An Extensive Guide to Different Types of Solar Panels

Solar panels, or photovoltaic (PV) modules, are devices commonly used on rooftops to collect sunlight and convert it into electricity. First invented by Charles Fritts in 1883, the solar panel has undergone an evolution in the last 200 years, leading to a diversification of the PV materials used, and an ever-expanding scope of applications across the best solar panel types.

Understanding the different types of solar panels is crucial, as it allows an effective comparison between the types to make an informed decision about what is typically a 25-30-year lifetime purchase. The considerations for which type of panel to choose vary from person to person and depend on consumer priorities. Common factors to consider when deciding between PV module types for residential purposes are cost, efficiency, durability, aesthetics, and warranty.

There are many solar panel types, each with distinct characteristics, materials, efficiency rates, applications, and costs. The four main types of solar panels are monocrystalline, polycrystalline, thin-film, and Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell (PERC) solar panels.

All solar panel types employ semiconductor materials, which allow the panels to create a reliable flow of solar electricity. The most common semiconductor, commonly found in all four types of solar panels, is silicon. Monocrystalline (mono) panels, which are the most common residential solar panels, are made from a single silicon crystal. By using only one crystal, monocrystalline panels achieve a uniformity of cell structure that makes them superior in efficiency to other panel types like polycrystalline. 

Created by melting multiple silicon fragments together, polycrystalline panels are less pure than monocrystalline ones but are more affordable as a result. PERC panels are essentially modified mono (“mono-PERC”) or polycrystalline (“poly-PERC”) panels, which gives them an extra 1-3% efficiency. In contrast, thin-film panels are the least efficient and least durable solar panel type. 

Designed to be lightweight and flexible, thin-film panels are often considered the most affordable solar panel type, but this is not always true and depends on the semiconductor material used. Thin-film cells can be made from a range of different materials, like amorphous silicon (a-Si), cadmium telluride (CdTe), and copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS).

Understanding the different types of solar panels, their efficiencies, and applications is essential when deciding which type of solar panel to purchase for your home or business. Understanding their varying materials, advantages, disadvantages, costs, and classifications is crucial for choosing the best solar panel type for your needs.

The rising global demand for clean energy is the primary factor propelling the worldwide solar panel market, and new solar panel types are emerging as technology improves. Whilst monocrystalline is considered the best solar panel type and continues to dominate with a 90-95% share of the market, other panel types like PERC and thin-film panels are becoming increasingly common. 

The Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) for PERC panels is around 7.9%, and some other types like thin-film and even the newest PV module types, like perovskite and organic solar cells are predicted to maintain an even higher CAGR of 9.2% from now to 2032, according to a report by Allied Market Research called “Solar Panel Market by Type (Crystalline Silicon, Thin Film, Others), by Grid Type (On-Grid, Off-Grid), by Technology (Photovoltaic Systems, Concentrated Solar Power Systems), by Solar Module (Monocrystalline, Polycrystalline, Cadmium Telluride, Amorphous Silicon Cells, Others), by Application (Residential, Commercial, Industrial), by End-Use Industry (Electricity Generation, Lighting, Heating, Charging): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2023-2032”. 

The report outlines that the traditional crystalline silicon panel market continues to grow as efficiency rates for monocrystalline panels climb as high as 25%, in contrast to the cost of manufacturing, which continues to decrease.

What are the types of Solar Panels?

There are four main types of solar panels: monocrystalline, polycrystalline, thin-film, passive emitter, and rear cell (PERC) solar panels. Each solar panel type is unique in its materials, functions, advantages, disadvantages, cost, and efficiency. It is important to consider these factors when choosing a solar panel, whether it is for use in businesses, campervans, or households. When deciding which solar panels to buy, homeowners and businesses must understand the main features of each solar panel type according to their needs.

The four main types of solar panels are outlined below.

