Aiko Solar Panels vs SunPower:
Are you weighing up Aiko solar panels vs SunPower for your home solar installation? With rising energy costs and the push towards net-zero, choosing the right solar panels is crucial. This in-depth guide compares these two leading brands, focusing on efficiency, durability, warranties, costs, and more. We’ll help you decide which might suit your roof, budget, and long-term energy needs.
At Infinity Energy Services, we’ve installed thousands of solar panel systems across the UK and are certified partners for both Aiko and SunPower. Our goal is to provide impartial advice – find out which panel comes out on top, or will it be a tie?
Overview of Aiko and SunPower Solar Panels
Aiko Solar Panels
Aiko is a rapidly growing Chinese manufacturer known for innovative, high-efficiency panels. Founded in 2009, Aiko specialises in N-type All-Back-Contact (ABC) technology, which minimises energy losses and boosts output.
- Their flagship range, Aiko Neostar, is designed for residential use, offering sleek all-black aesthetics and strong performance in partial shade.
Aiko panels are Tier 1 rated and have won awards like the Red Dot Design Award 2023, making them a solid choice for budget-conscious homeowners seeking modern tech.
SunPower Solar Panels
SunPower, now under Maxeon Solar Technologies, is a US-based pioneer with over 40 years in the industry. They’re renowned for premium quality and sustainability, ranking among the top 50 most sustainable companies globally (Corporate Knights 2024). SunPower’s ranges include:
- SunPower Performance: Affordable, high-durability panels with shingled-cell technology for better shade tolerance.
- SunPower Maxeon: Premium back-contact panels with industry-leading efficiency and robustness.
- SunPower M Class: A brand-new range with even higher efficiencies and integrated smart features, building on Maxeon’s legacy.
SunPower panels are widely used across UK homes, commercial sites, and solar farms, trusted for their long warranties, real-world performance, and ability to withstand demanding weather conditions while delivering consistent, efficient output.
Key Comparison Factors: Aiko vs SunPower
Let’s break down the essentials. We’ll reference specific, popular models for clarity:
- SunPower Performance 510W all-black (SPR-P7-510-BLK-P): 1996 x 1134 x 30 mm, bifacial glass-glass design
- SunPower Performance 455W all-black (SPR-P7-455-BLK): 1790 x 1134 x 30 mm, similar robust build
- Aiko Neostar 485W 3P N-Type ABC Gen 3 all-black (AIKO-A485-MCE54Mw): 1762 x 1134 x 30 mm, mono-glass with backsheet
Efficiency and Power Output
Efficiency measures how much sunlight a panel converts to electricity. Higher efficiency means more power from less space – ideal for UK roofs with limited area.
- Aiko Neostar: Boasts impressive efficiencies. The 485W model hits 24.3%, thanks to N-Type ABC cells that reduce shading losses and hot spots. Features like partial shading optimisation make it great for cloudy UK days.
- SunPower Performance: Up to 22.5% efficiency (510W model) and 22.4% (455W model). While slightly lower on paper, their bifacial design captures light from both sides, adding 5-20% extra power depending on installation (e.g. reflective surfaces below). Shingled cells handle shade better than traditional designs.
- SunPower Maxeon/M Class: Maxeon reaches 22.8%, with M Class expected to push beyond that. Back-contact tech eliminates front-side busbars for cleaner energy capture.
VERDICT: Aiko edges on raw efficiency, but SunPower’s bifacial and shingled tech often delivers more real-world output in the UK. For example, the SunPower 510W can effectively produce up to 612W with 20% bifacial gain.
PANEL | AIKO NEOSTAR | SUNPOWER PERFORMANCE | SUNPOWER PERFORMANCE |
Nominal Power | 485W | 510W | 455W |
Efficiency | 24.3% | 22.5% | 22.4% |
Bifacial Gain Potential | No (mono-glass) | Yes (up to 20%) | Yes (up to 20%) |
Cell Technology | N-Type ABC | N-Type TOPCon Shingled | N-Type TOPCon Shingled |
Durability and Weather Resistance
UK weather – rain, wind, hail – demands tough panels:
- Aiko Neostar: PID-resistant with micro-crack resistance and high temperature restriction. Tested for 40mm hail at 23 m/s and snow loads up to 5400Pa. Temperature coefficient of -0.26%/°C means less power loss in heat.
- SunPower Performance: Glass-glass construction for superior strength (vs Aiko’s glass-backsheet). Handles 40mm hail at 27.5 m/s, snow up to 5400Pa (455W) or 5500Pa (510W), and wind up to 2400Pa. Coefficient of -0.29%/°C is slightly higher, but shingled design keeps cells cooler.
- SunPower Maxeon: Even tougher, with flexible copper foundations resisting cracks. Cradle to Cradle Certified Bronze for sustainability.
VERDICT: SunPower’s glass-glass build and proven track record give it the edge for long-term UK durability, though Aiko Neostar’s micro-crack resistance, hail testing, and strong hot-weather performance still make it a highly durable contender.
