Are you considering switching to solar energy? Choosing the correct type of solar panel is essential, but it can feel like navigating a maze with all the options out there. Understanding the different types of solar panels is the first step if you are looking to cut down on energy bills, reduce your carbon footprint or increase your property’s value.
Solar panels come in different shapes and sizes with their individual characteristics and benefits. In this blog, we will take a look at three different types of solar panels that you will find best for the upcoming year.
The three different types of solar panels you must read below-
- Polycrystalline Solar Panels
- Monocrystalline Solar Panels
- Thin-film Solar Panels
Polycrystalline Solar Panels:
Polycrystalline solar panels are made up of fragments of silicon crystals. First, Silicon Crystals are melted and then poured into panel moulds to make a rectangular shape. After that, rather than extracting the crystal slowly, they leave it to cool & fragment. After cooling, the silicon is sliced into polycrystalline solar wafers which are then assembled to create a panel. They are blue in color and have texture on the surface and usually have efficiencies between 15% to 17% only.
Advantages |
These solar PV modules are not only more affordable and competitively priced, but they also have a good lifespan of 25 years and can be used for multiple applications. |
Disadvantages |
They are made using earlier solar technologies, which causes lower efficiency as compared to other solar panels and are lower in performance under low-light and overcast conditions. |
Average cost |
$0.90 to $1 per watt. |
Monocrystalline Solar Panels:
Monocrystalline solar panel modules are made up with single crystals of silicon. The Czochralski method is the name of the process used to make this type of solar panel. During this, a silicon crystal is set in a vat of molten silicon. Then, a professional will extract the crystal carefully so the molten silicon can harden into a crystal shell, which is known as an ingot. The cells on a module typically appear black to the eye. They are more efficient as black colors absorb light more efficiently and they offer excellent efficiency, durability, and reliability.
Advantages |
They are more efficient than earlier solars and can also work in low light and cloudy conditions. |
Disadvantages |
They are more expensive than traditional ones and less efficient in very high temperatures. |
Average cost |
$1 to $1.50 per watt. |
Thin-film Solar Panels:
Thin film solar panels are made up with solar cells that have light-absorbing layers about 350 times. While making this solar panel, the material is set between thin sheets of conductive material with a top layer of glass which will protect. The a-Si panels use non-crystalline silicon topped with glass. The color of these panels looks blue or black both, depending on the material used.
Advantages |
They are more portable and flexible than earlier solars and have less installation cost than others. |
Disadvantages |
They have lower efficiency and performance and are not the best option for residents. |
Average cost |
$0.50 to $1 per watt. |
Which one is the best choice?
When considering the switch to solar energy solutions, it is essential to weigh the options carefully to find the best fit for your needs. The three main types of solar panels—polycrystalline, monocrystalline, and thin-film—each offer unique benefits and drawbacks.
Choosing the best type of solar panel depends mainly on individual needs and constraints. For those prioritizing efficiency and durability with a higher initial investment, monocrystalline solar panels are the best choice. They not only perform well in various lighting conditions but also offer a sleek design and are space-efficient. On the other hand, if cost is a significant factor and there is ample space for installation, polycrystalline solar panels may be the better option due to their lower cost and decent performance. Lastly, thin-film solar panels for homes could be ideal for unique installations where flexibility and weight are more critical than efficiency.
In the end, monocrystalline solar panels often emerge as the preferred choice for many due to their balance of cost, efficiency and versatility, making them a strong option for a wide range of solar energy applications.