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When most people hear the word “solar electricity,” they immediately envision solar panels on rooftops or in a desert solar farm. With fair reason; until now, traditional utility-scale and rooftop solar panels powered the solar business. However, there are a number of fascinating new solar panel technologies in the works or already available. These potential technologies will change the way we think about energy production in general, not just solar. Solar energy no longer necessitates enormous plots of land or roof space, nor does it have to be unsightly. If you are looking for solar for quite some time now, you must be wondering are they really worth it? Solar panel efficiency has been boosted with the development in technologies. Read on to learn more.
Which solar panel technology is best and what are the latest technologies? 
Monocrystalline panels are those black panels you see on the roof that have been installed in recent 3-5 years, they have the highest efficiency of up to 20%. Polycrystalline panels are the blue panels that have been in the market for a long time now, they have an efficiency of up to 15-17%. In the past two decades there has been a steady rise in the use of solar energy in Australia. It is expected to even rise further with the new panel technology emerging in the market. Building integrated PV panels, Floating solar panels, thin film solar cells and solar lighting are some of the new technologies that have been accepted and proven to be highly efficient in recent years. Let us explain each one of them in short.
- Building integrated PV panels: The integration of photovoltaics (PV) into the building envelope is known as building integrated photovoltaics (BIPV). PV modules serve as both a building shell and a power producer, replacing traditional building materials.
- Floating solar panels: PV modules put on platforms that float on water reservoirs, lakes, seas and oceans, are known as floating solar panels. Solar panels floating on water, however they are difficult and expensive to build.
- Thin Film solar cells: One or more thin layers of photovoltaic materials are put onto a substrate to make a thin-film solar panel. A typical silicon solar panel can be almost 300 times smaller than these thin layers with their many light absorption layers. Thin-film solar panels are the lightest panels available due to the size of the photovoltaic cells employed with built-in semi-conductors.
Is Monocrystalline better than poly?
Polycrystalline is a bit less efficient than Monocrystalline. However, monocrystalline panels are space efficient and they produce more power per square foot. Mono panels come in high wattage and are more efficient making it convenient for use.
What should I look for while buying solar panels?
Buying a solar power system can be a smart investment but the decision needs to be made smartly. Here are a few things that you need to consider while buying solar panels:
- Warranty on the panels and inverter
- Recommendations from friends and family
- Decide what type panels you want to buy- Mono or poly
- Learn about the efficiency of the inverter you are looking at buying
- Get at least 3 quotes with different brands and pricing
What is the highest wattage solar panel?
SunPower 415 watt is the highest wattage solar panel with an efficiency of 22.3% and is fit for both commercial and residential purposes.
What is the best solar inverter for home?
SMA sunny boy Tripower, Fronius, GoodWe, SolarEdge and Growatt are some of the best inverter brands in Australia reviewed by the customers and approved by CEC.
What happens to my panels after 25 years?
Panels usually last longer than the warranties offered on them. They will continue to produce power even after 25 years, however, that depends on the brands of the panels installed. Typically the panels produce power 80% or above their rated efficiency after 25 years.
How long do solar inverters last?
Solar inverters are literally the heart of the solar power system. Solar inverters last between 10-12 years and might need replacing once during the lifespan of solar. However, that also depends on the quality and inverter brand used.
How much does a solar power system cost?
A typical 6.6kW system shall cost you between $3000-$4000. This is subject to change based on the brands preferred by the individuals. A 6.6kW system might be enough to power an average Australian household, however, it is advised to install a slightly bigger system than needed, so that your future electricity needs are met.
Pick the right solar products with Solar Miner
A right retailer can help you decide quality solar products for your property keeping in mind your budget and property needs. Solar Miner is one of the Renowned and Preferred Solar Retailers for Homeowners in Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria. Solar Miner strives to provide affordable solar power systems making clean energy available to homes and businesses.
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