The types of Solar Modules that are most commonly used in the market today are:
Monocrystalline, Polycrystalline, and Thin-Film. Thin-Film Solar Panels can be further categorized into Cadmium Telluride (CdTe), Amorphous Silicon (a-Si), and Copper Indium, Gallium Selenide (CIGS).
Polycrystalline Solar Panels
These were the very first type of solar cells to be developed at the beginning of the industry, but they are still widely used today. Polycrystalline modules are made from different silicon crystals melted together making the most cost-effective option. However, the lower cost also comes with less efficiency and a moderate lifespan.
Monocrystalline Solar Panels
As the name suggests, these are single-crystal modules made from one pure silicon crystal making them the most efficient crystalline panels in terms of energy conversion. Monocrystalline modules also have the highest performance and longest lifespan, but this comes with a higher price tag.
Thin-Film Solar Panels
These solar panels are composed of very thin layers and as a result, can be flexible. Generally, they have the shortest lifespan. Like mentioned earlier, Thin-Film solar modules can be further categorized based on the materials they are made of.
Cadmium Telluride (CdTe)
A cost-effective option out of the Thin-Film panels due to the materials that are used in the production process. However, due to the toxicity of Cadmium, it is expensive and dangerous to recycle. Recycling facilities as a result charge the highest disposal fee for these panels.
Amorphous Silicon (a-Si)
Though made with Silicon, Amorphous Silicon modules require a lot less for their production compared to Poly and Monocrystalline modules. This makes them the cheapest option but the least efficient at the same time.
Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (CIGS)
As the name suggests, these panels are made with a compound called Copper Indium Gallium Selenide. Though they are the most efficient out of the Thin-Film solar modules they are also the most expensive.
Disposal of End of Life Solar Panels
Regardless of the type of panels, it is always important to contact an authorized PV Solar Panel Recycling facility with the necessary licenses, certificates, technology, as well as experience to treat incoming modules according to regulations. This ensures the lowest possible environmental impact and that the raw materials circulate back to new production processes.
Aerisoul is one of the leading solar panel recyclers in Europe, ensuring a smooth and reliable
disposal process from beginning to end for all used, end-of-life, and broken PV Solar Modules.
For more information, visit our website www.aerisoul.com or contact us at oliver.arany@aerisoul.com
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