The Pros Of Using Poly Crystalline Solar Cell
People are constantly looking for ways to supplement their homes with alternative sources of energy. And one way of providing such is through the use of solar panels. These days, a poly crystalline solar cell is gracing more and more homes. Read on to learn more about what it is and some of its benefits.
The poly crystalline solar cell is sometimes also referred to as multi crystalline solar cell. It’s named as such because of the way it’s made. The cells are not out of singular silicone crystals, but from a large block of many crystals. This gives the multi crystalline panel its distinctive mosaic or tiny shattered glass appearance. The large block is cut into thin wafers to become the cells that together compose the panel.
Basically, there are three types of solar cells: the mono crystalline, amorphous and of course the poly crystalline. The mono crystalline cell is the most efficient yet most expensive, as it uses pure silicone. Manufacturing involves a complicated crystal growth process, plus the appearance may appear smooth and uniform. The amorphous kind, on the other hand, isn’t really made up of crystals, but a thin layer of silicon. It’s the cheapest and the least energy efficient of the three.
Of the three kinds, it’s the poly crystalline solar cell that’s preferred by a lot. That’s because it’s mid-range, meaning it’s affordably priced yet very energy efficient. Also, it can last for a long time, just like the highly expensive mono crystalline kind. It’s estimated to last for 25 years, or even more than that.
This type of solar cell has a conversion efficiency of about 12 percent. This simply means that around 12 percent of the total amount of sunlight hitting its surface is converted into electric energy. Just how efficient is that? Take for example a panel measuring a square meter exposed to direct sunlight. This alone can produce 120-125 watts of power.
Compared to a mono crystalline solar cell, that 12 percent conversion efficiency is lower. But it’s significantly higher compare to that of its amorphous counterpart. Together with an affordable price tag, this can easily make solar energy accessible to more and more households. However, the price is affected by several different factors. Some of them include the manufacturer or the brand, and the design or wattage supplied.
Alongside advantages are some disadvantages. A poly crystalline solar cell is designed to work more effectively in cooler climates. Exposed to enormously high temperature, some of its conversion efficiency is diminished. It’s said that exposing it to 50 degrees Celsius beyond what the cell is designed for can reduce its energy converting ability. When it comes to cost and installation, it’s essential to consider factors such as weather conditions and temperatures.
Today, supplementing a home’s grid power source with solar energy is trouble-free. The efficiency and availability of a poly crystalline solar cell makes that highly possible. It also allows for genuine cost-saving benefits to consumers as it’s also highly affordable. It’s durable so it can provide significant energy conversion for many, many years.
Get more information and details about the wide selection of poly crystalline solar cells you can find today! When you are looking for a specific poly crystalline solar cell, you will find it fast online!
