Solar reviews

GCL solar panels review 2024: Ascent

Edited by: Andrei Gorichenskii

It’s been a while since we’ve reviewed solar giants — please welcome GCL System Integration Technology. This Chinese company has conquered six continents, but can it win your heart? Let’s find out in our GCL solar panel review 2024.

About GCL: Growing power

Founded in 1990

Headquartered in Jiangsu, China

30 GW annual production


Chinese module manufacturer GCL SI – or GCL System Integration Technology, to be precise – is part of a larger conglomerate GCL Group founded back in 1990 and based in Jiangsu, China. The group has a diverse portfolio in many energy sectors, including wind, natural gas, and hydrogen power, storage solutions, and smart grids, while GCL SI focuses on solar. 

GCL SI’s extensive network reaches across six continents, while its annual module capacity is now at 30 gigawatts. Yet the company’s ambitions extend far beyond this impressive figure. GCL SI plans a 60-gigawatt solar factory in Hefei, Anhui Province, China. When it’s done, the company may even pose a challenge to industry giants like Trina Solar with its legendary 100-gigawatt production capacity in the coming years. 

GCL solar panels: Powerful and efficient

400W – 680W – power output

GCL solar panels offer a diverse range of power outputs, catering to both residential and large-scale solar projects. From compact modules for small home systems to high-powered panels for solar farms, GCL manufactures options ranging from 380 to 680 watts. 

20.5% – 23.5% – efficie

These panels are known for their high efficiency, typically ranging from 20% to 22%. This high efficiency means that GCL panels require less space to build a powerful installation and can perform better in low-light conditions.

12-25 years – product warranty

GCL offers not-so-bad warranties for its solar panels. The product warranty covers 12 years, while the performance warranty ensures that the panels will retain at least 85% of their initial power output after 25 or 30 years of operation.

The panels are positioned in the middle range of the market in terms of pricing. This makes them a great option for homeowners and businesses seeking a balance between quality and cost.

GCL solar panels: Pros

Now that we’ve explored the technical aspects, let’s shine a light on the benefits of GCL solar panels. 

  • Power output: GCL provides a wide range of solar panel options, catering to various power requirements. Whether you’re a homeowner seeking to reduce energy bills or a businessman aiming to cut your operating costs, GCL has a solution for your specific needs.
  • Efficiency: GCL solar panels are known for their good efficiencies. They can convert a lot of sunlight into usable electricity, which is especially helpful for projects with limited installation space or cloudy areas.

GCL solar panels: Cons

Though GCL has a lot going for it, there are a few downsides.

  • Short product warranty: A 12-year product warranty is shorter than the industry standard of 15-25 years. This may cause concern for some buyers who need more protection for this expensive purchase.

Overview of 3 GCL panels: Choose any you like

Now let’s introduce the main attraction – GCL solar panels. What makes them unique?

GCL M1054H 400-420W – The one for home

The GCL M1054H is an excellent choice for residential solar installations. With a power output ranging from 400 to 420 watts and a high efficiency of 20.5% to 21.5%, it’s well-suited for powering most households. Backed by a 12-year product warranty and a 25-year performance warranty, it offers reliable and long-lasting performance.

GCL M1072GDF 540-560W – The one for business

For larger residential or commercial installations, the GCL M1072GDF is an excellent option. With a power output of 540-560 watts and an efficiency of 21%-22%, this panel excels in various weather conditions, including cloudy areas. The 12-year product warranty and 30-year performance warranty make it a reliable choice for long-term energy production.

GCL M1266H 660-680W – The one for grand projects

The GCL M1266H is the most powerful panel in GCL’s lineup, offering a power output of 660 to 680 watts and an efficiency of 21% to 22%. This high-performance panel is ideal for large-scale solar projects, such as utility-scale solar farms. With a 12-year product warranty and a 25-year performance warranty, the M1266H ensures reliable and long-lasting energy generation.

A1 SolarStore recommends GCL M6/72H 370W

GCL 370W Solar Panel 72 Cell GCL-M6/72H370

The GCL M6/72H is a compact and efficient solar panel perfect for residential installations. With a power output of 370 watts and an efficiency of 20.5%, this panel is well-suited for smaller rooftops. Backed by a 12-year product warranty and a 25-year performance warranty with an 83% power output guarantee, the M6/72H offers long-term value and peace of mind.

A1 SolarStore verdict: Great for many

Let’s bring our GCL solar panel review 2024 to a close by recapping the highlights.

  • GCL is a Chinese solar panel manufacturer, a part of GCL Group founded in 1990. 
  • The company’s annual solar panel capacity is 30 gigawatts with plans to open a factory for another 60 gigawatts.
  • GCL solar panel’s power output ranges from 380 to 680 watts, while their efficiency floats from 20% to 22%.
  • GCL solar solar panels are backed up with a 12-year product and a 25-30-year performance warranty.
  • The price falls within the medium segment of the market.

GCL is a renowned Chinese solar panel manufacturer with a strong global presence. They offer a diverse range of high-efficiency solar panels suitable for various applications, whether you’re a homeowner, a business owner, or a utility-scale developer. With their high performance, efficiency, and competitive pricing, GCL solar panels are a good choice for any solar project. With that, we end our GCL solar panels review 2024. Subscribe to our newsletter at the bottom of the page to get fresh brand reviews and learn about the latest arrivals!

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Years of experience in translation and a love of nature help Julia find the right words to encourage going solar. She joined the team in 2023 and is happy to make her contribution to a greener future.

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