Making up your mind about buying a solar panel for your house or business is not only a step toward clean energy but also toward making a long-term profit. After much research, you must have encountered these two words – Monocrystalline and Polycrystalline! Or simply mono and poly! These are the main types of solar panels available in the market. You now have a wide range of possibilities thanks to science. Additionally, it has caused a lot more confusion surrounding a single decision. The best way to resolve all this confusion is to learn about these types. When you’ll know their pros and cons, you’ll be able to decide properly. So, in this article, we’ll talk about Mono and Poly-crystalline solar panels: 

Mono-Crystalline Solar Panel  

Wafers of silicon are used in the production of solar cells for monocrystalline panels. As a result of using single-crystal silicon, the panel is known as “mono.” So, the cell has a single-crystal construction. Thereby it has more room for the electrons to move, resulting in a greater electricity flow. In comparison to polycrystalline solar panels, monocrystalline ones are more efficient due to this aspect, owing to their par efficiency they’re also considered all-weather solar panels. 

Poly-Crystalline Solar Panel 

Solar panels referred to as polycrystalline or multi-crystalline include many silicon crystals within a single photovoltaic cell. Multiple fragments of silicon are liquefied together to shape the polycrystalline solar panel wafers. The cells’ production is permitted to cool directly on the panel. They are composed of many polycrystalline silicon crystals and have a square shape and a brilliant blue color. Polycrystalline panels have a limited amount of electron movement inside the cells due to the many silicon crystals present in each cell. These solar panels transform solar energy into electricity by absorbing it from the sun. 

Factors Influencing Your Decision 

You must have gained a basic idea about two types of solar panels. Now, you need to consider a few factors before opting for one of the types:  

Efficiency 

Efficiency is an important factor in determining the right solar panel for your house. Monocrystalline panels have higher efficiency. They have a 15-20% efficiency range. But, polycrystalline panels have a slightly lower efficiency rate of 13-16%. 

Cost  

Due to their configuration, monocrystalline panels are pricey. However, polycrystalline solar panels are rather inexpensive. It is best to analyze the long-term benefits of both these types for the right decision. If you have a high budget then you can consider a monocrystalline solar panel. But if your budget is restricted then polycrystalline could be an ideal option for you. 

Space

Due to their higher effectiveness, monocrystalline solar panels may be an option if the area on your roof is constrained yet require more solar output. In your circumstance, it is worthwhile to spend more money on these panels because you can maximize your power production while still having enough room to install a PV system.

On the other hand, polycrystalline solar panels are a more affordable option if you have a large amount of free area on your roof or if you intend to set up a round-mounted PV system.

Lifespan 

You should include the expected lifecycle of each solar panel when comparing the upfront installation expenses of monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels. Due to the extended product lifespan, suppliers of monocrystalline solar panels typically provide a 25-year warranty. Polycrystalline solar panels aren’t much that different from monocrystalline solar panels in terms of lifespan, although manufacturers may provide varying warranties. 

Climate

A monocrystalline solar panel may withstand more heat than a polycrystalline one. If you select the polycrystalline option and live in an area where it is hotter for most of the year, this could shorten the longevity of your panels.

However, industry watchers generally concur that, unless you live in a dry area, the effect would only be modest over time. It is recommended to address this matter with your installation firm, as they can direct you more effectively in light of the relevant statistics and information regarding the local climate in your area. 

So, both types of solar panels have their fair share of pros and cons. So, with the help of the above factors, you can decide which one works best for you. 

Still dicey about which panels to go for?

Talk to the experts!

Do you know? A well-planned residential solar rooftop system can generate up to 290 watts of energy by capturing one hour of direct sunshine.

 The rooftop is probably the idlest space at your home or shop. You may be thinking of employing the space to generate electricity or may as well open a passive source of income in the coming years. But don’t know how to begin? 

IB Solar is here to get you started with your Rooftop Solar journey. Read this article to know:

•  What is a rooftop solar system? 
• How do you install a rooftop solar system? 
• Which rooftop solar system is best for my house?
•  How much does a rooftop solar system cost?

What is a rooftop Solar System? 

It is a typical solar system ideal for residential and commercial setups. It is a full-fledged energy system comprising panels, batteries, inverters, and a BOS. Solar Mount the strategically positioned panels on the roof captures solar energy and the remaining components assist in converting the Direct Convert (DC) into Alternative Current (AC) that we use for operating multiple appliances.

