.png)
Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels have gained popularity as a long-term method of using the sun's energy. A broad variety of solar panel solutions have appeared on the market as the need for renewable energy keeps rising. But still there are many questions that will pop up in your mind about how to choose the correct Solar PV pannels.In this article, we'll examine the various kinds of solar PV panels that are now on the market and emphasise their distinctive qualities, benefits, and uses.
1. Monocrystalline Solar Panels
How are they made?
Solar panels made of monocrystalline crystals can be identified by their uniform black colour. Due to their single crystal construction, which is commonly silicon, they have high energy efficiency. From a single silicon ingot, thin wafers are cut during manufacturing.
Efficiency levels
16-20%
Life of the panels
25 years
Use case
Monocrystalline panels are the best choice for residential and commercial installations with limited space because of their exceptional performance in both high and low light conditions.
1.1. Mono perc
How are they made?
Mono perc panels are a technological advancement over monocrystalline panels that have enabled increase in efficiency. PERC means Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell. A passivated layer is added at the rear of the panel because of which the light passed through the cell can be used again. This additional layer is reflective in nature.
Efficiency
22% to 25%
Life of the panels
More than 25 years
Use case
As the same power output can be achieved with less number of panels, these reduce installation time and the space required on the rooftop.
2. Polycrystalline Solar Panels
How are they made?
Multicrystalline and polycrystalline panels each have a characteristic blue hue. They have a less uniform appearance than monocrystalline panels because they are built from many silicon crystals that have been fused together. Polycrystalline panels are efficient and cost-effective to make. The wastage of raw material is less in the manufacturing of these panels.
Efficiency levels
13-15%
Life of the panels
25 years
Use case
They might be slightly less efficient than monocrystalline panels, but they are a common option for bigger installations and projects where cost is the main factor.
3. Thin film Solar Panels
How are they made?
Solar panels made on thin-film technology are lightweight, flexible, and have a variety of installation options. They are created by depositing thin layers of semiconductor material onto a substrate made of glass or metal, such as amorphous silicon or cadmium telluride. Known for its adaptability and aesthetic appeal, thin-film panels are widely used.
Efficiency levels
7-10%
Life of the panels
10 - 20 years
Use case
They are suitable for applications like where solar panels are easily incorporated into architectural designs because they operate better in high-temperature and low-light circumstances.
4. Bifacial Solar Panels
How are they made?
Solar panels using bifacial technology can produce more energy since they have the unusual ability to catch sunlight from both sides. They are made with a glass or transparent backsheet that allows light to travel through and be absorbed by the panel's back surface.
Efficiency levels
upto 22%
Life of the panels
25 years
Use case
In situations where there are highly reflecting surfaces, such snow-covered ground or rooftops, bifacial panels are advantageous. They provide a higher energy yield and are a great option for installations with elevated panels or ground-mounted systems.
With a large number of Manufactures producing high-quality solar panels, India has become a prominent player in the global solar energy business. Some good solar panel manufacturers are Vikram Solar, Waaree Energies, Adani Solar, Tata Power Solar etc.
Comments