Different Types of Solar Panels That Exist Today! According to the Solar Energy Industries Association, the price of installing a solar energy system may start to increase in 2022. This is largely due to upheaval in the supply chain across the globe.
So, if you’re keen to get on board with the many benefits of installing solar power, you should move fast. One way to save is by installing the best solar panels for your energy requirements.
Find out more about the types of solar panels that could suit your home best.
Major Categories of PV Panels
You’ll find three main types of photovoltaic panels available on the solar market today. These are:
Monocrystalline Solar Panels
Monocrystalline PV panels comprise arrays of silicon wafers. They’re made by cutting a single silicon crystal into thin wafers and assembling the slivers into rows and columns.
Manufacturers then place these arrangements in a rectangular frame with a protective glass layer on top. According to this solar power company, these black-on-black panels are the most efficient option for residential solar.
Polycrystalline PV Panels
Like monocrystalline panels, polycrystalline solar cells consist of fragments of silicon crystals. They’re made slightly differently, though.
These solar cells comprise fragments of silicon crystals melted together, molded, and then cut into wafers. These panels aren’t as efficient as monocrystalline panels, but they’re cheaper.
Polycrystalline panels are usually blue with aluminum frames.
Thin-Film Solar Panels
Thin-film solar panels comprise a variety of materials. The main ones are:
Cadmium Telluride (CdTe)
This is the most common material used for thin-film solar panels. They’re manufactured by placing a layer of CdTe between transparent layers of conductive material.
They also have a protective layer of glass on top.
Amorphous Silicon (a-Si)
These solar panels mimic the monocrystalline and polycrystalline varieties. Instead of solid silicon wafers, they comprise non-crystalline silicon affixed on top of a plastic, metal, or glass frame.
Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (CIGS)
With CIGS, the panels have the above four elements sandwiched between two conductive layers of aluminum, glass, plastic, or steel.
Electrodes at the front and back of the material capture the electric current produced by these materials.
These are the cheapest and lightest options when it comes to solar panels, but they aren’t as powerful as silicon-based panels.
Other Types of Solar Panels
Thanks to ever-evolving technologies, there are also a host of extra innovative ways to generate electricity from solar energy nowadays. These include:
- Solar shingles
- PERC panels
- Solar windows
- Solar paint
- Solar fabric
Some of these have yet to make it into common use, but they all work effectively to help harness sustainable energy from the sun.
You Win With Solar
A reputable solar system installer can help you figure out the best types of solar panels for energy needs.
When you find the ideal solution for you, you will save huge amounts on electricity bills. Plus, you’ll increase the value of your home, and help reduce global warming.
Are you eager to upgrade your spaces with the latest trends and technologies? Browse our blog for more tips on how to create a beautiful, efficient home.
