Solar panels are the backbone of any solar energy system, and the type of panel you choose can have a significant impact on the efficiency and performance of your system. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. In this article, we will take a closer look at the different types of solar panels and their respective efficiencies.
1. Poly PERC
Poly PERC (Passivated Emitter Rear Cell) solar panels are made with a polycrystalline silicon substrate and feature a passivated emitter and rear cell technology. This type of panel is known for its high energy output and high temperature performance. Poly PERC panels are generally less expensive than other types of panels, making them a popular choice for residential and commercial solar installations.
2. Mono PERC
Mono PERC (Monocrystalline Passivated Emitter Rear Cell) solar panels are made with a monocrystalline silicon substrate and feature a passivated emitter and rear cell technology. This type of panel is known for its high efficiency and high energy output, making it a popular choice for commercial and utility-scale solar installations. Mono PERC panels are generally more expensive than poly PERC panels, but they offer higher efficiency and a longer lifespan.
3. Half-cut Mono PERC
Half-cut Mono PERC solar panels are similar to traditional mono PERC panels, but they feature half-cut cells that are divided in half, reducing the amount of current flowing through each cell. This results in lower resistance and less stress on the cells, which can lead to a longer lifespan and higher efficiency.
4. Shingled Mono Cells
Shingled Mono Cells solar panels feature cells that are overlapped like shingles on a roof, allowing for more cells to be packed into a smaller space. This type of panel is known for its high efficiency, and it can be a good choice for those who have limited roof space.
5. Half-cut Mono PERC MBB
Half-cut Mono PERC MBB (Mono PERC MBB with Half-cut cells) solar panels are a combination of traditional mono PERC panels and shingled cells. They feature half-cut cells that are overlapped like shingles, resulting in a panel that is both efficient and space-saving.
6. Half-cut N-Type TOPcon
Half-cut N-Type TOPcon (Passivated Emitter Rear Cell) solar panels are made with an n-type silicon substrate and feature a passivated emitter and rear cell technology. This type of panel is known for its high efficiency, especially in low light conditions, making it a popular choice for commercial and utility-scale solar installations.
7. Half-cut N-Type HJT
Half-cut N-Type HJT (Heterojunction) solar panels are made with an n-type silicon substrate and feature a heterojunction technology. This type of panel is known for its high efficiency and high energy output, especially in low light conditions, making it a popular choice for commercial and utility-scale solar installations.
8. N-Type IBC
N-Type IBC (Interdigitated Back Contact) solar panels are made with an n-type silicon substrate and feature an interdigitated back contact technology. This type of panel is known for its high efficiency and high energy output, making it a popular choice for commercial and utility-scale solar installations.
In conclusion, there are many different types of solar panels on the market, each with their own unique characteristics and efficiencies. When choosing a solar panel, it is important to consider factors such as efficiency, space constraints, and cost. The type of panel you choose can have a significant impact on the overall performance and cost-effectiveness of your solar energy system. If you are interested in learning more about the different types of solar panels and which one might be right for you, reach out to Progreen Solar for a current list of the technologies and tier-one modules they offer.