LG solar panels were once considered among the most premium and efficient solar modules available to homeowners and businesses. However, in 2022, LG Electronics made the difficult decision to discontinue their solar panel manufacturing operations, fundamentally changing the landscape for anyone considering these high-performance modules.
This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about LG solar panels in 2025, including their groundbreaking technology, product specifications, warranty support, and the best alternatives now that production has ceased. Whether you’re an existing LG panel owner or researching options in the secondary market, this analysis will help you make informed decisions.
LG’s Current Status and Market Impact
In February 2022, LG Electronics officially announced the cessation of their solar panel manufacturing business, citing supply chain constraints and rising logistics costs. This decision marked the end of over 30 years of solar research and development that began in 1985.
Important for consumers: While new production has stopped, LG has committed to honoring all existing warranties and maintaining replacement panel inventory for warranty claims. The company’s 25-year product and performance warranties remain fully valid for existing installations.
Despite discontinuation, LG solar panels remain available through:
- Remaining dealer inventory
- Secondary market sales
- Warranty replacement stock maintained by LG
- Surplus inventory from installers and distributors
LG Solar Panel Technology Overview
LG’s solar technology represented decades of innovation in photovoltaic cell design and manufacturing. Understanding these technological advances helps explain why LG panels commanded premium pricing and maintained excellent performance records.
Monocrystalline N-Type Cell Technology
All LG solar panels utilized monocrystalline N-type silicon cells, which offered several advantages over conventional P-type cells:
- Lower Light-Induced Degradation (LID): N-type cells experience virtually no boron-related degradation
- Better temperature performance: Superior power output retention in high-temperature conditions
- Higher efficiency potential: N-type technology enables higher conversion rates
- Longer lifespan: More stable performance over 25+ years
Cello Technology Innovation
LG’s proprietary Cello technology represented a significant advancement in solar cell design. Instead of traditional flat metal ribbons (busbars), Cello technology used multiple thin, round wires to collect electricity from solar cells.
Benefits of Cello Technology:
- Reduced shading losses from thinner collection wires
- Improved reliability with multiple redundant pathways
- Better light absorption due to reduced metal coverage
- Enhanced durability under mechanical stress
NeON Cell Design
The NeON cell architecture eliminated front-side electrodes entirely, creating a cleaner aesthetic and improved light absorption. This electrode-free front design contributed to both higher efficiency and the sleek, uniform appearance that made LG panels popular for residential installations.
Complete LG Solar Panel Product Lines
LG offered several distinct product lines, each targeting different market segments and performance requirements. Understanding these differences is crucial for evaluating existing systems or sourcing panels in the secondary market.
NeON R Series (Premium High-Efficiency)
The NeON R series represented LG’s flagship solar panel line, offering industry-leading efficiency and performance:
- Power Output: 395W to 440W
- Efficiency Range: 21.8% to 22.3%
- Cell Configuration: 60-cell and 66-cell options
- Key Models: LG405Q1C-A6 (22.3% efficiency), LG440QAC-A6
The NeON R series incorporated all of LG’s advanced technologies, including Cello technology and N-type cells, making them among the most efficient residential solar panels ever produced.
NeON R Prime Series (All-Black Aesthetic)
The NeON R Prime series offered the same high performance as standard NeON R panels but with black backsheets for improved roof aesthetics:
- Power Output: 355W to 420W
- Efficiency: Slightly lower than standard NeON R due to black backsheet
- Popular Models: LG420QAK-A6, LG380Q1K-A6
- Premium: Typically cost 5-10% more than standard NeON R
NeON 2 Series (Mid-Range Performance)
The NeON 2 series provided excellent performance at a more accessible price point:
- Power Output: 320W to 415W
- Efficiency Range: 19.5% to 21.1%
- Configurations: 60-cell and 72-cell options
- Key Features: Cello technology, 25-year warranty
NeON H+ Series (High-Power Commercial)
Designed for commercial and utility-scale installations:
- Power Output: 405W
- Efficiency: Up to 21.8%
- Application: Large-scale commercial projects
- Durability: Enhanced frame design for challenging environments
NeON 2 Bifacial Modules
LG’s bifacial technology captured light from both sides of the panel:
- Power Output: 390W to 405W
- Bifacial Gain: Up to 30% additional power from rear-side generation
- Applications: Ground-mount systems, elevated installations
- Transparent Backsheet: Allowed light penetration for rear-side generation
ACe Series (AC Modules)
The ACe series integrated microinverters directly into the solar panel:
- Power Output: 365W to 395W AC
- Integrated Technology: Built-in microinverters
- Simplified Installation: Plug-and-play AC connection
- Monitoring: Panel-level performance tracking
Performance Analysis & Technical Specifications
LG solar panels consistently ranked among the top performers in independent testing and real-world installations. Their technical specifications demonstrate why they commanded premium pricing in the market.