• Monocrystalline Solar Panels: Monocrystalline solar panels (mono panels) are composed of a single wafer of silicon crystal. The single silicon crystal composition provides more space for electrons to move inside the solar cells, increasing total efficiency. Monocrystalline panels offer the highest solar efficiency rate, enabling more electricity to be generated with the same number of cells than other solar panel types. The conversion efficiency of monocrystalline solar panels is up to 25%, while that of polycrystalline panels is up to 16%. Mono panels are suitable for people with limited space and who want to optimize their renewable electricity output. Additionally, they have the advantage of higher heat resistance than polycrystalline panels, resulting in greater energy efficiency at high temperatures. A disadvantage of monocrystalline panels is that their production process is complicated and, therefore, they are more expensive than other solar panel types.
• Polycrystalline Solar Panels: Polycrystalline solar panels (or multi-crystalline solar panels) are formed from multiple silicon crystals and are easily identifiable by the square shape of their cells and signature blue hue. Polycrystalline panels are more affordable than monocrystalline solar panels due to a simpler manufacturing process and less silicon wastage. However, their efficiency is between 13-16%, lower than monocrystalline modules since their composition creates limited space for electrons to move. A further disadvantage of polycrystalline cells is that they require more space to produce the same amount of energy as their monocrystalline counterparts. Consequently, poly solar panels are not recommended for consumers with limited rooftop space, such as small homes or campervans. Instead, polycrystalline panels are often used on large-scale solar farms due to their lower upfront costs.
• Thin-film Solar Panels: Thin-film solar panels are developed using photovoltaic substances coated on a solid surface, such as glass, metal, or plastic. The three main photovoltaic substances used for thin-film solar technology are Amorphous silicon (a-Si), copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS), cadmium telluride (CdTe), and gallium arsenide (GaAs). Of these, cadmium telluride is the most commonly applied conductive material, as it provides the lowest energy payback period of all solar technologies. Thin-film solar cells are comparatively lightweight and more flexible than traditional silicon panels, making them easier to install. However, they have markedly lower efficiency compared to silicon crystalline panels, between 7-22%. Newer research has indicated the future potential of thin-film solar panels, having been able to produce a record efficiency of nearly 30% in laboratory conditions.
• Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell (PERC) Solar Panels: Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell (PERC) solar panels are silicon cells made more efficiently through the addition of extra layers. PERC solar cells generate up to 1-2 percent more solar energy than conventional cells and occupy around 75% of the new solar technology market. PERC solar cells are available as both monocrystalline (mono) and polycrystalline (poly) subtypes. Mono PERC cells generate up to 3% more electricity than poly PERC cells. The main advantage of PERC cells is that they harness more electricity in less space than traditional panels. Thus, they are suitable for green energy generation in limited spaces.

The most common material for solar cell technology is silicon. Silicon is used in monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and PERC solar cells. Silicon is revered for its properties as a semiconductor, which allows electricity to be generated when photons from sunlight hit it. Apart from silicon, PERC cells have aluminum, and passivating contacts layered on top of them.

The aluminum layer enhances the light absorption capacity of the material, while the passivating contacts allow lighter particles to penetrate the cell’s surface more easily. This increases the efficiency of power generation by up to 1-3% on non-PERC solar cells.

1. Monocrystalline Solar Panels

Monocrystalline solar panels, or “mono panels,” are highly efficient solar panels made from single-crystal silicon. Monocrystalline panels are recognizable for their uniform, dark appearance and rounded edges. Because monocrystalline cells are composed of a single silicon crystal layer, electrons are able to move more freely, resulting in a high solar energy output.

The invention of monocrystalline solar panels is attributed to Bell Labs' innovative efforts in 1954, whereas selenium had been used before then. The Bell Labs team used a method known as the Czochralski method, which involves placing a seed crystal in molten silicon to form a single solid crystal.

Canadian Solar and Astronergy are among the world’s leading manufacturers of monocrystalline solar panels. Monocrystalline panels have a 90-95% share of the solar panel market, due largely to their reliability and exceptional efficiency rates of up to 25%. Monocrystalline solar cells are a subtype of crystalline solar cells. This subtype can be incorporated into PERC panels (such as “Mono PERC” panels), making them versatile and suitable for various residential and industrial applications.

Mono panels offer several advantages, including high efficiency, longevity, and eco-friendliness, as they generate more power per square foot, requiring less space. Investing in monocrystalline panels usually pays off in the long term, as they last for up to 40 years when properly maintained.

