Many solar-related terminologies out there need to be clarified for homeowners. An example is the number of cells. Solar panels have a different number of cells which range from 18-96 in number. Small solar panels with a few cells can be used for RVs, boating, hiking, and many activities that don’t require much energy.
As you increase the number of cells, the applications also start to change. High energy consumption applications require more cells, like homes and utility solar farms. Commonly used solar panels have 60 and 72-cells.
60-cell And 72-cell Solar Panels
Try to look at solar panels closely if you happen to observe one. You will see a lot of squares on the grid-like design of the solar panel’s surface. One solar cell is one square. Solar panels can be made from polycrystalline or monocrystalline silicon. Lots of solar cells combine to form one solar panel. These are tiny structures that help in generating electricity.
The dimensions for a 60-cell panel are usually 6 cells x 10 cells, while a 72-cell panel has a size of 6 cells x 12 cells. More solar cells contribute to more electricity production, which is why 72-cell solar panels have a higher wattage (due to their larger size).
Because of this, you’ll see 72-cell solar panels being used commercially or for larger utility-scale solar installations. On the other hand, the smaller 60-cell panels are used for normal homes. If you ever install solar panels, your local solar installer will suggest 60-cell panels.
Price Comparison
Surprisingly, the number of cells doesn’t affect the cost of the solar panel. You can get 60-cell or 72-cell solar panels in the US for $16,080. If you factor in the federal tax credit, this will amount to $11,256. These prices are assumed for a system with a size of 6 kilowatts.
However, other factors affect solar panel pricing. These can be your:
- Location.
- Roof layout.
- Solar panel brand.
72-cell panels can be cheaper if you amount the price per panel. This is because 72-cell panels are typically used for large-scale applications and purchased in large wholesale volumes. If you use these panels in residential applications, your savings will usually be $200-$300.
The Good And The Bad
Both 60-cell and 72-cell solar panels have their advantages and disadvantages. Some of the pros of both are:
- 72-cell panels are cheaper and can produce more energy per panel. They have a lower cost per watt.
- 60-cell panels are harder to damage and can fit easily in small spaces like compact roof segments.
The cons include:
- 72-cell panels are large, making it challenging to install them on compact roof segments. Their large size makes them heavier and also harder to install.
- 60-cell panels produce less energy per panel, and their installation requires more panels.
Other Sizes
66-cell Solar Panels:
66-cell solar panels are a breakthrough in cell technology. These panels give some of the highest energy output per panel. They can reach about 440W, which is an impressive power output. To give you a better idea, residential solar panels are around 370 watts.
Half-cut Cells:
An impressive and distinguishing feature of half-cut cells is that they have twice the cell count, even though they’re the same size as normal panels. How is it possible? Well, the cells are cut in half. These panels have the same size as a 72-cell panel but don’t have a 6 cell x 12 cell count. Instead, they have a 6 half-cut cell x 24 half-cut cell layout.
Their popularity can be attributed to physics. If you cut a solar cell such that it’s divided into two halves, the current will also be divided equally between them. Since current and resistance are directly proportional, resistance is also reduced. Decreased resistance leads to low energy losses.
This allows for a slightly increased energy production. These small cells are also difficult to crack. This makes them the ideal panels to be installed in areas with harsh weather conditions and provides resistance against improper handling during installation.
Don't trust an installer if they’re bragging about the cell count of their solar panels. Most of the time, this will only happen if that installer is deceitful. They’ll be bragging about the cell count even if the energy output of the two systems is the same.
This is because they think people will be easily tricked if they think they’re getting more cells which means more energy. However, that’s not true, so beware of such installers.
Important Considerations
You should also keep solar panel warranty and efficiency in mind. They play an important role in your solar purchasing decision.
Performance Warranty:
Most solar panels come with a 25-year production warranty. This means the solar panels won’t fall below a certain energy output throughout their 25 years. This minimum guaranteed energy output will decrease with time.
The energy output can drop from 100% in the first year to 80-92% in the 25th year. This process is called solar panel degradation. High-quality solar panels can even last 30 years.
Product Warranty:
During this period, you can ask your manufacturer to replace your solar panels if there is any issue with them. This warranty is usually 12 years. However, premium solar panels will even have product warranties of 25 years.
Solar Panel Efficiency:
This measures the extent to which solar panels can convert the captured sunlight into electricity. Normal solar panels have efficiencies that range from 17-23%. If you have a small roof, it would be better to install highly efficient panels since they’ll take less space and last more than normal panels.
Final Remarks
Both 60 and 72-cell panels have different sizes but generally produce the same energy. There’s a slight difference, but that shouldn’t be your reason for choosing one over another. You should also consider other factors, like the cost, roof size, location, and roof layout.
In short, the cell count should be the least of your concerns. If your desired solar system can fit on your roof and is installed by a reliable installer with good-quality equipment, that’s the best thing possible.