The moment when your monthly electricity bill comes, and it is extremely high, is not the moment one wants to witness or remember, right? Solar panels can help reduce this problem. They use the sun’s energy to create power and are extremely cost-efficient in the long run. But not all solar panels are the same. There are different types of solar panels for houses and offices based on their efficiency, longevity, etc. In this blog, we will break down the different types of solar panels in India, how they affect your electricity savings, and help you choose the one that gives the most value for your money. So keep reading.
Types of Solar Panels
Now, let us discuss all the different kinds of solar panels in detail:
Monocrystalline Solar Panels
- Made from one single piece of silicon.
- The color is black, and the surface looks smooth.
- These panels make more power than most others.
- They last for many years and work even in low sunlight.
Features:
- Needs less roof space.
- Gives high efficiency.
- Works well in hot weather.
Commonly used for: Houses or buildings with small rooftops.
Polycrystalline Solar Panels
- Made from many pieces of silicon melted together.
- Blue in color and looks shiny.
- They are cheaper than monocrystalline panels but make a little less power.
Features:
- Low price.
- Easy to find in the market.
- Works well if you have enough roof space.
Commonly used for: Large homes, schools, or factories with wide rooftops.
PERC Solar Panels
PERC stands for “Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell.” These solar panel system types are like normal ones but have an extra layer that reflects sunlight back into the panel. That means more power from the same sunlight.
Features:
- High power output.
- Works well even when it’s cloudy.
- Gives better performance in heat.
Commonly used for: Homes and offices in sunny areas.
Thin-Film Solar Panels
- These panels are thin and light in weight.
- They are made from special materials instead of thick silicon.
- They can be used on flexible or curved surfaces.
Features:
- Easy to install.
- Can be moved easily.
- Looks good on modern buildings.
Commonly used for: Portable systems and temporary setups.
Bifacial Solar Panels
- These panels take sunlight from both sides — front and back.
- The back side collects light reflected from the ground.
- This helps produce more power.
Features:
- High energy production.
- Strong and long-lasting.
- Good for open areas with bright surroundings.
Commonly used for:
Factories, open grounds, and big solar farms.
Topcon Solar Panels
- These are the newest and most advanced type in solar panel varieties.
- They use a special technology called “Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact.”
- It helps the panel work efficiently and lose less power over time.
Features:
- Very high efficiency (above 21%).
- Works well in all kinds of weather.
- Long life and low maintenance.
Commonly used for:
Premium homes, offices, and industries.
Solar Tiles
- They look like normal roof tiles, but also make electricity.
- They are built directly into the roof.
- Best for people who want their house to look neat and modern.
Good things:
- Beautiful design.
- Saves roof space.
- Long-lasting.
Commonly used for:
New houses and modern buildings.
Transparent Solar Panels
- These panels look like glass.
- They allow light to pass through but still generate power.
Good things:
- Useful in glass windows and building walls.
- Saves space.
Commonly used for:
Offices, malls, and commercial buildings.
Popular Solar Panels in India
Here are some types of solar power panel options commonly available in India:
UTL 275 W Mono PERC Panel
- 72 cells, 20.8% efficiency.
- Small and light, only 14 kg.
- Works even in low light.
Best for: Homes with small rooftops.
ReNew 540 W Bifacial Mono PERC Panel
- Can produce power from both sides.
- Power output up to 540 W.
- Needs open space with reflected sunlight.
Best for: Large rooftops and industries.
Premier Energies 580 W TOPCon Solar Panel
- Uses TOPCon technology.
- Efficiency above 21%.
- Performs well in high temperatures.
Best for: Homes and businesses that want long-term reliability.
Adani 585 W Polycrystalline Solar Panel
- Affordable and strong.
- Good for large installations.
- Performs best in direct sunlight.
Best for: Schools, factories, and farms.
Oswal 550 W Mono Half-Cut Panel
- 144 half-cut mono cells.
- Around 21% efficiency.
- Better performance under shade.
Best for: Medium homes and small businesses.
How to Choose the Right Solar Panel
When choosing a solar panel, think about these points:
- Roof size: Small roof →monocrystalline or PERC. Big roof → polycrystalline.
- Budget: Limited budget → polycrystalline. More budget → PERC or TOPCon.
- Sunlight: Sunny area → any panel. Low sunlight → PERC or bifacial.
- Design: For a modern look → solar tiles or transparent panels.
Conclusion
There are many different types of solar panels available today. Each one of them has different features and price ranges. Monocrystalline and PERC panels give high power and are on the price side whereas Pollycrystalline is on a little inexpensive side. Bifacial and TOPCon are modern and advanced.
If you choose carefully, solar panels can save you money for years. They are good for your home and offices, your wallet and the planet as well! Explore the best deals on solar panels today on L&T-SuFin!
FAQs
1. Which is better, Topcon or Bifacial?
Topcon is more efficient, while bifacial produces power from both sides.
2. What is a monocrystalline solar panel?
Monocrystalline solar panels are made from a single pure crystal of silicon, which makes them very efficient at converting sunlight into electricity. They are black in color, last long, and work well even in low sunlight. This is why they are considered as the best type of solar panels.
3. Which is better, Monocrystalline or Polycrystalline panels?
Monocrystalline gives more power, polycrystalline costs less. Which is better, Topcon or Bifacial?
4. Which type of solar panel is best for a home?
Monocrystalline or PERC panels are best for small rooftops.