1. Monocrystalline Solar Panels:
Monocrystalline solar panels are renowned for their high efficiency and sleek appearance. They are made from single-crystal silicon, giving them a uniform and efficient structure.

The manufacturing process involves slicing a cylindrical ingot into thin wafers, resulting in panels with high energy conversion rates, typically ranging from 15% to 22%.

While monocrystalline panels tend to be more expensive than other types, their superior efficiency and longevity often justify the investment, especially in space-constrained installations.

2. Polycrystalline Solar Panels:
Polycrystalline solar panels are another popular choice in the solar market. Unlike monocrystalline panels, polycrystalline panels are made from multiple silicon fragments melted together, resulting in a less uniform crystal structure.

Although they are generally less efficient than monocrystalline panels, typically ranging from 13% to 17% efficiency, polycrystalline panels offer a more cost-effective option for those on a budget. Their blue hue, caused by the scattering of light on the silicon fragments, is a distinctive feature.

3. Thin-Film Solar Panels:
Thin-film solar panels utilize a different manufacturing process compared to crystalline silicon panels. They are made by depositing thin layers of photovoltaic materials such as amorphous silicon, cadmium telluride, or copper indium gallium selenide onto a substrate such as glass, metal, or plastic.

Thin-film panels are lightweight, flexible, and often aesthetically pleasing due to their ability to be integrated into building materials. However, their efficiency typically ranges from 7% to 13%, making them less efficient than crystalline silicon panels. Despite their lower efficiency, thin-film panels excel in certain applications such as large-scale installations where space is abundant.

4. Bifacial Solar Panels:
Bifacial solar panels are a relatively recent innovation in the solar industry. Unlike traditional solar panels that absorb sunlight only from the front side, bifacial panels can also capture light from the rear side, increasing their energy generation potential.

These panels utilize transparent backsheets or glass on both sides to allow light penetration. Bifacial panels can offer efficiency gains of up to 20% compared to traditional monofacial panels, especially in environments with high albedo surfaces such as snow or white rooftops. Their versatility and enhanced performance make them an attractive option for certain applications.

5. PERC Solar Panels:
PERC (Passivated Emitter Rear Cell) solar panels represent a significant advancement in solar cell technology. They feature a rear surface passivation layer that reduces electron recombination, resulting in higher efficiency and improved performance, particularly in low-light conditions.

PERC panels typically achieve efficiencies of 20% or higher, making them one of the most efficient types of solar panels available commercially. While they may come at a slightly higher cost, their superior performance and reliability make them a preferred choice for residential and commercial installations alike.