Are There Differences in Solar Panel Sizes?

60 Cell versus 72 Cell Solar Electric Panels?

Whether you are considering a solar panel system for your home or office building, Forme Solar Electric starts the process by performing a thorough assessment of your property. We will present a few system designs and solar panel options to review based on the information gathered during your solar site assessment. Whether you are considering a solar panel system for your home or office building, we will analyze your roof space and electrical system in-depth. Our goal is to ensure that we can safely install solar for your home or business. 

Our solar energy system designs will include a few solar panel brands. At Forme Solar Electric, we are solar panel agnostic. We can provide options across all top-rated solar panel manufacturers, including Q-Cell, Tesla, LG Solar, Panasonic, and REC Solar Panels. We offer multiple different solar panels because we realize that our customers have different goals. By carrying multiple brands, our customers can choose between panel appearance, efficiency, and value.  

The panels we offer typically come in two different sizes. 60 cell panels, which measure approximately 40” x 66”, generally are the most commonly installed size for homes. Most commercial solar panels are large panel formats. These larger panels are about 40” x 80” and are frequently referred to as 72 cell solar panels. Most commercial 72 cell solar panels focus on value while sacrificing looks. To achieve a lower cost, the color of the 72 cell solar panels are typically blue while utilizing a silver frame.

Historically, 72 solar cell panels have been used as commercial solar panels, while 60 cell panels are often used as residential solar panels.

On residential roofs, aesthetics matter more, and 60 cell panels make more sense due to their smaller size. With common size limitations on roofs due to setbacks, vents, chimneys, and other obstructions, 60 cell panels are in higher demand. Not only can they be rearranged to look nicer, but they are also typically available in all black or black frame construction. 

Standard format panels are referred to as 60 cell panels.

The most significant difference of 72 cell panels is that they are typically are about 12″ longer or 6” wider. 72 cell panels aren’t more efficient, they contain 12 more solar cells than 60 cell solar panels. Recently solar panel manufacturers like LG, REC, and Q CELL are producing 72 cell solar panels built for residential. By offering 72 cell panels, Forme Solar Electric provides a better value option to our residential and commercial customers.

The Best Solar panel Installations Are the Ones that Follow the Manufacturer’s Specifications.  

Forme Solar is an expert at installing both 60 cell and 72 cell panels across all mounting planes. 60 Cell Panels are commonly installed on residential roof space. For commercial ground mount, carports, and other structures, 72 cell panels are widely installed. 

Every solar panel manufacturer provides specific guidelines on the location of the mounting points, certifications, design load ratings, and exact measurements. Regardless of the size of the panel, the most important consideration is how the panel size impacts the load ratings.

For Roof Solar Energy Installations, some of the key factors we need to consider: 

• Type of Roof
• Solar System Size
• Watts Per Panel
• Solar Panel Efficiency
• Size of the Solar Array
• Roof Slope
• Mean Roof Height
• Building Dimensions
• Attachment Spacing

This is why working with a solar company that properly adheres to the design loads of every solar panel manufacturer helps to ensure a successful and safe installation. All of the solar panels that we promote meets the UL1703 certification. The new standard is UL 61730, which is a more stringent certification than the UL 1703 for solar panels.

Forme Solar Electrics’ professional installation practices coupled with strict adherence to manufacturers’ installation instructions ensure that your solar electric system can handle the weather and wind loads typical in California. 

Terrance Kim - Chief Operations Officer, Forme Solar Electric

Regardless of the size of your solar panel, Forme Solar will provide safe and durable options for your home or commercial property. Our primary goal is to reduce your monthly electricity bills from your utility company. 

Ready to go solar? Contact Forme Solar Electric for a quote and to learn more about solar panels!

Interested in learning more about our process and what it takes to go solar in California? Contact us or call 714-694-2262 today.