Photovoltaic (PV) solar power systems directly convert sunlight into electricity and are one of the most elegant ways of using the sun's energy.
What are they made of and how do they work? Solar systems consist of solar panels (or photovoltaic (PV) panels), a solar inverter, and a component that holds everything in place. Depending on the type of system, they can also contain a battery (accumulator that stores any surplus of energy and regulates the voltage output), or simply operate off the grid when not receiving energy to power your building. The amount and type of panels needed for each installation will be determined based on the required amount of electricity output needed.
Solar panels are the most visible elements of any solar power system and, often, the first association with the collection and transformation of solar energy.
Regardless of construction and preferred location, it is important that you choose the highest quality panels, in order to rest assured that you can rely on your energy source in the years to come. We offer you solar panels from the world's best manufacturers, available in stock in the quantity you need, with a minimal waiting time, and no minimum order quantity.
An important step when choosing which solar system to install for your home or office is choosing between Monocrystalline solar panels (MONO-SI) and Polycrystalline solar panels
(Poly-SI).
In choosing the correct option for your building the following should be taken into consideration: the similarities and differences, aesthetics, and operating efficiency. Which we have covered below.
Mono-SI is the traditional solar panel model. They are made from monocrystalline silicon (pure silicon) and are predominantly used for areas with limited space and for areas with less light since they produce more electricity on a smaller scale. They are recognisable by their dark, almost black color and curved/cut corners. If cost is not an immediate concern, mono panels offer a greater performance on your investment.
Over 20% energy efficiency
More productive per square meter
Longer lasting as they better withstand high temperatures
Easily recognisable by their blue PV cells with sharp corners. Made by pouring molten silicon into square molds which are then cut into wafers into individual cells, a much faster and cheaper production process than creating Mono panels. Poly panels are best used for high sunlight areas where space is not an issue.
Around 15% energy efficiency
Slightly lower energy efficiency and shorter lifespan
Significantly lower investment cost to Mono panels
If cost efficiency is your main concern, we recommend you opt for a Poly solar panel. You won't get the same efficiency as from a Mono panel, however, the initial cost will be significantly lower.
Having said this, if you have an average sized or small roof space, the Mono solar panels are ideal as they are smaller in size but produce more electricity on a smaller scale. For example, if you compare one Mono solar panel and one Poly panel of the same output, they will both produce the same amount of energy, but the smaller monocrystalline solar panel would provide a higher output to size ratio over the Poly panel.
A whole range of factors are taken into account when choosing between polycrystalline and monocrystalline panels. It's important to keep in mind that this is a long-term investment. It is advisable to be well informed about the advantages and disadvantages of both technologies before proceeding. Our experts are here to help you evaluate the best option for you.
LONGi Solar is a world’s leading manufacturer in solar panels
Eurener is a Spanish company and international manufacturer of solar panels. Ranking amongst the top PV brands according to EURD and holding the most prestigious certificates for PV quality manufacturing.