Monocrystalline photovoltaic electric solar energy panels have been the go to choice for many years. They are among the oldest, most efficient and most dependable ways to produce electricity from the sun.
Each module is made from a single silicon crystal, and is more efficient, though more expensive, than the newer and cheaper polycrystalline and thin-film PV panel technologies. You can typically recognize them by their color which is typically black or iridescent blue.
As the name implies, mono-crystalline panels are made from single pieces of silicon, which are created from quartz crystals which are melted down under intense temperatures. The smelting process ensures purity, the 100% pure silicon is then filtered out and poured into round ingots.
These ingots are sliced into flat thin pieces, with the addition of phosphorus, a solar cell is born. While mono-crystalline panels are the most efficient style today, technology is always advancing, so before investing in a long term solar solution, it is in your best interest to
conduct further research in emerging solar technology.
The high silicon purity does make for a more expensive solar panel, which scares people aware from purchasing, but with higher efficiency, you will be able to purchase less panels for the same electrical output. Monocrystalline solar panels are first generation solar technology and have been around a long time, providing evidence of their durability and longevity. PV panels made from monocrystalline solar cells are able to convert the highest amount of solar energy into electricity of any type of flat solar panel. Consequently, if your goal is to produce the most electricity from a specific area (e.g., on a roof) this type of panel should certainly be considered. Besides producing more electricity per sqm of installed panels, thereby improving your cash flow (from either a reduction in your electrical bill or from the sale of the electricity or in some areas both), for those who are "going green" and are concerned about the environmental impact of solar panels, monocrystalline panels reduce the amount of electricity needed from local power plants, reducing the dependence on fossil fuels. The greater benefit is a reduction in the use of limited fuel sources and greenhouse gases being pumped into the environment.
