Which photovoltaic solar panel is suitable for PV self-consumption?
The right photovoltaic solar panel for every need
Due to the large offer, the choice becomes even more difficult. New panels are constantly being launched on the market, more and more efficient. To select the right photovoltaic solar panel for your self-consumption installation, you should consider the following issues:
- What results should be achieved?
- What is the available space for the installation?
- What is the desired aesthetic appearance?
What does a photovoltaic solar panel consist of?
Rigid panels consist of crystalline cells covered by a glass plate and an aluminum structure. Each panel contains several solar cells connected in series or in parallel. When these cells are exposed to sunlight, they produce direct current. A hardened glass at the top protects these cells by letting them pass through the sun’s rays. An aluminium film protects the cells at the bottom. The function of the frame is to ensure stability, to preserve the glass and to facilitate the fixation of the photovoltaic solar panel on the mounting system.
Which solar cell is more efficient for PV self-consumption?
Thin-film panels have the lowest efficiency and are mainly used in specific projects. In PV self-consumption installations solar panels with monocrystalline or polycrystalline cells are normally installed. Polycrystalline cells are easily recognized by their irregular, blue looking surface. They have a lower production price compared to monocrystalline solar cells, however they have a lower efficiency. Both are properly developed, but are more suitable for certain applications. Monocrystalline solar cells are cut from a single source of silicon and are therefore more efficient. Polycrystalline solar cells are agglomerated from multiple sources of silicon, making them slightly less efficient. However, today most manufacturers produce monocrystalline solar cell modules at competitive prices. Monocrystalline modules have a higher power, for the same area, and stand out aesthetically by their dark and uniform color. It is estimated that their duration is at least three decades. Thus, most people choose monocrystalline photovoltaic solar panels. In case of little availability of space for your self-consumption installation, monocrystalline solar photovoltaic panels will always be the best option.
Type
Vantages
Disatvantages
More economical production cost
Proven technology
Long durability
Low incidence of failures
Lower efficiency (approx. 12 – 16%) compared to monocrystalline technology
Need for more installation area (6-7m2/kWp)
Losses with diffused light and high temperatures
Higher weight per square meter
Greater efficiency
Less installation area required (5-6 m2/kWp)
Possibility of color differentiation
Proven technology
Low incidence of failures
Higher production cost
Higher weight per square meter
Losses with diffused light and high temperatures
Certificates and guarantees
Despite the different types of photovoltaic solar panels, they must always comply with the highest standards of quality, standards and certifications. A quality photovoltaic solar panel has a guarantee against manufacturing defects of 10 years or more, as well as a power guarantee during its entire useful life (approx. 25 years). The guarantees are provided by the manufacturers, which is why it is important that they are within the tier 1 list of BNEF, thus ensuring that they are “bankable”.
