A Little Bit of Solar Panel Types - aLittleBitOfAll
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A Little Bit of Solar Panel Types

A Little Bit of Solar Panel Types

Though we’ve become more advanced thanks to all the technology, I don’t think we can say we’re actually better off than our ancestors – not when it comes to consumerism, and our detrimental effects on global warming and climate change. I’m sure you’d agree with me on that.

Luckily, we’ve started to wake up from the reveries and finally accept the fact we also as individuals contribute to this state of our planet (at least some of us), so we’ve started relying on options that are eco-friendly, and are based on inexhaustible natural resources. Such an incredible example is resorting to energy efficient solutions, with the help of solar systems, and I’m proud to say we Aussies are the world leaders with about 15% of Australian households with solar panels on their roofs as of last year; great news is the percentage continues to rise this year as well.

So, what do we know of solar energy systems, or more specifically, the most important bits: the solar panels? Well, for starters, the most widespread solar panels are based on crystalline silicon, either mono or poly, though there are also the least favourite, third option, thin film solar cells. Out of the three, the polycrystalline solar panel has started to gain popularity as of late.

polycrystalline solar panel2

Though both mono and polycrystalline are made of silicone, and have the same role in capturing sun energy then used to be turned into electricity, the difference is in how they are made. While for the mono panels a single crystal of silicone is needed, shaped into bars then cut into wafers, the polycrystalline are based on many pieces of silicone together for a panel, or in other words many crystals for a single cell.

The different manufacturing process makes the polycrystalline solar panel more affordable; same function as the mono, for a better price – this makes it all the more appealing to customers. Unlike when the polycrystalline solar panels first appeared, back in 1981, and had lower space efficiency of 13 up to 16%, nowadays thanks to technological developments, this efficiency can reach from 18 to 20% with large rooftops and open space systems. This goes to show where the rise in popularity emerges from.

As for the thin film cells, apart from being efficient in low light conditions, is less efficient than both of the silicone based, takes up a large amount of roof space, and still is in need of many advancements. It’s based on the process of depositing photovoltaic substances on solid surfaces. To be sure you’ve made the right purchase, make sure you buy from a reputable company, that offers you value for your money, and convenient warranty.

Ian Tompson
iantompsonlee5@gmail.com