Types of Solar Panels

Are you a lazy shopper? The numerous options leave you more confused rather than getting excited over the variety. We understand the dilemma and your wish for someone to just tell you the best option. 

Since every requirement is unique, the solution will be unique too. In your hunt for the best solar panels for home and commercial places, understanding the types of solar panels available can make decision-making easier. To help you navigate the many solar panel varieties, we extend our hand by introducing you to the most common solar panel types. Adding to it, we will also help you figure out the suitable option for your specific needs.

So, let’s begin offering you the solutions. 

Understanding Solar Panels 

While you might know it, let us give a brief introduction. The light from the sun that shines every day can be captured to generate electricity using different types of solar panel. This task is performed by solar panels. It is the device that captures the sunlight to generate DC power. The power is stored in the battery and converter into AC form to run the household appliances.

Now, the solar panels are made of solar cells. These are the small units arranged in a grid-like pattern and together form the solar panel. The key aspect of solar panels from Livfast is their IEC compliance. It means the systems designed to offer you clean energy meet the safety and performance standards set by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). 

Types of Solar Panels 

The solar panels are classified into three generations based on materials and efficiency of the different types of solar panels. These include: 

First Generation Solar Panels 

These are the oldest and most established categories of photovoltaic technology. These include two types: 

Monocrystalline Solar Panels: They comprise a single and continuous crystal structure developed from high-purity silicon. These exhibit higher heat resistance and hence have the capability of functionality under high temperatures. 

Polycrystalline Solar Panels: These are produced by melting the silicon fragments, followed by moulding into square cells. They have lower heat resistance but are budget-friendly. 

Second Generation Solar Panels 

The solar cells belonging to this category are made of ultra-thin layers of photovoltaic compounds. Hence, these are cost-effective, flexible and lighter. They include: 

Thin-Film Solar Cells (TFSC): They are made of thin films of silicon, copper or cadmium placed over one another. They are easily produced and cheaper due to the requirement of less raw material for production. 

Amorphous Silicon Solar Cells: They are generally used in manufacturing pocket calculators and developed using a triple-layered technology. 

Third Generation Solar Panels 

These are the advanced solar panels that exhibit quality performance in laboratory settings. They are expected to have a major and positive influence on solar power generation capabilities. 

Biohybrid Solar Cell: These cells are a combination of organic biological components and inorganic materials. They are still in the research phase and offer a promising approach towards sustainability. 

Dye Sensitised Solar Cell: They use titanium oxide, which is the dye-coated semiconductor, for energy harvesting. They are expensive but exhibit good performance in low light. 

Concentrated PV Cell: These solar cells have exhibited the highest efficiency so far. It can be owed to the chosen material and design, which comprises curved mirror surfaces and lenses along with cooling systems. The mirror and lenses help increase the light intensity, which contributes to high efficiency. 

Perovskite Solar Panels: These are gaining popularity in the market owing to the ability to exhibit a high efficiency of 15%. 

Cadmium Telluride Solar Cell: These solar cells are characterised by low water requirements for production. However, they come with the disadvantage of being toxic if ingested or inhaled. 

Comparison of Solar Panels

Below is a comparison highlighting types of solar panel and their efficiency, lifespan and applications:

Advantages of Solar Panels

The advantages of different solar panels include: 

• Monocrystalline solar panels offer a high efficiency rate and high lifetime value. Being durable and sleek in shape, they are a good option for commercial use. 
• Polycrystalline solar panels come at a lower price, making them an affordable option for budget-conscious users. Also, their production leads to the generation of less waste. 
• Thin-film amorphous silicon solar panels are also available at relatively low costs, provide flexible installation options and offer ease of production. 
• Dye-sensitised solar cells exhibit good thermal resilience and generate electricity in low light. 
• Perovskite solar panels are highly efficient, easy to produce and can be made in flexible shapes.  

Solar Panel Selection Guide 

The choice of solar panels depends on a variety of factors. These include: 

Efficiency 

The efficiency refers to the amount of sunlight that can be converted into a usable form of electricity. The higher the efficiency, the larger the capability to generate electricity from sunlight. The highest efficiency, among the options available in the market, can be achieved from monocrystalline solar panels. 

Return on Investment 

The solar panels help save electricity bills by lowering dependence on grid electricity. Over time, the savings offset the initial cost of panels and installation. The payback period and cost per watt (the price you pay for each watt of solar capacity) help determine the long-term financial value of your solar investment. 

Lifespan 

The solar panel buying and installation is a high investment. Hence, the choice should be the one that lasts for multiple years. Do check the warranty along with associated terms and conditions from the manufacturer before making a choice. 

Brand Reputation 

The quality brands might seem to cost comparatively high. However, the returns are seen in terms of the quality of the product and the service provided by the brand. The consumers get to experience quality service and quick resolution to their queries if they choose the brand with a reputation. 

Final Thoughts 

The choice of the right solar panel is critical, as it decides the efficiency of your system, the long-term savings you achieve and how well the setup performs in real-world conditions. The solar panels are of multiple types and categorised on the basis of material and efficiency. 

Ensure that you understand the specific requirements to make a confident and well-informed decision. Also, always opt for a reputable brand that is known for its products and customer service. To help you begin, explore the solar panels available with us by clicking here. Or else connect now to find the best fit for you.