There are three types of solar power systems you should be aware of when considering installing a home photovoltaic system: monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and amorphous solar panels.
Monocrytaline panels are the most efficient at converting available sunlight into electricity but are the most expensive to produce. Polycrystalline solar panel systems cost less than monocrystalline systems, but are not as efficient. Amorphous panels are the least expensive system to manufacture, but they are also the least efficient of the three.
Monocrystalline solar panels are made from big crystals of silicon. Out of all the types, monocrystalline does the best in conditions with less than optimal light. When working with very limited roof space, a monocrystalline system may be your best choice.
- Monocrystalline Panels
Polycrystalline solar panels are easily recognized by their distinctive ‘shattered-glass-like’ appearance. Instead of having one large silicon crystal, polycrystalline systems are made up of many smaller crystals.
- Polycrystalline Panels
Amorphous solar systems are made up of a thin film made of molten silicon spread over a surface. Although amorphous panels are the least efficient of the three, they work great on cars and boats.
When considering solar panels, keep in mind that film solar panels, such as the amorphous system, will degrade about one percent each year. Crystalline panels degrade less rapidly, loosing only half a percent efficiency every year.
Even though solar power systems degrade over time, they still have a remarkable life span compared to other forms of electricity generation. A good solar power system will last you over fifty years–long enough to pay back what you spend on the initial investment.
If you do decide to install your own residential system, try to purchase the largest one your budget can allow. These systems get more efficient as they get larger.
In addition to the three photovoltaic systems, solar hot water heaters are a very inexpensive way to harness the sun’s energy. Solar hot water heater systems use evacuated tubes to absorb light energy. Evacuated tubes are reliable, long lasting, and more versatile.
Installing a residential solar panel system should not be your first step when attempting to lower your bills. Before moving forward on your decision to purchase a solar photovoltaic system, make sure you have grabbed all the “low hanging fruit” in terms of energy efficiency at home. For more information to help you decide if your home is a good candidate for solar energy production, see our guide on performing a home solar evaluation.
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Are the panels easy to break with a stone or a rock. Do the panels lay on the roof
or are they laying on a bracket.