Solar Panels Devon

 

The solar panels that Wessex ECOEnergy install in Devon are the traditional type made from either monocrystalline silicon or polycrystalline silicon. They are what we refer to as first-generation solar panels and they are the most common type of panel still being used in conventional residential surroundings.

In the initial stages of considering whether to invest in solar panels in Devon, you may be interested to see what others in your neighbourhood have chosen to have installed. How, then, do you tell the difference? How do the two differ in terms of how they look and operate?

The monocrystalline panels are made from a single large crystal, meaning the finished product has a higher level of silicon purity.  This results in them performing marginally better in conditions of lower light and being generally more efficient overall. Inevitably this means they are more expensive, however, for a residential installation (as opposed to a solar power system that is set in place for commercial use, for example) the difference in efficiency between this and the polycrystalline variety is not seen to make a significant difference.  You will recognise the monocrystalline silicon panels by their dark look and rounded edges.

By contrast, polycrystalline solar cells are recognisable by their blue look and the square moulds that they sit in; these are the frames into which raw silicon is melted during the production process. This type of panel is made from blocks of silicon that contain many smaller crystals.  The lesser silicon purity naturally means that they are not quite as efficient as their counterpart but they have the obvious advantage of being cheaper. As mentioned, the output is not seen to be dramatically different, which is useful to understand when looking into solar solutions in Devon. Financial considerations naturally make up a big part of your eventual decision and there are some contrasts in terms of installation space needed and longevity of panels, to consider in addition. Our staff will be happy to help you in more detail with no obligation to purchase should you wish to get in touch with us.