So, you’re thinking about going solar. Good for you (and the planet, too)!
But have you noticed how many different types of solar panels exist these days? There are black ones (monocrystalline solar panels) and blue ones (polycrystalline solar panels), single-sided (monofacial solar panels) and double-sided ones (bifacial solar panels). There are even thin-film solar panels.
How in the world will you ever choose?
Solar Sam is a fast-growing, local provider for Missouri solar and Illinois solar. We offer top brands, the latest tech, and the highest quality solar panels for residential, commercial, and agricultural applications. And we’re here today to help you figure out which panels best fit your needs. They all have their pros and cons.
To make this choice simple, let’s take a closer look at your options. There’s even a handy table below to make it easy to compare.
Black Solar Panels Versus Blue Solar Panels
Black solar panels are the latest technology. When it comes to solar panel aesthetics, or how they look, many people feel that black panels look better. Even some homeowners’ associations (HOAs) require black panels. They are sleek and modern and often blend right in with your roof or their surroundings.
Monocrystalline means “one crystal”. The silicon used for these panels is so pure that it forms one large silicon crystal in the manufacturing process. This also helps give monocrystalline panels their black hue because of the way light is reflected.
Blue solar panels, or polycrystalline solar panels, have been around for a while and are still more widely used than black panels. Their blue color comes from silicon and, often, an anti-reflective coating that boosts efficiency.
The silicon used to make blue solar panels starts as many separate crystals that are placed into a mold in the desired shape. Polycrystalline means (you guessed it!) “many crystals”.
Thin-Film Solar Panels
Thin-film solar panels are low-profile and often slimmer than other types. Though the panels themselves are thinner, an entire thin-film unit may appear similar to monocrystalline solar panels or polycrystalline solar panels, but this would only be the case if the frame was thick. They do make adhesive thin-film solar panels, but they can be less durable.
Thin-film panels can be either blue or black in color, depending on which material is used to make them.
Monofacial Solar Panels versus Bifacial Solar Panels
This one is really simple. If you want single-sided panels, you’ll want monofacial solar panels. These are great for roof installations or anywhere that the back of the solar panel will be covered. However, if you happen to be putting panels on a carport, walkway, or over a deck or pergola, bifacial solar panels will gather energy from both sides.
Solar Panel Comparison
Solar Sam: Your Partner for Missouri Solar and Illinois Solar
Whatever type of solar panels you decide on, Solar Sam has you covered. If you need help choosing, be sure to check your HOA solar panel requirements, then give our pros a call.
Solar Sam offers the hottest brands, including:
- Silfab Solar (USA)
- LG Solar (USA)
- Solaria Solar (USA)
- Jinko Solar (USA)
- Longi Solar (China) Bifacials
- Mission Solar (USA)
Our website also has incredible monthly deals. Check it out to see just how affordable it can be to partner with Solar Sam! We help power your life with energy run by the sun.
