When you evaluate your solar panel choices for your PV system, you will come across two major categories of panel options: monocrystalline solar panels vs polycrystalline (also called multicrystalline) solar panels. Both types of panels work on the same principle of harnessing energy from the sun and turn it into electricity. Both monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels can be good choices in reducing electricity bills in your home. Each type has distinctive features that make them better suited for certain solar projects.
However there are few basic differences between the two that you should consider before making your buying decision. Let’s take a closer look at each.
Key Difference between Monocrystalline and Polycrystalline Solar Panels
You should compare the best monocrystalline solar panels and best polycrystalline solar panels using the following essential criteria:
Composition
The main difference between the two technologies is the type of silicon solar cell they use: monocrystalline solar panels have solar cells made from a single crystal of an incredibly pure form of silicon, while polycrystalline solar panels have solar cells made from many silicon fragments melted together.
Cost
Monocrystalline cells are the most expensive option in the market out of all of the silicon solar cell types, and so not in everyone’s price range. This is because the four-sided cutting system results in a large amount of wastage. Polycrystalline acts as a cheaper alternative. To select the best decision for you, you should conduct a thorough cost-benefit analysis and set your budget.
Monocrystalline vs Polycrystalline Solar Panels Efficiency
The efficiency of monocrystalline panels is higher than that of polycrystalline counterparts. This is because monocrystalline panels are made out of the single-crystal silicon. As a result, the electrons that generate a flow of electricity have more room to move. Thus the efficiency of monocrystalline solar cells is higher and ranges between 18% – 24%.
On the other hand, although one of the advantages of polycrystalline solar panels is their lower price, they have lower efficiency that ranges between 13% -17%. This is because they instead of using a single crystal of silicon, they are formed by melting many fragments of silicon together to form the wafers for the panel. Due to the presence of many crystals in each cell, there is less freedom for the electrons to move. As a result, the efficiency ratings of polycrystalline solar panels are lower than monocrystalline panels.
Lifespan
Besides comparing the initial installation prices of monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels, it’s also important to consider the average lifespan of each. Monocrystalline Solar Panels have the advantage of being the ones that last the longest out of all the silicon-based solar cells. In fact, several manufacturers will provide up to a 25-year warranty on this type of system. Polycrystalline solar panels are similar to monocrystalline solar panels in terms of lifespan, but the warranty period offered by the manufacturers may vary.
Temperature Coefficient
Monocrystalline solar panels perform better even in low light conditions, making them ideal for cloudy areas. In fact these panels are more effective in warm weather conditions because of their higher temperature coefficient. So if you stay in a less hot region, choosing monocrystalline solar for your power needs is the best option. Polycrystalline solar panels, on the other hands, are unable to function as efficiently in high temperatures, which can be a massive disadvantage in areas with hot climates.
Design & Looks
Monocrystalline solar cells have a uniform look, since they are made of single crystal of pure silicon cells. Many people may prefer monocrystalline solar panels due to their uniform in appearance. Polycrystalline solar cells, on the other hand, are made of multiple silicon cells as a result of which they do not have a very uniform appearance. The typical monocrystalline panel tends to have a darker black color, while the typical polycrystalline panel will typically have a speckled blue hue.
Monocrystalline vs Polycrystalline Solar Panel: Which is right for you?
This is the most common query of buyers. No one technology is superior or inferior than the other. The type of solar panel you choose should depend upon your personal preferences, space constraints, needs and location.
Monocrystalline solar panels make the most sense for most residential solar panel setups. Although more expensive, you gain better efficiency and a more streamlined appearance than with polycrystalline panels. monocrystalline cells are also the most space-efficient form of silicon solar cell. Polycrystalline solar technology, on the other hand, may make more sense if you’re on a low budget or if you do not have space constraints.
Concluding Thoughts
The choice between monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels, in our opinion, is not the most crucial one to make when purchasing solar panels. When it comes to choosing solar panels for your home, there is one factor that you should consider more significant than the type of solar cell – choosing a reputable solar panel manufacturer. A good solar panel brand is one that spends considerably in the quality of its products.
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