In the never-ending quest of the solar industry to improve photovoltaic (PV) technology and achieve the highest possible efficiency, researchers have tested many technologies, materials, and combinations. One option that outstands from the rest is the Passivated Emitter and Rear Contact (PERC) solar technology which allows for the creation of PERC solar panels.
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The PERC solar panel is a highly efficient and improved type of PV technology that uses Crystalline Silicon (c-Si) and fixes some inconveniences of this traditional technology. In this article, we will do a deep and detailed analysis of what is a PERC solar panel, how it compares to older and other advanced technologies, as well as the different applications for PERC solar panels.
WhistlingBird, Silicon solar cell (PERC) front and back, Redesign, CC BY-SA 4.0 Recapping the structure and workings of traditional solar panelsBefore diving into PERC solar panel technology and its benefits, it is important to have a proper understanding of traditional solar panels and how they work. Traditional solar panels are called monocrystalline and polycrystalline silicon solar panels, depending on their manufacturing materials. The basic structure of c-Si solar cells is comprised of the following layers:
The c-Si solar panels generate power by harvesting solar energy under the photovoltaic effect. The most important component to generate solar power is the doped semiconductor or P-N junction manufactured with an N-doped layer which is negatively charged with extra electrons, and a P-doped layer which is positively charged and therefore it has holes (missing electrons). The P-N junction works as the main structure generating solar energy in the cell.
On a simple basis, the load is connected to the solar cell and it is energized by the power generated from the cell, but it is important to understand the inner functioning of the solar cell. This will also help us understand more about PERC solar panels in the following sections.
When the P-N junction or photovoltaic material is hit with a photon, the electron within the semiconductor is excited. The electron is then moved to the conduction band, creating an electron-hole (e-h) pair.
Flow from the electron through the load - Source: The Physics of Solar Power from Colorado CollegeAfter the e-h pair is created, the electron usually goes to the front contact and the hole to the P-doped layer. During this process, the electron flows through the load, which creates the flow of electric current.
After the electron goes back to the solar cell through the rear contact, it recombines with a hole, ending the electrical current flow for that particular pair. This process is constantly ongoing whenever photons hit the surface of solar cells.
What are PERC solar panels?While the recombination of the e-h pair under the aforementioned circumstances is the regular process generating an electric current for traditional solar cells, there is also another type of recombination called surface recombination, which produces losses for traditional crystalline silicon technology.
The surface recombination process occurs when a hole combines with an excited electron that did not go through the contact. This recombination process translates as a reduced solar cell efficiency since the e-h pair combines without generating an electric current or solar power.
On top of the surface recombination, traditional crystalline silicon solar panels can produce losses due to inefficiency in capturing light, reflection by the solar cell itself, and partial shading by materials in the module. To reduce efficiency losses, researchers in the solar industry developed the PERC solar cell.
PERC technology was first described in the University of New South Wales in but officially registered in a paper in . The PERC solar cell finally allowed PV modules to move over the 20% conversion efficiency that has been the norm for several years in the industry.
Structure of a PERC solar cell - Source: ENF SolarThe PERC solar cell technology includes dielectric surface passivation that reduces the electron surface recombination. At the same time, the PERC solar cell reduces the semiconductor-metal area of contact and increases the rear surface reflection by including a dielectrically displaced rear metal reflector. This allows photons to be absorbed when going into the cell or out of it, and it also reduces heat absorption.
This highly efficient and improved version of c-Si technology results in PERC solar panels having a 0.86% or more increment in the efficiency of the solar cell. This provides several perks like a reduced installation time, fewer space requirements, and cost reductions by requiring fewer wires, connectors, racks, and other components that you would require when installing the same PV capacity with traditional technology.
Mono PERC vs. Poly PERC solar panelsSince PERC is a technology implemented on traditional crystalline silicon solar cells, PV modules under this technology are divided between mono PERC solar panels and poly PERC solar panels.
Poly PERC solar cells are manufactured by blending or melting different silicon fragments together, while mono PERC solar cells are manufactured using a single silicon crystal, free from grain limits (2D defects). Since mono PERC solar cells have a higher level of purity, these PV modules are more efficient, but they are also slightly more expensive.
Studies performed in provide us with enough data to have a deeper understanding of PERC technologies and how they compare to traditional panels.
