Monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels are both made using silicon solar cells, but they differ in terms of performance, appearance, and price. We’ve summed up the key differences between the two in the following table: * Estimated using a 350 watt (W), 2 m², monocrystalline panel as the basis for calculation
Having a single-crystal structure means the electrons that produce electricity have more room to move around, making monocrystalline solar cells highly efficient. This increased efficiency also means that monocrystalline panels can easily achieve a higher power output than polycrystalline panels, using fewer cells.
Mixing polycrystalline and monocrystalline solar cells is not advisable due to differing electrical characteristics, which can reduce overall system efficiency. For optimal performance, it's best to use the same type of solar panels throughout your installation. 3. What is the most effective type of solar panel?
Monocrystalline solar panels cost around 20% more than polycrystalline solar panels. On average, monocrystalline solar panels cost £350 per square metre (m²), or £703 to buy and install a 350-watt (W) panel. Polycrystalline panels, on the other hand, cost around £280 per m², or £562 for a 350 W panel.
Monocrystalline solar panels typically have a longer lifespan than polycrystalline solar panels, but only by a few years. Both types of solar panels will last over 25 years – but monocrystalline panels can last up to 40 years, while polycrystalline panels can usually make it to 35 years.
However, for many homeowners, the balance of price and performance makes polycrystalline a compelling choice. The third major solar panel technology is thin-film, which uses a different semiconductor material, such as cadmium telluride (CdTe) or copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS), instead of silicon.