When comparing the carbon footprint of monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels, monocrystalline panels generally have a slightly higher carbon footprint due to their more energy-intensive production process. Here are the key points:
- Production Process: Monocrystalline panels are made using the Czochralski technique, which involves melting silicon at very high temperatures (above 1,400°C), requiring more energy than the process for polycrystalline panels, which involves melting multiple silicon fragments together.
- Carbon Footprint Values:
- Monocrystalline Solar Panels: Their carbon footprint is typically higher, with values around 72g CO₂e/kWh.
- Polycrystalline Solar Panels: These panels have a slightly lower carbon footprint, approximately 69g CO₂e/kWh.
- Efficiency and Cost: Monocrystalline panels are more efficient (19-22% efficiency) and costlier due to their higher purity of silicon, whereas polycrystalline panels have lower efficiency and costs.
Despite these differences, both types of solar panels significantly reduce carbon emissions over their lifespan of about 25 to 30 years. They typically achieve carbon neutrality within their first few years of operation, around 3 years.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/how-does-the-carbon-footprint-of-monocrystalline-solar-panels-compare-to-polycrystalline-ones/
