Solar PV Panels

A range of solar PV panels are available from Energy Station to suit all budgets.

There are a number of different types of solar photovoltaic systems available. Each do the same thing; convert solar radiation into electricity, but each of the systems have different characteristics, efficiency levels and prices.

Our Solar Panels

Our range of panels include panels from manufacturers such as Sharp and Sanyo and we can offer impartial advice on the best panel for your requirements.

	Sanyo Solar Panels Sanyo Hybrid Solar Panels are the highest efficiency available and are ideally suited to situations where space is at a premium. Our range of Sanyo Solar Panels
	Sharp Solar Panels Sharp solar technology is highly reliable and cost effective, making it one of the leading manufacturers in the UK. Our range of Sharp Solar Panels
	Sungrid Solar Panels Sharp solar technology is highly reliable and cost effective, making it one of the leading manufacturers in the UK. Our range of Sungrid Solar Panels
	SunPower Solar Panels SunPower panels boast an efficiency of over 16% together with black, attractive and robust design. Our range of SunPower Solar Panels
	Kyocera Solar Panels Kyocera manufacture highly efficient and hard-wearing solar panels, ideal for both residential and commercial applications. Our range of Kyocera Solar Panels

Types of Solar PV Panel

Below in order of price and efficiency are the systems and a brief explanation of their characteristics.

Thin Film (5-7% Efficiency)

The cheapest and least efficient type of solar PV is known as Thin Film or amorphous silicon and is made by depositing a thin film of silicon onto a material such as glass . This technology is mass produced in items you would use in every day life items like a calculator or a watch. The downside to this technology is that it requires large surface areas and high levels of solar radiation.

Polycrystaline (13-13.5% Efficiency)

Polycrystaline solar PV is made up of a number of smaller silicon crystals; usually cut usually in the design of a wafer. Although this is a less pure form of PV it is effective and generally cheaper.

Monocrystalline (13.5-14.5% Efficiency)

Monocrystalline solar is made up of a single silicon crystal and is considered purer than the previous 2 types. Generally it will be more efficient and more expensive than thin film or polycrystalline solar. These panels are usually blue with a silver frame.

Hybrid or HIT (17.3% Efficiency)

Hybrid or HIT is the premium type currently available and is the most efficient system. This incorporates a monocrystalline material overlaid with a thin film layer. By placing one material into contact with the other, the power conversion efficiency can be greater than a single material. As a result a much higher efficiency can be achieved but this is the most expensive option. The Hybrid panels are usually black and have a black frame.

How do I choose my system?

So, with all this variety which do I choose? Well, as always it depends on your requirements and budget. If roof space is not an issue and you want to maximise the return on your investment then a budget priced polycrystalline system will meet your requirements but may not offer the returns over time that the more efficient systems offer.

If you want the best product available but have limited space then maybe a hybrid, although more expensive, may be appropriate. You will earn better returns due to the panels’ higher efficiency and better working temperatures. In this context the mono option could be seen as a mid-market, system that will offer reasonable efficiency for a reasonable price.