Disadvantages of monocrystalline silicon
Cost. These panels are more expensive to manufacture than other models, because the production process is more complex and higher-purity silicon is required.
Material waste. To make these solar cells, silicon must be cut into wafers, which generates a significant amount of waste material.
Shade sensitivity. This material is sensitive to shade. If part of the panel is directly shaded, its effectiveness will be reduced.
Monocrystalline solar panel applications
Due to its high efficiency and aesthetics, it is frequently used in residential areas . However, its effectiveness and durability also make it the perfect choice for commercial and industrial installations.
in remote locations or off the grid are also usually sale leads zambia email address made of monocrystalline panels. Because, in these cases, efficiency and durability are even more important.
Polycrystalline
Polycrystalline solar panels are made up of cells made from multiple silicon crystals. These are fused together to form a block which is then laminated into wafers. It is this manufacturing process that gives them their distinctive mottled blue colour with rectangular edges.
As with monocrystalline panels, the polycrystalline panel is encapsulated within an aluminum frame that provides structural support. The surface is covered with tempered glass to increase protection for the cells.
Features of polycrystalline solar panel
Average efficiency. Its capacity to convert sunlight into electricity ranges between 13% and 16%. This is lower than that of monocrystalline panels, because the silicon used in this case has a less uniform structure.
Durability. The average lifespan of a panel of this type is 25 years.
Low-light performance. Efficiency may be significantly reduced when exposed to low-light conditions.
Aesthetics. These panels are a lighter blue than monocrystalline panels, with a mottled appearance. This phenomenon is due to the use of several silicon crystals.
Advantages of polycrystalline panels
Cost. They are cheaper to manufacture than other types of panels, because the production process is simpler and the silicon used is of lower purity.
Manufacturing process. It generates less waste than the production of other types of photovoltaic panels.
Lower sensitivity to shade. They are slightly less sensitive to shade than monocrystalline panels.
Disadvantages of polycrystalline silicon
Lower efficiency. Its capacity to convert sunlight into energy barely exceeds 15%.
High temperature performance. This material is sensitive to high temperatures. If the cell is exposed to too much heat, its efficiency is reduced.
