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Solar panels might look like simple, flat objects - but they are sophisticated pieces of technology, manufactured using almost a dozen individual components. Out of all these individual components, the most important, and the one that does the job of power generation, is the solar cell. The solar cell, in itself, is an impressive feat of engineering - it is incredibly thin, sometimes thinner than a human hair, and includes several layers, each of which serves a different purpose in power generation.
Most solar cells available in the market today are made from silicon - a semiconductor material that is excellent for this job. Silicon cells mainly come in two different types - monocrystalline and polycrystalline. Let us discuss a little more about each of these, how they are different, and what it means in terms of performance.
What are Monocrystalline Solar Panels?
The term 'mono' stands for 'single', which means the solar cells are manufactured from a single crystal. Thanks to the use of a single, pure crystal of silicon, mono-cells have a more uniform, darker, and cleaner look, unlike polycrystalline cells.
The uniform structure of the crystal means electrons can move more freely throughout the cell. This easier electron movement means better power generation per unit area of the cell, which is the exact definition of efficiency. Monocrystalline solar panels frequently offer efficiencies over 20%, which is significantly higher than polycrystalline panels.
What are Polycrystalline Solar Panels?
Also known as multi-crystalline, the solar cells in this case are created by heating many small silicon crystals together. Owing to this, the appearance of poly-Si cells is not uniform, and multiple crystals are visible on the cell surface. But it is not only the appearance that is affected by using multiple, smaller crystals.
The non-uniformity in the structure creates obstacles for electrons to move freely, also known technically as 'grain boundaries'. These are boundaries of the individual crystals that electrons cannot freely cross. A more restricted electron movement means less power production and hence, less efficiency. Depending on the purity of the crystals and some other factors, polycrystalline cells have efficiencies ranging from 15-18%.
Choosing the Right Technology
About a decade or two ago, polycrystalline solar panels ruled the market. The reason? Lower production costs, as using hundreds of irregular pieces of silicon was easier than using one large piece. Over the years, however, thanks to the skyrocketing demand for solar, large scale production has driven down costs by over 80%. Consequently, monocrystalline solar panels are no longer considered ‘expensive’.
LG, true to its legacy of always striving to offer the best possible products - manufactures highly reliable monocrystalline solar panels that deliver high-output for longer durations. This is also one of the reasons why LG solar panels are aesthetically pleasing, with a cleaner, more attractive appearance.
Because of the high efficiency, these panels can provide greater power for limited sized roofs, or avoid space on roofs that is shadowed by nearby trees or buildings. At LG, by manufacturing our own monocrystalline cells in-house and building our panels from them, we are able to reach efficiencies close to 22% in some of our panels.
When it comes to making a choice as a customer, if you are buying something with a lifespan of 25 years or more, it makes sense to buy the best that technology has to offer. This is the reason thousands of homeowners chose peace of mind by choosing LG Solar panels. If you are interested in going solar by choosing the right technology and the right brand, LG's Solar Concierge is a great place to get started, where you can get expert advice without any cost or obligation.
