The solar energy market is one of Australia’s fastest-growing sectors, but solar power still only accounts for a small portion of the country’s total energy consumption. Are solar panels and sunpower still the way of the future for Australian energy needs?
Understanding Solar Panel Efficiency
Just how efficient are photovoltaic solar panels? It’s well known that solar panel systems have a low level of energy conversion efficiency compared to other energy production methods. However, sunlight is a free energy source, and monocrystalline panels have come a long way in terms of energy efficiency. The high efficiency of solar panels is better than ever, making now a good time to increase home solar energy production and decrease electricity bills.
What is Solar Panel Module Efficiency?
Leading solar panel manufacturers aim to produce panels with higher efficiency ratings. The most efficient solar panels with higher module efficiency ratings can convert more sunshine into power output. In addition, higher solar cell efficiency means you won’t need to use as many panels as systems with a lower efficiency rating. Monocrystalline high-quality solar panels can convert 15% to 24% of the PV rays they absorb into usable energy. Polycrystalline panels experience conversion rates between 13% and 20%. Thin-film panel types can convert 6% to 12%.
6 Solar Panel Efficiency Considerations
There are numerous factors that determine a quality solar panel’s efficiency rating. These include temperature coefficient design, PV cell semiconductor materials such as perovskite, and other innovative components. For homeowners, the solar installation placement of the panels, their angling, and environmental factors all play a part in determining the efficiency level of a solar panel system. Here are 6 solar panel efficiency considerations.
1. Types of Solar Cells
Solar cells absorb energy from solar PV rays. There are three main types of solar cells in use today:
- Monocrystalline: These solar cells feature a singular silicon crystal base. They are the most efficient panels on the market, but they cost more than polycrystalline or thin-film panels.
- Polycrystalline: Made using a collection of silicon crystals, these panels are the mid-range offering with a lower efficiency rating compared to monocrystalline panels.
- Thin-Film: A lower efficiency rating compared to crystalline panels, but with a lower price point. Thin-film systems require more solar panels.
2. Solar Cell Technologies
Solar cell technology has advanced rapidly. There are now four main types of cells available for commercial and home solar energy systems.
- IBC Cells: An ultra-efficient cell option, with efficiency ratings commonly nearing upwards of 29%.
- PERC Cells: Passivated Emitter and Rear Contact cells featuring an additional layer of paneling.
- HJT Cells: Heterojunction cells featuring polycrystalline technology and thin-film paneling.
- Half-Cut: These cells are divided into two, which doubles the number of total cells on one panel.
3. Sun Hours
The more irradiance (sun hours) a system receives, the higher amount of power it will be able to generate. The sun’s energy can produce a significant amount of electric current energy output for most Australian homes under standard test conditions.
4. Working Temperature
Lower temperatures often help residential solar panels deliver more power at better efficiency levels. Solar system performance can deteriorate if the temperature is consistently too high.
5. Shaded Roofs
The more exposed a high efficiency solar panel is to shade, the less effective it will be. Solar panels work best in high-sun environments. However, inverters can diminish the influence of shading to some extent.
6. Solar Panel Angle
It’s important to ensure your panels are positioned for maximum sun exposure. A 20-degree angle tilt is often recommended to harness the greatest amount of sunlight.
Solar Panel Energy Bill Savings
The average roof space solar system in Australia today has an efficiency rating of at least 20%. That translates into significant real-world energy bill savings for Australian households. There are various types of solar panels for every installation, along with opportunities for government rebates and clean energy incentives from electricity retailers. You can start to trim monthly electricity bills immediately with solar electricity feed-in tariffs back to the grid.
Changing to a Solar Energy Electricity Retailer
Did you know you can easily switch energy retailer plans in Australia’s deregulated energy market? However, you could spend days or weeks independently searching contract features and conditions. But it doesn’t have to be that way!
The GoSwitch price comparison search engine does the math for you in seconds for personalised solar energy plans with the best solar panels, customised electricity services, and great natural gas deals. The choices are all yours for highest efficiency household and business energy and the GoSwitch service to you is 100% free.
Switching Energy Retailers with GoSwitch
GoSwitch compares the latest and best deals from leading Australian energy retailers. You can find the right electricity, gas, or solar offer and switch to a better contract from the comfort of your home. Here’s how it’s done:
- Get started – Create an energy usage profile using your postcode.
- Compare energy deals – Use the GoSwitch energy retailer price comparison tool.
- Set up and save – Speak to a GoSwitch energy expert for advice and inspiration.
Comparing electricity deals is easy with GoSwitch, and the savings start immediately. A GoSwitch energy expert can help you sign up for a new energy plan, upgrade your current contract, and assist with relocations and reconnections. Search for a better deal with GoSwitch today and start saving straight away!
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