What is Solar Panel Efficiency and how is it important?

Rooftop solar energy systems have become a primary choice for several homeowners in Bengaluru that are looking to reduce their electricity bills. To get the right panels installed for your home it is very important to have a thorough understanding of how it works. The following helps you understand solar panels, their efficiency and know what to look for while purchasing to make smart decisions. 

• Solar panel efficiency measures the percentage of sunlight that can be converted into electricity.  

• When comparing panels, a panel with a higher efficiency can produce more electricity with the same amount of sunlight making it a better choice for homeowners looking to install solar. 

• A typical solar panel’s efficiency ranges between 15% and 20% and good quality panels with a high rating can achieve efficiencies up to 22.8%. The higher the efficiency the more the electricity being produced by the panel. 

Key Factors Affecting Solar Panel Efficiency 

1. Panel Technology 
   

The technology a solar panel utilizes critically impacts their efficiency. The best solar energy systems often utilize advanced technologies as follows to enhance energy output and reliability. 

1. Higher quality monocrystalline panels with PERC technology that are made up of single pure silicon crystal structures and passivation layer for improved sunlight absorption. 

2. Half-cut cell technology that divides the cells into halves to improve performance. 

3. MBB (multi-busbar) technology decreases electrical resistance for gaining higher current flow as well as greater energy generation efficiency.  

4. Polycrystalline Panels efficiency lies between 15% to 17% and hence less effective. They are typically made up of multiple silicon crystals. 

Thin-film panels have even lower efficiencies at 10% to 13% and are comparatively lighter in weight.  

2. Temperature Coefficient 
   

Panels can lose their efficiency if they are too hot, hence a low temperature coefficient ensures the panel performs even in high heat ensuring it generates consistent energy even in sunny regions and hot temperatures. Higher temperatures lead to reduction in output and voltage which can drop the efficiency of solar panels of about 0.4% to 0.5% for every degree above 25 degrees Celsius.  

3. Performance in Low Light 
   

It is a known fact that solar panels work well in bright sun light however it is essential that they generate electricity even in cloudy weather or during early mornings and evening. The amount of sunlight exposure to the panels is measured in watts per square meter (W/m2) affects the efficiency directly by reducing the solar irradiance and in turn the energy produced.  Hence, panels that are designed to perform better in low-light conditions greatly impact the overall energy production. 

4. Orientation 
   

The angle and positioning play a crucial role in energy generation and efficiency of the panel. To utilize the complete panel, the installation needs to be done in optimum position, height, and direction with the highest sun light exposure. In the Northern hemisphere panels need to be facing south in order to capture the most amount of sunlight. The best angle of positioning ranges from 30 to 45 degrees based on the geographical location.  

Shading that is usually caused due to surrounding trees or other buildings forming shadows on the installation site, can greatly affect efficiency. Even if one cell is shaded the flow of current through the entire string of cells gets negatively affected. 

5. Quality 
   

Solar panels are tested to last for 25+ years and hence durable and high-quality product are essential to withstand the wear and tear as time passes. Investing in durable technology with warranties and maintenance can save money in the long run.  

The accumulation of dust, and dirt on the panel surface decreases the efficiency by blocking sunlight absorption. Cleaning the panels regularly is highly necessary to maintain their performance. 

6. System & Component 
   

Other components of a solar power system such as the inverters, and wiring can help in overall efficiency by reducing losses. Losses occur when direct current produced by the panels is converted into alternating current that can be used by appliance in hommes. 

7. Internal Resistance and Testing 
   

Low internal resistance allows more electricity to flow leading to higher outputs and electricity generation. Electroluminescence testing ensures panels do not have any defects by using electric currents to visualize any issues through photodetectors and mitigate them accordingly.  

Long-term Benefits of Investing in High Efficiency Panels 

• Energy Savings: High efficiency panels lead to greater energy generation as they produce more electricity per square foot in contrast to standard panels. This leads to higher energy offsets allowing homeowners to see 90% reduction in their electricity bills. 

• Long-term Gains: Solar panels last for around 25 years and homeowners that opt for higher efficiency panels inevitably save more than from standard panels. Even after several years the performance after degradation of efficiency might be comparatively higher than of standard panels based on usage of the panels. 

• Property Value: Opting for high efficiency panels ensures that your panels remain intact for a longer time and lead to appreciation in property value even after usage. Most buyers are willing to pay a premium price for a home with a solar system because of the anticipated savings in electricity bills. 

• Environmental Benefits: Solar energy is renewable, with a long lifespan of 25 years the amount of carbon emissions you will avoid with a typical 5KW system would be 160 metric tons of CO2. Reducing your reliance on fossil fuels and creating a better future for the next generation.  

  
  

Novasys Alpha Plus Series Panels 

The Novasys Alpha Plus Series Panels utilized by Atria, features MBB and M10 Monoperc half cut cell technology, delivers up to 550Wp with an impressive module efficiency of 20.78%. It is designed to perform optimally in low light and high temperature conditions while offering enhanced power output and reliability. With a robust 25 year warranty it ensures 85% power output highly ideal for rooftop solar installations. 

Specifications: 

Conclusion 

Being aware of the advanced technologies in solar panels helps ensure you make the right choice and informed decision about the solar panels suitable for your home needs. 

Atria utilizes the Novasys Alpha Plus Series panels and ensures your home has the solar panels equipped with the best technology and high efficiency of 20.87% surpassing the industry average. Our expert solar consultants are here to guide you through the process, clarify all your doubts and offer a tailored solution for your solar needs. Contact us today at 080 62680000!