Different types of solar cell technology

there are different types of solar cells out there and it is best to know the difference between them.

Based on the cell structure, solar panels can be classified into two categories: crystalline silicon and amorphous silicon or thin-film. The crystalline silicon solar panels can be further classified as mono-crystalline and polycrystalline. Here is a comparison of the different solar cell technologies.
 

Monocrystalline solar cells

A monocrystalline solar cell is formed from a single crystal of silicon. The typical module efficiency is between 13 percent and 20 percent. These are the more expensive solar panels but they are also more efficient, so try it out.
 

Polycrystalline solar cells

A polycrystalline solar cell is formed from multiple crystals of silicon and the typical module efficiency is 14 to 16 percent. These panels are cheaper, but you will need more of them to get the same level of output as the monocrystalline panels.
 

Thin film silicon cells

This is the third type of solar panel and it is formed from amorphous silicon. the typical module efficiency is six to 12 percent. these are both more expensive and less efficient, but they do represent the next level of solar panels, these can bend, and be different colors too.
 

There is no fixed rule for solar panels

There is no fixed rule for selecting one technology over another. The selection of solar panel technology generally depends on space available for installation and the overall cost. Use of crystalline silicon panels can increase panel cost but reduce the balance of system cost.

To find out what panels are right for you, go to HahaSmart.com and try our price checker tool. You can see how much a system will cost, and how much you can save over the next 20 years.

For more information relating to going solar, don't forget to visit our solar blog section for more handy guides and articles