The difference between the two solar panel types comes down to the way the solar cells are made. This has an effect on the way they catch the sunlight and convert it to usable energy to power your application. The majority of solar panels use a conventional crystalline silicon (c-Si) solar cell. This cell consists of the silicon wafer which has been coated (or often referred to as having ‘been dosed’) with a variety of chemicals to stimulate power production.
The difference between the P-Type and the N-Type is simply which chemical forms the base of layer of the cell and which chemical forms the top layer. The P-Type solar cells are first dosed with a layer of boron to create the cell’s base layer. With boron having 1 less electron than silicon, this creates a positively charged base. It is then dosed with phosphorus to create the cell’s top layer. With phosphorus having 1 more electron than silicon, a negative charge is created as the cell’s top layer, and electricity in this cell will flow from top to bottom.
In opposition, N-Type solar cells are first dosed with a layer of phosphorus, and with phosphorus having 1 more electron than silicon, a negative charge is created as the cell’s base layer. It is then dosed with boron to create the cell’s top layer. With boron having 1 less electron than silicon, a positive charge is created as the cell’s top layer, and electricity in this cell will flow from the bottom to the top.
But what does it actually mean for the efficacy of each solar panel? Is one better than the other, and if so…why? First it is important to break down the pros and cons of both solar panel types.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Between N-Type and P-Type Solar Panels
Although breaking down the pros and cons for the panel types can be an easy solution for determining a better solar panel design, it is also important to consider the location and environment the solar panels will be used in. This can be a main determining factor in choosing the best panel type for your investment.
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