Jinko vs. Trina vs. Longi: Comparing Leading Solar Panel Brands

So you’ve decided to switch to solar to reduce your electricity costs and increase your sustainability efforts. What comes next is more choices to make to ensure your solar investment is one that lasts for many years to come, all while delivering exceptional performance. 

Apart from deciding which solar panel system size is best for your household, you’ll also have to determine which brand of solar panels will better serve your energy needs. Then comes budget constraints, which only makes choosing the best solar panels harder.  

In recent times, however, we’ve seen significant pricing reductions in solar power systems. Thanks to incredible improvements in solar technology and government support in the form of rebates, solar panel systems have never been this accessible. 

But when it comes to cost-effective solar panels, there are three solar companies that easily come to mind: Jinko, Trina, and Longi. In this guide, we’ll compare three of the solar industry’s leading panel brands in terms of features, durability, warranty, and pricing. 

What is a solar panel? 

A solar panel is a device that’s designed to harness the sun’s energy to power both residential and commercial properties. It converts sunlight to electricity through the use of photovoltaic (PV) cells. But how do solar panels really work? 

When sunlight hits a panel, its energy is absorbed by the PV cells in that panel. That’s when the “magic” happens —the absorbed energy generates electrical charges (DC electricity) that move due to an internal electrical field in the cell, causing electricity to flow. The current flows into an solar inverter, which then converts into AC electricity, the form of energy for household or grid use. 

A solar system can help you save energy by reducing your reliance on the grid, therefore saving on your electricity bill. Excess power generated by your system can even be sold to your utility company, helping you save more. This ability to save on energy costs each month is one of the reasons why more homeowners and businesses are starting to switch to solar power. 

Jinko Solar Panels Review: Affordable Innovation in Solar Technology

Starting its operations in 2006, Jinko’s Tiger Neo solar panel (JKM440N-54HL4R-V) is one of the brand’s most purchased panels. The company’s guarantee of reliability and innovation are what exactly these panels represent, making them a popular choice in Australia. 

This particular model is also highly favoured because of its durability thanks to the combination of Mono facial technology and N-type technology. When it comes to performance and efficiency, N-type solar panels have been recognised as the better selection. 

Jinko Solar Panels Features

In this Jinko solar panels review, it’s essential to delve into the brand’s most important features, which are as follows: 

Super Multi BusBar (SMBB) Technology:  An advanced photovoltaic (PV) technology where multiple thin copper, known as “busbars” are used to connect the solar cells in a solar module. 

The more busbars in a single cell, the less power loss. Therefore, integration of the SMBB technology in Jinko solar panels only means higher light trapping and current collection, maximising power yield and energy efficiency. 

Potential-Induced Degradation (PID) Resistance: You know your investment is worthwhile when your solar panels are able to perform efficiently for many, many years to come. That’s why the PID Resistance feature in a solar panel is crucial as it guarantees that your system functions optimally for a long time. Jinko’s solar panels ensure PID Resistance via optimised mass production strict materials control. 

Hot 2.0 Technology: Jinko’s Hot 2.0 technology is a form of high temperature resistant technology. This is used in N-type panels to reduce Light Induced Degradation (LID) and/or Light enhanced Temperature Induced Degradation (LETID), a phenomenon that causes power loss. 

Enhanced Mechanical Load: Jinko’s Tiger Neo solar panels can resist harsh environmental conditions as they’re built to withstand high wind load (2400 Pascal) and snow load (5400 Pascal). With your solar panels doing the grunt work, you have to make sure they’re highly equipped to endure external challenges. 

Durability Against Extreme Environmental Conditions: The Tiger Neo panels are also designed with high salt mist and ammonia resistance, meaning they’re really built to last and be resilient in case of severe environmental conditions. 

Product & Performance Warranty: Offers 25-year product warranty and 30-year linear power warranty; only .40% annual degradation over 40 years. 

Trina Solar Panels Review: The Best-Value Solar Panel in Australia

Founded in 1997, Trina Solar is a widely favoured brand by Australian installers. In fact, it has once again been voted as the best-value solar panel in Australia by the installers themselves, ranking #1. 

