Introduction
It’s not really your fault if you mix up terms such as “solar panels” and “PV modules” casually. After all, they’re both components of one system, right?
However, while they sound fairly similar, they are not quite the same. Both of these are components of solar energy systems and refer to different items.
A solar panel is the entire assembly that contains one or more PV modules, the individual units that convert sunlight into electricity.
So why does it matter?
Because when you know the difference between solar panels and PV modules, you can make a more informed decision while choosing the right solar system for your home or business.
That’s why, in today’s blog, we’ll break down exactly how solar panels work, clear up any confusion around solar energy systems, and help you make an informed choice for your solar investment.
Solar Panels And PV Modules
We receive this question frequently: “Is a PV Module the same thing as a solar panel?”
Not exactly. Think of it like a car engine and a car – they’re not the same thing. We’ll break down the terminology for you:
| Component | What it is | What it Does |
| PV Module | A single piece of equipment made of solar cells | Converts sunlight to electricity |
| Solar Panel | A group of PV modules | Parent – the final product that gets installed to produce energy |
So technically yes, every Solar panel isIS a collection of PV modules. But not every PV module is a solar panel.
Think of it like this:
Solar Cell → PV Module → Solar Panel → Solar Array → Complete Solar Energy System
Key Differences Between Solar Panels And PV ModulesHaving clarified the basic definitions, we want to look at some key real-world differences between solar panels and PV modules. These differences are very important since they impact how solar systems are designed, what they will perform like, their cost, and how we should go when selecting them.
1. Construction: What’s Inside Each Of Them?
- PV Module: Made of solar cells that are interconnected and seen in a protective casing. This is where the magic happens, converting sunlight into electricity.
- Solar Panel: A solar panel has multiple PV modules. It’s essentially the entire system, with multiple connections, wiring, and mounting hardware to complete the system.
Quick analogy: If PV modules are like a solar cell’s workout routine, then a solar panel is the entire fitness regime (lots of modules doing their thing together).
2. