Why We Only Recommend All-Black Solar Panels for Our Customers

The sight of solar panels on roofs barely even registers anymore. We’re so used to seeing them on homes across Sussex as more and more people try to reduce their bills, guarantee their energy security and lower their carbon footprint.

But do you notice that solar panels don’t all look the same? Some are dark blue with white or silver grid lines, while others are almost completely black. It’s these black solar panels we’re interested in today, as we’re going to explain why they’re a much better choice for residential solar in Sussex, and why you should consider upgrading right away.

So let’s get started.

What are all-black solar panels?

Black panels are much more modern, packed with new solar technology and improved construction methods that make them vastly more efficient.  

This is important because it means that black panels can generate more power from the same amount of sunlight, and/or for the same physical size. This is especially useful during our short winter days, or for making solar power a realistic option for homes with less roof space.

What are the main differences between black and blue solar panels?

The main differences between black and blue solar panels are that they can generate more power per panel, last longer, perform better in hot weather, and (in our opinion) look much sleeker.

Unlike older, blue solar panels, which are made from polycrystalline solar cells, black ones use monocrystalline silicon technology. This single, or ‘mono’, crystal structure is then covered in an anti-reflective silicon nitride or titanium dioxide coating. This makes them much better at absorbing sunlight, and is part of the reason why they look black to our eyes.

Some all-black solar panels, like the SunPower Maxeon ones we use, also have a reflective surface underneath the solar cells. This bounces sunlight back through the panel, which can further increase efficiency.

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How much more efficient are black solar panels?

Black solar panels convert between 20-25% of the sun’s energy into electricity, while a 2024 report by the IEA showed that blue panels convert only 18-21%. While this may seem like a small increase, when you expand it to 10 panels (a fairly typical solar installation in Sussex) and extend it over a year, the difference in your energy bills can be significant.

Most modern black solar panels have power outputs of between 400 and 500W, with some premium models even generating 600W+. By comparison, most blue solar panels generate between 300 and 400W in normal conditions.

As we’ve already mentioned, this increased output and efficiency means that even homes with small roof spaces can generate enough electricity to power their homes. 

Do black panels work better during overcast or short days?

Yes, because they’re more powerful and efficient, black solar panels can generate more power during low-light periods (dawn and dusk) and when it’s overcast. Because our winter days are so short and often cloudy, you can save more money in the winter months by using less power from the grid. 

If you add a solar battery or charge an EV, the savings are even more apparent. In the summer months, when many homes in the South East can generate a surplus, you can sell more energy back to the grid via the Smart Export Guarantee.

Do black solar panels work well in the heat?

Yes. Because of how they’re constructed and generate power, black solar panels do not suffer the same drop in efficiency during hot weather that blue panels can. With our increasingly hot summers down here in Sussex, this better hot-weather performance is a worthwhile investment for the future.

Do black solar panels last longer?

Because of the monocrystalline silicon structure of the cells, black solar panels are less likely to break down over time than their blue counterparts. While blue solar panels have an expected lifespan of around 20-25 years, black panels will reliably last for 30 or 40 years, and perhaps longer than that!

For peace of mind, most solar panel manufacturers will offer a 25 or 30-year guarantee.

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The Benefits of Installing or Upgrading to Black Solar Panels

Blue solar panels are no longer manufactured, so any new installation will almost certainly involve black panels. But what if you already have the older style?

Well, now is the time to upgrade, for several reasons:

1. Low prices… for now: Solar panels are currently incredibly affordable, and SunPower Maxeon 455W panels currently cost between £100 and £150 per panel.
   
   However, the Chinese government is ending their tax rebates on solar exports, which will instantly add 9% to the cost of a panel, with a further 6% increase expected in April 2027.
   
   
2. Increasing demand: As energy prices continue to rise, more and more people are looking to solar as a reliable way to reduce their energy bills and reliance on fossil fuels. As demand increases, prices are expected to rise.
   
   
3. Complete energy security: The impacts of the Iran and Ukraine wars, as well as climate change, will put more pressure on fossil fuels and the grid as a whole. Being able to generate more power for the same physical roof space, especially when combined with battery storage, can guarantee your energy security in the event of price rises and grid outages.

Contact Savent Solar for Sussex Solar Panel Installation

We’ve been installing bespoke solar PV systems in East and West Sussex since 2014, with over 1000 successful residential and commercial installs. 

Unlike other companies that only want simple projects, we design your system from the ground up, so if you’ve been told you can’t have solar on your home… You probably can!

Take control of your bills and energy security, and contact Savent Solar today for a free quote.

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