Why are Some Solar Panels Blue?

The color of a solar panel comes from the way sunlight interacts with two different types of solar panels: monocrystalline and polycrystalline. The color of monocrystalline is blue, while the color of polycrystalline is brown. In this post, we will look at what the color of a solar panel can tell you and what causes solar panels to be blue.

Blue vs. black solar panels

Solar panels appear blue because of the type of silicon (polycrystalline) utilized in a certain set of solar panels. The blue tint is primarily owing to an anti-reflective coating, which improves the solar panels' absorption capacity and efficiency. Black solar panels (monocrystalline) are frequently more efficient because black surfaces absorb light more naturally.

The great majority of the modern solar photovoltaic panels are constructed of silicon, a non-metallic material utilized in most modern electronics. Silicon is utilized in solar panels partially because of its capacity to absorb most wavelengths of light and generate an electric charge, and partly because we can commercially make near-perfect crystals of it at a reasonable cost. Differences in solar panels are caused by a variety of factors, the most important of which is the quality of the silicon utilized in the module. The majority of solar panels have a blue tint and are built of polycrystalline silicon, whereas the smaller number that seems black are made of monocrystalline silicon.

Solar panels that are polycrystalline (blue)

The raw silicon used in polycrystalline solar cells is melted and placed into a square mold before being poured into a polycrystalline solar cell. Because the silicon isn't completely aligned throughout this procedure, several individual silicon crystals are formed within the mold. Polycrystalline panels have a speckled, shimmering effect and a blue tint due to the nature of the individual silicon crystals.

When compared to monocrystalline cell production, polycrystalline cell production produces less waste and uses less energy. Polycrystalline solar panels are less costly and more extensively utilized as a result. Most solar panels on the market today are polycrystalline due to the reduced cost of manufacturing polycrystalline solar panels, and as a result, most solar panels have a blue color.

Benefits of Blue Solar Panels

Blue solar panels are frequently advantageous in terms of cost. Monocrystalline (black) panels are more expensive than blue panels because they need a considerably more thorough production procedure. Furthermore, because the production process is easier and involves less waste, blue panels are a greener choice. Here are some other benefits:

• Because they are more standard, they are less expensive to fix.
• The most affordable upfront cost of all solar panels.
• A greener and more environmentally responsible option.

Solar panels that are monocrystalline (black)

The silicon used to manufacture monocrystalline solar cells is extremely pure. In a monocrystalline solar cell, all of the silicon is orientated in the same direction, resulting in a single big silicon crystal. Monocrystalline solar panels seem black in color due to the way light interacts with a monocrystalline silicon layer. The Czochralski technique, which involves aligning the silicon into a single crystal, is energy-intensive and resulting in some silicon waste. As a result, monocrystalline panels are more expensive than polycrystalline panels.

Benefits of Black Solar Panels

When it comes to black solar panels, there are a few key factors that are frequently considered. One significant difference is that black solar panels are often far more efficient than their blue counterparts. Because each silicon cell is exactly aligned and arranged, less of the sun's energy is lost. As a result, many households will choose black solar panels since they require fewer panels to gather the same amount of electricity. Here are a few additional advantages to think about:

• Because of the dark hue, it absorbs more light.
• Better performance in hot temperatures.
• Their space-saving design makes them more appealing to individuals with limited roof space.
• The majority of black solar panels will last substantially longer.

Which is better: black or blue solar panels?

Both black monocrystalline and blue polycrystalline solar panels have distinct advantages and disadvantages. Monocrystalline panels have better efficiency than polycrystalline panels due to the homogeneity and alignment of silicon in monocrystalline solar cells. This better efficiency, however, comes with a higher cost, as monocrystalline solar panels are typically more expensive to create and purchase. Polycrystalline solar panels are produced in a less intensive manner (the silicon is less pure and does not need to be aligned), resulting in cheaper pricing for consumers and installers.

If efficiency is your primary priority, a monocrystalline solar system may be the best option for you. Similarly, polycrystalline panels may be the most cost-effective option for your solar installation.

Solar panels that are blue/polycrystalline

• It is distinguished by visible crystals, a more dispersed appearance, and lower-quality silicon.
• Need somewhat more room to generate the same quantity of energy as black panels.
• The production method is less difficult and produces less waste
• less expensive

Solar panels that are black/monocrystalline

• Characterized by a sleek, black look and high-quality silicon
• Take up less room and have a longer lifespan.
• Produced using an energy-intensive manufacturing technique that creates a large amount of waste
• Installers and customers will pay a greater price.

Installing solar panels for your home is a sustainable decision

Installing solar panels to power your house, regardless of the type of solar panel you pick, is a sustainable move that offers the following advantages:

• Lowers hazardous emissions
• Discover simple solar panel financing choices.
• Claim exemptions from sales and property taxes.
• Take advantage of credits for excess electricity generation.
• Above importantly, installing either type of panel will drastically reduce your monthly energy expenditures.

Find the right solar panels for your home

How will you select what's suitable for your home after researching solar panels and considering the various possibilities available today? Solar technology is also continually evolving, so what works best for your home now may not work as well in 3-5 years. Is this a reason not to invest in solar? Certainly not!

Solar is an investment in your future, allowing you to instantly save money on your power bill while also increasing the value of your property.

You may install black solar panels or blue solar panels, depending on your preference, Forme Solar has you covered. For more information or to get started on your solar project, contact one of our Energy Advisors today! Whether you're looking for solar panels for residential, business, or agricultural use, we're here to help you get the most out of your investment.

With numerous leading brands of monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels, Forme Solar is a fast-growing, local provider for California. With the use of cutting-edge technology, we can even get you set up! Call us at (714) 694-2262 right now! We provide excellent workmanship and low-cost solar panel installation services.