Mono vs. Poly solar panels explained

Monocrystalline solar panels

Overview and Appearance
This is the oldest and most developed of the three technologies. Monocrystalline panels as the name suggests are created from a single continuous crystal structure. A Monocrystalline panel can be identified from the solar cells which all appear as a single flat color.

Construction

To make solar cells for monocrystalline solar panels, silicon is formed into bars and cut into wafers. These types of panels are called “monocrystalline” to indicate that the silicon used is single-crystal silicon. Because the cell is composed of a single crystal, the electrons that generate a flow of electricity have more room to move. As a result, monocrystalline panels are more efficient than their polycrystalline counterparts.

 

Polycrystalline solar panels

Overview and Appearance
Polycrystalline or Multicrystalline are a newer technology and vary in the manufacturing process.

Construction

Polycrystalline solar panels are also made from silicon. However, instead of using a single crystal of silicon, manufacturers melt many fragments of silicon together to form the wafers for the panel. Polycrystalline solar panels are also referred to as “multi-crystalline,” or many-crystal silicon. Because there are many crystals in each cell, there is to less freedom for the electrons to move. As a result, polycrystalline solar panels have lower efficiency ratings than monocrystalline panels.

 

Mono vs. Poly solar panels: Comparison table

	Monocrystalline	Polycrystalline
Cost	More expensive	Less expensive
Efficiency	More efficient	Less efficient
Aesthetics	Solar cells are a black hue	Solar cells have a blue-ish hue
Longevity	25+ years	25+ years

  

Advantages
These are the first variety of solar panels and are older than all its counterparts. Although solar technology experts believe that these solar panels survive up to 25 years, according to many reports, some of the older monocrystalline models which were installed in 1970s are still in use today. These panel have defied the wear and tear of space travel as well! Compared to other solar panels, these are capable of converting the most amount of solar energy into electricity. Monocrystalline solar panels are apt for urban settings, or anywhere where there is a space constraint. There are some solar films which use cadmium telluride. This element is a probable carcinogen and is not environment friendly. But monocrystalline solar panels do not pose any threat to the environment.	Compared to monocrystalline solar panels, these are less expensive and easier to produce. They yield lower electricity than monocrystalline solar panels, and therefore, produce less power bills. Polycrystalline solar panels have a lower heat tolerance than monocrystalline solar panels. When it comes to durability, polycrystalline solar panels are as good as monocrystalline panels.
Disadvantages
Monocrystalline solar panels are fairly expensive. If the solar panel is covered with dirt, snow, or shade, the circuit of this solar panel can easily break down. They are fragile, and can be easily damaged if hit by any flying or heavy object.	Polycrystalline solar panels' efficiency is less than the monocrystalline type, in terms of electricity output and size. The former requires more space to be accommodated, than the latter. During low light conditions, these cannot perform. So, when installed in a shady place, their output may drop to 50% of optimum even if a very small part of the panel is in the shade. These are not as uniform and aesthetically pleasing as their counterparts and also are equally fragile when compared to monocrystalline solar panels.

 

Polycrystalline cells, due to their cost-efficiency, are preferred by large-scale contractors. Nevertheless, monocrystalline solar panels are the number one choice of solar panel users. After reading that monocrystalline solar panels are more efficient than polycrystalline solar panels, one would definitely jump to the conclusion that the former is better than the latter. But wait, certain factors need to be considered before installing a solar panel. You must take into account are, the roof space, your budget, and the temperature of the region you wish to get it installed in. Depending on these crucial factors, the overall efficiency of the panel may vary. Hence, an outright conclusion about one panel being better than the other cannot be made. Keeping all these factors in mind, make a wise choice!