Are you one of those people still trying to figure out what the difference is between N-Type vs P-Type Panels? Well, I hate to break it to you, but there are so many people like you. While the solar industry has evolved a lot, there is still some confusion about the basic difference between these two types of panels.
However, you don’t need to worry, because in this article you will understand the difference between these two solar panels easily and in detail.
The Key Differences Between N-Type vs P-Type Solar Panels
To make it simpler for you, let’s first understand how these two solar panels are manufactured. First, let’s talk about P-type solar panels. These panels have a silicon base doped with boron, which creates holes or positive charges. The name of the panel is P-type, and p stands for positive charge, so these panels have extra holes.
Now, if we talk about N-type solar panels, these panels have N in their name, which indicates that they will have extra electrons in them, the negative charges. The basic difference between N-type panels and P-type panels is their extra electrons and holes, respectively. These extra holes and electrons are created because P-type panels have an additional boron layer and N-type panels have an additional layer of phosphorus.
So far, you must have understood the major difference between the two types of PV panels and how their manufacturing is different from each other. Now, the major concern is which panel is better, which one you should choose, and which one dominates the other.
Let’s dive into the benefits of these panels while also doing their comparative analysis.
1- Working Efficiency
The first and most important benefit of N-type panels is that they have higher working efficiency as compared to the P-type panels. The reason is their extra electrons; the presence of these electrons reduces the energy loss and improves the charge carrier mobility of the panels, which provides maximum production.
P-type panels provide 21.4%, but N-type panels provide higher efficiency, such as Doart N-type panels provide 22.70% efficiency. This is the reason there has been a huge shift towards N-type solar panels lately.
2- Durability
If you have some know-how about solar panels, you must be aware of terms like LID and PID. Even if you are not familiar, don’t worry; here is a quick guide. LID means light-induced degradation; to put it more simply, solar panels lose their working efficiency due to long-term exposure to light.
PID is potential-induced degradation, which occurs because of extreme temperature and humidity. When it comes to solar panels, N-type panels are more tolerant to LID and PID due to their cell structure, which means your panel will have fewer chances of degradation because of light or temperature as compared to P-type panels.
3- High resistance to temperatures
Temperature is one of the major concerns for solar panels, as variations in temperatures can lead to performance degradation. There are also concerns about panel breakage because of hot weather or snow. But N-type solar panels are also more resistant to these conditions as compared to P-type panels.
These panels are known to perform very well even during bad weather conditions because of their double glass quality that absorbs maximum energy even when the sun isn’t shining. N-type solar cells have a wider operational temperature range, such as Doart panels have a temperature range of -45~85° C, which means they can perform well even during scorching summers and chilly winters.
4- Long-term investment
Now that we have talked about technical specifications and the benefits, it’s time to discuss how you are going to get benefits from your investment. Paying for solar is a huge upfront cost. However, with the advancement of technology, the costs of solar panels have been reduced. When it comes to P-type panels, people can find them more economical and less expensive as compared to N-type panels.
But here is a thing: investing in N-type panels is going to give you more benefits as compared to P-type panels. When it comes to P-type panels, you can get a 25-year performance warranty, but on N-type panels, you get a 30-year performance warranty.
Which one should I choose—N-type vs P-type solar panels?
Now, the main question is: which one should you choose, N-type or P-type solar panels? Well, if we consider all the differences mentioned above, N-type panels are a better choice. But again, which one you should choose will depend mainly on your requirements. If you are looking for a more economical option, then the P-type panel is perfect, but if you are looking for a long-term solution for your energy needs with advanced benefits, then the N-type panel is a better choice.
Final Words!
The difference between N-Type vs P-Type Panels might seem technical at first, but now you know the basics. Whether you’re just starting with solar or thinking about upgrading, it’s great to be informed. At the end of the day, whichever panel you choose, you’re doing something great for the environment and your future energy needs. It will not only save you on electricity bills but also ensure a clean energy source for your home.