However, one significant disadvantage is their higher upfront costs. Monocrystalline solar panels are more expensive than polycrystalline panels due to their complex manufacturing processes and use of higher-quality materials. The average monocrystalline solar system costs $1 to $1.50 per watt, compared to $0.75 -$1.5 per watt for the average polycrystalline solar panel.

2. Polycrystalline Solar Panels

Polycrystalline, or multicrystalline, solar panels contain multiple silicon crystals and are made by melting them together to form a polycrystalline solar panel wafer. Polycrystalline panels are the second most common solar panel type. They are less efficient than monocrystalline panels because electrons have less room to move. Recognizable by their signature dark blue hue, poly solar panels offer a balance of affordability and efficiency, making them a popular renewable energy solution.

The first generation of solar panels derived from polycrystalline silicon technology entered the market in 1981. At this time, the efficiency of polycrystalline solar panels was around 5%. The process of manufacturing these panels is less energy-intensive, reducing production costs and the impact on the environment.

Polycrystalline solar panels are able to be used on rooftops, solar farms, and even camping vans, making them a versatile and practical choice for green energy. Polycrystalline solar cells are a subtype of crystalline solar cells. These subtypes of crystalline solar cells are able to be incorporated into PERC (as “Poly PERC” panels), making them suitable for various residential and industrial applications.

Polycrystalline panels convert sunlight into electricity using silicon, a semiconductor material that absorbs sunlight. Despite a lower efficiency of 13-16% compared to monocrystalline panels, their cost-effectiveness makes them suitable for residential and commercial use. Advantages include increased affordability, reduced production waste, and moderate efficiency. Disadvantages include larger space requirements, lower heat tolerance, and slightly reduced efficiency compared to other solar panel types. The average cost of polycrystalline solar panels is $0.75 $1.5 per watt, making them a budget-friendly option for harnessing solar energy.

Polycrystalline and monocrystalline solar panels have certain distinctions. Monocrystalline panels offer greater efficiency and longevity, and require less space, while polycrystalline panels are more affordable, easier to manufacture, and produce less industrial waste. Each type has its advantages, and the choice depends on individual energy needs, budget constraints, and available space.

3. Thin-Film Solar Panels

Thin-film solar panels are solar modules manufactured by depositing single or multiple layers of photovoltaic (PV) elements over a glass, plastic, or metal surface. Thin-film solar panels are classified as a 2nd generation technology, differing from crystalline silicon (c-Si) modules, which are the most common types. Thin-film solar panels offer a versatile and flexible solar energy solution and are able to be applied across various uses, including industrial solar arrays, vehicular solar panels, portable solar devices, and ground-mounted solar farms.

Prof. Karl Böer developed the idea for thin-film solar panels in 1970. ARCO Solar developed the G-4000 thin-film solar panel in 1986, which achieved 10% efficiency. Thin-film solar panels are manufactured using strong light absorbers suited for solar power generation.

The three most common materials for thin-film solar technology are cadmium telluride (CdTe), copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS), amorphous silicon (a-Si), and gallium arsenide (GaAs). Efficiency and weight often vary between these materials, but the production process is the same. Currently, the leading thin-film panel manufacturers include First Solar, SoloPower Systems, and Solar Frontier.

Thin-film solar panels offer several advantages, including lower manufacturing costs due to reduced material usage, improved heat tolerance compared to crystalline panels, superior integration with curved surfaces, and functionality at lower angles.

However, they come with some drawbacks, such as high cost, lower efficiency (typically around 7-22%), requiring more panels for the same output, higher initial power losses (20% upon first exposure to sunlight), and reduced durability on glass surfaces (though applicable to plastic and metal). These factors should be carefully considered when choosing thin-film panels for specific applications.

4. Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell (PERC) Solar Panels

A Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell (PERC) solar panel is a modified silicon cell with an extra layer on its back panel, which allows the cells to produce 1–3 percent more energy than conventional silicon panels. Traditional crystalline silicon solar panels suffer losses due to inefficiencies in capturing light, solar cell reflection, and partial environmental shading. PERC solar cells were created to reduce these efficiency losses.

