The type of solar panels you select determines the cost-saving potential and overall performance of your system. Monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels are the most popular options for customers. Although both of these solar panels work efficiently with home solar panels, their appearance, efficiency, and long-term benefits differ. So, if you want to know a details comparison between Monocrystalline Vs polycrystalline solar panels, then you have come to the right place.
In this detailed guide, we have included all the essential information about these solar panels. We have compared these solar panels on different parameters. So, let’s proceed further to know more about the Monocrystalline solar panel and Polycrystalline solar panels.
Monocrystalline Vs. Polycrystalline Solar Panels
Monocrystalline and polycrystalline photovoltaic (PV) solar panels are the two most popular types of solar panels for homes. These panels are made from pure silicons, a chemical element. It has semi-conductor properties that make it excellent for power conversions.
After absorbing the sunlight, the PV cells convert the energy into usable electricity. Both monocrystalline and monocrystalline use crystalline silicon cells. However, the making of these panels is different.
Monocrystalline Panels
The “Mono” in the monocrystalline solar panels refers to the process of using a single silicon crystal during production. The crystal is processed in a lab and molded into an ingot, which is cylindrical in shape.
The manufacturer of the solar panel cut silicon ingots into thin discs, or silicon wafers, and shaved them to form octagons to fit more ingots into a monocrystalline solar panel. After that, the wafers are formed into photovoltaic cells and inserted into the panel molecules.
The single crystals offer higher efficiency than other solar panels, which leads to better production of power for your home. However, the production procedure is costly, so this solar panel type costs more. The process also created an excess of wasted silicon material that can’t be reused for mono panels.
Polycrystalline Panels
The Polycrystalline solar cells are combined with multiple fragmented silicon crystals. These fragments sometimes include silicon, which was wasted in the creation of mono solar panels.
Additionally, the silicon pieces are melted together to form polycrystalline solar cells. After that, these multi-crystalline cells are formed and sliced into thin cubes. Also, the silicon fragmentations are prone to surface imperfections, which leads to reduced efficiency.
However, the wafers of silicon are easier to manufacture at an affordable price. Plus, the remaining crystals from the production process of monocrystalline panels can be reused. It helps in reducing the costs of silicon material. This is the reason why polycrystalline panels are price-friendly.
Difference Between Monocrystalline and Polycrystalline Solar Panels
The monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels are quite different in terms of various factors, such as cost, efficiency, and appearance. Below is a comparison of Monocrystalline vs polycrystalline solar panels:
| Factors | Monocrystalline Panels
|
Polycrystalline Panels |
| Average cost | More expensive | Less expensive
|
| Efficiency
|
15% to 23% | 13% to 16% |
| Panel appearance | Black color | Blue color |
| Roof space | Works on roofs with limited space | Requires more roof space for installations |
| Temperature coefficient | Lower temperature coefficient/more efficient in heat | Higher temperature coefficient/less efficient in heat |
Price of Monocrystalline and Polycrystalline Solar Panels in India
The price of polycrystalline and monocrystalline solar panels differs depending on different factors such as power capacity, brand, and solar panel type. The average price of a Monocrystalline solar panel ranges from Rs. 25 to Rs. 100, depending on the brand you selected for purchasing the solar panel. Similarly, the price of polycrystalline solar panels also ranges between Rs. 24 to Rs.94.
Monocrystalline Vs. Polycrystalline Solar Panels: Average Life Span
Generally, the life span of crystalline solar panels is about 25 years. However, solar panels can last longer with proper maintenance. The monocrystalline panels can last up to 40 years, whereas the Polycrystalline panels can last 25 to 35 years.
However, solar panels can last for decades, but they lose their efficiency over a period of time.
Monocrystalline or Polycrystalline Solar Panels: Which One to Choose?
The solar panel type that you are planning to install can affect the performance of your system, its energy production, and the payback period. Generally, the Monocrystalline panels are expensive, but they provide higher efficiency along with better performance even in extreme temperatures. Moreover, they have a more inconspicuous design and need fewer panels for installation.
On the other hand, the polycrystalline panels are price-friendly, but their efficiency ratings are lower. Plus, these solar panels require more roof space. The blue color makes them more noticeable, which can impact the home’s curb appeal.
Therefore, it is recommended to check different companies and compare the solar panel selections. Also, check the life span, efficiency rating, pricing, and warranty coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can you mix polycrystalline and monocrystalline solar cells?
Yes, you can mix polycrystalline with monocrystalline solar cells. However, it is not suggested to mix them as the different electrical characteristics the other cells give each panel. Therefore, if you still want to mix them due to specific situations, then make sure to reach out to a professional installer or electrician.
What are the benefits of monocrystalline cells and panels?
The monocrystalline cells and panels have high efficiency rates. Also, they have a higher power output per square foot than polycrystalline options, which makes them space-efficient. Furthermore, these solar panels tend to be more efficient even in hot weather.
What is the most effective type of solar panel?
Monocrystalline solar panels are the most effective type of solar panel as they have an efficient rating and the ability to produce more power per square foot. However, polycrystalline solar panels are a great option if you want to save the cost or prefer panels with a blueish tint.
Are monocrystalline solar panels the best choice?
Yes, monocrystalline solar panels are the best choice as they have a more efficient rating and higher power capacity per square foot.
What’s the difference between monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels?
The monocrystalline solar panels offer better efficiency as they are produced from pure silicon. They are black in color and produce more power but they are quite expensive. On the other hand, polycrystalline solar panels are produced with multi-crystalline silicon which leads to low efficiency. Moreover, the Polycrystalline panels need more panels to provide power to your home efficiently.
What are some advantages of polycrystalline solar panels?
The biggest advantage of polycrystalline panels is they are more budget-friendly than monocrystalline ones because of their simple production procedure. Also, their cells are made with multi-crystalline solar cells. So, these panels generate less waste. Moreover, they offer long-term energy savings and high-efficiency ratings.