Solar panels are split into two categories depending on their tech: crystal and thin-layer solar panels. Monocrystalline and polycrystalline (mono and poly solar panels) crystal panels are the two types of crystal panels.
Although polycrystalline panels perform better with scattered radiation, mono-crystalline photovoltaics have a higher capacity when exposed to full sunlight, these are minor differences.
Apart from this basic difference, both poly and mono-crystalline solar photovoltaic panels have a great many differences in their working, appearance, and prices too.
This article highlights such differences and distinctions between the two types of solar panels using descriptive pointers and a comparison table.
Key Takeaways
- Poly solar panels consist of multiple silicon crystals, while mono solar panels are made from a single crystal structure.
- Mono solar panels have a higher efficiency and power output per square foot than poly solar panels.
- Poly solar panels are less expensive than mono solar panels but may require more space for equivalent power generation.
Poly Solar Panels vs Mono Solar Panels
Poly solar panels are the types of solar panels that are made up of multiple silicon crystals in one PV cell, and they can’t work in high temperatures. Mono solar panels are the type of solar panels where the entire cell area consists of only one crystal, and they can work in high temperatures.
Mono solar panels are distinguished by their curved edges and black Photovoltaic modules. They create more kilowatt-hours of power than poly panels because they have an increased conversion rate.
Monocrystalline or mono solar panels will be more effective per square meter if you really want to build a solar energy system but have limited room.
They are the most effective energy panels, but they seem to be the most pricey due to pure silicon cells’ more sophisticated production process.
Photovoltaic modules in multilayer solar panels, aka poly solar panels, are blue and have sharp lines.
They have a smaller value than monocrystalline silicon cells or mono modules, therefore, you’ll need more modules to get the same amount of electricity.
Poly solar panels, on the other hand, are less expensive because of their easier production method.
Poly solar panels are extremely sturdy, however, they do not last as long as mono solar panels. Extreme temps also impact them more, reducing their output in the warmest periods.
Comparison Table
| Parameters of Comparison | Poly Solar Panels | Mono Solar Panels |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature and Duration | They cannot function well in high temperatures and are durable for 20-25 years. | It can function very well in high temperatures with less decay in efficiency and can last up to 30 years. |
| Crystal Concentration | Each PV cell contains numerous silicon crystal mesh. | Each PV cell has a single large silicon crystalline installed. |
| Efficiency | They are less efficient than mono solar cells. | 20% more efficient than poly solar panels. |
| Cost | Considerably cheaper and yet durable. These are good options for startup organizations that want a large-scale industry setup using solar panels. | Costlier and more usable for running single-module units. |
| Corners | They have sharp edges. They are blue in color. | They are black in color and have rounded edges. |
What is Poly Solar Panel?
When bigger crystals are generated in the early stages of developing crystalline (6 aligned), and the panels for a photovoltaic array are cut with such a quartz slab, the cells are referred to as polymorphic or multi-crystalline cells, and these are the basic units of making a poly solar panel in the first place.
The heterogeneous cell, which is distinguished by its lighter-colored blue hue, is not monochromatic, with some cells being paler than others.
The corners of poly solar panels are not curved. The manufacturing procedure causes color variations in the cells. Inter-silicon cells are more cost-effective than single-crystal silicon cells.
The liquid silicone is injected into molds carved into the slabs while manufacturing the poly solar cells.
Crystallites emerge during unification, and flaws form at the sharp edges, lowering the effectiveness to 10-14 percent and reducing the projected longevity to 20 to 25 years.
Poly solar panels have lesser performance, but the advantage to buyers is that they are cheaper.
Furthermore, while looking for combinatorial solar cells for sale, dealers may emphasize the blue color of these cells as opposed to the black hue of mono solar panels.
What is Mono Solar Panel?
Monocrystal silicon cells or mono solar panels are those in which the whole cell area is made up of only one crystal.
Because of the manufacturing method and single crystalline silicon structure, a normal mono-crystalline solar panel is dark in color, and the corners of the solar panel are curved and rounded up.
When solar panels were initially introduced to the market, monocrystalline solar panels were thought to be superior to poly photovoltaic power. This view is based on several factors.
Mono panels are the most efficient, with effectiveness rates ranging from 15-20%. Because of their amazing accuracy, they create more electricity per sq foot and take up less space.
In hot temperatures, these solar cells are more efficient. Performance drops a little as the temperature is raised, although not as much as with poly solar panels.
Nevertheless, it is clearly not true that mono solar panels are superior to poly solar panels. Without generalization, each solar array and photovoltaic maker should be evaluated separately.
The Czochralski or floating area technique is the most common method for producing mono silicon wafers for creating mono and poly solar cells.
Main Differences Between Poly Solar Panels and Mono Solar Panels
- Poly solar panels are cheaper than mono solar panels per square foot.
- Poly solar panels show less effectiveness in higher peak temperatures than solo crystalline solar panels.
- Poly solar panels are made up of many silicon crystals molded inside them, whereas mono solar panels contain one PV cell with one silicon crystal each.
- Poly solar panels are used in larger areas, whereas mono solar panels are preferred in single-module applications like running a mechanism or a unit.
- Poly solar panels are durable but not as durable as mono solar panels.
- https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/small-biz/productline/power-generation/polycrystalline-solar-panels-cheap-yet-efficient-long-lasting-solar-panels/articleshow/69130611.cms
- https://kenbrooksolar.com/solar-panel/monocrystalline-solar-panel
I’ve put so much effort writing this blog post to provide value to you. It’ll be very helpful for me, if you consider sharing it on social media or with your friends/family. SHARING IS ♥️