Solar PV Modules & Electricity
Solar modules are based on solar (photovoltaic) cells, which are made of special materials called semiconductors, usually silicon. Solar cells have the property of absorbing the sunlight, creating a flow of electrons, that is, electricity.
Solar electric modules
A solar electric module involves a set of solar cells wired together in a tempered and low reflective glass included in an aluminum framed sheet. A set of several solar electric modules wired together is called a solar electric module.
Monocrystalline and polycrystalline cells
There are two main solar electric cell technologies: polycrystalline and monocrystalline cells. Some large manufacturers use just one, others use both.
Monocrystalline technology is based on a silicon crystal grown in only one direction, while polycrystalline technology is based on a silicon crystal grown in multiple planes. Typical multicrystalline solar cells have a slightly lower efficiency, which demand a slightly higher number of individual cells and a slightly larger module.
Which technology to choose?
Monocrystalline are more expensive and has a slightly higher efficiency, but that doesn’t mean much in practical terms. A 200 watt module is a 200 watt module whether made from monocrystalline or polycrystalline cells. The important is the wattage and the final price.
Thin film (amorphous) technology
Thin film technology is a rather secondary technology, at least till now. Thin film type panels are unbreakable but they have a small efficiency per cell area, which demands larger panels and a larger roof area (around the double of mono-crystalline panels). Besides, it’s also a rather untested technology in terms of its life expectancy.
The best solar modules
Quality is very similar for major brands - BP Solar, Photowatt, Siemens, Mitsubishi, Sharp, Kyocera… Prefer a major brand and UL approved electric panels. It’s safer. And do not forget: monocrystalline or polycrystalline technology isn’t relevant as long as the panels are UL labeled and produced by a major manufacturer. The more important – whenever basic conditions are met - is the relation price-wattage.
When not to buy a prepackaged solar kit
Prepackaged solar PV systems may save you money and time, and you may find them in very different applications: not only in PV solar kits, for power generation but also in Solar powered kits for Vans, RV (Recreational Vehicles) and Boats.
See also:
Solar Basics
Solar Heating Systems
Types of solar collectors
Solar modules for electricity generation
Solar Hot Water Systems
Solar Space Heating basics
Solar Space Heating in radiators, radiant floor and air forced systems
Solar Cooling
Sizing Solar Systems
Solar & Orientation and Location
Solar Pros and Cons
Solar Costs and Payback
Solar Buying
Solar Hot Water Prices
Solar PV Electricity Prices
Solar Panels Manufacturers
