Solar energy is a clean and renewable source of energy widely used for electricity generation through solar systems. Many people install solar systems on their rooftops in collaboration with specialized companies to produce electricity for their homes and even profit by selling surplus electricity to power distribution companies.

One of the most crucial components of a solar system is the solar panel, the primary element responsible for generating electricity. To learn about the types of solar panels and how to connect them, keep reading this article or contact us through Climatic's website.

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Specifications of Solar Panels

• Material: Solar panels are made from semiconductive materials like silicon, which absorb sunlight effectively.
• Coating: Silicon, known for its high reflectivity, is coated with an anti-reflective layer to prevent photon reflection and enhance energy capture.
• Protection: To safeguard the silicon from scratches or external damage, a glass layer is placed atop the panel.
• Composition: A solar panel consists of multiple PV cells mounted within a single frame and connected via junctions.
• Standard Sizes:
  • Panels with capacities ranging from 255–285 watts contain 60 cells (6 x 10) and measure 99 cm x 164 cm.
  • Panels with capacities ranging from 315–335 watts contain 72 cells (6 x 12) and measure 196 cm x 99 cm.

When several panels are connected to form a system, they create a solar array.

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Types of Solar Panels

There are three main types of solar panels available in the market:

1. Monocrystalline Silicon Panels

   • Appearance: These panels have a uniform and sleek look, indicating the purity of the silicon crystals.
   • Composition: Made from silicon ingots sliced into wafers, with visible gaps between the cells giving them their unique appearance.
   • Efficiency: Laboratory efficiency reaches up to 22.5%, but commercially available panels since 2017 typically achieve 17.5% efficiency.
   • Lifespan: Over 25 years.
   • Cost: Most expensive among solar panels.

2. Polycrystalline Silicon Panels

   • Appearance: These panels have tightly packed square cells without visible edges, offering a less uniform look.
   • Efficiency: Around 16.9%.
   • Lifespan: Over 25 years.
   • Cost: Cheaper than monocrystalline panels, but less visually appealing.

3. Thin Film Solar Panels

   • Design: Lightweight and flexible, these panels conform to the shape of the surface they are installed on.
   • Applications: Ideal for boats, transport vehicles, and other non-conventional surfaces.
   • Efficiency: Around 12%, the lowest among the three types.
   • Lifespan: Up to 15 years, shorter than other types.
   • Cost: Expensive when factoring in their shorter lifespan.

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Differences Between Polycrystalline and Monocrystalline Panels

The main distinction lies in cost and aesthetics:

• Monocrystalline Panels: More expensive and visually appealing. Ideal for projects like eco-friendly buildings.
• Polycrystalline Panels: Less costly and suitable for functional applications like water pumping stations.

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Connecting Solar Arrays

Solar arrays consist of multiple solar panels connected in series, parallel, or a hybrid of both to achieve the required current and voltage for the system.

• Series Connection:

  • Connect the positive terminal of one panel to the negative terminal of another.
  • Voltage increases, while current remains constant.
  • Suitable for systems requiring high voltage.

• Parallel Connection:

  • All positive terminals are connected, and all negative terminals are connected.
  • Current increases, while voltage remains constant.
  • Requires MC4 connectors or a Combiner Box for multiple lines.

• Hybrid (Series and Parallel):

  • Combines the benefits of both methods to achieve optimal voltage and current.
  • Commonly used for large systems, ensuring compatibility with inverters or charge controllers.