Known as single-crystal panels, these are made from a single pure silicon crystal cut into several wafers. Since they are made from pure silicon, they can be readily identified by their dark black color. Pure silicon also makes monocrystalline panels the most space-efficient and longest-lasting among all three solar panel types.
This relatively new technology adds a layer to the rear surface of the cell that enhances efficiency. It reflects light into the cell and increases the amount of solar radiation absorbed. It allows greater wavelengths of light to be reflected. The passivation layer reflects these higher wavelengths and stops them from heating the back sheet.
PERC panels allow greater solar energy collection in a smaller physical footprint, making them ideal for residential spaces.
These come from multiple fragments of silicon crystals melted together. The silicon fragments are melted and poured into a square mold. This makes them less efficient in energy conversion, space, and heat tolerance.