What are polycrystalline solar panels?

Polycrystalline solar panels are made from silicon crystals that are melted together. Instead of using a single crystal, the silicon used in polycrystalline panels is composed of multiple smaller crystals. This results in a panel with a slightly less efficient energy conversion rate compared to monocrystalline panels.

What makes monocrystalline solar panels different?

One key distinguishing factor of monocrystalline panels lies in their silicon arrangement. Unlike polycrystalline panels, monocrystalline solar panels are made from a single silicon crystal. This singular crystal structure impacts various aspects of the panel's performance and appearance.

What is the difference between monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels?

When comparing the efficiency of monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels, monocrystalline panels typically have the edge. Monocrystalline panels generally offer efficiency rates of 15 – 20%, while polycrystalline panels range from 13 – 16%.

What is a single crystal solar panel?

The manufacturing process involves slicing thin wafers from a single crystal of silicon, which is why these panels are often referred to as “single crystal” panels. Their efficiency rates are generally higher because the single crystal allows for better electron flow, leading to more electricity being produced from the same amount of sunlight.

How efficient are monocrystalline solar panels?

Monocrystalline solar panels are typically 15-25% efficient, surpassing other types like polycrystalline (13-16%) and thin-film (7-18%). This superior efficiency is due to their construction from a single silicon crystal, which allows for more efficient electron movement and higher electricity conversion rates.

Why are monocrystalline solar panels more expensive?

Conversely, to produce monocrystalline panels, the solidification of silicon must be controlled very carefully, which is a more complex process—this makes single-crystal solar cells more expensive. When comparing the price of both panel types, remember that monocrystalline solar panels have a higher cost.