Poly c-Si solar cells with 18.46% efficiency get an increased efficiency of 18.61% when manufactured with PERC technology, the difference is even more notorious with mono c-Si solar cells. A traditional mono c-Si panel has a 19.55% efficiency, but this efficiency increases by 0.86% to achieve 20.41% for mono PERC solar panels.
Mono PERC solar panels tend to have a relatively higher price, but considering the performance and technical specifications against the price, this technology is much better than poly PERC solar panels.
PERC solar panels vs. Other advanced panel technologiesPERC is only one of the available technologies to improve efficiency and applications for solar panels. There are other advanced technologies like Interdigitated Back Contact (IBC) and Bifacial Solar Cell (BSC) technology. Manufacturers can use either one or even combine PERC with IBC or BSC. In this section, we compare IBC and BSC against PERC technology, to fully understand the perks of this technology.
PERC panels vs. IBC solar panelsOne interesting improvement performed to solar cells is the implementation of Interdigitated Back Contact technology. Most cells (PERC included) have a thin strip of conductors in the front, which are called busbars, these conductors are used to transport the electric current through the cells.
While the space occupied by the busbars is not that large, it is still a surface area of the solar cell that could receive photons to generate solar power. To reduce losses, IBC solar cells place the conductors on the back of the cell, leaving the frontal surface entirely exposed to the sun, allowing the whole IBC solar cell to receive photon impacts and generate solar power.
Efficiency for IBC solar cells is higher in general, but the highest recorded efficiency for both technologies is similar. The highest efficiency for PERC solar cells was recorded at 25.0%, while IBC solar cells achieved a 25.4% conversion efficiency.
The biggest downside for IBC technology is that it has a higher cost than PERC solar panels. An advantage is that manufacturers can combine both technologies and obtain an even higher-performing PV Module.
PERC panels vs. Bifacial solar panelsOne of the most underused resources in solar applications is albedo. This is the diffuse solar radiation reflected from surfaces onto the PV module. To fully take advantage of this solar resource, manufacturers implement reflective rear sides or dual-panel glass, creating bifacial PV modules.
Bifacial technology can absorb direct light coming from the sun (like PERC solar panels), but it can also generate power from albedo light being reflected on the rear side of the module. Bifacial c-Si PV modules can deliver a higher performance ratio (PR) for the PV system, delivering 6% more PR than monocrystalline silicon modules, while PERC modules can deliver around 1% more efficiency than traditional technologies.
The good news for the solar industry, is that bifacial and PERC technologies can be combined, to create bifacial PERC PV cells. These new and innovative solar cells can deliver up to 18% more power than monofacial solar cells.
Key takeaways: Pros and cons of PERC panelsUnderstanding how PERC solar panel technology works, is key to understanding the pros and cons of different applications. In this section, we round up the major pros and cons of PERC solar panel technology and highlight some of its best features.
ProsPassivated Emitter and Rear Contact (PERC) technology is an excellent improvement that allows solar cells to achieve higher efficiencies. While this technology presented several cons in the past like LID and PID, manufacturers found ways to solve this, resulting in high-efficiency PERC solar panels without the cons of the technology in the 80s.
Since manufacturers can either design regular PERC solar panels or combine them with IBC or bifacial technology, the range of applications for this technology is quite broad. PERC solar panel technology can be used on residential, commercial, and industrial applications (including utility-scale applications).
For residential purposes, PERC solar panels can be used as regular rooftop photovoltaics, EV solar roof chargers, and solar sheds. For commercial and industrial applications, this technology can be used for ground photovoltaic power stations (especially when combined with bifacial technology), Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV), water surface power stations, and much more.
The use of this technology is quite convenient for the solar industry in general. With the rise of PERC solar panels, homeowners and utilities can benefit by using less space, fewer installation components, and using PV modules with higher performance and an infinity of applications.
Polycrystalline vs MonocrystallineA question which nearly everyone has is which type of panel to install on their rooftop. As solar Panels are the most vital components of any Solar PV Plant, naturally anyone would want to make the right choice for them.
Polycrystalline:
Polycrystalline solar cells are widely used in India due to their price factor and their use in subsidy cases. They come at lower price tag than the Mono perc solar panels and though their efficiency is a bit lower, India receives ample of sunlight during the year and thus the difference in generation is not as high as that in cold countries where Mono perc performs much more better than poly crystalline.
