Understanding the different types of solar panels
If you’re considering installing solar panels at your home or business, you’ve probably seen there are various options available to you in terms of the products. There are various types of solar panels to choose from, and it can be hard to process all the technical jargon used. In this article, we’re going to break it down so you can feel confident you’re getting the right type of solar panel for your roof and requirements.
Here are the three most common types of solar panels you’ll come across in the UK:
1. Monocrystalline Solar Panels (aka “mono”)
These are the sleek black solar panels you’ve probably seen on modern homes. They’re made from a single crystal structure, which makes them very efficient at turning sunlight into electricity – even on cloudy days (which we know all about here in the UK!).
They take up less space than other types, so they’re ideal if you don’t have a huge roof space to work with. One of our customers in Weymouth decided to go for all-black monocrystalline panels on their home, paired with a battery – now they’re powering a large proportion of their home year-round.
2. Polycrystalline Solar Panels (aka “poly”)
These panels have a slightly blueish tint to them due to the way the crystals are aligned, and have a more textured look than the monocrystalline panels. They’re made from fragments of silicon that have been melted together, and due to the presence of grain boundaries they are slightly less efficient than mono panels – but the benefit is that they’re generally more affordable. Polycrystalline panels are also tough and built to last. They handle harsh weather really well, making them a dependable and budget-friendly choice for long-term energy generation.
3. Thin-Film Solar
Panels
These are less common on homes in general, but are ideal for certain situations. Thin-film solar panels are lightweight, flexible and have a lower-profile than the other panels we’ve looked at. They’re ideal for flat roofs or buildings where load bearing may be a consideration, or where aesthetics are a key factor.
We recently worked with a homeowner in Bournemouth who didn’t want the look of traditional panels on their new extension. A thin-film solar panel installation gave them a minimalist look alongside excellent energy benefits.
+ Which type of solar panel is right for you?
There isn’t a definitive answer to this question – the best type of solar panel for your home depends on your roof size and strength, how much energy you use, what you want the panels to look like, and your budget.
Here at Cooper & Cooper Solar, we fit a wide range of solar panel systems across Dorset and the South West – including all three types we’ve talked about above. If you’re thinking about going solar, we’d love to help. Our friendly local team of experts will chat through your goals, carry out a free home survey, and design a custom system with a clear, tailored quote. We’re here to make the whole process straightforward, stress-free, and geared towards a greener, more energy-efficient future for your home.
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