The solar panels are an integral part of the solar photovoltaic system. So, it is but essential to take some time to choose the best solar panels to use for your home. Solar panels can be of a monocrystalline or polycrystalline type. Both kinds are made up of silicon but are different in other ways.
So let’s learn more about these two types of solar panels.
Monocrystalline
Monocrystalline was the first type to be manufactured, and it is also the most developed kind. In making cells for the monocrystalline panels, a silicon crystal or seed is mixed in a container with liquified silicon. The liquified silicon then forms a solidified crystal structure that surrounds the seed. The formed structure is then drawn up and becomes what is known as an ingot. The cylindrical ingots that form are then cut finely with its four sides cut out to make silicon wafer. The silicon wafer then makes up the cell.
Monocrystalline panels come from one continuous crystal formation, which gives its appearance a single flat colour and uniform look.
Polycrystalline
People also refer to it as a multi-crystalline panel. The monocrystalline type uses a single silicon crystal, while the polycrystalline uses fragments of silicon. In a container of molten silicon, these fragments are left to cool rather than drawn up. The cooling process gives the solar cells its characteristic edges, shape, and grain.
Factors that Differentiate Monocrystalline and Polycrystalline.
Physical Appearance
Because of their composition, monocrystalline panels have even colouring and appearance. They are cylindrical and have a dark black colour. On the other hand, polycrystalline panels have no round edges, rectangular in shape, and appear blue with grain-like markings.
Efficiency
The purity and quality of the silicon cells affect their efficiency. The purity of silicon could mean the best alignment and arrangement of its molecules that translate to better conversion of solar energy.
Monocrystalline, being made up of a single crystal silicon structure, has the highest grade of purity. With these, the electrons in the cell move freely and generate electricity better, making it more efficient in converting solar power.
Polycrystalline forms from silicon fragments, which makes it less pure and less efficient than monocrystalline.
Space Saving Capacity
As monocrystalline are energy efficient, they require lesser panels and, therefore, smaller space in the roofs. In contrast, polycrystalline needs more panels to compensate for sufficient power.
Heat Tolerance
Monocrystalline solar panels are likely to work more efficiently in warm weather. Polycrystalline, on the other hand, has a lower heat tolerance and performs less at higher temperatures. However, their difference in this factor is negligible and mostly not the basis of consumers when choosing their solar panels.
Manufacturing Cost
The production of monocrystalline panels entails much cost than its counterpart. Polycrystalline is much simpler and less costly to produce. So, in general, monocrystalline is much more expensive than the polycrystalline type.
When making monocrystalline solar cells, some parts of the silicon are cut and put to waste. This step makes polycrystalline better in terms of waste management, as there is no cutting done.
From these factors, we can say that monocrystalline panels are more superior to polycrystalline panels. But manufacturers have now made some improvements and innovations in polycrystalline types that could compensate for their lack of distinguishing factors. So interested solar panel would-be-users should consider all the factors to choose the kind that best suits their household or businesses.
Let us know which you prefer!
If you are looking to purchase solar panels, please visit https://www.solarshoponline.com.au/ today. We offer monocrystalline and polycrystalline types of solar panels. For inquiries, please call us at 1300 620 290. We’d be happy to assist you!