| Feature | Panasonic | LG |
|---|---|---|
| Efficiency Rating | Up to 22.2% | Up to 21.7% |
| Price per Watt | $2.61-$3.45 | $2.75-$3.60 (limited availability) |
| Temperature Coefficient | -0.24% to -0.26%/°C | -0.29% to -0.40%/°C |
| 25-Year Performance | 92% | 87-90.8% |
| Product Warranty | 25 years | 25 years |
| 2025 Market Status | Active (outsourced production) | Discontinued (warranty support only) |
Executive Summary: Who Should Choose What in 2025
The solar panel landscape has dramatically shifted since 2022, making the Panasonic vs LG solar panels comparison more complex than ever. While both brands historically represented premium tier-1 solar technology, LG’s exit from the solar market in 2022 has fundamentally changed this comparison.
Choose Panasonic if: You want currently manufactured panels with active production support, superior hot weather performance, and competitive pricing for premium panels.
Consider LG if: You can find remaining inventory at discounted prices and are comfortable with warranty-only support for a discontinued product line.
Critical 2025 Market Update
LG Solar’s Market Exit Impact
LG Electronics officially discontinued solar panel production in 2022, fundamentally altering the competitive landscape. While the company continues to honor existing warranties through 2047, no new LG solar panels are being manufactured. This creates several implications for consumers:
- Limited availability: Only remaining dealer inventory is available
- No product evolution: Technology remains frozen at 2022 specifications
- Warranty support only: LG provides replacement panels for warranty claims but no technical advancement
- Potential price volatility: Remaining stock may see price fluctuations
Panasonic’s Manufacturing Transition
Panasonic has shifted to outsourced manufacturing while maintaining design control and quality standards. The company partners with established manufacturers to produce panels meeting Panasonic specifications, ensuring continued availability and support.
Brand Overview and Market Position
Panasonic Solar: Innovation Through Partnership
Panasonic’s solar division leverages over 40 years of photovoltaic experience, pioneering the HIT (Heterojunction with Intrinsic Thin layer) technology that sets industry standards for temperature performance. The company’s EverVolt series represents their current flagship offering.
Key Panasonic advantages:
- Proprietary HIT cell technology for superior hot weather performance
- Continued product development and manufacturing
- Strong financial backing from diversified electronics giant
- Comprehensive installer network and support
LG Solar: Legacy Excellence with Limited Future
LG’s NeON series established the company as a premium solar manufacturer, with their NeON R panels achieving some of the highest efficiency ratings in residential solar. The company’s N-type cell technology and innovative rear-contact designs pushed industry boundaries.
LG’s lasting legacy:
- Industry-leading efficiency ratings up to 21.7%
- Robust 25-year warranty still honored
- Proven track record of quality and reliability
- Strong brand recognition and trust
Technical Specifications Deep Dive
Efficiency Analysis: The Performance Difference That Matters
The efficiency comparison between Panasonic vs LG solar panels reveals competitive performance in laboratory conditions, with real-world performance differences based on temperature conditions.
Panasonic EverVolt specifications:
- Module efficiency: Up to 22.2%
- Power output: 330W to 430W
- Cell technology: HIT (Heterojunction)
- Panel dimensions: 40″ x 67.75″
LG NeON series specifications:
- Module efficiency: Up to 21.7% (NeON R)
- Power output: 335W to 440W
- Cell technology: N-Type monocrystalline
- Panel dimensions: Variable (larger panels for higher wattage)
Temperature Coefficient: Where Panasonic Excels
Temperature coefficient represents one of the most significant technical differences in the Panasonic vs LG comparison. This specification determines how much power output decreases as panels heat up beyond standard test conditions (25°C/77°F). For maintaining optimal solar panel efficiency, understanding temperature performance is crucial.
Real-world temperature impact example:
On a hot summer day when panels reach 65°C (149°F), representing a 40°C temperature rise:
- Panasonic panels: 9.6% to 10.4% power loss (-0.24% to -0.26% × 40°C)
- LG panels: 11.6% to 16% power loss (-0.29% to -0.40% × 40°C)
For a 10kW system, this translates to 320W to 800W additional power retention for Panasonic panels during peak heat conditions.