PERC technology was first officially registered in a paper in 1989 by A.W. Blakers. The PERC solar cell allowed PV modules to surpass the 20% conversion efficiency threshold, which has been the standard in the solar industry for several years. PERC solar cells incorporate a rear metal reflector to minimize semiconductor-metal contact areas while increasing rear surface reflection. As a result, photons enter or exit the cell more efficiently, while reducing heat absorption, increasing solar cell efficiency.

PERC solar panels offer several advantages, including higher conversion efficiency (up to 25% increase) due to anti-reflective coating on the rear side, reduced rear recombination resulting in lower current loss, and an extended lifespan due to lower heat generation.

However, there are two primary disadvantages associated with PERC technology. Firstly, Light-Induced Degradation (LID) sometimes occurs due to the anti-reflective coating, although it's preventable through careful design and material selection. Secondly, Potential Induced Degradation (PID) has the potential to affect grounding and reduce power output over time, typically emerging months after the PV system installation, impacting overall performance.

PERC technology, derived from traditional crystalline silicon solar cells, encompasses two subtypes: mono PERC and poly PERC solar panels. Mono PERC cells are crafted from a single, pure silicon crystal, yielding higher efficiency at a greater cost.

On the other hand, poly PERC cells are created by fusing multiple silicon fragments. The efficacy boost is notable when PERC technology is applied. For instance, poly c-Si solar cells achieve an increased efficiency of 18.61% from 18.46%, while mono c-Si panels improve from 19.55% to 20.41%. A mono PERC panel is more expensive than poly PERC, but due to its superior performance and technical attributes, they are the better overall choice.

How to Compare Solar Panels with Each Other?

To compare solar panels with each other, there are eight parameters to follow. These eight parameters include efficiency ratings, cost, appearance, lifespan, space requirements, temperature coefficient, and performance in suboptimal weather conditions, such as high heat and low sunlight conditions.

Below is a comparison table between the four main types of solar panels based on key solar parameters.

What is the Best Solar Panel Type Overall?

Monocrystalline panels are the best solar panel type overall, based on efficiency, lifespan, space usage, heat tolerance, and solar financing potential. Generally, the best solar panels are those offering the highest efficiency at the lowest cost, which is why monocrystalline has a 90-95% share of the market. Their efficiency continues to increase as technology improves, and the cost of manufacturing them is declining thanks to improved processes and economies of scale, which makes them among the best solar panels. Monocrystalline solar systems are primarily found in household systems, where their compact size and low maintenance requirements enhance their appeal.

Below are five reasons why monocrystalline panels are superior to other types.

1. Higher Efficiency: Monocrystalline panels contain the highest grade of silicon, resulting in higher efficiency of electrical production. Efficiency refers to the percentage of sunlight a panel converts into electricity. Photovoltaic panels that create solar energy operate thanks to an electric field created by exposing a semiconductor material (silicon) to sunlight. Monocrystalline panels convert sunlight to electricity more effectively, because they contain a higher grade of silicon than other panels. Monocrystalline panels achieve efficiency rates of up to 25 percent. Conversely, solar panels constructed from lower-grade silicon or thin-film sometimes only reach an efficiency rate of 16 percent.
2. Longer Lifespan: Monocrystalline panels are expected to have a long lifespan, as silicon is a highly stable material. Due to the higher silicon quality found in monocrystalline panels, they are expected to last up to 40 years. Polycrystalline and PERC solar panels have comparable shorter lifespans of around 25 years, while thin-film solar cells typically decline in output after 10 to 20 years. Since monocrystalline panels are more efficient than polycrystalline panels, they typically save you more energy in the long run. PERC cells offer slightly better performance than mono panels but at a much higher price point and with far fewer options on the market.
3. Lower Space Requirements: Monocrystalline panels produce more electricity than polycrystalline panels of the same size due to their higher efficiency ratings. This size-to-efficiency ratio guarantees that monocrystalline panels produce more in a given space than poly or thin-film panels are able to. A residential solar panel is typically 67 x 39 inches. Commercial solar panels, like thin-film models, are usually 78 x 39 inches. Therefore, monocrystalline panels are highly valuable in cases where there is limited installation space.
4. Higher Heat Tolerance: Solar panels become less efficient as the temperature rises. A monocrystalline panel performs up to 10% more efficiently at high temperatures than its polycrystalline counterparts. That being said, PERC, polycrystalline, and monocrystalline panels have similar tolerances to high heat. Overall, thin-film solar panels have the highest heat tolerance and produce the lowest output. Consequently, monocrystalline panels offer better value and are particularly suitable for regions regularly experiencing high temperatures.
5. Solar Financing Potential: Researchers and designers have devoted the most research time to developing monocrystalline panels due to their long history in solar energy. Due to this, monocrystalline silicon panels are recognized and trusted more than any other panel type to produce energy reliably. Homeowners aiming to secure solar financing subsidies often find lenders are more willing to invest in monocrystalline solar projects, as they have the quickest payback period of any solar panel type.

