Different Types of Solar Panels

According to the experts of Borg Energy India Pvt Ltd, one important thing to consider during the installation of Solar panels, is the type of solar panels. They play a key role in determining the cost, aesthetics, installation and maintenance cost and the specific needs.

While there are many types of solar panels, the three major ones are monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, together with the different purposes they serve. Hence, it is important to choose the right one that matches your needs.

Here, a reputable renewable company, offering a micro power plant and harnessing Solar and Wind Power for clean energy,  Borg Energy India Pvt Ltd explain the 3 types of solar panels. This will help you in making the right buying decision.

1. Monocrystalline

Ever seen a dark colored, round edges cells, they are probably Monocrystalline says experts of Borg Energy India Pvt Ltd. However, while the cells are typically dark, there is a wide range of colors for the black sheets and frames.

This type is the oldest, purest and widely used solar panels. They are referred to as “monocrystalline” to demonstrate that the silicon used is single-crystal silicon. The cells are produced using a cylindrical silicon ingot developed from a single crystal of silicon of high purity. Because the cells are made from single-crystal silicon, the electrons have a lot of room to flow.

Monocrystalline boast of the highest level of efficiency at 15-20%. They also require less space and many claims that this type of solar cell lasts the longest. Plus, many manufacturers give them a 25-year warranty. Unsurprisingly, it is the most expensive among them all.

2. Polycrystalline

Polycrystalline are somewhat different in terms of color and tends to be of bluer shade as a result of the way the sunlight reflects on the crystals. Like Monocrystalline, the back sheets and frames come in different colors.

Polycrystalline are newer in the market and are rising in popularity. They are also made of silicons. However not a single one. Manufacturers heat, melt and press multiple silicons together to form a larger cell. That is why they are sometimes referred to as “multi-crystalline,” or many-crystal silicon.

The manufacturing process of Polycrystalline is simple, faster and cheaper. This makes it cheaper and a great option for anyone who wants to purchase solar panels on budget. However, with the cheap price comes less efficiency. They have a lower heat tolerance and this tends to affect the lifespan. Plus, they are less space-efficient and can take up more space.

3. Thin-film

This is an innovative technology that is completely different from Polycrystalline and Monocrystalline. Although there are some that are large, however, they are generally slimmer in appearance than others and are black in colour. This is on the grounds that the cells within the panel are around 350 times thinner than the wafers used for the other 2 types.

Unlike others, thin films are not made of silicons. Rather, they comprise different types of materials including cadmium telluride (CdTe), Gallium Selenide (CIGS), amorphous silicon (a-Si), and Copper Indium. They are produced by depositing the materials on a glass, plastic or metal.

Thin films are cheaper, easier to produce, flexible, portable and lightweight which makes a great option if you are low on budget. They are adhesive solar panels and can easily be installed by adhesive to a surface or the roof. Another plus to thin films is that they are aesthetically pleasing. However, they have lower efficiency and are less durable. This means they are likely to have a lesser lifespan. As a result, they might not be the best option for homeowners but rather for commercial and utility applications, recommended by Borg Energy India Pvt Ltd.