LG NeON 2

LG NeON 2 Review – Reliable High-Efficiency Solar Panel for Homes

When it comes to solar panels, few names carried as much weight as LG. Known globally for electronics, LG also earned a stellar reputation in the solar industry before exiting the market in 2022. Among its lineup, the LG NeON 2 was one of the most widely installed and trusted residential solar panels.

Even though LG no longer manufactures solar modules, the NeON 2 remains a strong performer in the field today. Backed by warranties that LG continues to honor, the NeON 2 has proven itself as a durable, efficient, and reliable solar panel that still competes with many modern modules.

In this review, we’ll dive deep into the LG NeON 2 solar panel. We’ll explore its technical specifications, strengths and weaknesses, installer insights, customer feedback, real-world performance, competitive comparisons, FAQs, and final verdict. If you’re evaluating solar panels or simply want to know if LG NeON 2 still stacks up against newer models, this guide has everything you need.

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Introduction to the LG NeON 2

The NeON series was LG’s premium solar panel family, designed for residential rooftops. While the NeON R was the flagship, the NeON 2 was the more widely deployed model, offering slightly lower wattages and efficiency at a more approachable cost.

The NeON 2 used N-type monocrystalline cells with LG’s “Cello technology”, which replaced traditional busbars with 12 thin wires. This design improved light absorption, reduced shading, and boosted durability. It also gave the NeON 2 a sleeker appearance, making it a favorite among homeowners who cared about aesthetics as much as energy performance.

With power outputs up to 370W and efficiencies in the 20%–21% range, the NeON 2 was considered a premium residential panel at the time of release. Even today, many NeON 2 installations continue to operate near their rated efficiency, proving the panel’s durability and LG’s engineering excellence.

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LG NeON 2 Technical Specifications

Here’s a breakdown of typical specs for the LG NeON 2 (varied by exact model):

• Power Output Range: 330W – 370W

• Efficiency: ~19.5% – 21.2%

• Cell Technology: N-type monocrystalline with Cello wire interconnection

• Temperature Coefficient (Pmax): -0.37%/°C

• Degradation Rate:

  • First year: ≤2%

  • Annual thereafter: ≤0.33%

• Design Features:

  • Sleek black frame (all-black options available)

  • Half-cut cells on later variants for better shading performance

• Dimensions: ~1,700mm x 1,016mm (approx. 66.9 x 40 inches)

• Weight: ~18.5 kg (40.8 lbs)

• Warranty:

  • Product: 25 years

  • Performance: 25 years, guaranteeing ~90% output at year 25

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Key Features of the LG NeON 2

1. N-Type Cells with Cello Technology

LG’s use of N-type cells reduced light-induced degradation (LID), which was common in older P-type modules. The Cello technology further improved efficiency by replacing wide busbars with 12 thin wires, reducing shading on the front of the cell.

2. Durability and Long-Term Performance

The NeON 2 came with a 25-year product and performance warranty—one of the best in its class. It guaranteed 90% power output after 25 years, giving homeowners confidence in long-term ROI.

3. Attractive Design

With a sleek black frame and optional all-black versions, the NeON 2 looked modern and minimal, blending nicely into residential rooftops.

4. Bankable Brand

At the time of release, LG was considered one of the most bankable names in solar. Even after exiting solar manufacturing, LG pledged to honor existing warranties, which reassures homeowners today.

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Pros and Cons of the LG NeON 2

Pros

• Strong efficiency (~21%) for its generation.

• N-type cells with low degradation outperform many older PERC modules.

• Cello technology improves shading tolerance and durability.

• Excellent 25-year warranties for both product and performance.

• Attractive black frame design for residential rooftops.

• Proven reliability in real-world installations worldwide.

Cons

• Discontinued production since 2022.

• Lower wattage (330W–370W) compared to modern residential panels (400W+).

• Higher temperature coefficient (-0.37%/°C) means more losses in hot climates.

• Premium pricing at launch compared to PERC alternatives.

• Limited availability for new installs—depends on distributor stock.

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Positive Customer Feedback

From installers and homeowners, the NeON 2 consistently earned praise in these areas:

1. Reliability – Long-running systems continue to deliver stable output, with minimal panel failures reported.

2. Warranty Confidence – The 25-year product and performance warranties gave homeowners peace of mind.

3. Aesthetics – The black frame and modern design earned frequent compliments.

4. Durability – Panels held up well under snow, rain, and coastal conditions.

5. Performance – Many systems slightly outperformed expected energy yields.

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Negative Customer Feedback

Some homeowners and installers raised concerns:

1. Premium Cost – The NeON 2 was pricier than PERC-based competitors.

2. Not Cutting-Edge Anymore – Wattages and efficiency lag behind today’s top residential panels.

3. Heat Performance – The -0.37%/°C coefficient meant slightly reduced efficiency in desert regions.

4. LG Exit Concerns – Some customers worried about warranty support after LG left the solar market.

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Common Complaints

• Availability Issues – Some buyers struggled to find replacement modules.

• Warranty Confusion – While LG promised support, the solar division exit created concerns.

• Price vs Value – Some questioned whether the premium was justified compared to JA Solar, Canadian Solar, or Trina panels.

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Real-World Performance Insights

In Hot Climates

The NeON 2 performs reliably but loses more efficiency than N-type TOPCon or HJT panels due to its -0.37%/°C temperature coefficient.

In Cold & Snowy Climates

The NeON 2 has proven durable, with high snow load ratings and solid performance during winter months.

In Coastal Areas

Installers reported strong corrosion resistance, making it a good fit for homes near saltwater environments.

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Installer Insights

Solar installers consistently note:

• Easy Handling – Moderate weight (~41 lbs) makes installation manageable.

• Low Failure Rates – Fewer warranty claims compared to cheaper panels.

• Homeowner Appeal – Customers appreciated the LG brand recognition.

• Replacement Challenges – After LG’s exit, sourcing exact NeON 2 replacements became harder.

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Competitive Comparison Table

Here’s how the LG NeON 2 stacks up against top competitors:

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FAQs about the LG NeON 2

1. Is the LG NeON 2 still available?
No new panels are being made, but some distributors still have stock. Warranty coverage continues for existing installations.

2. Does LG still honor warranties after exiting solar?
Yes, LG has pledged to honor all product and performance warranties for 25 years.

3. How does LG NeON 2 compare to NeON R?
The NeON R is more efficient (up to 22.3%) and higher wattage (up to 440W). The NeON 2 is more affordable and was more widely used.

4. Should homeowners still consider the LG NeON 2?
If you find stock at a good price, it’s still a great panel. For new installs, REC Alpha Pure and Panasonic EverVolt are better long-term bets.

5. How efficient is LG NeON 2 compared to today’s panels?
With ~21% efficiency, it’s slightly behind premium models (~22.5%–23%) but still better than many standard PERC panels.

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Final Verdict & Recommendation

The LG NeON 2 is a proven, reliable, and bankable solar panel that was one of the most popular premium residential modules of its time. While it doesn’t match the wattage or efficiency of modern HJT or TOPCon panels, it remains a strong performer in the field today.

This panel is best suited for:

• Homeowners who already own NeON 2 systems.

• Buyers looking for reliable, well-warrantied panels from a premium brand.

• Installations where aesthetics and long-term stability matter more than cutting-edge efficiency.

If you can still source them, the LG NeON 2 is an excellent investment. But for new installations, alternatives like REC Alpha Pure, Panasonic EverVolt H-Series, or Canadian Solar HiHero+ are better future-proof options.