Solar energy has gained tremendous popularity in the UK over the past decade.
It can help you reduce your energy bills and carbon footprint.
If you’re considering a solar installation for your home, understanding the different types of solar panels available is crucial.
This blog explores the various solar panel technologies currently on the market and some promising developments on the horizon.
Crystalline silicon solar panels
Crystalline silicon panels are the most common type of solar panels you’ll find on UK rooftops. They come in two main varieties: monocrystalline and polycrystalline.
Monocrystalline panels are made from a single crystal structure, giving them a uniform dark appearance. The manufacturing process involves slicing a crystal ingot into wafer-thin layers, which are then assembled into panels. Higher-purity silicon translates to better efficiency. In fact, monocrystalline panels are the most efficient commercially available panels, typically converting 18-24% of sunlight into electricity.
For UK homes, monocrystalline panels offer several advantages. Their high efficiency means you can generate more power with limited roof space, which is often a consideration in urban areas. They also perform well in low-light conditions, making them suitable for the UK’s cloudy climate. However, these benefits come at a higher cost compared to other types of panels.
Polycrystalline panels, on the other hand, are made by melting multiple silicon fragments together and setting them in a square mould. This gives them a distinctive blue, speckled appearance. The manufacturing process is simpler and wastes less silicon, making these panels more affordable than their monocrystalline counterparts.
In terms of efficiency, polycrystalline panels typically convert 13-16% of sunlight into electricity. While this is lower than monocrystalline panels, the difference in real-world performance can be minimal, especially in the UK’s climate. Polycrystalline panels can be an excellent choice for UK homes with ample roof space and a tighter budget.
Thin film solar panels
Thin film solar panels represent a different approach to solar technology. Instead of using crystalline silicon, these panels are made by depositing one or more thin layers of photovoltaic material onto a substrate. The result is a much thinner and more flexible panel.
While less efficient than crystalline silicon panels (typically 7-13% efficiency), thin film solar panels offer unique advantages. They’re lighter, more flexible and easier to integrate into building materials.
In residential settings, thin film panels are better suited to unconventional installations. If you have a curved or non-standard roof surface, thin film panels might be the solution. They also perform relatively well in low-light and high-temperature conditions, which can be beneficial in certain UK microclimates.
Solar tiles
Solar tiles represent an exciting development in building-integrated photovoltaics. They combine the functionality of traditional roof tiles with the power-generating capabilities of solar panels. The result is a roof that protects your home from the elements while also producing electricity.
Solar tiles offer an attractive option if you’re concerned about the aesthetics of traditional solar panels. They blend seamlessly with your roof, maintaining your property’s visual appeal. This can be especially important in conservation areas or for listed buildings where traditional solar panels might not be permitted.
While solar tiles are generally less efficient and more expensive than traditional solar panels, they offer a unique solution for homeowners who want solar power without compromising their home’s appearance.
PERC panels
Passivated Emitter and Rear Contact (PERC) technology is an improvement on traditional solar cell design. PERC panels have an additional layer on the rear, which reflects unused light back through the cell, allowing more electrons to flow as electricity. This process can boost panel performance by up to 15%. PERC technology is already available in many commercial solar panels in the UK, offering consumers access to higher-efficiency panels without a significant price premium.
Emerging solar technologies
The solar industry is constantly evolving, with new technologies promising to increase efficiency and reduce costs. Here are some of the most exciting solar innovations on the horizon:
Concentrator photovoltaics (CPV)
Concentrator Photovoltaics (CPV) take a different approach to solar energy capture. Instead of relying solely on photovoltaic materials, CPV systems use lenses or curved mirrors to concentrate sunlight onto small, highly efficient solar cells. In theory, CPV systems are more efficient than traditional panels.
However, their performance in UK conditions can be challenging. CPV systems work best with direct sunlight, which isn’t always abundant in the UK. They’re also much more expensive to buy and install than traditional PV cell solar panels. However, as the technology develops, we may see more affordable residential CPV solutions emerge.
Transparent solar panels
Transparent solar technology is still in its early stages. These panels work by absorbing ultraviolet and infrared light using conducting materials sandwiched between transparent layers. When this invisible light hits the panel, it creates an electric current, just like traditional solar panels.
The clever bit is that these panels allow visible light to pass straight through, making them appear see-through. The potential applications are exciting. Imagine your windows generating electricity while letting in light. This technology could be particularly beneficial in urban areas with limited roof space but large window surfaces.
Current versions of transparent solar panels have lower efficiency compared to traditional panels, which means widespread commercial availability is still a few years away. However, this is definitely a technology to watch for future home improvements.
Perovskite
Perovskite solar cells use a different material structure that’s cheaper to produce and potentially more efficient than silicon. Laboratory tests have shown perovskite cells achieving efficiencies of over 25%. They can also be made semi-transparent or flexible. While perovskite technology isn’t yet commercially available in the UK, research is progressing rapidly. In the coming years, we may see perovskite cells replacing or complementing silicon in solar panels, offering homeowners more efficient and affordable solar solutions.
How can Electrical Innovations help?
As solar technology continues to advance, we can expect to see more efficient, affordable and versatile solar solutions becoming available in the UK. Staying informed about these developments can help you make the best decision for your home and energy needs.
If you’re ready to take the first step towards solar or upgrade an existing system with the latest technology, give us a call. From solar PV panels to battery storage systems, we can design the best solar system for your home and circumstances to help you save money on energy and reduce your environmental impact. To find out more and for a free, no-obligation consultation and quote, get in touch today.