Aesthetics and Installation
Both offer all-black designs for seamless roof blending:
- Aiko Neostar: Slim 30mm frame, black anodised aluminium. Dimensions (1762 x 1134 mm) fit most UK roofs easily. Weight: 20.6kg.
- SunPower Performance: Similar 30mm frame, all-black. Larger options (1996 x 1134 mm for 510W) suit bigger arrays; weights 27.5kg (510W) and 24.8kg (455W).
- SunPower Maxeon: Ultra-sleek with no visible wires.
UK homeowners value aesthetics as well as performance. Both Aiko and SunPower provide sleek all-black panels that blend discreetly with rooftops, combining modern style with reliable efficiency.
VERDICT: Aiko Neostar’s lighter weight and compact dimensions simplify handling and suit typical UK roofs, while SunPower Performance panels, though heavier, provide a sleek all-black look and larger format ideal for maximising power on bigger arrays.
Warranty and Long-Term Reliability
Warranty is a big differentiator, protecting your investment:
- Aiko Neostar: 15-year product warranty (extendable to 25 years) and 30-year performance warranty. First-year degradation ≤1%, then ≤0.35% annually (retaining 90.6% at year 30).
- SunPower Performance: Comprehensive 30-year product, power and service warranty. Starts at 99.0% output in year 1, degrading ≤0.4% annually.
- SunPower Maxeon: Industry-leading 40-year warranty, including power, product, and service.
What does SunPower’s warranty mean in practice? It’s a ‘Complete Confidence’ warranty: If issues arise, SunPower handles repairs, replacements, and even shipping/labour costs (service component). For UK homeowners, this means peace of mind – no out-of-pocket expenses for 30-40 years. Aiko’s is solid but shorter on product coverage and lacks the same service depth.
VERDICT: Aiko offers strong 30-year performance protection but shorter product cover, while SunPower’s Performance range provides a full 30-year product, power, and service warranty – with Maxeon going to 40 years – offering unmatched reliability and lower long-term risk.
Price and Value
At current UK market prices (as of September 2025), SunPower Performance panels are cheaper per Watt than Aiko Neostar. For instance:
- SunPower 455W: Around £0.22/W
- SunPower 510W: Around £0.225/W
- Aiko 485W: £0.24/W
The SunPower Maxeon – and soon to arrive M Class range – are more expensive per Watt than both the Aiko Neostar and SunPower Performance panels, but Maxeon comes with superior technology, as well as that unbeatable, comprehensive 40-year warranty.
VERDICT: This makes SunPower better value, with superior warranty and durability. Although Aiko Neostar has higher efficiency, you pay more per Watt – meaning your solar array costs more, assuming the same overall size.
PANEL | AIKO NEOSTAR | SUNPOWER PERFORMANCE | SUNPOWER MAXEON |
Price per Watt | Higher (£0.24) | Lower (£0.22-0.225) | Premium (£0.80+) |
Expected ROI (25 years, UK average) | 10-15% | 12-18% | 15-20% |
Sustainability Certifications | Tier 1, Munich RE | Cradle to Cradle Bronze | Cradle to Cradle Bronze |
Pros and Cons Summary
Aiko Solar Panels Pros:
- Higher peak efficiency
- Excellent shading and temperature performance
- Lighter and easier to install
- Innovative ABC tech
Aiko Cons:
- Shorter product warranty
- Mono-glass less durable than glass-glass
- Slightly higher cost per Watt currently
SunPower Solar Panels Pros:
- Superior warranty with service coverage
- Bifacial for extra power
- Proven durability in real weather
- Better long-term value
SunPower Cons:
- Slightly lower efficiency on paper
- Heavier panels
VERDICT: Aiko brings excellent efficiency and light weight, but with shorter product cover. SunPower, though heavier and slightly less efficient on paper, delivers proven durability, stronger warranties, and long-term value – making it the safer UK choice.
Specific Model Comparison: Head-to-Head
PANEL | AIKO NEOSTAR | SUNPOWER PERFORMANCE | SUNPOWER PERFORMANCE |
Power | 485W | 510W (up to 612W bifacial) | 455W (up to 546W bifacial) |
Efficiency | 24.3% | 22.5% | 22.4% |
Dimensions | 1762 x 1134 x 30 mm | 1996 x 1134 x 30 mm | 1790 x 1134 x 30 mm |
Weight | 20.6 kg | 27.5 kg | 24.8 kg |
Temp Coefficient (Pmax) | -0.26%/°C | -0.29%/°C | -0.29%/°C |
Warranty (Product / Power / Service) | 15-25/30/0 years | 30/30/30 years | 30/30/30 years |
FAQs About Aiko Solar Panels vs SunPower
Here are answers to some of the most common questions we get from customers deciding between Aiko and SunPower panels:
The UK’s variable climate with rain, wind, and low light demands resilient panels. SunPower’s Performance range, with glass-glass and bifacial design, handles moisture and diffuse sunlight better, boosting output by 5-20% on cloudy days. Great performance in overcast conditions.
