If you’re considering installing solar panels in Erie, CO you need to understand the different types and what their benefits are. In general, there are three different types to choose from.

Monocrystalline

These were the first types of panel used to produce solar energy. They are manufactured using cells that are cut from silicon in a cylindrical way. The cells look very much like wafers and are combined to make a monocrystalline panel. There are a number of different benefits including high performance rates. The highest, in fact, in the industry. They outperform thin film panels, for example, by four to one. Warranties offered are usually very generous, often as long as twenty-five years. Compared with polycrystalline, they also perform much better when the light is low. There are a number of disadvantages however, some of which are quite significant. They are a high quality option, which also makes them very expensive. Break down of the circuit often occurs when the panel is shaded or obstructed. A lot of waste is made during the manufacturing process, which is never a very popular feature. Another disadvantage is that their performance decreases when the temperature increases.

Polycrystalline

These are also manufactured from silicon, but in this case the silicon is poured into a mold rather than cut. This means the manufacturing process produces very little waste. The technology used also allows more cost-effective panels to be made. The disadvantages are in efficiency, which is much lower than monocrystalline. When installed, the panels require much more space to produce the same energy as monocrystalline.

Thin Film

These are manufactured by layering photovoltaic elements such as amorphous silicon or organic photovoltaic cells. There are a number of advantages, but they don’t outweigh the disadvantages. They are very lightweight and suffer few problems when it comes to shading and obstructions. Light conditions also have little influence on the performance. Easy to mass produce, makes them an affordable option. However, they are not very efficient and require a lot of space. For a commercial enterprise this may not be a problem. Residential installations, where space is limited, are not suitable for this type of system. Associated costs are also higher, and they do not have a very long lifespan. Weather conditions can have a big impact of these panels, and it is highly unlikely that a manufacturer will offer a long warranty.

Armed with this information you are now in a better position to decide which is the best type of solar panel for your needs. If you have any questions or would like more clarification, contact a company providing an installation service for solar panels in Erie, CO.