Thin Film

Amorphous or Thin Film solar panels

Amorphous silicon does not contain the same structure as poly or monocrystalline silicon, with atoms forming a more random network which is less effective at absorbing energy from daylight. This means that thin film solar panels typically only have half the efficiency of mono or polycrystalline panels, so take up twice as much space for the same power output. However, if space is available, they can be used effectively in situations where shading is more of a problem, as they are more resistant to the effects of shade than other types of panel. A thin film solar panel installation will cost a little more than one using mono or polycrystalline panels of the same installed power.