What are the different types of solar panels?

Solar panels are generally broken into two groups by cell type: monocrystalline and polycrystalline. While there are other types of solar technologies that exist (like thin-film cells), the majority of photovoltaic solar panels available for installation are either monocrystalline or polycrystalline, and are made out of silicon.

How do I choose the best solar panels?

You'll also want to choose panels from a company that backs its panels (and ideally your entire system) with a strong warranty. We reviewed hundreds of solar panel models and found that five brands stand out: SunPower, REC, Panasonic, Maxeon, and Jinko Solar. SunPower, REC, Panasonic, Maxeon, and Jinko Solar offer the best solar panels.

Are solar panels monocrystalline or thin-film?

Almost all residential solar panels are monocrystalline models (named for the silicon their solar cells are made from), according to the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. They typically produce more electricity and offer a better return on investment than polycrystalline or thin-film solar panels, their less common counterparts.

What is the difference between efficiency and wattage of a solar panel?

While efficiency ratings reflect how well a panel converts energy, its wattage measures the result in terms of power. Most modern residential solar panel systems generate between 250 and 400 watts per hour while producing power. Generally, higher-wattage panels are preferable to lower-power ones.

How efficient are photovoltaic panels?

Due to the many advances in photovoltaic technology over recent years, the average panel conversion efficiency has increased from 15% to over 23%. This significant jump in efficiency resulted in the power rating of a standard-size panel increasing from 250W to over 450W.

What factors should you consider when comparing solar panels?

Some important aspects to consider when comparing your options include panel type, cost, wattage, efficiency, and warranty offering. All of these aspects plus more are considered in each panels' quality rating. Solar panels are generally broken into two groups by cell type: monocrystalline and polycrystalline.