requirements. They are a great option for those looking for flexible and tailored solutions.

Solaria Corporation

Location and History: Established in 2000, Solaria Corporation is based in Fremont, California. The company has consistently been at the forefront of developing innovative solar technologies.

Product Range and Advantage: Solaria is renowned for its high-power, high-efficiency solar panels. One of the flagship products is the Solaria PowerXT, which is known for its sleek design and high output. Solaria’s panels are aesthetically pleasing, making them a preferred choice for residential installations. The company is also a pioneer in creating patented technology that significantly boosts the efficiency of solar panels.

Mission Solar

Location and History: Located in San Antonio, Texas, Mission Solar began operations in 2013. Though relatively new, the company quickly made a name for itself in the American solar market.

Product Range and Advantage: Mission Solar specializes in producing high-efficiency N-type and P-type solar panels. Their product range includes the MSE PERC 60, which is highly efficient and ideal for residential and commercial installations. Mission Solar takes pride in the fact that all its products are designed, engineered, and assembled in the USA, ensuring top-quality solar panels.

Zamp Solar

Location and History: Located in San Antonio, Texas, Mission Solar began operations in 2013. Though relatively new, the company quickly made a name for itself in the American solar market.

Product Range and Advantage: Zamp Solar offers a variety of solar panels, including monocrystalline and portable solar panel kits. The company’s products are highly valued for their quality, ease of installation, and flexibility. Particularly popular among RV owners and outdoor enthusiasts, Zamp Solar panels and kits are an excellent choice for those who need mobile solar solutions.

SunSpark USA

Location and History: Based in Riverside, California, SunSpark USA started its journey in the solar manufacturing industry in 2015. The company is part of the SunSpark Technology Inc. group, which has been in the business of manufacturing solar products since 1990.

Product Range and Advantage: SunSpark USA manufactures a wide array of solar panels, which includes both monocrystalline and polycrystalline variants. Their panels are known for high efficiency and have a strong reputation for quality and reliability. The firm also focuses on sustainability and environmental responsibility, ensuring that its products have a reduced carbon footprint.

SolarTech Universal

Location and History: SolarTech Universal is located in Riviera Beach, Florida, and was founded in 2012. The company has rapidly become known as a high-tech and high-quality solar panel manufacturer.

Product Range and Advantage: SolarTech Universal uses advanced SmartWire Technology in its solar panels, which leads to greater energy output and efficiency. The company offers a range of solar panels suitable for both residential and commercial installations. The solar panels manufactured by SolarTech are also well known for their durability and performance even under harsh weather conditions.

Seraphim USA

Location and History: Seraphim USA operates out of its facility in Jackson, Mississippi. The company is a subsidiary of the global solar manufacturer Seraphim Energy Group, which was founded in 2011.

Product Range and Advantage: Seraphim USA manufactures a variety of solar panels, including high-efficiency monocrystalline solar panels. They cater to both residential and commercial markets. The company is committed to high-quality standards and innovation, and it continually invests in research and development to enhance the performance of its solar panels.

The solar panel industry is dominated by two giants: the United States and China. While the US made solar panels have been renowned for their high quality and technological innovation, China has been the leader in terms of manufacturing scale and cost-effectiveness. The comparative insight between these two behemoths in the solar panel industry is intriguing.

The United States is home to some of the best American made solar panels. Companies such as First Solar, SunPower, and Tesla have established themselves as leaders in the solar industry. US manufacturers often focus on innovation, technological advancements, and stringent quality control. They also tend to produce high-efficiency solar panels that are robust and reliable, albeit at a higher price point. Another distinguishing factor is that many of the companies manufacturing solar panels made in America are also actively involved in research and development, further propelling innovation.

In contrast, China, with its massive manufacturing capacity, has been able to produce solar panels on an enormous scale. This large-scale production has enabled Chinese manufacturers to offer highly competitive prices. However, in some cases, the lower costs might be associated with compromises on quality or efficiency. It is also important to note that some Chinese solar manufacturers like JinkoSolar and Trina Solar have been investing heavily in R&D, and have been climbing up the ladder in terms of quality and efficiency, narrowing the gap between them and their American counterparts.

An important aspect in the comparative analysis is the environmental regulations. The United States typically has stricter environmental regulations in place, which can contribute to the higher cost of US made solar panels. On the other hand, the Chinese government has been known for being more lenient, although this has been changing in recent years as China looks to clean up its image regarding environmental issues.

In conclusion, when choosing between US made solar panels and those made in China, it’s essential to consider what is more important for the specific project. If cutting-edge technology, high efficiency, and robust build quality are paramount, American made panels might be the best choice. However, for cost-sensitive projects, Chinese panels might offer the best value.

When considering importing solar panels to the United States, either from China or other countries, it’s critical to ensure that the panels comply with the certifications and standards required for the American market. This not only guarantees the product’s quality and reliability but also ensures that the solar panels meet safety regulations.

UL Certification

One of the most important certifications for solar panels in the United States is the UL (Underwriters Laboratories) certification. UL is a global safety certification company that has been testing products for over a century. UL certification is often considered a must-have for solar panels entering the US market. It ensures that the panels have undergone rigorous testing for safety and performance. Most notably, solar panels should comply with UL 1703, which is the specific standard for flat-plate photovoltaic panels and modules.

IEC Certification

Another notable certification is the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) certification, particularly IEC 61215 and IEC 61730. While IEC is an international standard, it is widely recognized and accepted in the United States. IEC 61215 is concerned with the design qualifications and type approval for terrestrial photovoltaic modules, while IEC 61730 deals with safety qualifications.

CEC Listing

In addition to UL and IEC certifications, for solar panels to be eligible for incentives in the state of California (and many other states that follow its lead), they must be listed on the California Energy Commission (CEC) list of eligible equipment. The CEC listing ensures that the solar panels meet certain efficiency and performance criteria.

Energy Star Certification

Energy Star certification is another noteworthy standard for solar panels. It is a voluntary program led by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that helps businesses and individuals save money and protect the climate through superior energy efficiency.

Additional Certifications

Depending on the state and local regulations, there may also be additional certifications or requirements. It’s crucial to research and adhere to state-specific requirements, especially if the panels will be installed in various states across the country.

In conclusion, the solar panel manufacturing landscape in the USA is a dynamic mix of innovation and competition. The country boasts an array of prominent manufacturers such as primroot.com, Tesla, and SunPower, all contributing to the high-quality production of solar panels. The demand for American-made panels is on the rise due to their quality and sustainability, despite competition from lower-cost Chinese panels. Moreover, the rigorous certification standards in place for solar panels entering the American market ensure safety and performance.

As technology advances and awareness of renewable energy increases, solar panel factories in usa are poised to make substantial contributions to the green energy revolution. Navigating the complexities of certifications is essential for those looking to import panels, but for consumers at large, the variety and quality of American-made solar panels signal a robust and growing market that is likely to continue thriving.