Which solar panel type is the most affordable?

The most affordable solar panel types are polycrystalline solar panels. Polycrystalline panels typically cost around $0.75 to $1.5 per kW (kilowatt), with a standard 5kW residential solar setup costing around $2000. This is around 20% less than monocrystalline panels, which cost on average $1 to $1.50 per watt. However, since poly panels produce less energy than mono panels, more panels are required to generate the same amount of energy. 

Furthermore, polycrystalline solar panels are easy to manufacture and require fewer materials, making them the cheapest solar panels compared to monocrystalline and PERC solar panels. Canadian Solar is one of the most affordable solar panel brands on the market. High-efficiency monocrystalline panels from Canadian Solar cost $0.68 per watt, which means that a 5KW Canadian Solar system costs around $3400. This makes them one of the most economical choices for both residential and commercial purposes.

Which solar panel type is easiest to install?

Thin-film solar panels are the easiest to install, based on a combination of low space requirements, greater installation flexibility, and versatility in where they are typically placed. Crystalline panels are normally installed on strong rooftops with a rugged mounting system tilted at a fixed degree to maximize solar absorption rates. Conversely, thin-film panels are flexible, so are able to be rolled out and directly attached to the rooftop of a home or business building.

As a result, they are installable on any rooftop without racks, even those with weak supports. A thin-film cell is sometimes as thin as 0.00003 inches thick, while monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar cells are typically about 0.006 to 0.008 inches thick. As such, it's far easier and more affordable to install thin-film panels than other panel types, particularly in utility-scale projects.

Which solar panel type has the best material?

Solar panel types made of crystalline silicon, especially monocrystalline silicon, have the best material. Silicon holds a substantial 90.9% market share in the solar industry and excels in converting sunlight to electricity, a process known as the photovoltaic (PV) effect. Solar panels made from crystalline silicon, such as monocrystalline and polycrystalline, are renowned for their high energy conversion efficiency, which reaches up to 23%. Contrary to crystalline silicon, amorphous silicon is used in smaller applications, such as thin-film solar cells, where its efficiency is around 7%. This highlights the superior value of crystalline silicon panels.

Monocrystalline silicon panels are generally considered the best solar panel type for homes, because of their high efficiency. Hanwha QCells stands out as a leading silicon solar panel brand, offering the ML-G10 solar panel range with an impressive 21.4% efficiency and advanced anti-reflective glass technology.

Which solar panel type is a better investment?

Monocrystalline solar panels are generally the best investment choice of all solar panel types. Monocrystalline panels offer a good balance between high efficiency and a cost-versus-output ratio. Compared to polycrystalline silicon, monocrystalline silicon uses higher-quality silicon and does not contain crystal grain boundaries. Compared to thin-film or polycrystalline panels, this high-quality silicon increases efficiency by 5-7% by allowing more space for electrons to move freely.

Residential solar systems increase an American home’s value by up to 4%, the equivalent of around $6000 per kilowatt (kW). Additionally, many homeowners prefer dark solar panels, which blend seamlessly into most modern rooftop designs. A monocrystalline cell has a smooth, dark appearance and contains a black back sheet, giving it this desirable, clean aesthetic. The All-Black module from Canadian Solar is a great example of a uniformly-black solar module, which benefits from a high-efficiency rating of 20.7%.

