There are 2 main types of solar panels available in the market: the monocrystalline or polycrystalline (also called multicrystalline). As the names suggest, poly and monocrystalline panels are both made of the same component, the crystalline silicon.
Monocrystalline panel
Monocrystalline panels are the oldest cell technology. As the name suggests they are created from a single crystal structure. Monocrystalline panels are identifiable by their darker colour and the corner of the cells missing.
Polycrystalline panel
Polycrystalline panels use a newer technology and are made of multifaceted crystalline material. The typical polycrystalline panel is not uniformly coloured and looks rectangular with no rounded edges.
Let’s compare the two technologies:
- Efficiency
Monocrystalline cells are more efficient than polycrystalline cells as they are made of a higher-grade silicon. Monocrystalline panels are usually 15-20% efficient against 13-16% efficiency for the polycrystalline cells.
- Low light condition
Monocrystalline technology performs better than polycrystalline technology in low light condition. This makes them a perfect choice for cloudy areas.
- Space Efficiency
As the result, you will need more polycrystalline panels to output the same electricity. Monocrystalline panels are more space efficient than the polycrystalline.
- Lifespan
Both technologies come with a 25 years warranty. However, Monocrystalline panels have a longer lifespan and will last longer than polycrystalline cells. Many of the first monocrystalline panels from the 70s still are still producing energy!
- Temperature tolerance
Panels are tested at a temperature of 25 degrees Celsius. Their performance lower as temperatures go up. Monocrystalline panels are more efficient than polycrystalline panels in warmer temperature. They are used in the special industry and resist the hard temperature and conditions of space.
- Cost
Polycrystalline technology is more affordable than monocrystalline technology.
Conclusion:
If monocrystalline cells seem to be a better option, both monocrystalline and polycrystalline technologies are very similar in terms of performance and you shouldn’t worry too much about their differences. What is more important is the quality of the panels. Choosing a good panel brand will make the difference in terms of performance over the lifetime of your system. Make sure the solar company you’re dealing with is CEC Accredited and use Tier 1 quality panels. Tier 1 label offer high-quality standards that have proven to be better and more bankable than the rest of the market.
Read our checklist of things you should look for when choosing your solar company.
Energis is a CEC Approved Solar Retailer and has proven its committed to the industry best practices. At Energis, we only work with Tier 1 solar manufacturers with locally backed warranties at an affordable price. For your residential or commercial solar installation, call Energis today on 1300 782 217, or send us an enquiry.