Degradation Rates and Long-Term Performance
Both manufacturers offer industry-leading degradation rates, but with different patterns:
Panasonic degradation profile:
- Year 1: 2% maximum degradation
- Years 2-25: 0.26% annual degradation
- 25-year performance guarantee: 92% of original output
LG degradation profile:
- Year 1: 3% maximum degradation
- Years 2-25: 0.54% annual degradation
- 25-year performance guarantee: 87-90.8% of original output
Real-World Performance Analysis
Climate-Specific Performance Data
Independent testing from the HESOLAR test array in Austin, Texas, provides valuable real-world performance data comparing premium solar panels under actual operating conditions.
Hot climate performance (Arizona, Texas, Florida):
- Panasonic advantage: Superior temperature coefficient results in 3-7% higher daily energy production during summer months
- LG performance: Excellent efficiency partially offset by higher temperature losses
Moderate climate performance (California, North Carolina):
- Both brands perform similarly with minimal temperature-related losses
- LG’s higher efficiency provides slight advantage in optimal conditions
Cold climate performance (Northeast, Mountain states):
- Both brands excel in cold weather conditions
- Snow load ratings: Both exceed 5,400 Pa (112 psf)
- Cold temperature boost benefits both technologies equally
Shading Tolerance and Partial Shading Scenarios
Modern solar installations often face partial shading challenges from trees, buildings, or other obstructions. Both Panasonic and LG panels incorporate bypass diodes to minimize shading impact.
Shading performance comparison:
- Panasonic: 3 bypass diodes per panel, good shading tolerance
- LG NeON series: 3-4 bypass diodes depending on model, excellent shading recovery
- Recommendation: Both perform well with microinverters or power optimizers
Cost Analysis and Value Proposition
Price Per Watt Breakdown
The cost comparison between Panasonic and LG solar panels reveals important value considerations:
Current pricing (2025):
- Panasonic EverVolt: $2.61-$3.45 per watt
- LG NeON series: $2.75-$3.60 per watt (limited availability)
- Market average: $2.00-$3.00 per watt for standard efficiency panels
Total System Cost Implications
For a typical 10kW residential system:
Panasonic system cost:
- Panel cost: $26,100-$34,500
- Total installed cost: $25,000-$35,000
- After federal tax credit (30%): $17,500-$24,500
LG system cost (if available):
- Panel cost: $27,500-$36,000
- Total installed cost: $26,000-$36,000
- After federal tax credit (30%): $18,200-$25,200
For homeowners considering different payment options, exploring various solar financing options can help make premium panels more accessible while maximizing long-term savings.
ROI Calculations and Payback Periods
Return on investment calculations must consider long-term performance differences:
25-year energy production comparison (10kW system):
- Panasonic: ~385,000 kWh total production
- LG: ~375,000 kWh total production
- Value difference: ~$1,200-$2,000 in additional energy production for Panasonic
Warranty and Support Comparison
Product Warranty Terms
Both manufacturers historically offered comprehensive 25-year warranties, but 2025 realities differ significantly:
Panasonic TripleGuard Warranty:
- Product warranty: 25 years for materials and workmanship
- Performance warranty: 92% output after 25 years
- Labor warranty: Covered for approved installers
- Support status: Full manufacturer support and service
LG Triple Warranty (legacy support):
- Product warranty: 25 years (honored through 2047)
- Performance warranty: 87-90.8% output after 25 years
- Labor warranty: Up to $450 per claim
- Support status: Warranty claims only, no technical support
Post-Purchase Support Reality
The support landscape has fundamentally changed:
Panasonic support advantages:
- Active customer service and technical support
- Ongoing product development and improvements
- Installer training and certification programs
- System monitoring and diagnostic support
LG support limitations:
- Warranty replacement panels available
- No new product development or technical advancement
- Limited customer service for technical issues
- Installer support programs discontinued
Installation Considerations
Panel Dimensions and Roof Space Requirements
Physical specifications impact installation feasibility and system design:
Panasonic EverVolt dimensions:
- Standard size: 40″ × 67.75″ (18.8 sq ft)
- Weight: 44 lbs
- Power density: 18-23 watts per square foot
- Consistent sizing across wattage range
LG NeON series dimensions:
- Variable sizing: 40″ × 66.38″ to 41″ × 75.2″
- Weight: 41-48 lbs depending on model
- Power density: 19-22 watts per square foot
- Larger panels for higher wattages
Inverter Compatibility and System Integration
Both panel brands integrate seamlessly with major inverter systems:
String inverter compatibility:
- Maximum system voltage: 1000V DC for both brands
- Optimal string sizing: 8-12 panels per string
