Types of Solar Panels | Monocrystalline, Polycrystalline & Thin-Film (2024)

All solar panels differ in efficiency. Meaning certain types and even brands of Solar panels can convert sunlight into electricity more effectively than others.This is because panels can vary in the number of silicon cells and type they have.The cell count of a Solar Panel often determines its cost, size and weight. Although it is often believed the more silicon cells a panel has, the higher wattage and power output it will produce, this isn’t always the case. The power output of a panel is dependent on the quality and efficiency of the solar cells themselves.

In this blog, we will explore the main three types of solar panel cells: polycrystalline, monocrystalline and thin-film. Understanding the difference between the three is the very first step to selecting the perfect panel for your home, business or community.

• Monocrystalline Solar Panels

Monocrystalline panels are the oldest most developed type of Solar panels.As the name suggests, MonocrystallineSolar Panels are made from single (Mono) crystal (crystalline) silicon solar cells. To make these solar cells, pure silicon is formed into bars and cut into wafers. During this process, the cell edges are cut off, smoothen and rounded, to help the solar cells produce even more electricity. Although quite wasteful and time consuming, this gives the monocrystalline cells arecognisable appearance.

Manufactured from the highest purity of silicon, Monocrystalline Solar panels are a premium panels. Although Monocrystalline cells are more expensive, they tend to last longer and offer the most efficient solar panels. As the cells are composed of a single crystal, they have a higher power output too. In addition, Monocrystalline cells appear black and uniform in finish. Making them the prime choice for anyone looking for a modern black solar panel.

Examples of brands which manufacturer this type of solar panel include: JA Solar, Longi Solar and QCELL.

• Polycrystalline Solar Panels

Also referred to as“multi-crystalline” panels, Polycrystalline areoften considered the mid-range panel.Although less efficient, Polycrystalline Solar panels are the more affordable option.

Just like Monocrystalline solar panels, polycrystalline cells are made from silicon. However,as the name suggests, polycrystalline cells are made from many (Poly) fragments of silicon crystal melted together. For this reason,Polycrystalline solar panels have a lower efficiency and short lifespan. Meaning they don’t generate as much electricity from the sun compared to Monocrystalline panels for as long either. This is because there is less freedom for the electrons to move, as there are many crystals in each cell.

Polycrystalline panels are made by melting raw silicon together, and pouring it into a square mould to make wafers. Unlike their Monocrystalline rivals, polycrystalline cells do not require each of the four sides to be cut. This is better for the environment as it results in less waste. Overall the process is faster and cheaper than manufacturing monocrystalline panels.These wafers are then assembled together to form a polycrystalline panel.

Polycrystalline cells can be identified by their blue finish, rectangular shape and speckles. They appear blue and speckled, as they contain many crystals in each cell and because of the way the sunlight reflects off these crystals.

• Thin-Film Solar Panels

Unlike Monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels, thin-film solar panels are thin, flexible and low in profile.This is because the cells within the panels are roughly 350 times thinner than the crystalline wafers used in Monocrystalline and Polycrystalline solar panels.

Thin-film solar panels are manufactured from layers of semiconducting materials, such assilicon,cadium telluride, and copper indium gallium selenide.The semiconductor layer is placed between transparent conducting layers, with a layer of glass on top, that helps to capture sunlight. Although silicon is sometimes used to make thin-film solar panels, it is not the same solid silicon wafers.Rather, it is a non-crystalline type of silicon.

Thin-film solar panels tend to have lower efficiencies, and power capacities compared to crystalline panels. With efficiencies reaching around 11 percent, they require a lot more roof space to generate a large amount of solar energy. They also tend todegrade more quickly compared to crystalline panels, resulting in the shortest of warranties.

Despite this, thin-film solar panels still have their place in the solar industry. As thin-film panels are more flexible, they can be used for a diverse range of applications. Including being moulded into shingles, or solar roof tiles, so property owners who don’t like the appearance of solar panels can still go solar.

So which Solar Panel is the best? Choosing the right solar panel is always dependant on the project, and budget. Whereas Polycrystalline Solar Panels exceed in residential properties, due to the affordability, monocrystalline panels still have their place. For example, if the property has a smaller roof, the greater efficiency of the panels makesmonocrystalline cells the better choice. Although,Thin-film solar panels are almost never used on domestic properties, they are useful for larger projects such as for commercial or listed buildings due to their lightweight nature.

If you are still unsure which type of Solar panel you should use for your project, Deege Solar are more than happy to help. If you live in the UK and would like more information get in touch on 01322 479369. Our team of Solar experts are always happy to help you find the best Solar solution for your project.