Solar Panel Types

Monocrystalline ($2.50-3.20/watt) - Most Popular

18-22% efficiency. Black appearance. Most efficient per square foot, so you need fewer panels. 25-30 year warranty. Best choice for most homes.

Polycrystalline ($2.00-2.50/watt) - Budget

15-18% efficiency. Blue speckled appearance. Cheaper per panel but need more roof space. Good for large roofs on a budget. 25-year warranty.

Thin-Film ($1.50-2.00/watt) - Specialty

10-13% efficiency. Flexible, lightweight. Best for commercial flat roofs or unusual surfaces. Not recommended for residential - too inefficient for limited roof space.

Premium Brands: SunPower, REC, LG ($3.00-3.50/watt)

20-22.8% efficiency. Best warranty (25 years on everything). Highest output per panel. Worth it if roof space is limited or you want maximum production.