There are some significant differences between monocrystalline silicon and polycrystalline silicon solar panels in terms of appearance, conversion efficiency, price, and applications.
Differences in appearance
Color: The color of monocrystalline silicon solar panels is relatively uniform, showing a dark blue or black appearance. Polycrystalline silicon solar panels have a more mixed color, showing a light blue or bluish-gray appearance.
Texture: The crystal structure of monocrystalline silicon solar panels is relatively regular, and there is no obvious grain texture on the surface, showing a smooth surface. The surface of polycrystalline silicon solar panels has obvious grain texture and presents an irregular crystal structure.
Cell shape: Monocrystalline silicon solar panels may have chip edges on the cell edges and are shaped like an octagon or a circle. The cells of polycrystalline silicon solar panels are usually square or rectangular, with neat edges and no missing corners.
Differences in performance
Conversion efficiency: The photoelectric conversion efficiency of monocrystalline silicon solar panels is relatively high (generally between 18% and 24%). The photoelectric conversion efficiency of polycrystalline silicon solar panels is relatively low (generally between 15% and 20%).
Price: The production cost of monocrystalline silicon solar panels is relatively large, so the price is relatively expensive. Polycrystalline silicon solar panels are cheaper to manufacture and therefore relatively affordable