As we become more aware of our daily impact on our planet, more people turn to solar energy for a green source of power. Because they’ve come down in cost, more people are getting solar panels. Whether you live in a rural or urban area, you don’t have to look far to see buildings lined with panels meant to reduce our fossil fuel use.
You’ve researched installation companies in your area. You’ve probably come across the term, “polycrystalline solar panel.”
What does this mean, and is it the right type of panel for you? Here is more information on these types of solar panels.
What Is a Polycrystalline Solar Panel?
Silicon crystals make up each photovoltaic cell in a solar panel. In a polycrystalline solar panel, each PV cell contains wafers that collect the sunlight. These wafters consist of multiple fragments of silicon crystal melted together.
They are sometimes called “many crystal” or “multi-crystalline” panels. This is because of the different fragment makeup.
When the panel is made, the silicon cools and creates a mosaic appearance. Polycrystalline panels have a distinct blue hue and a square shape. Electrons have little freedom to move inside of the cell since there are multiple crystals present.
Benefits of Polycrystalline
Polycrystalline silicon is made through a simple process that is less resource-intensive than its monocrystalline counterpart. The process to create polycrystalline silicon also results in less waste. Thus, it is more eco-friendly to create these types of panels.
This easier process means that these panels are less expensive for consumers. Lowering the entry price point means that more people can take advantage of clean energy and reduce their electricity costs. You can get a value estimate for these panels from reliable solar power companies such as Blue Raven Solar.
The shape of a polycrystalline panel makes it easy to mount on residential rooftops. Easy mounting means that the solar panel installation cost is less expensive for homeowners.
These panels are recyclable, further contributing to their eco-friendly properties. Approximately 90% of the panel materials can be recycled. Over 40 million new modules are expected to be made from recycled materials by 2030.
Disadvantages of Multi-Crystalline Panels
While any type of panel will convert energy from the sun for you, it’s important to understand the limitations of each. Because of the limitations of electron movement, polycrystalline silicon panels are less efficient than single-crystal panels.
Polycrystalline panels do not have a high tolerance for heat. It reduces their efficiency and can damage them, shortening their lifespan.
Current technology makes them less space-efficient because you need more polycrystalline panels to get the same amount of energy as single-crystal panels. However, as things continue to evolve, this gap decreases.
Use Green Energy
Different types of solar panels are right for different situations. A polycrystalline solar panel will provide your home with power and last for a long time. Contact your solar panel installation company to make your home less dependent on fossil fuels.
Learn more about solar energy by checking out our Technology section.
