Both monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels will generate free and clean electricity for your home using energy from the sun. Both types will do this very efficiently, but there are some differences between the two. The difference between monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels lies in the silicon cells used in their production.
It means that the amount of power that monocrystalline solar panels can generate with 20 panels is the same amount that will be generated with about 21-22 polycrystalline solar panels. It means that the average efficiency rating of a polycrystalline solar panel is around 13% to 16%. Also Read: How Many Amps Does a 100 Watt Solar Panel Produce
The typical efficiency values for monocrystalline panels are between 18 to 22%, while the values are between 15 to 18% for polycrystalline panels. The efficiency of monocrystalline and polycrystalline silicon solar panels from 2006 to 2019 [Data source: Fraunhofer Institute]
Both monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels will produce electricity efficiently for 25 years or more. Like efficiency, monocrystalline solar panels tend to outperform polycrystalline models regarding temperature coefficient.
The difference in price exists because of the following factors: 1. Materials: Single silicon crystal of monocrystalline solar panels makes them more expensive than poly panels that are made from different silicon fragments. 2. Power Capacity: The solar panels have power ratings that are measured in Wat peak (Wp).
Or the temperature difference caused in their cells if some of their parts are under-shade. On the other hand, polycrystalline solar panels are more resilient to such conditions and last longer. So, if your regions are dusty, windy, or snowy, or a part of your roof is shady, then you should go for a poly solar panel.