Monocrystalline solar panels are efficient and long lasting making these panels a popular choice when choosing solar panels. As the name suggests, mono, meaning one, are also called single crystalline silicon solar panels.
These panels are made from cylindrical silicon ingots, or blocks of metal, which are cut into wafers. Due to the purity of the silicon, they are able to better exploit the sun irradiation as well as have a higher efficiency.
How is it made?
Monocrystalline solar panels are made through the Czochralski method. This is where a silicon crystal ‘seed’ is placed in a vat of molten silicon. The seed is then slowly drawn up with the molten silicon to form a solid crystal structure around the seed known as an ‘ignot’ or metal block. This solid block of crystal silicon is then finely sliced into a silicon wafer. This is then made into a cell.
What are the benefits?
According to solarfactsandadvice.com, monocrystalline solar energy panels have been the go-to choice for many years. Even though they are among the oldest, they are the most efficient and most dependable ways to produce electricity from the sun.
- Efficiency – the panels are able to convert the highest amount of solar energy into electricity.
- Longeviity – these first generation solar technology solar panels have been around for a long time, providing evidence of their durability and longevity.
- Space efficient – these panels require the least amount of space compared to other solar panels.
- More electricity – which means these panels are great for households who are wanting to depend less on fossil fuels. They reduce the amount of electricity needed from local power plants.
- Price – even though monocrystalline solar panels are more expensive, their efficiency and longevity make them worthwhile investments.
Conclusion
Other than monocrystalline, polycrystalline and thin film panels are the other two types of solar panels.
Choosing which solar panel to install depends on the individual need and suitability factors. Most of the time, people are not certain on which kind of solar panel system would suit them the best. It is always best to have an expert evaluate and conclude the best type of solar panel to be installed by analyzing the cost and space factor.