Monocrystalline panels are more expensive than polycrystalline or thin-film panels. In situations where roof space is limited, it is advisable to spend more on higher-efficiency panels. In this way, the maximum output is achieved from available roof space with the fewest panels. However, solar panels represent only one aspect of PV system costs. Adding additional PV panels means higher installation and storage costs. This is because utilizing more panels raises the cost of racking, inverters, and installation labor. This means that using lower-efficiency panels could actually increase upfront costs and the solar panel payback period.

Which solar panel type is best for residential use?

Monocrystalline solar panels are the best solar panel type for residential use due to their high efficiency, compact size, and longevity. A monocrystalline solar panel’s high-grade silicon composition boosts efficiency ratings to 20% on average, meaning they convert around 20% of sunlight into usable energy. Compared to other types of solar panels, monocrystalline panels take up less space while producing more energy, making them the best solar panels for home use where space is limited. 

This is crucial for urban rooftop settings, where space often comes at a premium. In addition, monocrystalline panels are highly durable and suffer very little performance loss in low light conditions and at high temperatures. With this longevity combined with high efficiency, monocrystalline solar panels provide stable performance for up to 25 years, which is covered by an industry-standard warranty.

Canadian Solar is a leading manufacturer of residential monocrystalline solar panels with over two decades of experience in the renewable energy industry. Since Canadian Solar panels have an efficiency rating of over 20%, they are perfect when roof space is limited, but solar power needs are high. Canada’s All-Black modules are some of the most powerful solar panels for domestic solar systems, with solar energy production peaking at 370 W to 405 W. Residential solar users will benefit from longer-term savings with these modules, since they provide more renewable energy than most competing solar panels. 

Additionally, Canadian Solar’s All-Black panels handle shade and hot weather, making Canadian Solar the best solar panel brand for home use.

Which solar panel type is best for industrial use?

Polycrystalline solar panels are the best type for industrial use due to their versatility, low cost, and durability. Their versatile adaptability suits various surface installations, including carports, camper vans, and unconventional rooftops. Polycrystalline has a lower cost of production compared to monocrystalline solar cells, making them especially suitable for commercial installations, which are focused on maximizing a return on investment into solar panels.

First Solar ranked No. 10 globally based on solar panel shipment capacity in gigawatts (GW). First Solar is an innovative company that excels in research and development, producing some of the highest-efficiency panels on the market. They are easily one of the best solar panel brands for industrial use. 

First Solar’s next-generation thin-film technology “Series 6” features panels ranging from 420 watts to 445 watts. The Series 6 modules produce up to 8% more energy than conventional crystalline silicon solar modules, with efficiency ratios of 17 to 18%, based on the panel.

What are the things to consider in choosing a type of Solar Panel?

The three most important factors to consider when choosing to buy a solar panel type are performance, appearance, and cost. Energy efficiency ratings reflect the performance of solar panels, while the overlay and color of the panels determine how they look. Meanwhile, solar panel costs are calculated based on manufacturing, material, and installation costs. Considering these factors is the first step in understanding how to buy a solar panel, no matter the panel type. Below is more information on the three key factors to consider when choosing between solar panel types.

• Performance: Solar panel efficiency describes how effectively a solar panel converts sunlight into renewable electricity. A typical solar panel for a residential installation is 15-20% efficient, meaning about 20% of the sunlight hitting the cells is converted to electricity. Overall, monocrystalline solar panels are the most efficient of all solar panel types, with efficiency ratings of 15-25%. Polycrystalline panels are less efficient than monocrystalline panels, at 13%–16% efficiency. Lastly, commercially available thin-film panels have efficiency ratings of 7-22%. Their performance levels are the lowest of the main solar panel types, but this depends on the specific model. Some thin-film panel types have achieved remarkable efficiency under lab conditions.
   
• Appearance: A solar panel’s appearance is based on the color and contrast between the panel overlay and frame. Thin-film panels have a pristine, all-black aesthetic, allowing them to lie flat against roofs and blend in seamlessly. Monocrystalline panels have a solid black, albeit curvier appearance than thin-film panels. Polycrystalline solar cells have a blue, marbled look, with a jarring contrast between each panel.
   
