Which solar panel is better monocrystalline or polycrystalline?

So, which type of solar panel is better, monocrystalline or polycrystalline? – Many people would say that mono panels are the better option, as they are made of higher quality silicone, are more efficient, and require less space; however, the differences between these two types of solar panels are slight.

What is a single crystal solar panel?

The manufacturing process involves slicing thin wafers from a single crystal of silicon, which is why these panels are often referred to as “single crystal” panels. Their efficiency rates are generally higher because the single crystal allows for better electron flow, leading to more electricity being produced from the same amount of sunlight.

What is the difference between monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels?

When comparing the efficiency of monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels, monocrystalline panels typically have the edge. Monocrystalline panels generally offer efficiency rates of 15 – 20%, while polycrystalline panels range from 13 – 16%.

Why are polycrystalline solar panels blue?

The silicon-crystal fragments give polycrystalline panels a dark blue colour. The use of silicon-crystal fragments, instead of single crystals, means that polycrystalline solar panels are cheaper than monocrystalline panels – but it also makes them less efficient.

What are polycrystalline solar panels?

Polycrystalline (often referred to simply as “poly” or multi-crystalline) solar panels are a newer type of technology than monocrystalline solar panels. While they are also made of high-quality silicone, the process by which they are made is different than mono panels.

How long do polycrystalline solar panels last?

The reason polycrystalline solar panels don’t last quite as long as monocrystalline panels is because they are made up of silicon-crystal fragments – instead of single-crystal silicon – which will separate over time, resulting in reduced efficiency.