Difference Between Monocrystalline And Polycrystalline Solar Panels

Solar thermal vs photovoltaic.

Difference between monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels.

Monocrystalline solar panels have solar cells made from a single crystal of silicon while polycrystalline solar panels have solar cells made from many silicon fragments melted together. Polycrystalline solar panels are cheaper than monocrystalline panels however they are less efficient and aren t as aesthetically pleasing. If the color of your solar roof matters to you you should know that monocrystalline vs. Polycrystalline solar panels will appear somewhat differently in terms of color.

Polycrystalline panels have about 13 to 16 efficiency while monocrystalline panels have an efficiency rate of anywhere from 15 to 20. Therefore the primary component of a solar cell is silicon. Polycrystalline solar panels are less space efficient. The key difference between monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels is that comparatively the monocrystalline solar panels are black in color and are more efficient and durable whereas polycrystalline solar panels are blue in color and are less efficient and less durable.

Polycrystalline solar panels have a thick construction which makes them less aesthetically pleasing. Monocrystalline solar panels are highly efficient and have a sleek design but come at a higher price point than other solar panels. The main difference between the two technologies is the type of silicon solar cell they use. Manufacturers use silicon in making solar panels.