For such a cost-effective panel brand, it’s not a surprise that Trina constantly gets a commendation for being affordable, efficient, and reliable at the same time. Trina’s Vertex S+ solar panels, in particular, are high-demand solar technology that combines value and performance. 

Trina Solar Panels Features

In this Trina solar panels review, we explore the brand’s key features to help you make an informed decision: 

Enhanced Power Output: Delivering up to 445W, 22.3% module efficiency, and high-density interconnect technology to boot, Trina solar panels stand out by providing impressive power output despite its smaller size. 

Multi-busbar Technology: Having several “busbars” ensures greater light trapping and enhanced current collection, all while decreasing series resistance and strengthening its reliability. This guarantees premium performance overall.

Dual-glass Design: The dual glass design in Vertex S paves for a more secure and sustainable solar power system. During installation, the improved dual glass proves to be less prone to micro-cracks and scratches. It also employs a Class C fire rating with weather, salt spray, and ammonia resistance, ensuring your panels withstand severe external conditions. 

Super Low Degradation: The first year degradation is only 1% while and only at 0.4% annually moving forward. 

Product & Performance Warranty: Offers 25-year product warranty and 30-year power warranty. 

Universal Compatibility: Trina’s solar panels are seamless solar solutions ideal for both residential and commercial & industrial installations. They’re designed for smooth integration with existing mainstream inverters and a whole range of mounting systems. They’re also lightweight and compact, making them easier for handling and installation. 

Mechanical Performance: Trina is built for performance and resilience, delivering mechanical performance of up to 5400 Pa positive load and 4000 Pa negative load. 

Longi Solar Panels Review: Consistent Performance and Advanced Design

Longi Solar entered the solar industry in 2000 with one goal in mind: become the most valuable solar power technology in the world. As one of the world’s biggest manufacturers of monocrystalline silicon wafers, the company has since established itself as a technological leader in monocrystalline solar panels. 

In Australia, Longi is a top choice for homeowners and businesses alike for its continuous solar innovation while delivering affordable products. 

In this Jinko solar panels review, we learn the brand’s integral features that consistently translate to performance and durability, focusing on one of their best-selling products, the LR4-72HBD. 

Enhanced Compatibility: Longi solar panels allow flexibility by being suitable for every type of installation, may it be for ground power plants or large C&I projects. 

Advanced Module Technology:  Delivering M6 Gallium-doped Wafer and 9-busbar Half-cut Cell, Longi’s LR4-72HBD provides increased module efficiency for higher energy output. The use of Gallium-doped wafers also reduces light-induced degradation (LID).

Bifacial Energy Output: Bifacial panels produce more energy as they’re able to capture sunlight from both sides, translating to additional solar production. 

High-Quality Module: As a leader in the production of monocrystalline solar panels, Longi, of course, offers superior modules that ensure top-tier performance and long-term reliability. 

Sleek Design: Aesthetic-wise, Longi stands out with its visually appealing panels, utilising  sleek, minimalist design that blends beautifully with various roof types. 

Product & Power Warranty: Offers 12-year product warranty and 30-year linear power warranty. 

Jinko vs. Trina vs. Longi: Conclusion

Jinko, Trina, and Longi are some of the most efficient solar panels in Australia. They’re prominent choices among installers for their cost-effectiveness and exceptional performance paired with a reputable inverter brand. These companies are also constantly evolving in terms of advanced solar technology innovation, a pivotal aspect that’s crucial in bringing solar power to more homes. 

While they’re all excellent solar panel manufacturers, it all comes down to your specific needs and budget. If you’re all about performance and appearance, Longi solar panels might suit your preference. If efficiency, durability, and affordability are topmost priorities, you may find the Trina solar panels cost less daunting or Jinko’s products much more aligned to your needs. 

If you need a solar installer to advise on what solar energy system is best for your home or business, contact Volteam at 1300 865 832. We’re here to help. Our team of solar experts are highly trained and fully licensed for installing solar panels to many parts of South East Queensland, from Surfers Paradise to Maroochydore. 

You can also request a free quote online for details on pricing.