What types of solar panels are there?

There are several types of solar panels available on the market today. Photovoltaic (PV) solar panels are the most common and popular type of solar panel.

Photovoltaic (PV) solar panels

PV solar panels use semiconductor materials to convert sunlight into electricity, and are widely used in residential and commercial solar energy systems.

PV solar panels are popular because they are relatively inexpensive and easy to install, and they have high efficiency rates, meaning they can produce a significant amount of electricity from a small area.

Hybrid solar panels

Then there are hybrid solar panels, also known as hybrid photovoltaic-thermal (PV-T) systems. PVT systems are solar panels that are designed to both generate electricity and capture heat.

The heat is typically used for domestic hot water or space heating. Hybrid solar panels are less common than PV solar panels, and are typically used in applications where both electricity and heat are needed.

What types of Photovoltaic (PV) solar panels are there?

PV solar panels are by far the most common solar panels for residential use. In this article we will focus on PV solar panels.

For PV solar panels, there are different possible technologies. These are the 3 most common types of PV solar panels in today’s market:

1. Monocrystalline solar panels
2. Polycrystalline solar panels
3. Amorphous solar panels

Materials

Monocrystalline solar panels are made from a single, continuous crystal of silicon, while polycrystalline solar panels are made from multiple, smaller crystals of silicon. Amorphous solar panels are made from a non-crystalline form of silicon.

Efficiency

One of the main differences between these types of solar panels is their efficiency. Monocrystalline solar panels are generally the most efficient, followed by polycrystalline solar panels, and then amorphous solar panels. Monocrystalline solar panels can have efficiencies of up to 22%, while polycrystalline solar panels have efficiencies of up to 18%, and amorphous solar panels have efficiencies of up to 14%.

Price

Another difference between these types of solar panels is their price. Monocrystalline solar panels tend to be the most expensive, followed by polycrystalline solar panels, and then amorphous solar panels. However, the price difference between these types of solar panels has been decreasing in recent years.

Durability

Finally, monocrystalline solar panels tend to be more durable and have a longer lifespan than polycrystalline and amorphous solar panels. However, amorphous solar panels are more flexible and can be used in a wider variety of applications, including on curved surfaces.

5 Popular solar panel brands to consider

With the recent push for greener energy sources and the growing popularity of residential solar power systems, it is no surprise that solar panels have become increasingly popular. The following five brands are popular among homeowners looking to go solar:

SunPower

SunPower is not only the most popular solar panel on the market, but it also provides some of the highest efficiency ratings. SunPower panels typically have efficiencies above 20%, meaning they can capture more of the sun’s energy and convert it into useable electricity for your home.

LG Solar

LG Solar’s solar panels have a high power output and come with a 25 year warranty, making them an attractive investment for homeowners. LG Solar panels are also known for their sleek designs and aesthetic appeal.

Panasonic

Panasonic offer high-quality solar panels that are known for their durability and long lifespans. Panasonic solar panels feature monocrystalline cells and come with a 25 year performance and product warranty.

SolarWorld

SolarWorld panels are designed to meet high certification criteria and are known for their reliable performance and high efficiency. They are also certified as “Made in the USA”.

Tesla Solar

The Tesla Solar panels are designed to be extremely efficient and are made from strong, durable materials. Tesla Solar panels also feature cell-level monitoring, allowing homeowners to keep an eye on their system’s performance. Plus, with the addition of their Powerwall energy storage system, you can maximize your energy savings.