Should I Choose Monocrystalline, Thin Film Or Polycrystalline Solar Panels

Posted by solar directonline on June 30th, 2018

Between monocrystalline and polycrystalline there isn’t a lot of difference except that a polycrystalline panel is slightly larger than the equivalent wattage in monocrystalline. Thin film panels are larger again and the extra space can take up valuable rooftop real estate in terms of adding extra panels at a later date. There are other issues to consider with thin film panels, explained in further detail here.

What can affect the costs of installing a grid connect system?

A base installation rate includes the grid connect system being installed on a pitched metal roof facing north with appropriate surface area available.

Additional costs will be incurred for a flat or tiled roof; any equipment upgrades and extended warranties.

If my energy requirements increase, can I upgrade the system?

Yes. Additional solar panels can be added at any time to increase generating capability but you might have to upgrade to a larger inverter. Alternatively you could purchase a larger inverter when installing the system initially and then plan to add some extra solar panels later.

What about the energy it takes to produce a solar power system?

Although solar electricity is pollution-free, PV systems require a certain amount of energy, which must be ‘reimbursed’ before they can be considered as renewable and clean. This is known as “embodied energy”. An assessment from the International Energy Agency concluded in mid 2006 that roof-top solar PV systems recover their energy content (from manufacturing and recycling) within 1.6 to 1.8 years in Australia. That figure has since improved.

Once they have reimbursed their initial energy input, roof-top PV systems can avoid the emission of 40 tonnes of CO2, depending on their location and on the local electricity mix available. Roof-top PV systems in Australia during their 30 year lifespan are expected to produce around 17 times the amount of energy needed for manufacture, installation and dismantling.

How much of a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions will I achieve?

Using a comparison to a car, the average vehicle in Australia travels 20 000 km per annum, which is equivalent to 3.3 tons of carbon dioxide discharge annually. A 2kw grid connected system will prevent 3.3 tons of carbon dioxide being generated through coal fired power generation – so it’s the equivalent of taking a car off the road each year. Solar power system components

Is there any maintenance involved?

With a grid connected system, there is very little maintenance required. Electronic components should be maintenance free. Solar Direct Online systems come with complete instructions for maintenance.