Looking for the best solar panel installation that is right for you can be a difficult task, but it doesn’t need to be that way.
There are two different solar panel designs, you have your silver aluminium framed panel and or the option of black solar panels. If this wasn’t enough to make you question which design is best for your needs, some solar panels look blue whereas some panels are black.
Do black solar panels change the function of solar panels? Yes, Colour Is Important
Believe it or not, the colour of a solar panel can affect their performance, and this is all down to monocrystalline and polycrystalline content.
Monocrystalline Panels
The most efficient solar panels are those made with monocrystalline, these are the black solar panels that we mentioned earlier. They’re more efficient at producing electricity and this is because the silicon ingots used during manufacturing of the panels is of a higher purity.
However, monocrystalline panels do have some drawbacks too – they produce more waste due to the more cylindrical shape and they can sometimes be more expensive due to the higher purity of the materials used – this varies across manufacturers though and with the right manufacturer it doesn’t have to cost you much more.
Polycrystalline panels
On the other hand, there are polycrystalline panels, these are produced more efficiently and produce little to no waste as all of the material is melted together and poured before being cut into perfect squares. This efficiency also cuts the costs of producing and buying these panels.
It’s important to note, however, that these panels can’t match the efficiency of monocrystalline panels when it comes to producing electricity, and monocrystalline panels are able to produce more electricity whilst taking up less space if you have limited roof space for your panels.
Polycrystalline panels are the ones that appear blue. Polycrystalline panels are also worse when it comes to performance in extreme weather conditions such as in high heat or low light conditions.
These panels tend to be larger and the shimmering blue colour can be less aesthetically pleasing.
Check The Efficiency Ratings
When deciding on the right solar installation for you, it’s not all about looks. It’s important you check the efficiency ratings of the manufacturer you are considering and you take into account what warranties will come with your panels – you don’t want to be stuck with a broken panel and expensive repair costs.
You also need to take into account the other design elements such as micro-inverters and mounting systems that don’t involve racks.
Black Solar Panels Tick All The Boxes
When it comes to your solar installation producing electricity efficiently, you’re better off purchasing all black solar panels made using monocrystalline.
These panels will take up less space on your roof and provide you with much more energy which can cut down on your electricity bill.
The monocrystalline panels will also still be efficient when it comes to adverse weather conditions.
Facing a heat-wave or in low light conditions? This won’t matter as with the sleek, all black, panels you will still get energy produced. And, overall, the all black panels simply look better than their blueish polycrystalline counterparts.