Setting up your solar power system involves a considerable amount of decision making, especially when it comes to choosing the best solar panel for you and your family or company’s requirements.
To help you select the best solar configuration. We’ve put together a quick guide to solar panels outlining the various types that are available to help you make the best possible decision.
Let’s begin by taking a brief look at the two main types of panels that you’ll find in a typical residential or business solar array.
Solar Panels 101
Before we give you our recommendations as to which solar panels are the best. Let’s take a moment to explore how these remarkable bits of technology work.
- A solar panel converts energy from the sun (solar energy) into electricity (either AC or DC) which can be used to power your home.
- The panel does this by allowing solar energy to move tiny molecules of silicon around inside it.
- In order to produce sufficient electricity to power your home you’ll need several solar panels connected to each other as well as to an inverter and potentially also a bank of batteries.
Monocrystalline vs. Polycrystalline Panels
There are many different solar panels but most will fit into one of these two main types of solar panels: monocrystalline and polycrystalline. Each type has distinct features which makes them better suited to specific solar needs.
Don’t let the long names intimidate you though – the difference between them is quite simple. Let’s take a look at each:
- Monocrystalline solar panels contain individual solar cells which have been sliced into wafers from a single ‘seed’ crystal. A monocrystalline panel will usually contain around 60 – 72 solar cells. The way in which the monocrystalline panels are manufactured makes them more expensive but they are also more efficient at producing power.
Polycrystalline solar panels are made from multiple crystals of silicon ‘seed’ that are fused together to make up a cell. The multiple crystals in each cell makes it harder for electrons to flow making them a less efficient power source than their moly counterparts. Although with advancing technology they are becoming more efficient. Polycrystalline solar panels are marginally cheaper than the monocrystalline panels.
Which is the best solar panel for you?
A summary of the two main types and their uses appears in the table below.
Type | Features | Best Use |
Monocrystalline | Higher energy output Higher cost Better heat resistance | Homes or commercial setups with large energy requirements Small roofs with limited space for solar panels |
Polycrystalline | More affordable Slightly less efficient Greener option | Cost conscious installations Homes that are grid-tied and use solar to supplant their energy needs |
Choosing the best solar panel brand
You can use monocrystalline or polycrystalline panels with any system. But what brands should you consider to power your home or business?
Canadian Solar
This North American manufacturer produces some of the world’s top quality solar panels that feature enhanced electricity generating capacity and easy maintenance.
- A major advantage of opting for this brand is that the company offers world class quality while maintaining a local presence in South Africa at an affordable price. This means you’ll be able to have your solar power system serviced easily with spare parts readily available throughout the country.
JA Solar
This company is a reputable manufacturer based in Shanghai, China and a global leader in solar energy with a growing international client base. JA Solar offers excellent value for customers who are budget-conscious or need to purchase a large number of high performance solar panels for a sizable home or commercial installation.
- JA Solar continues to innovate and improve its products on a regular basis to offer efficient electricity generation and reliability. With comparable quality to many large established brands this manufacturer is an excellent choice for customers wanting to move towards energy independence in these challenging economic times
Choosing the best solar panel for you
Ultimately, choosing the best solar panel solution for you and your family is a matter of personal choice. But it will depend on your energy generating requirements, the size of the installation, and whether you need to go off-grid entirely.
We pride ourselves in working with only the best solar service providers to offer you top quality alternative energy solutions.
Get started on your solar journey today, get your free quote on our website now.