- Learn About Equipment
There's an endless selection of solar equipment, but understanding a few key concepts makes solar simple.
Solar Panels: Monocrystalline vs. Polycrystalline
Monocrystalline panels are known for their continuous solid blue/black color and are made of the highest-grade silicon. Besides higher efficiency, monocrystalline panels are more space efficient, have a longer lifespan, and are more efficient in warmer weather.
All of these factors combine to make monocrystalline panels the preferred choice for home solar projects. Solar Advisor is proud to only use monocrystalline panels from the highest-rated manufacturers on our residential installations.
Standard vs. Premium
Standard panels should be used in the majority of home solar installations. They have the lowest cost per watt, and their overall efficiency is within a few percent of the most efficient panels on the market.
Premium panels are typically used for homes with high electricity usage and minimal roof space. They can also be also used if a homeowner is loyal to a particular brand.
This overview gives a more detailed explanation of the difference between panels in terms of solar efficiency versus economical efficiency.
Panel Manufacturers & Sustainability
View panel features from some of the most popular panel manufacturers.
View this report to see how panel manufacturers stack up with regard to sustainability and social justice.