In case you want to opt for subsidy while installing solar from the government of India, then DCR solar panels are mandated by them and you would need to go with Poly solar panels in this case as India manufactures only poly solar cells. DCR is Domestic Content Requirement means that the solar cells are completely made in India and not imported from outside and assembled here.
Mono PERC solar cells:
Firstly, let us clarify on the PERC part of the name. Mono PERC solar cells are nothing but Mono crystalline solar cells but have additional reflective layer below them to allow the light which is not captured by the solar cells in first go, to have additional chance to capture it to convert it into electricity. Passivated Emitter and Back Cell (PERC), as they are called, employs dielectric passivation film on the rear surface of the cells. Therefore, the front surface of PERC cells collects sunlight while the back surface absorbs scattered or reflected light giving higher efficiency to the normal mono crystalline solar panels.
Thinking globally, and ignoring the subsidy guideline which is specific to India, these solar panels have a lot of demand due to them being more efficient and covering less space for higher output meaning higher energy density. Thus, all the research and development globally is currently going on to improve Mono perc solar cells to higher and higher standards.
Few premium brands in the world like Longi, manufacture only Mono PERC solar cells instead of poly due to their efficiency advantage.
Install Poly solar panels if -
- You want to avail subsidy from them government of India (keep in mind this is a very lengthy process and it might take even 3-4 years for the amount to reflect in your bank)
- You don’t have any space constraints on your roof and have ample of space
- You are looking for more economical solar plant solution
Install MonoPERC solar panels if -
- You are ready to give up subsidy to get higher efficiency solar panels which over their lifetime would help you save much more money than the subsidy amount but with higher upfront cost
- You have limited space on roof and want to install solar panels in as less space as possible
- You case about longer warranty timeline offering
- You live in location where there is comparatively higher cloud cover over the year or partial shadowing issues as Mono PERC has higher output in low light conditions
- The location has high rise structures or trees nearby as Half cut or Third cut Mono PERC solar cells counter with such issues very efficiently
A bit more geeky details below on how these two cells are made:
The most abundant element present on earth is Silicon, what we know as sand. This sand is to converted to 99.99% pure silicon crystals through a very complex purification process. It then, can be used in production of solar cells. This raw silicon is then converted to gaseous compound form, which can be mixed with Hydrogen to get a highly purified Poly-Crystalline silicon. These silicon ingots, as they are called as, are reshaped and are cut into very fine thin slices called as silicon wafer.
If this chemical process of silicon crystals is taken one step further, the Polycrystalline cells will become Monocrystalline cells. This method is called as the Czochralski method, and it produces cylindrical ingots. Four sides are then cut into these ingots, and thus there is a lot of wastage in cutting. This is the reason you will see mono-crystalline cells don't have a perfect square shape.
The difference between Polycrystalline and Monocrystalline cells is their difference between internal crystalline lattice structure. In Polycrystalline cells, multi crystals are randomly oriented.
These silicon wafers are then doped N-type and P-type to get a solar cell which can generate electricity when sunlight falls on it.
The technology used to manufacture Polycrystalline panels is cheaper, thus these cells are available at a lower cost. This allows higher system plant size to be installed in the cost of Monocrystalline panel system. They have a blue hue.
Monocrystalline panels performance deviation in dimmer light or high heat conditions is lower than their counterparts. They have a black hue.
Poly and Mono Cells close upIf you want to be the part of BigWit solar rooftop family, you can give us a call on or send us a mail on . BigWit Energy is one of the best solar companies in Maharashtra, Chandigarh, Mohali, Punjab, Panchkula and all of North India and we offer EMI plans of upto 3 years for our customers too pan India!
Alternatively you can schedule a callback from us at your preferred time over here.
Contact us to discuss your requirements of mono perc panels. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.
The 100-watt solar panel could be your answer if you seek a simple and inexpensive solution to generate solar power. With their compact size and low weight, 100-watt panels can be used in various situations.
For example, it's simple to attach one to an RV or boat, take it camping or set it up in a remote cabin that isn't connected to the power grid. Before purchasing, you'll learn everything you need about the 100-watt solar panel.