Aiko Neostar excels in partial shade via ABC tech and has a superior temperature coefficient (-0.26%/°C vs SunPower’s -0.29%/°C), reducing losses in heat. Both resist hail (40mm), but SunPower’s durability edges it for stormy UK winters. Overall, SunPower suits low-light areas; Aiko for shaded roofs.
Aiko Neostar leads using N-Type ABC cells for maximal light capture, ideal for small UK roofs. The 485W hits 24.3%.
SunPower Performance reaches 22.5% (510W) and 22.4% (455W) with TOPCon shingled cells. However, its bifacial design can add 5-20% real-world gains from rear light (depending on the installation), often matching Aiko in UK’s diffuse conditions.
SunPower has consistent output in low irradiance, while Aiko shines in lab tests but may lag in cloudy weather. Aiko for peak efficiency; SunPower for practical UK performance.
Yes, SunPower’s 30-year warranty (40-year for Maxeon) covers power, product, and service, including repairs, shipping, and labour – hassle-free for UK homeowners. The power part of the warranty starts at 99% output year 1, degrading ≤0.4% annually, ensuring 88% at year 30. Aiko offers 15-25 year product and 30-year performance (≤0.35% degradation after year 1).
SunPower’s comprehensive service depth provides peace of mind, meaning not only do you get your panel replaced, but SunPower also covers the cost of labour and scaffolding to get the panel installed. For long-term investments lasting 25+ years, the extended coverage justifies the choice, offering superior value over Aiko’s solid but less extensive terms.
No, as of September 2025, SunPower Performance panels are cheaper per watt in the UK, around £0.22-£0.225/W. Aiko Neostar, such as the 485W, costs £0.24/W. Aiko’s efficiency could reduce panel count, but SunPower’s pricing edge, plus warranty, makes it more economical for most UK setups.
Both feature all-black designs for seamless UK roof integration, popular in conservation areas.
Aiko Neostar’s ABC tech hides busbars for a uniform matte look. Its slim 30mm frame and 20.6 kg weight suit modern homes.
SunPower Performance uses smaller wires and shingled cells for a sleeker, glossy appearance, often rated higher for sophistication. At 24.8-27.5 kg, it’s durable with glass-glass build.
Both blend well, but SunPower’s refined design edges for upscale properties, while Aiko’s lightness aids installation.
No, Aiko Neostar uses mono-glass with a backsheet, focusing on front-side efficiency up to 25% without rear light capture – suited for standard UK mounts.
SunPower Performance is bifacial with glass-glass, harnessing up to 5-20% extra from reflected light (depending on the installation), enhancing output in diffuse UK sunlight. This boosts real-world performance on reflective surfaces like light roofs.
Aiko prioritises shade optimisation instead, but lacks dual-sided gains. For UK homes, SunPower’s bifacial tech provides an advantage in low-irradiance conditions.
Degradation affects long-term output in the UK.
Aiko Neostar: ≤1% first year, then ≤0.35% annually, retaining 90.6% at year 30 under its warranty.
SunPower Performance: 1% first year (99% start), ≤0.4% thereafter, guaranteeing 88% at year 30.
While Aiko’s rate is slightly better, SunPower’s higher starting point and proven tests (e.g. LeTID, PID) ensure comparable longevity.
Yes, both qualify for the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), creating an extra revenue stream for exported energy via Ofgem tariffs. MCS-certified installations are required.
Grants like ECO4 or Home Upgrade offer up to £30,000 for low-income homes from 2025, covering solar.
Zero VAT on installations until 2027 reduces costs.
Both enhance ROI in the UK’s net-zero push, with SEG for systems up to 5MW.
Launched globally in May 2025 by TCL SunPower, M Class features back-contact tech for up to 25% efficiency (500W residential), smart integration, and enhanced durability. UK availability expected late 2025. It builds on Maxeon with better low-light performance and aesthetics, potentially redefining premium solar.
Consider roof size (Aiko for compact, high-efficiency), budget (SunPower often cheaper per watt), and priorities like shade (Aiko) vs low light (SunPower bifacial). Factor warranties and incentives like SEG for ROI. SunPower leans favourable for UK durability. Contact Infinity Energy Services for a free site survey and quote to tailor the best fit.
Why Choose Infinity Energy Services for Your Solar Installation?
Infinity Energy Services is your trusted UK partner for both Aiko and SunPower installations. As MCS-certified installers with over 10 years’ experience, we offer:
- Free site surveys and custom designs
- End-to-end service: From planning permissions to grid connection
- Financing options and SEG advice
- Post-install support, including warranty claims
Next Steps (Free survey & quote)
- Let’s discuss what you are looking to get out of your solar panel installation and assess the viability of battery storage as well.
- We’ll model bill savings, backup needs and payback for Aiko vs SunPower systems.
- Our comprehensive on-site survey will guarantee a tailored design that matches your needs.
Downloads
Here you can get quick access to PDF datasheets for the Aiko Neostar and SunPower Performance panels:
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