• Cost: The manufacturing process and performance ratings determine the solar panel costs. Monocrystalline panels are the most expensive type due to their complex manufacturing process and superior performance ratings. Polycrystalline panels are cheaper due to reduced labor costs and mid-range efficiency ratings. Thin-film solar panels are the most affordable, as they require fewer materials and are the least efficient solar panel type.

What are the Types of Solar Panels by Differences?

Solar panel types are able to be differentiated according to the following four main factors.

• Efficiency: A solar panel’s efficiency determines the amount of energy it’s able to generate from the sunlight it captures. Monocrystalline panels are generally the most efficient at up to 25%, followed by polycrystalline at 13-16%. The efficiency of thin-film solar panels varies considerably based on factors like the type of material used. For example, cadmium telluride panels have an efficiency of between 7-22%. In many cases, thin film cells and panels have reached efficiency levels under laboratory conditions that cannot be replicated at scale, making them not yet commercially viable. In most cases, monocrystalline or polycrystalline is used for residential solar systems. The average efficiency of most residential solar panels is 20-24%; however, solar panel efficiency varies based on real-world factors, including temperature, shading, solar panel type, and solar panel angle.
   
• Size: Solar panels come in a variety of sizes, from thin-film portable panels to large panels designed for industrial applications, such as solar farms. Monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels are generally larger than thin-film solar panels, as they require more space for their intricate cell structure. Polycrystalline panels require more space to achieve the same efficiency as monocrystalline ones.
   
• Cell voltage: Solar panel cell voltage determines how much voltage a solar panel produces while working. Monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels typically have higher voltage rates than thin-film solar panels. There are five types of voltage associated with solar panels. These are voltage at open circuit, voltage at maximum power, nominal voltage, temperature corrected VOC, and temperature coefficient of voltage. Factors such as solar panel type, number of panels in an array, and sunlight intensity determine the voltage of a solar panel.
   
• Cell type: There are numerous types of solar cells, but the four main types are monocrystalline, polycrystalline, PERC, and thin-film. Monocrystalline cells are cut from a single crystal of silicon and are more efficient than polycrystalline cells, which are made from multiple crystals of silicon. Thin-film solar panels use other materials, such as cadmium telluride or copper indium gallium selenide, instead of crystalline silicon. PERC panels are crystalline cells with an additional passivated layer that is highly reflective, allowing for higher efficiency.

How to classify Solar Panels by Efficiency?

Efficiency refers to the percentage of sunlight that a solar panel converts into electricity. The metric of solar panel efficiency is crucial for evaluating and comparing different types of solar panels. Represented as a percentage, the efficiency (%) of a solar panel determines its output, which in turn effects how much electricity photovoltaic (PV) systems can produce. The table below outlines the typical efficiency rates for the four main solar panel types.

Monocrystalline solar panels are generally the most efficient, reliably producing up to 25% of sunlight conversion. Polycrystalline panels are less efficient than monocrystalline ones, but they generally come at a lower price point. The efficiency of thin film varies considerably depending on subtypes. For example, CIGS (Copper Indium Gallium Selenide) panels achieve efficiencies of up to 23.5%, whereas cadmium telluride ones are about 18-19% efficient. 

Thin film panels are not generally viable for residential solar considering they are less efficient and less durable than monocrystalline. Monocrystalline panels continue to be the most popular and appropriate choice for home solar panel systems.

How to classify Solar Panels by Size?

Size refers to the physical dimensions of a solar panel, typically measured in square meters or square feet. While solar arrays are typically able to be mounted according to a range of rooftop sizes, understanding the general dimensions of solar panels is helpful for working out how many solar panels fit on a roof. Consulting a Solar Panel Size Guide is a reliable way of determining spacing requirements for different panel types and planning an installation successfully. The table below outlines the size specifications for the main solar panel types.

