‘First Solar’ Solar Panels
Review solar panel brands and compare offerings of solar installers near you.
See how much it costs to install ‘First Solar’ solar panels
Home > Solar Panel Reviews > First Solar
Everything you need to know about ‘First Solar’ solar panels
Written by Max Kennerk, SolarCommission.Org
Updated 9-20-25
First Solar: Company Overview and Solar Panel Evaluation
Company History
Founded in 1999, First Solar is a leading American solar technology company specializing in the production of advanced thin-film photovoltaic (PV) modules. The company is unique among the world’s ten largest solar manufacturers for being the only US-headquartered company and not manufacturing in China.
Over the years, First Solar has expanded its manufacturing capabilities, including facilities in Ohio, making it the largest solar manufacturing footprint in the Western Hemisphere.
Equipment Offerings
First Solar specializes in cadmium telluride (CdTe) thin-film solar panels, which differ from the more common crystalline silicon panels. Their Series 6 modules are among their flagship products, offering:
Power Output: Approximately 445W per panel.
Efficiency: Lower than crystalline silicon panels, which may require more space for the same power output.
Temperature Coefficient: Better performance in high-temperature environments compared to silicon-based panels.
Environmental Impact: The thin-film technology allows for a smaller carbon footprint during manufacturing, and the panels are designed to be recyclable.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
High-Temperature Performance: First Solar’s thin-film panels have a superior temperature coefficient, meaning they lose less efficiency in high temperatures, making them ideal for hot climates.
Low-Light Performance: These panels perform well in low-light conditions and are less affected by shading compared to some silicon-based panels.
Durability: The design and materials used make them resistant to potential damage, contributing to a longer lifespan.
Sustainability: First Solar emphasizes eco-friendly manufacturing processes and offers recycling programs for their panels.
Cons:
Lower Efficiency: The efficiency of First Solar’s thin-film panels is generally lower than that of the more standard monocrystalline silicon panels, requiring more space to achieve the same power output.
Higher Voltage: These panels operate at higher voltages, which can complicate integration with certain systems and may necessitate additional equipment. Confirm your installer can work with this equipment.
Limited Residential Availability: First Solar primarily focuses on large-scale commercial and utility projects, making their panels less accessible for residential installations.
Rating: 75/100
Reasoning:
First Solar’s thin-film solar panels offer notable advantages in specific scenarios, particularly in high-temperature and low-light environments. Their commitment to sustainability and domestic manufacturing is commendable. However, the lower efficiency and higher voltage requirements may pose challenges for residential or space-constrained applications. Additionally, their primary focus on large-scale projects limits their accessibility for individual consumers. Therefore, while First Solar panels are a strong choice for utility-scale and large commercial installations, they may be less suitable for small commercial and residential use.
We provide free, accurate, and useful solar advice.
If you’ve wondered if solar is right for your home or business, now is a great time to further explore. We have several resources to help you throughout the process.
Download the Free Solar Guide: “Expert Tips for Switching to Solar"