What are the types of Solar Rooftop Systems?

Solar rooftop system suggestively refers to solar power systems installed on the rooftops of residential, commercial, or industrial buildings for respective purposes. There are majorly three forms of solar rooftop set-ups that have their distinct ways of generating electricity.

  1. On-Grid system

on-grid or grid-tied solar system is connected to the power grid. Consequently, net metering can feed any power surplus or deficit into the grid. Solar mount Most residential users prefer an On-grid solar system since it allows them to receive credit for their system’s extra power while also saving money on their electricity bills.  Whether it comes from your solar system or the grid, you’ll always have the ability. They aren’t powered by batteries.

2. Off-Grid System

The off-grid rooftop solar system is the one that functions independently with the battery. The power generated by the installed solar panels on the rooftop charges the battery, subsequently running multiple power appliances. This system is highly preferred in the absence of grid and frequent breakdowns. 

3. Hybrid System

The hybrid system brings the best of both worlds together. The grid and the battery both work in tandem to generate sufficient power for domestic & industrial purposes. In this type of rooftop solar system, the attached battery is fully charged and the extra power generated is then fed into the grid. Consequently, producing extra income for the solar rooftop owner.

How do you install a rooftop solar system?

Contrary to popular opinion harnessing the power of the sun is not a very complex process but a simple one if and when done under the right guidance.

So avoid installing it the DIY way and follow the steps below.

• Assess your rooftop space
• Calculate your load unit (how much energy do you need?)
• Choose the type of solar system you want
• Estimate your investment budget
• Choose your Solar Developer
• Call for a Site Survey
• Get your proposal
• Shine on!

How much does a rooftop solar system cost?

The cost of solar rooftop installation varies as per the type of installation, equipment, and solar panels you choose. Whatever plan you choose, the upfront cost may seem high at first, but saving tons of money on electricity bills is certain. So, to know the cost, book a site survey first. 

Solar power for Small Businesses

It’s just not possible to count the ways how solar power benefits for small businesses— we can try!

Eliminate or Reduce the Electricity Cost

You’ve been looking for all the ways to enforce cost-cutting in your business and here it is. Going solar can significantly reduce the operating cost of your business and even open a stream of passive income. 

Bid Goodbye to Power Outages

By implementing solar energy, you may lessen your company’s reliance on the power grid. Your company will be less susceptible to power outages and cuts. It will then lessen production disruptions. Additionally, having energy storage on your property guarantees that you have a backup power source in case the primary power source fails.

Green Enterprise

Increase your brand value by establishing yourself as a sustainable business. Utilizing renewable energy for your company demonstrates your dedication to sustainability. This will draw clients who care about the environment to your company. As a result, being green will provide your company with a competitive edge. 

Less Carbon Footprint  

A solar array can reduce your company’s carbon footprint, which has several tangible advantages for your company. Adopting new technologies in addition to solar may increase productivity within your company. It may also increase employee commitment to working for a company that embraces the future. By adopting renewable energy solutions now, you may position your company as a pioneer in your sector, which can be a key selling factor. 

Return on Investment

Solar power for small businesses is extremely efficient in reaping higher return on investment. Solar energy is typically viewed by businesses as a wise investment with a high return on investment. A solar array produces annual returns in numerous ways. Solar energy is an investment that may be swiftly repaid thanks to all of the various incentives and accelerated depreciation. Once the solar system is paid off, you may expect to see a profit on your investment of 10 to 30% every year because you will no longer have to pay for any of your electricity. 

Tax Benefits 

The government of India is encouraging more and more implementation of solar panels throughout the country. So, it is incentivising the companies to install solar energy. The government is giving direct and indirect tax advantages to firms. Taxes include anti-dumping duty additions, sales tax safeguards, exemptions from customs duty, and excise duty exclusions. All project revenues from the project’s ten decades of operation, procedure, and accelerated depreciation (AD) enable solar energy suppliers to claim 40% of the expenses in the first year itself are not subject to income tax for project developers. 

The perks of solar power for small businesses are endless. IB Solar has plenty of options for solar panels! So, what are you waiting for? Contact today and give your fair share of contribution towards clean energy!