Monocrystalline Vs Polycrystalline Solar Panels
By: Eric Huesca, SEO Content Writer
October 11, 2022
Are you a homeowner who is on the lookout for solar panels? There’s no denying that technology has come a long way and that it is finally possible to cut down or even eliminate your energy bills. In fact, you can even earn tax rebates and credits for installing the latest solar panels. This means that you can start saving immediately and save the environment at the same time.
If you do have an idea about what solar panels have to offer, chances are that you are wondering whether to get monocrystalline solar panels or polycrystalline solar panels. To help you decide what to get, we have prepared the ultimate post. Read on to learn more.
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Polycrystalline Solar Panels
In the simplest of words, polycrystalline or multi-crystalline solar panels contain several silicon crystals in each PV cell. Wafers of polycrystalline are formed by melting fragments of silicon together. What makes polycrystalline solar cells unique is that they use a vat of molten silicon for producing the cells and cooling down the panel. Their square shape, shining blue hue, and mosaic-like surface make them easily identifiable.
Since multiple silicon crystals are used in every cell, these panels permit minimal movement of the electrons that are inside the cells. Energy from the sun is absorbed by polycrystalline solar panels and converted into electricity. The multiple photovoltaic cells help power them. In fact, each cell acts as a semiconductor device. Only when photons from sunlight make contact with the PN junction is the energy imparted to the electrons in order to produce an electric current.
Benefits of Polycrystalline Solar Panels
There are plenty of advantages to using polycrystalline solar panels as mentioned below.
- Eco-Friendly
One of the best things about polycrystalline solar panels is that they are an eco-friendlier option when compared to monocrystalline solar panels. The reason behind this is that they don’t need each crystal to be placed or shaped on an individual level. This is why most of the silicon tends to be utilized. Hence, less waste is made. It is worth mentioning that the manufacturing process of polycrystalline solar panels uses fewer fossil fuels.
- Have a High-Power Density
What makes polycrystalline solar panels a popular choice is the fact that they boast a high-power density. It ensures that more energy is produced by the panels when measured by mass. Hence, you will get to benefit from more energy than monocrystalline solar panels. Polycrystalline solar panels are commonly found in huge solar farms due to their high-power density. However, they are also used by self-powered or standalone devices like traffic lights.
- Come with a Structural Frame
A great thing about polycrystalline solar panels is that they come with their own structural frame. This makes them a much simpler and more affordable option. Generally, you can mount these solar panels on the roof and benefit from energy production.
- More Affordable
If there is one reason why a lot of people prefer getting polycrystalline solar panels, it is the fact that they are a lot more affordable in comparison to monocrystalline panels. This is because they use multiple silicon cells and are a lot easier to produce. Besides, it is possible to use them with inverter technology and batteries.
- Resilient
Some industry experts have indicated that monocrystalline solar panels tend to break down if they are covered in dust or snow. This is not the case for polycrystalline solar panels. Hence, they are considered a more resilient option in such conditions.
Drawbacks of Polycrystalline Solar Panels
Although polycrystalline solar panels have a lot to offer, they do have some drawbacks as discussed below.
- Less Efficient
A major drawback of these solar panels is that they are not as efficient as monocrystalline solar panels. The reason behind this is lower silicon purity. Despite the fact that the difference between the two is not as significant, polycrystalline solar panels need to cover a larger area in order to produce the same electric power as monocrystalline solar panels.
- Not as Durable
Another reason why a lot of people opt for monocrystalline solar panels instead of polycrystalline solar panels is that they are simply not as durable. They tend to get damaged rather easily when the temperature rises. The maximum temperature that these solar panels can tolerate is just 85 °C and the minimum temperature that they can deal with is -40 °C. Therefore, if the temperature surpasses this limit, the polycrystalline solar panels would be unable to continue operating. Besides, these solar panels have lower heat tolerance and are less efficient when temperatures rise.
Monocrystalline Solar Panels
Monocrystalline solar panels are widely used for just about everything. They contain cells that are obtained from a single crystalline silicon ingot. This ensures a much purer composition of the cells as a single piece of silicon is used by each cell. Monocrystalline cellulose ensures higher efficiency than polycrystalline solar panels. Besides, you can rely on them to produce more output even in a less-than-ideal situation. Nature power monocrystalline solar panels are easy to identify due to their uniform black look. Monocrystalline silicon provides a better appearance. However, it all comes down to personal preference.
