Solar panels come in a variety of shapes and sizes in India. We have solar panels rated at 330-375 Wp, 390-400 Wp, 440 Wp, and 500 Wp. In this blog, we are going to explore their use. All these panels are divided into 4 different categories which are polycrystalline, monocrystalline, mono-PERC, and Bifacial solar panels.
In this blog we are going to explore all these types of solar panels.
330-375 Watts solar panels
330 watts and 375 watts solar panels are polycrystalline solar panels. They are the least efficient, with a 15% efficiency rate. The cost of these panels is the lowest of all the others.
Solar solutions built with these solar panels are less expensive, but they also take up more space.
These panels can be utilized for solar solutions ranging from 100 watts to 3-5 kilowatts. Customers, on the other hand, do not seem to go above 1 kW with these solar panels.
390-400 watts solar panels
When we talk about the solar panels in the monocrystalline category, they range between 390 watts to 400 watts. If we compare their efficiency with the efficiency of the polycrystalline solar panel, it’s better. Monocrystalline solar panel efficiency is between 17% to 19%.
If we compare monocrystalline solar panels with polycrystalline solar panels, monocrystalline solar panels need less space while installation.
But at the same time, they are costlier than polycrystalline solar panels. So the overall cost of the solar solution goes up.
400-440 watts solar panels
After the monocrystalline comes the next generation of more advanced solar panels which are mono-PERC. Mono-PERC ranges from 400 watts to 440 watts.
Their efficiency is between 19% to 21%.
Nowadays, for rooftop solar, consumers are going with either monocrystalline or mono-PERC. As they are more efficient and require less space as compared to the polycrystalline.
500 watts solar panels
In the series of mono-PERC, now we have bifacial solar panels. These are solar panels with a power generating capacity of 500 watts. What makes them different is that they are able to generate power from both sides. This means they can also use the sunlight which is reflected back by the surface.
Bifacial solar panels may represent the industry’s future, allowing for lower LCOE. Power is generated from both sides. It has a high power density, low-temperature coefficient, and large BOS savings. It also has a high energy yield, superior low light performance, and reduced BOS savings. In India, bifacial solar panels are rapidly gaining market share. Given your space constraints, it will almost double the output.
Now let’s understand how to choose the right solar panel.
- Solar Panel Cost
When choosing solar panels, this is most likely the first consideration. The cost of a solar panel is determined by several factors, including the size (in Watts), physical size, brand, material quality, durability (or warranty period), and any certifications the solar panel may have.
Consider the cost as one of the most important factors to consider when selecting a solar panel. However, pricing should not be the only element to consider, as the cheapest panel may not be the most efficient or, in the long run, the best solution.
Choosing the right solar panel can be a risky job, but because they have a long lifespan (more than 30 years), it is more necessary to get a high-quality system than to go for the cheapest alternative.
- Solar Panel Quality
This considers the manufacturing process as well as the quality of the materials used to construct the solar panel. There are a variety of producers who produce panels of varying quality, cost, and efficiency. Vertically integrated solar panel producers have complete control over each stage of the manufacturing process. They prioritize quality and devote significant resources to research and development (R&D). Other companies that merely assemble panels don’t normally make their own cells or engage in research and development. They employ more human labor than robotics, but their panels are the cheapest.
When choosing a solar panel supplier, it’s a good idea to look at the company’s reviews or history to see what kind of experiences customers have had with them. Because you will be making a significant investment, you should conduct some research to determine whether customers are satisfied with the product and customer service, as well as whether the company delivered on its promises.
- Energy Efficiency
The efficiency of a solar panel refers to how much of the light it absorbs is turned into electrical energy, and hence how much electricity your system will produce. The more effective you are, the better (and more expensive). Purchasing the largest and most efficient solar panel is not necessarily the greatest option, as you may end up spending more money than necessary to meet your energy needs.
You should evaluate your needs and select the panel that best meets them: this implies not underestimating, but also not overestimating your requirements.
- Temperature Coefficient
This refers to the effect of heat on the efficiency of a solar panel after it has been installed. Because solar panels age more quickly when they are overheated, the lower the percentage per degree Celsius, the better.
- Durability
This could be a sign of the manufacturer’s faith in their products. Solar panels usually come with a 25-year warranty. If the manufacturer does not provide a long warranty period, you can assume that their product is subpar and that they are unwilling to accept responsibility. In this scenario, be wary of being seduced by a low price, as you may come to regret it in the long run.
- Size
This is based on the physical size as well as the Watts size. You should ensure that you have enough space to build a solar panel system large enough to power all of your appliances, as well as that you have the necessary space. The actual size of the panel will vary based on the system’s power (the higher the Watts, the larger the panel) and the sort of solar cells used to construct it.
Now we believe that you have a basic understanding of are different types of solar panels available in the market. Also now you know the factors which you need to analyze while buying a solar panel.