Capturing energy from the sun boils down to the material capable of converting light into electricity. Silicon serves as the semiconducting material most efficient at converting light. Although all solar panels are made from Silicon, there are a few different types of panels you need to be aware of.
When deciding on the type of panel you want for your home, a few things should be considered.
Before purchasing solar panels for your home or business, consider how your annual degradation rate and efficiency will affect you. Look at it this way. Every year, solar panels produce a smaller output of electricity than the year before. It’s a fact of life, solar panels degrade. In year one, you can look forward to 100% efficiency. However, every year after that will bring an estimated 0.8% degradation.
The first year brings an exception. Solar panels always lose between 1% – 3% of efficiency in the first year. After that, you can look forward to a lower degradation rate of 0.8% per year. For example, after 25 years of solar panel use, you can expect your panels to be about 75% – 80% efficient. Not bad for two decades of free electricity. Now let’s look at the types of panels that exist on the market.
The high-end option would be your monocrystalline panel. There are some distinct advantages to this variety of solar panels, including its modern appeal. Additionally, monocrystalline solar panels provide higher efficiency.
It comes down to the more advanced design of the monocrystalline panel. Its single-crystalline construction allows the electrons to bounce around more rapidly. This effect relates to a greater output of energy production. As you would expect, monocrystalline solar panels are the most expensive options of all. Many individuals prefer this variety of panels because of the dynamic and sleek design it maintains. However, the next option might be more appealing to you also.
