The Three Main Panel Types
Understanding the differences between panel types helps you choose the best option for your balcony system:
Monocrystalline
Efficiency
19-22%
Price per Watt
$0.70-$1.00
Lifespan
25-30 years
Best for: Balcony systems where space is limited. Highest efficiency and best performance in all conditions.
Polycrystalline
Efficiency
15-17%
Price per Watt
$0.50-$0.70
Lifespan
20-25 years
Best for: Large installations where space isn't limited. Lower cost but less efficient.
Thin-Film
Efficiency
10-13%
Price per Watt
$0.40-$0.60
Lifespan
15-20 years
Best for: Flexible installations, curved surfaces. Not recommended for balcony systems due to low efficiency.
Detailed Comparison Table
| Feature | Monocrystalline | Polycrystalline | Thin-Film |
|---|---|---|---|
| Efficiency | 19-22% | 15-17% | 10-13% |
| Space Efficiency | Excellent | Good | Poor |
| Cost per Watt | $0.70-$1.00 | $0.50-$0.70 | $0.40-$0.60 |
| Lifespan | 25-30 years | 20-25 years | 15-20 years |
| Low Light Performance | Excellent | Good | Fair |
| Best For Balcony | ✓ Yes | Maybe | × No |
Pro Tip
For balcony systems, always choose monocrystalline panels. The higher efficiency is essential when space is limited. The extra cost is worth it for better ROI. Calculate your savings with our free calculator.