Efficiency Leadership
LG’s efficiency ratings consistently placed them in the top tier of residential solar panels:
- NeON R Series: 21.8% to 22.3% efficiency
- Industry Average: 19% to 21% for premium panels
- Competitive Position: Consistently ranked in top 3 for efficiency
- Real-World Performance: Laboratory ratings closely matched field performance
Temperature Coefficient Excellence
One of LG’s standout specifications was their superior temperature coefficient performance:
- LG Temperature Coefficient: -0.26% to -0.29% per °C
- Industry Average: -0.40% to -0.50% per °C
- Real-World Impact: Better power retention in hot climates
- Annual Benefit: 2-5% higher energy production in warm regions
Power Tolerance and Degradation
LG panels featured positive power tolerance and industry-leading degradation rates:
- Power Tolerance: 0% to +3% (guaranteed minimum rated power)
- First-Year Degradation: Maximum 1.5%
- Annual Degradation: 0.25% per year (years 2-25)
- 25-Year Performance: Guaranteed 92.5% of initial power
Durability Testing Results
LG panels underwent extensive testing exceeding industry standards:
- Front Load Capacity: 5,400 Pa (113 psf)
- Rear Load Capacity: 4,000 Pa (83.5 psf)
- Salt Mist Testing: IEC 61701 Severity 6 certification
- Ammonia Resistance: IEC 62716 compliance for agricultural environments
Warranty & Support Structure
LG’s warranty program was among the most comprehensive in the solar industry, and importantly, remains fully supported despite manufacturing discontinuation.
25-Year Product Warranty
LG offered one of the industry’s most comprehensive product warranties:
- Coverage Period: 25 years from installation date
- Scope: Materials, workmanship, and manufacturing defects
- Labor Coverage: Up to $450 for repair or replacement labor
- Current Status: Fully honored by LG Electronics
Linear Power Warranty
LG’s power warranty guaranteed specific performance levels over time:
- Year 1: Minimum 98.5% of rated power
- Years 2-25: Maximum 0.25% annual degradation
- Year 25: Minimum 92.5% of rated power
- Industry Leading: Better than most competitors’ 0.5% annual degradation
Post-Discontinuation Support
LG has implemented a comprehensive support strategy for existing panel owners:
- Warranty Commitment: All warranties remain fully valid
- Replacement Inventory: LG maintains stock for warranty replacements
- Service Network: Authorized service partners continue support
- Alternative Options: Comparable replacement panels if identical models unavailable
Pricing & Value Analysis
LG solar panels commanded premium pricing throughout their production run, reflecting their high efficiency, comprehensive warranties, and brand reputation.
Historical Pricing Trends
LG panel pricing varied significantly based on model and market conditions:
- NeON R Series: $400-$550 per panel (2020-2022)
- NeON 2 Series: $300-$450 per panel
- Cost Per Watt: $0.75-$1.25/W wholesale
- Premium Over Average: 15-30% higher than mainstream brands
Current Secondary Market
With production discontinued, LG panels are available through limited channels:
- Dealer Inventory: Remaining stock at premium pricing
- Secondary Market: Used panels at 40-60% of original cost
- Installer Surplus: New-old-stock availability varies by region
- Warranty Transfers: Most warranties transfer to new owners
Value Proposition Analysis
Despite higher costs, LG panels often provided superior long-term value:
- Higher Efficiency: More power per roof area
- Better Warranties: Lower replacement risk
- Proven Reliability: Low failure rates in field
- Resale Value: Premium brand maintains value
Pros & Cons Analysis
Understanding LG solar panels’ strengths and limitations helps inform decisions about existing systems or secondary market purchases.
Advantages of LG Solar Panels
- Industry-Leading Efficiency: 22.3% peak efficiency among highest available
- Superior Temperature Performance: Better hot-weather power retention
- Comprehensive Warranties: 25-year product and performance coverage
- Proven Reliability: Low failure rates in field installations
- Aesthetic Design: Clean, uniform appearance for residential roofs
- Brand Trust: LG’s reputation for quality electronics
- Advanced Technology: N-type cells and Cello technology innovations
Disadvantages and Limitations
- High Cost: 15-30% premium over mainstream alternatives
- Production Discontinued: No new panels available from manufacturer
- Limited Availability: Increasingly difficult to source
- Matching Challenges: Adding panels to existing systems may be impossible
- Future Support Uncertainty: Long-term service availability questions
Competitive Comparison
Compared to other premium solar panel brands:
- vs. Panasonic: LG offered longer product warranty (25 vs 20 years)
- vs. REC: Comparable performance, LG had stronger brand recognition
- vs. Mainstream Brands: Significantly higher efficiency and warranty coverage
Installation Considerations
LG solar panels required specific installation considerations to maximize performance and maintain warranty coverage.
