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 is a monocrystalline solar panel?

Monocrystalline panels are suitable for residential and commercial installations where space is limited, and higher efficiency is required. Due to their superior low-light performance, they are also preferred in regions with less consistent sunlight. Polycrystalline solar panels are made from multiple melted silicon crystals.

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.

What is the difference between monocrystalline and polycrystalline PV cells?

Although monocrystalline have higher efficiency rates, the difference between mono and polycrystalline cells isn’t that big. Most polycrystalline PV cells have efficiencies between 13% to 16%, which is still a very good ratio and it’s expected to get only higher in the future. D. Mono-Si vs Poly-Si Temperature Coefficient?

How long do monocrystalline solar panels last?

Both monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels will produce electricity efficiently for 25 years or more. Like efficiency, monocrystalline solar panels tend to outperform polycrystalline models regarding temperature coefficient.

How are polycrystalline solar panels made?

Polycrystalline solar panel cells are made from silicon-crystal fragments, which are melted together and shaped into square wafers. The silicon-crystal fragments give polycrystalline panels a dark blue colour.