A 100-voltage solar panel is a photovoltaic panel designed to convert sunlight into electricity. It is made up of photovoltaic cells, arranged in an off-grid pattern on the panel's surface.
When sunlight hits the cells, it excites the electrons within the cells and causes them to flow, generating an electric current on the parallel side. The strength of the wind is determined by the panel's size and the sunlight's intensity.
A 100-watt PV solar panel kit can produce approximately 100 watts of power output under optimal conditions. Solar panels are used in various off-grid applications, including powering homes and businesses, workmanship, charging batteries, and providing electricity to remote locations.
Several types of solar panels are available on the market, and they can be broadly classified into four main categories.
Monocrystalline solar panels are made from a single, continuous crystal of silicon. They are made by slicing a single silicon crystal into thin wafers, which are then used to create the photovoltaic cells that make up the solar panel.
As a result, monocrystalline solar panels are highly efficient and can convert a large portion of the sunlight they receive into electricity.
Polycrystalline solar panels, also known as multi-crystalline solar power inverters, are made from multiple crystals of silicon that are melted together and then cooled to form a solid block.
Polycrystalline solar brackets are less efficient at converting sunlight into electricity than monocrystalline solar panels but are also less expensive to manufacture.
Passivated Emitter and Rear Contact (PERC) solar panels are photovoltaic panels that utilize a particular type of solar cell known as a passivated emitter rear contact (PERC) cell.
These cells are designed to increase the efficiency of the solar panel by allowing more sunlight to be absorbed and converted into electricity. PERC cells have a passivated layer on the back of the cell, which helps to reflect light into the cell and increase the amount of sunlight absorbed.
Thin-film solar panels are a type of photovoltaic panel made by depositing a thin layer of photovoltaic material, such as cadmium telluride (CdTe) or amorphous silicon (a-Si), onto a substrate.
They are significantly lighter than traditional crystalline solar panels, which makes them more flexible and allows them to be used in a wider range of applications.
The cost of a 100-watt solar power station for an average home will depend on various factors, including the type of solar panel, the location of the house, and any applicable rebates or incentives.
Depending on the specific model and manufacturer, you can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $400 for a 100-watt solar panel.
It's important to note that a 100-watt solar panel is relatively small and typically used to power only part of the home. Most homes require a more extensive solar energy system with multiple solar panels and other components, such as inverters and batteries.
The solar energy system cost for an average home can range from $10,000 to $40,000 or more, depending on the size and complexity of the system.
Also Read - Does Solar Increase Home Value
The number of 100-watt solar panels you will need to power a home will depend on your home's size and energy needs. However, you can expect to need several hundred watts of solar panel capacity to power a typical home, depending on your energy consumption.
To determine the size of the solar energy system that you will need for your home, you will need to consider several factors, including the size of your home, your energy consumption, the availability of sunlight in your area, and the efficiency of the solar panels that you are considering.
The number of batteries that a 100-watt solar panel can charge will depend on the size and type of the batteries and the efficiency of the solar panel.
To determine the number of batteries a 100-watt solar panel can charge, you must consider the solar charge controller capacity and the solar panel's charging rate. For example, a 100-watt solar panel with a charging rate of 5 amps can charge a 20 amp-hour battery in approximately 4 hours.
However, if you use a smaller battery bank with a capacity of 10 amp-hours, it will take approximately 2 hours to charge the solar battery.
Solar panels can be a cost-effective way to generate electricity and help save money on your energy bills over the long term.
However, the amount of money you can save with solar panels will depend on various specifications, including the size of your solar energy system, your energy consumption, and the cost of electricity in your area.
Solar panels are generally the most durable and cost-effective in areas with high electricity costs and plenty of sunlight. They can also be a good option for homeowners who use a lot of electricity and want to reduce their reliance on the grid.
In these cases, solar panels can significantly reduce or even eliminate your electricity costs over time, saving you money on your energy bills.
Several grants and incentives are available for solar energy systems, depending on your location and your specific situation. Some of the most common types of licenses and incentives for solar energy systems with high transparency include:
Federal tax credits: The federal government offers a tax credit for solar energy systems through the Investment Tax Credit (ITC). This credit allows homeowners to claim a credit equal to 26% of the cost of their solar energy system on their federal income tax return.