- Compatible with SolarEdge, Fronius, SMA, and other major brands
Microinverter options:
- Panasonic: Compatible with Enphase IQ7+ and IQ8 series
- LG: Optimized for Enphase IQ7X and higher capacity microinverters
- Both support rapid shutdown compliance automatically
Comprehensive Pros and Cons Analysis
Panasonic Solar Panels: Advantages and Limitations
Panasonic Advantages:
- Superior hot weather performance: Industry-leading temperature coefficient
- Active manufacturing and support: Continued product development and customer service
- Proven HIT technology: 40+ years of photovoltaic innovation
- Strong financial backing: Diversified electronics giant ensures long-term stability
- Competitive pricing: Premium performance at reasonable cost
- Better long-term performance guarantee: 92% vs 87-90.8% after 25 years
Panasonic Limitations:
- Slightly lower peak efficiency: 22.2% vs LG’s 21.7% maximum (minimal difference)
- Outsourced manufacturing: Quality control relies on third-party partners
- Installer requirements: Reduced warranty terms without approved installers
LG Solar Panels: Advantages and Current Challenges
LG Advantages:
- High efficiency ratings: Up to 21.7% efficiency in NeON R series
- High-wattage options: Up to 440W panels for maximum power density
- Proven reliability: Excellent track record and build quality
- Strong brand recognition: Trusted electronics manufacturer
- Flexible installer requirements: Full warranty regardless of installer choice
LG Current Challenges:
- Discontinued production: No new panels manufactured since 2022
- Limited availability: Only remaining dealer inventory accessible
- No technical support: Warranty replacement only, no customer service
- Technology frozen: No product improvements or innovations
- Higher temperature losses: Reduced performance in hot climates
- Price volatility: Remaining stock subject to supply/demand fluctuations
Expert Recommendations and Buying Guide
When to Choose Panasonic Solar Panels
Ideal Panasonic scenarios:
- Hot climate installations: Arizona, Texas, Florida, Southern California
- Long-term value focus: Maximum 25-year energy production
- Active support requirements: Need for ongoing technical assistance
- Premium quality seekers: Want tier-1 quality with active manufacturing
- Future system expansion: May want to add panels in coming years
When to Consider LG Solar Panels
Appropriate LG scenarios:
- Discounted inventory available: Significant price reduction from dealers clearing stock
- Space-constrained installations: Need high efficiency in limited roof area
- Moderate climate locations: Minimal temperature-related performance loss
- Warranty-only support acceptable: Comfortable with discontinued product status
Questions to Ask Solar Installers
Before making your final decision, ask potential installers these critical questions:
About product availability:
- “Do you have current inventory of LG panels, and what’s the pricing?”
- “How does Panasonic’s outsourced manufacturing affect quality control?”
- “What happens if I need additional panels in 5-10 years?”
About warranty and support:
- “How do you handle warranty claims for discontinued LG panels?”
- “Are you a Panasonic approved installer for full warranty coverage?”
- “What technical support is available after installation?”
About performance expectations:
- “How will temperature coefficient differences affect my specific location?”
- “What monitoring system will track actual vs. expected performance?”
- “How do you handle partial shading on my roof?”
Red Flags and What to Avoid
Warning signs during the sales process:
- Pressure tactics around LG inventory: “Limited time offers” may indicate old stock
- Unrealistic performance claims: Efficiency ratings above manufacturer specifications
- Warranty confusion: Unclear explanations of post-discontinuation support
- Installation shortcuts: Skipping proper system design for challenging roof conditions
Future-Proofing Considerations
Technology Evolution and Compatibility
Solar technology continues advancing rapidly, making future compatibility crucial:
Panasonic future outlook:
- Continued R&D investment in HIT technology improvements
- Potential integration with energy storage solutions
- Ongoing compatibility with evolving inverter technology
- Possible next-generation panel releases
LG future limitations:
- Technology frozen at 2022 specifications
- No integration with future LG energy products
- Potential compatibility issues with next-generation inverters
- Limited expansion options for system growth
Market Trends and Industry Direction
The solar industry continues evolving toward higher efficiency, lower costs, and better integration:
- Efficiency improvements: Industry moving toward 23-25% standard efficiency
- Larger panel formats: 500W+ panels becoming standard for residential use
- Smart integration: Built-in monitoring and optimization capabilities
- Energy storage pairing: Seamless battery system integration
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Panasonic solar panels better than LG?
