Can You Use Mono and Poly Solar Panels Together? [Explained]

January 17, 2023

The two most common types of solar panels to consider when building a photovoltaic (PV) system are monocrystalline solar panels (mono) and polycrystalline solar panels (poly).

There are some important distinctions to be aware of between the two types of solar panels.

Value is not the only thing solar panels can provide for your home; they can also help you save money on your monthly power bill by reducing your energy consumption.

However, they could be expensive, so maximizing your return is essential. In this post, we will acknowledge everything regarding mono and poly solar panels.

Table of Contents

Monocrystalline Solar Panels

A solar panel that only contains monocrystalline solar cells, also known as “wafers,” is called a monocrystalline solar panel. Wafers constructed from a single crystal of silicon are called monocrystalline wafers.

The key benefits of monocrystalline panels include better efficiency and sleeker appearances, although they are often considered luxury solar products.

Since there is only one crystal in a monocrystalline cell, its electricity-generating electrons have greater room to roam about.

Because of this, the efficiency of monocrystalline solar cells is higher than that of polycrystalline solar cells.

Although more expensive per panel, monocrystalline solar panels require less space on your roof and provide more electricity per unit of time.

Since there is only one crystal in a monocrystalline cell, its electricity-generating electrons have greater room to roam about. This means that monocrystalline solar cells are more efficient than polycrystalline solar cells.

Polycrystalline Solar Panels

Silicon is used in both monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels. Instead of employing a single silicon crystal, however, the wafers for the panel are formed by melting together several smaller pieces of silicon.

“Multi-crystalline” or “many-crystal silicon” are other names for polycrystalline solar cells.

Since more crystals are in a polycrystalline solar panel’s cell, the electrons have less room to flow, reducing efficiency. These panels cost less than typical since they are simpler to produce.

As a bonus, polycrystalline solar panels have a more blueish hue than their monocrystalline counterparts’ black color.

You’ll need more to meet your home’s electrical needs but save money overall because they’re less efficient.

Can You Use Mono And Poly Solar Panels Together?

There is no rule against using numerous solar panels together, although doing so is not recommended unless each panel’s voltage, wattage, & amps are carefully considered.

Furthermore, mono and poly solar panels must be connected in different strings for optimum output.

You could do it if you wanted to, but it needs to be advised. This is because various panel types have distinctive electrical properties.

Thus, the power production and maximum power point can be negatively impacted by connecting solar panels of various types.

The notion of the weakest link states that if all of the panels in a system are weak, then the whole system will fail regardless of the connection method used (series or parallel).

If you’re hooking up multiple solar panels, sending the power from each string to its charge controller and inverter is best. There will be additional expenses, but the separation will be worthwhile in the long run.

Solar panels are typically wired together in parallel rows.

Multiple solar panels should be connected to each string, and each output should be tracked using a Maximum Power Point Tracker (MPPT).

When mono and poly are utilized in the same string, the output is often below the working range of the inverter, resulting in no power. This is because of the differences in their electrical characteristics.

Using a mix of polycrystalline and monocrystalline solar panels (each type in a separate string) makes it easy to monitor the output rating and reduces the likelihood of fluctuations.

The inverter will function as designed, allowing you to benefit from your system’s increased efficiency while getting all the power you need. These two solar panel types complement one another.

For instance, mono solar panels would increase system output when there is insufficient sunlight, while poly solar panels will increase output when sunlight is abundant.

Difference Between Monocrystalline Solar Panels & Polycrystalline Solar Panels

1. Poly Solar Panels Are Cheaper

Producers can build polycrystalline cells at a cheaper price while making a profit due to their reduced efficiency.

The cost of manufacturing the cells is reduced, with the only major inputs being the semiconductor ingredients and silicon wafers.

Overall, it’s safe to assume that this solar technology’s pricing will continue to fall. This is wonderful news for homeowners hoping to save money on the next system installation.

2. Mono Solar Panels Are Cleaner/Higher Quality

In contrast to polycrystalline cells, monocrystalline cells are nearly defect-free and contaminant-free after being processed via the manufacturing process.

Because of this, their substance is significantly purer than polycrystalline alternatives; the difference in purity is reflected in the material’s hue.

Furthermore, monocrystalline panels convert more of the available light into usable electricity.

This solar technology is more expensive than polycrystalline alternatives due to its greater purity and efficiency rates; nonetheless, it is well worth it for homeowners seeking the best market value.

3. Less Efficient At Generating Current

Monocrystalline modules are less efficient than polycrystalline cells at converting sunlight into usable electricity, but they’re cheaper to produce and use higher-quality components.

However, it has been demonstrated that these modules can sustainably deliver more power under high temperatures (e.g., ar climates).

Although their power output is much more consistent in the evenings, they are perfect for off-grid residences in specific areas.

4. Poly Solar Panels Are Lighter

Silicon ingots produce the vast majority of mono cells; these ingots cannot be further processed into smaller sizes until they are sliced into wafers (around 110 micrometers thick).

Cutting out a single monocrystalline cell from a wafer renders the remainder of the block worthless, although some businesses have developed recycling methods.

High purity and absence of impurities cause the panel to be heavier than the polycrystalline equivalent, but they cause brighter module colors for improved performance in direct sunlight.