State and local incentives: Many states and localities offer rebates, grants, and other incentives for solar energy systems. These incentives can offset the installation cost and make solar generators more affordable.
Net metering: Many utilities offer net metering programs, which allow homeowners with solar energy systems to sell excess electricity back to the grid. This can offset the system's cost and save money on your energy bills.
To choose the best 100-watt solar panel for your needs, you'll want to consider a few key factors, including the panel's efficiency, durability, lifespan, and cost.
In addition to these factors, you'll also want to consider the specifications and warranties offered by max solar panel manufacturers. Finally, look for high-efficiency panels with a good warranty and well-suited features.
Regarding portable solar panels, the Renogy 100 Watt Solar Panel is a top contender. This panel features an aluminum frame and low iron-tempered glass for durability. The advanced encapsulation material and pre-drilled holes make installation a breeze.
With its compact size of 47.3 x 21.3 x 1.4 inches and weight of only 16.5 lbs, this panel is easy to transport and perfect for camping trips or rooftop installations.
The panel also comes with accessories such as a junction box and the back of the panel cables for easy connectivity. On a sunny day, the board can produce up to 100 watts of power and has a maximum voltage of 21.2V. The panel's open circuit voltage (Voc) is 22.5V, and its short circuit current (Isc) is 6.10A.
It has a watt-hours (Wh) rating of 500Wh per day, making it ideal for powering small appliances and electronics. The panel is also available on Amazon and comes with free shipping. Overall, the Renogy 100 Watt Solar Panel is a reliable and efficient choice for those looking to harness the sun's power.
Installing a 100-watt solar panel is a relatively straightforward process, but it does require some basic knowledge and tools for an easy installation. Here is a general overview of the steps involved in installing a 100-watt solar panel:
Select a location for the solar generator that receives plenty of direct sunlight. Consider factors such as the direction of the sun, any obstructions, and the availability of space.
Ensure that the tilt mounts are clean and flat and can support the solar panel's weight. Install pole mounts, mounting brackets, or frames to help the panel if necessary.
Use the appropriate wiring and connectors to connect the solar generator to the battery. Ensure the connections are secure and the wire is adequately protected.
Mount the panel: Position the solar panel in the desired location and secure it to the mounting surface using the appropriate hardware. Make sure that the panel is level and that it is securely attached.
Once the panel is installed, test the system to ensure it works correctly.
It's a good idea to weigh the pros and cons of conventional solar panels and consider your specific needs and circumstances before deciding whether they suit you.
Cost-effective: Solar panels can be a cost-effective way to generate electricity, especially in areas with high electricity costs and plenty of sunlight.
Environmentally friendly: The solar system does not produce any greenhouse gases or other pollutants, making them a clean and renewable energy source to suit the environmental conditions.
Low maintenance: Solar panels require minimal maintenance and can last many years, making them a low-cost, long-term energy solution.
Initial cost: Solar panels require an initial investment to purchase and install, and this upfront cost can be a significant barrier for some homeowners.
Limited availability: Solar panels are most effective in areas with plenty of sunlight, and their effectiveness may be limited in areas with less sunlight.
Dependence on the weather: Solar panels rely on sunlight to generate electricity, and their output may be fine with bad weather conditions such as cloudy days or storms.
Small household appliances can be powered by a solar panel with an output of 100 watts or less. You can also reduce your monthly electricity costs by using it.
Moreover, solar panels are adaptable and may be employed in various settings, even those with limited square footage. The installation of numerous portable solar panels, each 100 watts, can generate extra power.
Monocrystalline solar systems are generally more efficient at converting sunlight into electricity than polycrystalline panels. Monocrystalline solar panels are usually more expensive than polycrystalline panels.
Both monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels have a long lifespan, but monocrystalline panels may have a slightly longer lifespan due to their higher efficiency and durability.
Several types of connectors can connect solar panels, including MC4 connectors, DC connectors, and AC connectors.
The size of a solar panel can be an essential factor when choosing a solar energy system for your home or business. In general, larger solar panels will be able to generate more electricity than smaller panels, making them a good choice for installations with high energy demands.
The size of a solar panel can be an essential factor when choosing a solar energy system for your home or business. In general, larger solar panels will be able to generate more electricity than smaller panels, making them a good choice for installations with high energy demands.
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