Have you noticed, lately, the demand for solar energy panels is growing. It’s mainly due to the rising power consumption. Let’s see the available types of solar panels technology.
You might be keen on installing solar panels in your homes to use this free energy resource. Or you may be confused with the hundreds of companies selling solar panels in the market. Powering your home with solar energy is a commitment, and also an expense. You got to know the necessary details of solar panels before buying.
A solar panel is a device or a system that converts sun’s rays into electricity or heat. A solar panel consists of solar cells (or photovoltaic cells). These cells are arranged in a grid-like pattern on the surface of solar panels.
1. Mono-crystalline Solar Panels (MCSPs) – High cost, high efficiency of 20%
2. Polycrystalline Solar Panels (PCSPs) – Average cost, shorter shelf life, good efficiency of 16%
3. Thin-Film Solar Cells (TFSCs) – Light-weight solar panels, offers an efficiency of 8%
4. Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPs) – Very costly technology
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Types of solar panels
1. Mono-crystalline Solar Panels (MCSPs)
MCSPs are made with a single material called silicon ingots. The high priced panels are also the most energy-efficient highest power outputs. They offer an efficiency of around 20-21% along with a 25-year warranty.
2. Polycrystalline Solar Panels (PCSPs)
The panels consist of more than one material and cost less as compared to MCSPs. They offer an efficiency of around 16-17%. But, these panels have a shorter shelf life, which is a crucial drawback.
3. Thin-Film Solar Cells (TFSCs)
The panels include several layers of photovoltaic material. These are ideal for producing solar energy in bulk and offers an efficiency of 7-10%. Also, these light-weight solar panels occupy a lot of open space.
4. Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPs)
These can be roofs, windows, facades, walls, and many others. Very costly, these panels are also used to block the direct sunlight. Further, these give a brand new look for any building and increases its selling value.
How to find the best solar panel for your home?
Choosing the best solar panel for your home is not a simple task. It requires careful analysis of your energy requirements. Understand whether you see it as an investment or are more focused on its usage. Besides, the availability of space in your home and the amount of energy also matters.
Choosing a solar panel
The main criteria for selecting any solar panels depends on three key aspects.
- Energy usage amount
- Space coverage
- Set up cost
TFSCs for Apartment homes
The TFSCs best suit the needs of large residential and commercial units. Also, these panels offer many benefits over the setting up prices. For instance, your home is a part of an apartment building that chooses to set up TFSCs on the roof. It will be more beneficial for you with regards to money. The total setup cost gets divided since your society consists of many households.
MCSPs for Farms and bunglow homes
The MCSPs is an ideal choice when you have a huge bungalow or a farmhouse. These kinds of solar panels need limited space but produce higher amounts of energy. These panels are capable of fulfilling all the energy needs of your home.
PCSPs for Independent homes
If you have an independent house or an apartment, then PCSPs is the best. These low-cost panels produce enough energy to meet all your basic needs. Besides, they are easy to install, as well. In case your budget is not an issue for you then go for advanced BIPs. These not only offer higher output but also enhances the visual charm of your property. But, these solar panels are costly and need more attention.
Calculate your total energy need and available space to set up solar panels. Choose the solar panel that best suits your needs and budget. It does not matter whether you select mono, poly, or thin-film. In the end, reducing your bills and saving money is the primary goal.