There is a long to-do list that awaits, especially when starting on a solar journey. Questions like how solar panels produce electricity might not even have a clear explanation to you yet or how a single panel board would be enough for your electric needs. Nevertheless, a thorough knowledge of this venture will get you the best options in the future. With different products surfacing on the internet, the truth about solar energy becomes questionable. More so, having a profound background will save you time from false promises and fake claims. Start your journey to free electricity by knowing the different types of solar cells available!

 

Types of Solar Cells: What You Should Check First

A single solar board consists of tens to hundreds of cells. And if you are asking why learning the types of solar cells is crucial? It is because efficiency and power output largely depend on this factor. 

Furthermore, depending on your power needs and budget, one type will stand better than the other. Start on the right track by looking into the advantages and disadvantages of solar cells.

Monocrystalline Solar Cells

If you are a fan of proven and tested products, the monocrystalline solar board is your best bet among the types of solar PV cells. Aside from being the oldest and most developed solar cell, this type is the most common among solar projects. Not only because it is aesthetically pleasing, but it is also highly efficient. Because of this, it becomes a space-saver since it would take fewer boards to suffice energy needs. All solar cells will rise from single silicon during the final purification process, called Czochralski. However, during the cutting stage,  a large portion of the material is put to waste. Hence, monocrystalline solar cells could go extra expensive in the market.

Monocrystalline solar cells are easy to identify with their unique appearance. Each cell looks like a square without its corners and often comes in a dark hue. But, it is not much of a limitation since you could choose different back sheet colors and frames if you want to be extra creative on your solar system. Much more, with its capacity in electricity production, monocrystalline solar panels are more appropriate for areas that receive less light. Other subsequent types of this solar cell type include Passivated Emitter and Rear Contact (PERC) cells and Bifacial solar boards. These new monocrystalline technology developments increase the converting capacity of the board, making the most out of the photons striking them.

Monocrystalline Solar Cells Advantages:

• Highly efficient
• Space saver
• Ideal for cloudy areas
• Modern aesthetic

Monocrystalline Solar Cells Disadvantages

• Expensive

 

Polycrystalline Solar Cells

Multiple crystals may also form a solar cell, specifically when you are referring to polycrystalline boards. Due to a different production process, various crystals form. This technique, however, makes polycrystalline solar cells way cheaper than their monocrystalline counterpart. The procedure of making wafers also minimizes the waste of silicon. 

Also known as multi crystalline in the industry, this type of solar cell creates its own wave among home and business owners. Solar panels with polycrystalline cells are also distinct from other kinds as they would

appear sleek and blue. Each solar cell has a perfect rectangular shape that occupies the entire board creating no spaces in between. Although polycrystalline solar cells are less efficient than monocrystalline cells, it still generates sufficient energy. Most of all, installing more boards is enough to offset this minute shortage in production. 

 

Polycrystalline Solar Cells Advantages

• Minimizes silicon waste
• More affordable
• Ideal in areas with direct sunlight, such as metro areas

Polycrystalline Solar Cells Disadvantages

• Mid-tier efficiency
• Requires more space

 

Thin Film Solar Cells

Another type worth looking into when you are searching solar cell types is the thin film. This newly discovered type takes the making process to a different level. Instead of cutting wafers from molten crystals, thin film solar cells come from an overlay process. By pouring one thin layer of the material after the other, manufacturers produce this solar board seamlessly. For protection, manufacturers use a layer of glass at the outermost portion. A thin film solar module comes from different materials such as amorphous silicon, cadmium telluride, or organic solar cells. 

When it comes to looks, thin film solar cells bring a fresh image -no small rectangular cells, no spaces in between. It all comes in streamlined thin panels. Through this unique production process, some modules become slim enough to be flexible and comparatively affordable! Hence, if you look into solar power as an energy source in your building, thin film solar cells will prove the best.  And as its name implies, these solar cells are significantly thin and light. It is up to 350 times thinner than PV cells cut from silicon wafers. This feature makes another excellent option for a solar roof.

 

Thin Film Solar Cells Advantages

• Best for industrial use
• Flexible and lightweight
• Most affordable in the market
• Eye-catching and pleasing semblance
• Lightweight
• Easy production process
• Not affected with shades

 

Thin Film Solar Cells Disadvantages

• Occupies a large space 

 

Other Factors To Consider  

Knowing which kind of solar cells to choose is crucial for preparation for a home solar system. However, it is not the only important factor you should consider. Other elements like space, installation, and your chosen solar company require a solid decision as well. Looking into solar panel installation guides will help get your footing right in this free electricity course.

 

Final Note

Yes, knowing all the pros and cons of solar cells will heighten your decisions more. But considering other elements will build a more curated plan. 24Solar is a solar company in the Philippines that offers through and through solar power services. Working for more than seven years in the industry, we have established our expertise and diligence on every project fulfillment. With multiple specialists and trained people on our team, 24Solar brings confidence and guarantees a fail-proof solar system;  Because we believe that it is through honest and meticulous service that will uphold our quest for a greener, more sustainable, and affordable future. 

It only takes one contact with our experts to get you started on solar energy. Fill in the information below for a free quote!

Choose solar. Trust 24Solar