Why the Type of Solar Panel You Get Matters
Selecting the ideal solar panel can be confusing. Understanding the different choices can help.
By Chi Odogwu
To the casual observer, one solar panel looks as good as the next. But looks can be deceiving.
Solar panels are those mysterious-looking pieces of hardware installed on rooftops of homes and offices that make it possible to convert sunlight into electricity.
In the past, solar panels had a clunky effect that ruined the aesthetics of your roof. However, thanks to technological advancements, many solar panels are sleek in design and can efficiently generate enough electricity to meet your energy needs.
As of 2021, more than half the residential solar panels installed in the US had efficiency ratings above 20%, compared with 0.6% a decade ago, according to the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory's Tracking the Sun report.
Understanding the different types of panels and how to choose between them can be confusing. Here's what you need to know.
What are the different types of solar panels?
There are three main types of solar panels: monocrystalline, polycrystalline and thin-film solar panels. Their prices vary based on appearance, efficiency ratio, composite materials and design. The different types of solar panels have their pros and cons.
"Before you decide on a particular solar panel, you must consider factors like rooftop area, aesthetics, temperature resistance, warranty duration, budget, and investment expectations regarding upfront cost versus payback," said Rohit Kalyanpur, CEO of Optivolt, a Silicon Valley-based solar technology company. "A more expensive system that generates more energy or offers greater long-term reliability may provide better returns over its lifetime than a cheaper, more affordable one."
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