- Monocrystalline panels: made from pure silicon with highest efficiency at around 22%.
- Polycrystalline panels: lower efficiency around 18%, but cheaper to produce than monocrystalline.
- Thin-film panels: lightweight and flexible but the least efficient type.
Key factors to consider:
- Efficiency
- Temperature coefficient
- Warranties
- Performance
- Quality
- Durability
Leading brands like REC, QCells and Loom Solar offer high efficiency panels with excellent 25-year warranties.
Two major installation options:
- Roof mount: utilizes available space to generate power.
- Ground mount: uses open space to produce electricity.
- Bifacial panels: can capture sunlight from both sides for 10-20% more generation.
- Other emerging panel types include flexible panels and concentrator cells.
Monocrystalline panels are best for residential use due to higher output, while polycrystalline panels are less expensive to produce.
When buying solar panels, consider performance, quality, durability, and warranties. Key factors are panel efficiency, temperature coefficient, and materials warranty. Leading brands offer high efficiency solar panels with excellent 25-year warranties.
Higher efficiency panels have lower degradation over time. Monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels are the two major types, with monocrystalline being more efficient. Bifacial panels capture sunlight from both sides for increased generation.
Consider the advantages of roof and ground mount installation options when setting up solar panels. Opt for panels that suit your efficiency and budget requirements, such as monocrystalline for higher performance in residential settings.