Why are black solar panels better than blue?

Black solar panels are the go-to choice for homeowners who want both efficiency and style. In this article, we'll explore why black solar panels outshine their blue counterparts and how they can be a good option for your home.

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What’s the difference between black and blue solar panels?

The crucial difference between black and blue solar panels is the type of silicon they use. Black solar panels are made from monocrystalline silicon, while blue panels are produced using polycrystalline silicon.

Monocrystalline silicon is made up of a single (hence “mono”) crystal structure which looks black to the human eye because of the way it absorbs light. To produce it, manufacturers melt and slowly cool pure silicon to form a cylindrical silicon ingot, then slice the ingot into thin charcuterie-esque wafers to make uniform-looking solar cells.

In contrast, blue polycrystalline solar panels are made by melting lots of silicon fragments together in a mould before cooling. This process leads to multiple crystals forming in each cell, giving the cells a unique blue and speckled look. In the case of both types of solar panel, their colours come naturally from the materials themselves, rather than because of a deliberate design choice by the manufacturers.

Whilst monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels are the most common on the market, there are also new types of solar panels emerging.

Why are black solar panels better than blue?

Black monocrystalline solar panels are superior to blue polycrystalline panels because they have a few distinct advantages:

• Higher efficiency
• Require less roof space
• Higher power output
• Better appearance
• Longer lifespan
• Better performance in hot weather

1. Higher efficiency

Monocrystalline panels have a higher efficiency than their polycrystalline counterparts, usually around 18-23%. In contrast, polycrystalline solar panels are only around 15-17% efficient. This difference is crucial, because it means the panels can generate more electricity from the same amount of daylight and consequently provide even greater energy bill savings.

And with monthly energy bill savings, you will gradually recover the initial cost of the solar panels.

2. Require less roof space

Since monocrystalline panels are more efficient than polycrystalline panels, you need a small number of solar panels to generate the same amount of power. This makes them ideal for roofs with limited space.

3. Higher power output

The most powerful solar panels on the residential market are almost exclusively monocrystalline. 

For example, Seraphim has managed to produce a 670W monocrystalline solar panel, which packs an enormous punch. However, it’s a bit bigger and heavier than most solar panels, so isn’t particularly suitable for most UK rooftops. 

4. Better appearance

Because of their sleek appearance, black solar panels are often seen as more visually appealing. They’re much better at blending in with UK rooftops, whereas blue solar panels tend to stand out a bit more. This can be particularly helpful if you live in a listed building or conservation area, and you need your panels to blend in.

5. Longer lifespan

Monocrystalline panels are tough and can easily last beyond 25 years. This durability also means less maintenance over time, making them a more reliable investment in the long run.

6. Better performance in hot weather

Black monocrystalline panels handle heat better, suffering less efficiency loss than polycrystalline panels. So, as we continue to experience intense heatwaves in the UK, you’re less likely to see a drop in your panels’ electricity output.

Are black solar panels more expensive than blue?

Black monocrystalline solar panels are usually more expensive than blue polycrystalline panels because of their complex manufacturing processes (check out the cost of solar panels).

Blue polycrystalline panels typically cost between £250 to £300 per m², while black monocrystalline panels can set you back around £300 to £450 per m² - at least 20% higher in cost. However, it’s worth noting that these figures are rough estimates and don’t include installation costs. 

Clearly, a solar panel system using blue panels will be a great deal cheaper than one​ using black solar panels, but you’ll also have lower efficiency and lower electricity generation.

According to Precedence Research, the monocrystalline solar cell market is expected to exceed $12.5 billion by 2032, whereas the polycrystalline solar cell market is forecast to achieve less than half of that value in the same time.

Monocrystalline vs polycrystalline solar cell market growth, 2022-2032

Do black solar panels have any disadvantages?

The main downside to black monocrystalline panels is the price. These panels usually cost at least 20% more than polycrystalline panels because making monocrystalline silicon is a more complicated process.

Also, to make monocrystalline cells, manufacturers cut silicon wafers from all sides, causing a large amount of waste that isn't exactly eco-friendly. 

That said, black monocrystalline solar panels have a smaller carbon footprint than blue polycrystalline panels because their production process uses less energy - melting all those fragments for polycrystalline panels is definitely more intensive.

Even though black monocrystalline panels have some minor downsides, their high efficiency means they make a positive impact on the environment in the long run, which helps balance their carbon footprint.

Can you get black flexible solar panels?

Plenty of brands offer flexible solar panels that offer both black monocrystalline solar cells and a flexible design. These panels are useful in situations where heavy and rigid traditional panels aren't ideal - for example, off-grid solar PV systems like on campervans and boats.

The cons of flexible solar panels are that they're not as efficient or durable as standard panels. But they’re usually lightweight, portable and cheaper, making them ideal for the outdoors and short-term use.

Can you get solar panels in any other colours?

Solar panels aren't just your bog-standard black and blue anymore - they come in lots of different colours. Speciality manufacturers are spicing up panels with all sorts of shades and patterns, so they stand out and/or complement various environments.

While this gives the creatives among us more style choices, these panels are usually pricier and may generate less power than traditional black or blue panels. Lighter-coloured panels generally won’t work as well as darker ones, as they reflect (rather than absorb) more light.

To learn more about the Dutch startup that's pioneering the use of colourful solar panels, as well as other interesting solar information, check out our rundown of the top 17 solar panel facts.

Summary

If you want to get the most out of your solar investment, black solar panels are the way to go. With a higher output and a longer lifespan, they're great for generating energy efficiently - but their steeper costs might not fit everyone's budget.

Thinking about getting black solar panels? To find out how much a solar & battery system could save you on your energy bills, click the button below and provide us with a few quick details.

Black solar panels: FAQs