If you've thought about adding solar panels to your home, you've probably thought about how much money and energy it could save you. The potential savings are certainly significant, but they're not only something to consider when making the switch, but also when deciding which type of solar panel is right for you.
Since there are so many different types to choose from, arranging an installation appointment is not that easy.
How to decide what type of solar panel to buy?
The first thing you need to do to determine which type of solar panel is right for your home is to familiarize yourself with the options available to you as well as the number of solar panels you want.
According to EnergySage, a US Department of Energy-approved online resource that allows consumers to compare solar power , there are three main types of solar panels available for home use. They are monochromatic, polycrystalline and thin-layered.
A fourth option, solar roofing, is a newer and more expensive technology, but certainly a viable (and attractive) option for those with the budget to cover the down payment.
Monocrystalline solar module
When you think of rooftop solar panels, you probably think of monocrystalline because they are so commonly used. While all solar cells offer some level of energy efficiency, monocrystalline cells are considered the most efficient. How effective is it? Up to 20%, Energy Sage reports, meaning 20% of the sunlight hitting a monocrystalline panel is converted into usable energy. Monocrystalline panels too.
- Made from a single crystal of pure silicon (in other words, the silicon comes from a single source)
- cylindrical
- same color
- Hard wearing and durable (partly guaranteed up to 30 years)
- Each can produce 300 to 400 (sometimes more) watts of power
negative side. Monocrystalline often requires a higher initial investment than other solar panels. Because their production cost is high. Costs which of course are passed on to the consumer.
What if 20% isn't good enough for you? Don't worry. Underneath the monocrystalline canopy is an additional solar cell called a PERC (Passivated Emitter and Back Cell). Although the use of this technology continues to grow, experts say it is more efficient than traditional monocrystalline modules (due to the silicon material added to the back of the module) and is less expensive to manufacture.
Polyurethane solar panels
On the other hand, polycrystalline panels are cheaper to manufacture and therefore cheaper for the customer. Cost variance is related to the production process. Instead of the individual silicon crystals used to make single crystals, polycrystalline slabs are made from different pieces of silicon that are pieced together.
Polycrystals are slightly less efficient than single crystals, producing about 250 watts, not more than 300. Physically, they are similar to their monocrystalline counterparts and last nearly as long (warranties range from 25 years, but vary by brand).
Thin film solar modules
Thin-film solar cells have several advantages over monocrystalline and polycrystalline ones. First, they are relatively light. They are also flexible (others are rigid), making them easier to install than thicker, heavier types.
They are also easier to manufacture and less expensive than other types of solar cells.
Types of Thin Film Solar Panels
Unlike monocrystalline or polycrystalline modules, thin-film solar modules can be made from three different materials:
Thin films of amorphous silicon (a-Si).
Amorphous solar cells have a silicon base like others, but in this case the silicon part is the first of three very thin layers (the second layer is thermally conductive, the top layer is protective).
Amorphous panels also work well in warmer climates because they can withstand intense heat and are better at generating electricity on dark days (the sun doesn't have to be in a clear blue sky to do its job).
Unfortunately, amorphous panels don't last as long as other solar cells; According to the American Solar Energy Society, you can only use them for 10 to 20 years. Furthermore, their efficiency is about 7%.
Thin layer of cadmium telluride (CdTe)
Fine cadmium telluride, made of cadmium, which is classified as a toxic heavy metal by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, is the most widely used solar cell in the world after crystalline cells. However, CdTes are not the best in terms of efficiency.
Copper gallium indium diselenide (CIGS) thin film
Also made of cadmium, copper indium gallium diselenide (CIGS), above average performance but very expensive. The cells use layers of copper, indium, gallium and selenide to efficiently convert sunlight into energy.
Solar cell types by efficiency
At 20% or more, monocrystalline solar cells are the most efficient modules. Polyurethane solar panels are a close competitor with efficiencies of 15% to 17%. Whereas a CIGS thin film has an efficiency of 13% to 15%, a CdTe thin film has an efficiency of 9% to 11% and an A-Si thin film has an efficiency of 6% to 8%.
Types of Solar Panels by Price
Although monocrystalline solar panels are the most efficient, they are also the most expensive type of solar panel, averaging $1-1.50/watt . Polyurethane solar cells are the second most expensive, ranging from $0.70 to $1 per watt . Whereas CIGS thin films cost $0.60 to $0.70 per W , CdTe thin films cost $0.50 to $0.60 per W , and A-Si thin films cost $0.43 to $0.50 per W.
solar roof
Efficiency and cost aside, some homeowners are reluctant to go solar for purely aesthetic reasons. In other words, they don't like the look of solar panels. If this is you, consider solar grains.
Solar panels allow you to enjoy the many benefits of solar panels without sacrificing the appearance of your roof. They are manufactured using the same technology as solar cells and come at different prices (depending on the brand).
Unfortunately, there are many downsides. First, cost is a big issue. Shingles are almost always more expensive (especially if you're going with a brand like Tesla, which launched a line of sunroofs in 2019). Not only that, there are a few solar panels. Even if you have the budget and want to add them to your roof, you won't find them
In terms of efficiency, solar shingles are also only 14% to 18% efficient, which doesn't compare badly to less efficient amorphous panels, but the bottom line doesn't look as good next to monocrystalline panels.
Also, solar panels do not work on all types of roofs. Most of them are designed only to replace asphalt tiles (with some exceptions). The most effective way. Combine a complete roof replacement with the addition of solar panels, which have a higher initial cost but can be more profitable in the long run.
Which type of solar panel is best?
Although they may be the most expensive type of solar power per watt, monocrystalline solar panels have proven to be the best type of solar cell with a solar efficiency of 20% or more.
Should I buy solar panels?
Now you know your solar panel options, but is it a good investment? it depends Before you hope, ask yourself a few questions.
- Do I have the right roof for solar panels? Roofs on older homes are often not compatible with solar panels, and things like skylights can also be a problem. To be safe, ask your roofer and solar installer.
- Does my HOA allow this? If you live in a neighborhood with an HOA, the rules may or may not allow you to install solar panels.
- Do I have spending money? Solar panels will save you money over time, but there is still an upfront investment. If you can't afford it, the future savings may not be worth it.
- How long will I stay in this house? If you plan to sell your home in the near future, it's best to let the future owners decide for themselves whether or not to buy solar panels. Otherwise, you may feel like you're investing a lot of money in a benefit that you can't afford (it could take years to recoup your investment).
- How much do I spend on electricity every month? Households with low electricity bills may not benefit from solar panels as much as those with high electricity bills, so be sure to check the numbers before making a decision.