Two most common types are Monocrystalline and Polycrystalline. Their PV solar plates feature crystalline silicon cell technology which differs in both types. These counterparts also have some other distinctive variables which give a better overview and influence users’ choice. It includes aesthetic, volume, construction, cost, space efficiency, performance in certain environments and purity of silicon used in the making. For a better understanding, each of these two types are reviewed in detail below:
Monocrystalline Solar Panels
Monocrystalline solar panels are considered as the premium solar product out of these two with relatively high efficiency. These panels are created on the basis of most developed technology being used since ages. Resilient and reliable, the main characteristics of monocrystalline solar panels are explained here under.
As obvious by its name, the monocrystalline solar panels are made from single-crystal silicon. A method termed ‘Czochralski’ is adopted for the formation of large cylindrical shaped silicon ingots using the drawn technique. These ingots are then sliced from the four sides to make silicon wafers.
The monocrystalline panels can be distinguished easily with their cut-out edges of the ingots. Other prominent visual highlights of these solar panels are even color and uniform look.
Since highest grade silicon is used during the construction of monocrystalline solar panels, they yield highest power outputs. The solar cells composed of single-crystal silicon allow more space to electrons to generate a flow of electricity. On average, this type of solar panels have an efficiency rate of 15-20%.
For solar panel installations, availability of adequate space is highly desirable for both options; on roof or at ground. The monocrystalline solar panels are space efficient and require lesser space as compared to the other counterpart.
These solar panels are given a 25 year warranty by the manufacturers which is considered ideal. However, most of the times it lasts much longer beyond the given period.
- Performance in Extreme Climatic Conditions
Monocrystalline solar panels tend to perform better in the low-light conditions or in warm weather as compared to other types.
Polycrystalline Solar Panels
Polycrystalline solar panel also known as multi-crystalline solar panels have comparatively newer technology and was first introduced in 1981. Unlike monocrystalline panels, Czochralski process is not followed for the making of these panels. Following is a quick review of polycrystalline solar panels.
The multicrystalline solar panels are developed when many fragments of raw silicon is melted and then cooled down. After cooling, it is sliced into square wafers to form the panel.
Contrary to monocrystalline panels, these solar panels have perfectly rectangular edges. The solar cells in these panels don’t have uniform appearance as they tend to look in the monocrystalline panels. However, these panels can be easily identified with their distinctive color and prominent graining or speckled outlook.
The polycrystalline solar panels have performance efficiency close to the monocrystalline ones with efficiency rate ranging 14-16% on average. As there are many silicon crystals in each solar cell, electrons can’t move much freely resulting in slightly less efficiency.
The polycrystalline solar panels can be a suitable option if enough space is available as these panels require larger space. If there is any limitation or space constraints, these panels won’t be a viable choice.
As far as longevity is concerned, the polycrystalline solar panels come up with 25 years warranty which is good enough. If maintenance is maintained overtime, more likely this time duration can exceed.
- Performance in Extreme Climatic Conditions
The performance of polycrystalline solar panels suffers in certain climate conditions like snowy weather or low-light situations. As they tend to have lesser heat tolerance, their performance drops as temperature rises to the peak.
