You want solar panels that cut your bills, last for decades, and handle Australia’s harsh weather. Fortunately, there’s a product that can deliver exactly that.
AIKO solar panels are a relatively new brand in Australia, though the company has been manufacturing solar cells for years. The panels are highly efficient with a sleek design.
At PSC Energy, we’ve seen brands of solar panels come and go. Currently, we only install AIKO solar panels. We’ve seen the real-world performance of these panels, we know the warranties inside and out, and we know how they hold up against hot summers and blustery winter storms.
In this article, you’ll learn about the following:
- AIKO Solar Panel Review
- AIKO Solar Panel Efficiency
- AIKO Solar Panels Durability
- AIKO Solar Panels Warranty
- Pros and Cons of AIKO Solar Panels
- FAQ: AIKO Solar Panels
By the end of this article, you will know enough to decide if AIKO should stay on your shortlist or be crossed off it.
AIKO Solar Panel Review
AIKO is a global solar panel manufacturing company with roots in Shanghai. It only started manufacturing solar panels recently. Before that, they were a worldwide manufacturer and distributor of solar cells, the components in panels that harvest sunlight.
They’ve only recently entered the Australian market, but they’re making waves with their all-back contact (ABC) all black solar panels.
Clean Energy Council approval
- Approved for use in Australia.
- Eligible for government rebates through STCs when installed by certified installers.
Focus on advanced technology
- Uses advanced N-type solar cells. (N-type cells support better electron flow and less energy loss).
- These cells capture more sunlight and reduce heat loss.
Panel features
- High efficiency and low degradation over time.
- Available in a range of sizes and power outputs.
- Suits different roof shapes and sizes.
Position in the Australian market
- Newer brand compared to long-established competitors.
- Built a local support network.
- Works with certified installers for warranty and service.
If you’re interested in learning a bit more about AIKO solar panels, you might want to check out the following article titled, Ultimate Guide to AIKO Solar Panels for Australia 2025.
AIKO Solar Panel Efficiency
There’s a lot to be said about AIKO’s panel efficiency. The all-back contacts remove the grid lines from the front of the panel. Removing that obstruction means more light can shine on the cells.
N-type solar cells
- More efficient than older P-type cells.
- Capture more energy from the same amount of sunlight.
- Allows for more power output with fewer panels.
High efficiency ratings
- AIKO efficiency: 22–24%
- Standard panels in Australia: 20–22%
This difference means AIKO has more electricity production in the same roof space as less efficient panels.
Lower degradation over time
All solar panels degrade over time. It’s a factor for these components. AIKO is no exception, but the degradation rate is lower than that of other panels in its class.
- Maintains higher output after the first few months.
- Keeps more of the original power output long term.
Strong heat performance
Up on the roof, it’s hot in the Australian summer. When solar panels experience excessive heat (anything above 25°C), they slowly become less efficient as the temperature rises. This is called the temperature coefficient. The higher this number goes, the less efficient the panels become.
- Low temperature coefficient.
- Less drop in output during extreme heat.
- Important for hot Australian summers.
Better low-light capture
- Anti-reflective coatings improve light absorption.
- More consistent output in mornings, evenings, and cloudy weather.
If you’re interested in learning a bit more about solar panel efficiencies, you might want to check out the following article titled, How Efficient Are Solar Panels? Shade, Heat, and Seasonal Considerations in NSW, Australia.
AIKO Solar Panels Durability
In addition to Australian summers, solar panels must also be durable enough to withstand storms. This means they must stay put in high winds and deflect hail or a stray cricket ball.
Strong physical build
- Aluminium alloy frame and tempered glass front.
- Protects cells from wind, rain, and hail.
- Meets IEC test standards for mechanical load.
- Can withstand strong winds and heavy snow loads (snow is rare in Australia, but wind resistance is key during storms and cyclones).
Resistance to environmental damage
- High salt mist resistance → good for coastal homes.
- High ammonia resistance → protects in rural and farm areas.
Performance in Australian climates
- Wide operating temperature range.
- Handles hot summers in Queensland and dry heat in South Australia.
- Low temperature coefficient reduces power loss in heatwaves.
Long-term weather protection
- Strong edge sealing prevents moisture damage.
- Glass tested to survive hailstones.
- UV-resistant back sheet materials stop cracking and brittleness under intense sunlight.
If you’re interested in learning a bit more about how weather affects solar panels, you might want to check out the following article titled, How Does The Weather Affect Your Solar Panels?
AIKO Solar Panels Warranty
AIKO solar panels have an exceptional warranty. It offers a product warranty and a performance warranty.
Product warranty
The product warranty covers defects in materials or manufacturing problems.
- Standard coverage is 25 years for AIKO residential panels in Australia.
Performance warranty
The performance warranty guarantees the amount of power the panels will still produce after decades of use.
- AIKO promises at least 89.4% of the original output after 30 years.
This is stronger than the industry standard, which usually promises 80–85% output after 25 years
Warranty support in Australia
Claims are handled through AIKO’s local partners and certified installers, like PSC Energy.
You don’t need to deal with overseas offices if something goes wrong.
To protect your warranty, you must use a Solar Accreditation Australia–accredited installer and keep your purchase and installation records.
