Are monocrystalline solar panels better than polycrystalline panels?

Monocrystalline panels are usually more efficient than polycrystalline panels. However, they also usually come at a higher price. When you evaluate solar panels for your photovoltaic (PV) system, you'll encounter two main categories of panels: monocrystalline solar panels (mono) and polycrystalline solar panels (poly).

What is a monocrystalline solar panel?

Monocrystalline solar power panels are made of pure silicon crystals. Several octagonal-shaped wafers combine to form mono cells. They are made using half-cut technology, where the square-shaped solar cells are cut to produce twice the number of cells. On the contrary, polycrystalline solar cells do not use a pure form of silicon.

What are polycrystalline solar panels?

Polycrystalline solar panels have blue-colored cells made of multiple silicon crystals melted together. These panels are often a bit less efficient but are more affordable. Homeowners can receive the federal solar tax credit no matter what type of solar panels they choose.

How long do monocrystalline solar panels last?

Both monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels will produce electricity efficiently for 25 years or more. Like efficiency, monocrystalline solar panels tend to outperform polycrystalline models regarding temperature coefficient.

How do polycrystalline solar panels work?

Polycrystalline or multi-crystalline solar panels combine several non-uniform silicon crystals in a single PV cell. Several silicon fragments are melted to form wafers of polycrystalline solar panels. As there are multiple silicon crystals used in manufacturing, there is less space for electrons to flow.

What is the difference between mono and poly solar panels?

When comparing mono vs. poly solar panels,the former has a black color and high-efficiency rating. Polycrystalline solar panels are made of multiple silicon crystals and are blue in color. These panels are often less efficient and affordable.