It is important to understand how to compare the efficiency metrics of different manufacturer brands when choosing the most efficient solar panels for their solar energy system. Using solar panel efficiency to evaluate how much power a solar panel generates in comparison with other products is one useful metric.
An efficient solar panel converts 20 percent of the sun’s energy into solar energy when the sun shines on it. For example, if the sun shines on a panel with a 20 percent efficiency rating, then 20 percent of that sun’s energy will be converted. Considering two panels with different efficiencies, if the same amount of sunlight shines on them for the same length of time, the more efficient panel will generate more electricity than the less efficient panel. The efficiency of solar panels is determined by their ability to produce electricity, which in turn depends on the composition of the cells, their electrical configuration, and their surrounding components, among others.
Solar panels today, on average, have an efficiency of 15 to 20 percent, with outliers on either side of this range. Most of the photovoltaic panels available are not more efficient than 20 percent. The most efficient solar panels can exceed 22 percent efficiency in some cases (and can even exceed 23 percent). While higher efficiency panels are more expensive, they are more effective in providing you with energy, especially if your roof is smaller and you don’t have much space.
Despite these low efficiency rates, however, you should not be alarmed. By 2021, new technologies and manufacturing capabilities will mean that efficiency standards will continue to rise. Researchers have been able to capture different frequencies of light using multi conductor cells, which have been optimized to capture 40 percent of light. However, as a result of current panel offerings, most residential and commercial properties can enjoy more than enough energy.
It is difficult to determine how efficient a solar panel is based solely on how much solar energy is converted into electricity. But what factors determine the efficiency of a solar panel?
Solar panel designers and manufacturers consider multiple factors when designing and manufacturing high-efficiency photovoltaic (PV) cells:
● Material: Light is converted into electricity in different ways depending on the type of material used (monocrystalline silicon, polycrystalline silicon, cadmium telluride, thin-film, etc.).
● Wiring: An organized panel of solar cells that actually capture and transmit electricity is more efficient if it has wires and busbars.
● Shade: It is important to consider shade when installing solar panels, as it affects the efficiency of the system in general. Although the manufacturers of panels do not account for shade, it is an important consideration to take into account if possible.
● Reflection: Having a glass overlay on top of silicon solar cells is important to ensure that light does not reflect away from the solar panel, thereby lowering the efficiency.
A bifunctional solar panel’s ability to absorb light from both sides of the cell, as well as a multijunction solar panel’s ability to absorb different wavelengths of light, changes the efficiency equation for solar panels. Researchers and scientists have several levers at their disposal when trying to increase the efficiency of a solar panel cell. In the end, it comes down to turning the amount of sunlight that enters a solar panel into electricity. These are the basic things you should while getting most efficient solar panel.
Also Read: Solar Panel System Cost and Buying Guide