If you want to know which type of solar panel is best for commercial use our expert guide explains the main considerations. Both your energy requirements and available roof space may impact your decision.
Budget will also play a part. However, there are factors to consider, such as available grants, projected energy bill savings, and the expected longevity of the panels. All these points, and more, should help you make a more informed decision.
Solar panels help businesses save money on their energy bills, rely less on the grid, and contribute to their environmental goals. If you’re ready to switch to solar energy, we have all the advice you need right here.
Types of Solar Panels for Commercial Use
Below, we’re outlining the three most common types of commercial solar panels and detailing their energy efficiency levels, cost and suitability for various roof spaces. This comparison guide should give you an idea of the type of panel that could work for your premises.
Monocrystalline Solar Panels
We’re discussing monocrystalline solar panels first, the most popular choice for commercial buildings. Why are they considered the best choice? Well, they offer superior energy-generating performance compared to the polycrystalline panels. In fact, they provide efficiency ratings of between 15 and 22%, thanks to them being made of pure silicon crystal.
Yes, this is a more expensive choice than polycrystalline solar panels, but the energy-efficiency boost can help offset this extra upfront cost in the long run.
The other huge advantage of monocrystalline solar panels is that they don’t need as much roof space. So, if your commercial property has a smaller footprint, that won’t be a barrier to getting solar energy.
This type also offers the longest lifespan, as much as 40 years if well maintained.
- Superior energy efficiency of between 15 and 22%
- Doesn’t require as much roof space
- Highest lifespan of between 25 and 40 years
Polycrystalline Solar Panels
Polycrystalline solar panels are another option. They’re less common for commercial use but are cheaper, so if a smaller upfront cost is important to you, this could be a suitable option.
However, the catch is that they’re not quite as efficient at converting sunlight into energy as their monocrystalline counterparts. That’s because they’re crafted from multiple silicon crystals rather than pure silicon crystal. Energy efficiency reaches between 13 and 16%.
If you have more roof space, for example, if you’re looking to install on an industrial unit, warehouse or larger office headquarters, polycrystalline solar panels could be a good option.
- Mid-level energy efficiency of between 13 and 16%
- Requires more roof space
- Expected lifespan of between 25-30
Thin-Film Solar Panels
Thin-film solar panels, the third option available to businesses, offer a solution for more awkward roof designs. If you have a curved or uneven roof, that doesn’t mean you have to discount the idea of switching to solar energy. The clever, flexible design of these panels means they can slot effortlessly onto uneven or curved surfaces.
Of the three solar panels listed in this article, thin-film is the least efficient (between 9 and 15%), which is something to bear in mind. They also have the shortest projected lifespan of between 10 and 20 years. However, they are helpful for getting panels in place where the traditional crystalline versions aren’t suitable.
- Lower energy efficiency of between 9 and 15%
- Suitable for uneven or curved roof spaces
- Expected lifespan of between 10 and 20 years
Which Type of Solar Panel Is Best for Commercial Use?
Bearing all the considerations listed above in mind, monocrystalline is one of the best types of commercial solar panels for a reason. It offers the highest energy efficiency, the longest potential lifespan and doesn’t require a massive footprint to be installed. In fact, the only downside is its higher upfront cost. However, it’s always worth considering the financial savings to be made from the longer potential lifespan and enhanced energy efficiency.
It’s worth mentioning that monocrystalline solar panels won’t necessarily be the best choice for every business or commercial premises, but in most cases it will be.
If a lower upfront cost is non-negotiable, we’d recommend polycrystalline solar panels. And, if you have an odd roof space that isn’t compatible with crystalline panels, then we’d recommend the thin-film design for its adaptability.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Solar Panels for Your Business
By working with a professional solar panel supplier and installer, they can talk you through all the considerations to help identify the best commercial solar panel for your building. The main discussion points will revolve around:
- Your available roof space, the design of your roof and the orientation
- Energy requirements of your facility
- Cost of the panels and projected future savings for each type of panel
- Durability and longevity of the panels
- Installation requirements to ensure minimal downtime for your business
- Whether you need planning permission (in most cases, you won’t)
- Optional extras, such as a battery to store excess energy
Get Your Solar Panel Installation Project Underway
GlenFarrow offers a full turnkey solution for solar panel design, installation and maintenance for commercial buildings.
To maximise your solar PV energy generation, we can also install battery storage. For more specific information on getting commercial solar panels installed, please get in touch with our team, who will be happy to discuss your project and offer their expert advice.
We can also offer a full energy audit to ensure you’re choosing the right system for your business.
Please note: We only install monocrystalline solar panels for businesses, as these are best suited for commercial and industrial buildings.
Read our comparison guide to help you choose the best solar panel for commercial use.