Anyone who is on the lookout for highly efficient solar cells is likely to have heard of monocrystalline solar cells. Even though they are a much more expensive option, you can rest assured knowing that monocrystalline cells guarantee decent levels of efficiency regardless of the weather conditions. Therefore, you will have nothing to worry about. Also called single crystalline cells, they have cut edges and are hard to overlook. The use of pure silicon ensures that sunlight is converted into energy with ease. It is worth mentioning that monocrystalline cells are the most space-efficient solar cells out there. The fact is that they take up the least amount of space.
Benefits of Monocrystalline Solar Panels
Monocrystalline solar panels have become all the rage and for good reason. Here are some of their benefits that you need to know about.
- Extremely Durable
The best thing about monocrystalline solar panels is that they are designed with durability in mind. You will be delighted to know that they can stand the test of time. They are known for being the longest-lasting solar cell technology on the market. You will be blown away by the fact that they have a life expectancy of half a century. This is why most manufacturers offer up to 25 years of warranty on their solar panels. Therefore, you should consider them to be a great investment. They are likely to last their expected lifetime or even more if you take care of them.
- Superior Practicality
When you compare monocrystalline silicon, you will come to know that they boast superior practicality. It is impossible for any other type of solar panel to deliver a similar level of practicality. There are no alternative models out there. Although these solar panels are available for a hefty price, you will find them to be just what you need.
- Highly Efficient
Since monocrystalline cellulose is used, you will find nature-power monocrystalline solar panels to be highly efficient. They offer the highest level of efficiency. Expect an increase in efficiency by as much as 20%. Their high efficiency ensures that less space is needed, unlike other solar panels.
- Work in All Weather Conditions
If you are worried that monocrystalline solar panels will not offer results in cloudy areas, you could not be more wrong. These solar panels continue to deliver amazing results even in low levels of sunlight. They are as good as it gets. No other type of solar panel can compete with them. Polycrystalline solar panels cannot provide such a high level of efficiency. Besides, monocrystalline solar panels work well in high-heat environments as well. Hence, you should be able to produce the desired output even in the worse conditions.
- Stunning Look
The uniform black look of the monocrystalline solar panels makes them stand out. As a single piece of silicon is used, you will find the look to be more cohesive. If you are someone who appreciates beauty, you have to get these social panels. They are truly stunning.
Drawbacks of Monocrystalline Solar Panels
Just like any other type of solar panel out there, monocrystalline solar panels have some cons as well.
- Expensive
Monocrystalline solar panels cost a lot more than polycrystalline solar panels. If you are on a tight budget, they might not be the best option. The truth is that monocrystalline solar cells are known for being the most expensive of all the solar cell types out there. This is because all four sides are cut. You will find polycrystalline solar panels to be a cheaper option. The higher cost of production is passed onto buyers. Hence, they don’t fit everyone’s price range.
- Produce Waste
As each side of the silicon has to be cut to make way for monocrystalline solar panels, a large amount of waste is produced by them. If you are concerned about the environment, you might want to opt for a different type of solar panel. The manufacturing process tends to be more wasteful due to the corners of the silicon being shaved off for creating a distinctive cell shape.
Conclusion
Once you have gone over our post, you will have a better understanding of monocrystalline solar panels and polycrystalline solar panels. Monocrystalline solar panels are made using a single crystal which ensures that electrons have more space to move. This provides better electricity flow. Hence, you will get to benefit from higher efficiency when compared to polycrystalline panels. The efficiency offered by polycrystalline solar panels is much lower. However, they can be purchased for a more affordable price.
Now, it is important to mention that monocrystalline panels have a black hue which makes them more attractive than polycrystalline solar panels which have a blue hue. Since multiple silicon fragments are melted to produce polycrystalline solar panels, the electrons in each cell don’t have as much space to move. This affects efficiency level. It is due to this reason that monocrystalline solar panels are available for a higher price. Therefore, it should be clear that both monocrystalline solar panels and polycrystalline solar panels have something to offer. But if you have the budget, you should definitely go for the former as they are more efficient and can last a long time.
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