Are monocrystalline solar panels better than polycrystalline panels?

Monocrystalline panels are usually more efficient than polycrystalline panels. However, they also usually come at a higher price. When you evaluate solar panels for your photovoltaic (PV) system, you'll encounter two main categories of panels: monocrystalline solar panels (mono) and polycrystalline solar panels (poly).

What are polycrystalline solar panels?

Polycrystalline solar panels have blue-colored cells made of multiple silicon crystals melted together. These panels are often a bit less efficient but are more affordable. Homeowners can receive the federal solar tax credit no matter what type of solar panels they choose.

Why are blue solar panels better than monocrystalline solar panels?

The multiple crystals in the formation process create less silicon waste and require less energy than the monocrystalline process. It makes the blue-colored solar panels less expensive, but it also means blue panels are less efficient. Which Color is Better for My Home Solar Power System?

What color is a solar panel?

The color of a solar panel depends on the type of silicon used during the manufacturing process. Black solar panels are more efficient because monocrystalline silicon captures sunlight more effectively than the polycrystalline variety.

Why are polycrystalline solar panels blue?

The silicon-crystal fragments give polycrystalline panels a dark blue colour. The use of silicon-crystal fragments, instead of single crystals, means that polycrystalline solar panels are cheaper than monocrystalline panels – but it also makes them less efficient.

Does the color of a solar roof matter?

If the color of your solar roof matters to you, you should know that monocrystalline vs. polycrystalline solar panels will appear somewhat differently in terms of color. The typical polycrystalline panel will have a bluer shade, while the monocrystalline panel will be darker (black) in color.