Solar panel sizing typically uses “L” for length (also called “height”), “W” for width, and “D” for depth. Traditional residential solar panel types like monocrystalline and polycrystalline tend to come in 60-cell and 72-cell configurations. The typical size of 60-cell residential solar panels is typically around 65x39 (LxW) inches and 66x40 (LxW) inches. The typical size of 72-cell residential solar panels is around 80x40 (LxW) inches. Monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels are usually around one to two inches thick. 

PERC panels tend to have the same dimensions as monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels. Thin-film panels vary considerably in size compared to traditional solar types. This is because thin-film technology allows for flexibility in panel design and construction. Unlike rigid crystalline silicon panels, thin-film panels can be made in various shapes and sizes, offering more versatility in installation options. A key difference between thin film and other panel types is their thickness (depth). Thin-film panels derive their name from their notable thinness, often more than 5 times thinner than traditional crystalline-silicon panels.

How to classify Solar Panels by Cell Voltage?

Cell voltage refers to the electrical potential difference produced by a single solar cell within a solar panel. Understanding solar panels and voltages is important because it helps determine the overall electrical output of a solar panel or a solar panel system.

The table below outlines the cell voltages for the main solar panel types.

Cell voltage differs by type of solar panel due to variations in cell materials and design. For example, monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels typically have higher cell voltages compared to thin-film panels. Monocrystalline panels often have higher voltages due to their higher efficiency, while thin-film panels generally have lower voltages but offer advantages in flexibility and lower cost.

How to classify Solar Panels by Cell Type?

Cell type refers to the technology used in the solar cells of a panel, such as monocrystalline, polycrystalline, or thin film. Each of these main solar panel types is based on specific solar cells.

The table below outlines the cell types used for the most common solar panel types.

Solar cells are the building block of any solar panel. The output, efficiency, and even appearance of solar panels are largely determined by the type of solar cell used. Monocrystalline (mono) cells and polycrystalline (poly) cells are traditionally used for residential solar panels, due to their efficiency and affordability. PERC (Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell) cells are essentially monocrystalline or polycrystalline cells with additional layering on the rear side of the cell. PERC cells improve mono and poly panel efficiency by around 1-3%.

What is the difference between solar panels and solar cells?

The main difference between solar panels and solar cells is that solar cells are the building blocks that directly convert solar into electricity, whilst solar panels are made up of multiple (usually 60-72) interconnected solar cells. Solar panels and solar cells have distinct roles, output voltages, and types in the energy production process.

A solar panel is an array of interconnected solar cells, usually mounted in a frame. Solar panels are designed to capture sunlight and convert it into usable electricity for powering electrical devices. Depending on the type of solar panel, the amount of electricity they produce often varies significantly.

Solar cells are individual photovoltaic devices that absorb energy from sunlight and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity for use in homes and businesses. It is these solar cells that, when connected in groups of 60-72, form a solar panel.

How to classify Solar Panels by Material?

Solar panels are often classified by the materials they are constructed from, which each have their own advantages and drawbacks.

Below are the five main materials used in solar panels, and the panel type they are used for.

• Cadmium Telluride (CdTe) & Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (CIGS): Both Cadmium Telluride and Copper Indium Gallium Selenide are utilized in the production of thin-film solar panels, offering the advantages of increased cost-effectiveness and flexibility. However, solar panels made of CdTe & CIGS have efficiencies that fall short of silicon-based panels.
• Amorphous Silicon & Polycrystalline Silicon: Amorphous silicon is used in thin-film panels, while polycrystalline silicon is employed in its namesake panels. While they are less efficient than monocrystalline silicon, they are more of a budget-friendly solar panel type.
• Silicon & Monocrystalline Silicon: Monocrystalline and PERC panels utilize high-grade, pure silicon, ensuring high efficiency. Nevertheless, their cost tends to be higher in comparison to other materials.
• Glass, Aluminium, Copper, Steel, and Wire: These materials are typically integrated into the frame and backing of panels, significantly influencing their durability and cost. Although they contribute to robustness and longevity, their incorporation increases the overall panel price.
• Crystalline Silicon, Metal, and Mylar or Tedlar: These materials play a vital role in panel construction, impacting efficiency, durability, and cost. While they often enhance the panels' durability, their inclusion raises the overall panel cost.