Roof Compatibility
- Space Requirements: High efficiency reduced total panels needed
- Weight: 18.5-22.0 kg per panel depending on model
- Dimensions: Standard 1740mm x 1042mm for 60-cell models
- Roof Types: Compatible with most residential and commercial roofs
Inverter Compatibility
LG panels worked with all major inverter brands:
- String Inverters: SMA, Fronius, SolarEdge compatibility
- Power Optimizers: SolarEdge and Tigo integration
- Microinverters: Enphase and APsystems pairing
- ACe Series: Integrated microinverter options available
Aesthetic Considerations
- Standard Models: White backsheet with silver frame
- Prime Series: All-black options for premium aesthetics
- Uniform Appearance: Electrode-free front design
- Low Profile: 40mm thickness for sleek roof integration
Current Alternatives & Recommendations
With LG panels no longer in production, several manufacturers offer comparable high-efficiency alternatives.
REC Group
Comparable Models: REC Alpha Pure-R series
- Efficiency: Up to 22.3%
- Warranty: 25-year product warranty
- Technology: Heterojunction cell technology
- Value: Competitive pricing for premium performance
Panasonic (Now Panasonic Green Energy)
Comparable Models: EverVolt series
- Efficiency: Up to 22.2%
- Warranty: 25-year product warranty
- Technology: Heterojunction cell design
- Reliability: Excellent track record
Canadian Solar
Comparable Models: HiKu7 Mono PERC series
- Efficiency: Up to 21.4%
- Warranty: 25-year linear power warranty
- Value: Better pricing than premium alternatives
- Availability: Wide distribution network
Selection Criteria for Alternatives
When choosing LG alternatives, consider:
- Efficiency Requirements: Match or exceed LG performance
- Warranty Coverage: Comparable 25-year protection
- Local Availability: Installer familiarity and support
- Budget Constraints: Balance performance with cost
- Aesthetic Preferences: All-black options if desired
For Existing LG Panel Owners
If you currently own LG solar panels, understanding your options and obligations ensures continued optimal performance.
Warranty Claim Process
LG maintains a streamlined warranty process:
- Document Issues: Performance monitoring data or physical damage photos
- Contact LG Support: Submit warranty claim through authorized channels
- Professional Assessment: LG-approved technician evaluation
- Resolution: Replacement panel or prorated refund
Maintenance Recommendations
- Regular Cleaning: Remove debris and dirt buildup with professional solar panel cleaning
- Performance Monitoring: Track energy production for early issue detection
- Professional Inspections: Annual system checkups recommended
- Documentation: Maintain installation and warranty records
System Expansion Challenges
Adding panels to existing LG systems presents unique challenges:
- Matching Panels: Identical models increasingly difficult to source
- Performance Matching: New panels may have different characteristics
- Alternative Solutions: Separate inverter strings for different panel types
- Professional Guidance: Consult certified installers for expansion options
Long-Term Planning
- Replacement Strategy: Plan for eventual panel replacement after warranty period
- Technology Evolution: Consider future upgrade opportunities
- System Monitoring: Track degradation patterns for replacement timing
- Financial Planning: Budget for future system updates with various solar panel financing options
Expert Recommendations & Conclusion
LG solar panels represented the pinnacle of residential solar technology during their production run from 1985 to 2022. Their combination of industry-leading efficiency, comprehensive warranties, and proven reliability made them a premium choice for discerning homeowners and businesses.
Current Market Positioning
In 2025, LG solar panels occupy a unique position in the market:
- Legacy Value: Existing installations continue delivering excellent performance
- Limited Availability: Secondary market and remaining inventory only
- Warranty Support: LG continues honoring all commitments
- Premium Status: Brand recognition maintains resale value
Recommendations by Scenario
For New Solar Installations:
- Consider REC Alpha Pure-R or Maxeon 6 series for comparable performance
- Prioritize manufacturers with strong warranty support and local presence
- Focus on efficiency and reliability over brand recognition
For LG Panel Owners:
- Maintain regular monitoring and maintenance schedules
- Document any performance issues for warranty claims
- Plan expansion projects carefully with professional guidance
For Secondary Market Buyers:
- Verify warranty transferability before purchase
- Ensure panels have proper documentation and testing
- Consider professional inspection before installation
Future Outlook
While LG’s exit from solar manufacturing marked the end of an era, their technological contributions continue influencing the industry. The N-type cell technology, Cello innovations, and comprehensive warranty approaches pioneered by LG have become industry standards adopted by other manufacturers.
For existing LG panel owners, the systems should continue delivering excellent performance for decades. The company’s commitment to warranty support provides confidence for long-term ownership, while the premium technology ensures continued high energy production.
New solar buyers have excellent alternatives available that match or exceed LG’s performance specifications. The solar industry’s rapid advancement means today’s premium panels offer efficiency and reliability that rivals or surpasses LG’s best offerings.
Final Recommendation: LG solar panels earned their premium reputation through genuine technological leadership and comprehensive support. While no longer available new, they remain an excellent choice in the secondary market for buyers who can verify warranty coverage and panel condition. For new installations, focus on current manufacturers offering similar efficiency, warranty coverage, and proven reliability.