If you’re interested in learning a bit more about the warranties for the products we install, you might want to check out the following article titled, A Complete Guide to Solar Warranties.
AIKO Solar Panels Price and Value
Government rebates and STCs
AIKO panels are on the Clean Energy Council-approved list.
- This makes them eligible for Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs), which reduces your upfront cost.
The number of STCs you receive depends on your system size and where you live in Australia.
Premium price range
AIKO sits above the average cost of many residential solar panels in Australia.
- Their panels cost about $20 more per panel compared to many standard options.
It isn’t a massive difference in cost, but this is par the course for the solar industry. Panels are evolving and advancing very quickly, and now we’re at a point in the solar industry where even premium panels are affordable.
Why they cost more
- Built with advanced N-type cell technology, which delivers higher efficiency and slower degradation.
- Backed by a long 30-year performance warranty, adding to the premium value.
Efficiency advantage
- Higher efficiency means you may need fewer panels to meet your energy needs.
This is especially useful for homes with limited roof space where panel real estate matters.
Comparing to mid-range panels
- If you have plenty of roof space, mid-range panels with slightly lower efficiency can often provide the same total savings at a lower cost.
- In that case, AIKO may not always be the most cost-effective choice.
Real-world benefits
Stronger performance in low light and during high heat.
These conditions are common in Australia, so the gains translate into more usable energy and better long-term savings.
Value over time
The 30-year performance warranty suggests durability and consistent output well beyond the industry average.
Homeowners who plan to stay in their property long term may find the higher upfront price easier to justify.
If you’re interested in learning a bit more about weighing the cost of solar against the cost of the grid, you might want to check out the following article titled, Cost of Solar Panels vs. Cost of Energy from the Grid.
Pros and Cons of AIKO Solar Panels
Pros of AIKO Solar Panels
High efficiency (22–24%)
- Generates more power from the same roof space compared to standard panels.
- This is helpful for smaller roofs or households with high energy needs.
Advanced N-type solar cells
- Resist degradation better than older P-type cells.
- Perform more reliably in high heat and under strong sunlight.
Strong warranty coverage
- 25 years product warranty against defects.
- 30 years performance warranty guarantees at least 89.4% of original output.
Built for Australian conditions
- Salt mist and ammonia resistance protect coastal and rural installations.
- High hail impact rating and robust weather sealing add resilience.
CEC-approved for rebates
- Eligible for STCs, reducing upfront costs when installed by accredited installers.
- Supported by a local partner network for warranty claims and service.
Cons of AIKO Solar Panels
Higher upfront cost
- Sits in the premium price range and costs more than many standard or mid-range panels, but only by about $20.
- It is not always the most cost-effective option for households with ample roof space.
Newer brand in Australia
- Less long-term track record compared to established competitors.
- Fewer homeowner reviews and case studies to draw on.
Availability can be limited
- Fewer distribution channels than big-name brands.
- It may not be stocked by every installer in regional areas.
Overkill for some households
- If roof space is not an issue, mid-range panels may provide similar lifetime savings at a lower upfront cost.
If you’re interested in learning a bit more about how to save with solar, you might want to check out the following article titled, Self-Consumption: How to Increase Solar Energy Use.
The Verdict: AIKO Solar Panels
AIKO solar panels deliver strong efficiency, advanced cell technology, and long-term performance guarantees. They suit homeowners who want top-tier output and a long lifespan from their system.
The higher cost will not suit every budget. Homeowners with ample roof space may find that more affordable panels still meet their energy needs. The brand’s shorter history in Australia may also concern buyers who prefer a long local track record.
At PSC Energy, we help homeowners invest in premium technology with strong warranties. AIKO is what we install for all the above reasons. For those focused on the lowest upfront cost, other brands may offer better value. If you’re keen to learn more about AIKO, we’re here to chat with you. It’s what we do.
If you’re interested in learning a bit more about solar panels and energy systems, you might want to check out the following article titled, Are Solar Panels Worth It in NSW, Australia? A Price Breakdown for 2025.
FAQ: AIKO Solar Panels
Are AIKO solar panels good for Australian homes?
Yes. AIKO panels use N-type cells that handle heat and sunlight well. They are also resistant to salt mist and ammonia, which makes them a strong choice for both coastal and rural Australian homes.
How efficient are AIKO solar panels compared to other brands?
AIKO panels reach 22–24.4% efficiency, while most standard panels in Australia sit between 20 and 22%. This higher rating means they can generate more electricity from the same roof space.
Do AIKO solar panels work in hot Australian summers?
Yes. AIKO panels have a low temperature coefficient, so they lose less power as the temperature rises. This makes them well-suited to the extreme heat often seen in Australian summers.
What is the warranty on AIKO solar panels?
AIKO panels come with a 25 year product warranty and a 30-year performance warranty. The performance warranty ensures at least 89.4% of the original output after 30 years.
Are AIKO panels eligible for government rebates?
Yes. AIKO is approved by the Clean Energy Council, which means homeowners can claim Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs). These rebates reduce the upfront cost of installing a system.
Do AIKO panels add value to my home?
Solar panels in general can increase a home’s appeal to buyers, since they lower energy bills. While buyers may not know the AIKO brand specifically, the long warranties and high efficiency can be a selling point when compared to lower-end panels.
