The main differences in cost between monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels stem from their manufacturing processes, efficiency, and price per watt.
Cost Differences
- Monocrystalline solar panels are generally more expensive than polycrystalline panels. The price per watt for monocrystalline panels typically ranges from about $0.31 to $0.64 or higher depending on brand, wattage, and type (such as traditional Mono-Si, PERC, or bifacial panels). Installed costs for monocrystalline panels average around $1.10 to $2.40 per watt, with total system installation costs usually falling between $5,000 and $8,400 for a typical home-sized system (around 3-5 kW).
- By contrast, polycrystalline panels tend to be cheaper. Although exact polycrystalline pricing was not directly listed in the search results, these panels are made from multiple silicon crystals, making their manufacturing less complex and less costly compared to monocrystalline panels. Industry sources commonly cite that polycrystalline panels cost approximately 10-20% less than monocrystalline panels per watt.
Why Monocrystalline Panels Cost More
- Monocrystalline panels use single-crystal silicon cells, which require more refined and resource-intensive manufacturing processes, leading to higher costs.
- They also tend to be more efficient, producing more power per square foot, which justifies the higher price for customers seeking smaller or more efficient installations.
Summary Table of Cost Comparison
| Feature | Monocrystalline Panels | Polycrystalline Panels |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Price per Watt | $0.31 – $0.64+ (materials) | Around 10-20% less than monocrystalline |
| Installed Cost per Watt | $1.10 – $2.40 | Lower than monocrystalline, exact varies |
| System Installation Cost | $5,000 – $8,400 (typical 3-5 kW) | Generally less due to lower panel cost |
| Manufacturing Process | Single silicon crystal (more costly) | Multiple silicon crystals (less costly) |
| Efficiency | Higher (~20% or more) | Lower (~15-17%) |
In essence, while monocrystalline panels command a higher upfront cost due to their advanced manufacturing and higher efficiency, polycrystalline panels offer a more budget-friendly option with slightly less efficiency. The choice between them often depends on budget, space constraints, and desired energy output.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/what-are-the-main-differences-in-cost-between-monocrystalline-and-polycrystalline-solar-panels/