In 2025, Panasonic offers better overall value due to continued manufacturing, superior hot weather performance, and active customer support. LG panels may still be suitable if available at significant discounts and you’re comfortable with warranty-only support.
What’s the difference between Panasonic and LG solar panel efficiency?
Panasonic’s peak efficiency reaches 22.2% compared to LG’s 21.7% maximum, but real-world performance depends on temperature conditions. Panasonic’s superior temperature coefficient often results in higher daily energy production in hot climates.
Can I still buy LG solar panels in 2025?
LG discontinued solar panel production in 2022. Only remaining dealer inventory is available, with limited selection and potential price volatility. Warranty support continues through 2047 for existing installations.
Which solar panels work better in hot weather?
Panasonic panels significantly outperform LG in hot weather due to their superior temperature coefficient (-0.24% to -0.26%/°C vs -0.29% to -0.40%/°C). This translates to 3-7% higher energy production during summer months in hot climates.
What happens if my LG solar panels need warranty service?
LG continues to honor warranty claims through 2047, providing replacement panels for defective units. However, technical support and customer service are limited to warranty replacements only.
Are Panasonic solar panels still made by Panasonic?
Panasonic has transitioned to outsourced manufacturing while maintaining design control and quality standards. Panels are produced by partner manufacturers according to Panasonic specifications and quality requirements.
Which brand offers better long-term value?
Panasonic offers superior long-term value in 2025 due to continued product support, better hot weather performance, and higher 25-year performance guarantee (92% vs 87-90.8%). The ongoing manufacturing also ensures future availability for system expansion.
Should I choose Panasonic or LG for a small roof?
For space-constrained installations, both brands offer high efficiency panels (Panasonic up to 22.2%, LG up to 21.7%). However, consider long-term support implications and availability before deciding.
What’s the warranty difference between Panasonic and LG?
Both offer 25-year warranties, but Panasonic provides full manufacturer support while LG offers warranty replacement only. Panasonic guarantees 92% performance after 25 years compared to LG’s 87-90.8%.
Which panels are better for cold climates?
Both brands perform excellently in cold weather, with minimal temperature-related performance differences. Cold climates actually boost solar panel efficiency, benefiting both technologies equally.
Can I mix Panasonic and LG panels in one system?
Mixing different panel brands is not recommended due to varying electrical characteristics, performance profiles, and warranty complications. Choose one brand for optimal system performance and support.
What inverter works best with these panels?
Both brands are compatible with major string inverters (SolarEdge, Fronius, SMA) and microinverters (Enphase IQ series). Choose based on your specific shading conditions and monitoring preferences.
How do installation costs compare?
Installation costs are similar for both brands, typically ranging from $17,500-$25,000 after federal tax credits for a 10kW system. Panel costs represent about 30-35% of total system cost.
Which brand has better customer reviews?
Both brands historically received excellent customer reviews for quality and performance. Current reviews favor Panasonic due to ongoing support and availability, while LG reviews focus on legacy system performance.
What’s the best alternative if neither brand is available?
Consider REC or Q CELLS as premium alternatives. REC offers similar quality and performance to both brands with active manufacturing and competitive pricing.
Final Recommendation: Making the Right Choice
The Panasonic vs LG solar panels comparison in 2025 clearly favors Panasonic for most residential installations. While LG historically offered excellent products, the discontinuation of manufacturing creates significant long-term considerations that outweigh the modest efficiency differences.
Our expert recommendation: Choose Panasonic EverVolt panels for new installations in 2025. The combination of continued manufacturing support, superior hot weather performance, competitive pricing, and strong long-term warranty makes Panasonic the clear winner for most homeowners.
Consider LG only if: You find remaining inventory at substantial discounts (20%+ below Panasonic pricing) and your installation is in a moderate climate with minimal temperature-related performance concerns.
Ultimately, both brands represent premium solar technology that will provide decades of clean energy production. The decision should prioritize long-term support, performance in your specific climate, and overall value proposition rather than focusing solely on peak efficiency ratings.
Ready to move forward with your solar installation? Contact certified installers in your area to get detailed quotes and system designs tailored to your specific needs and roof conditions.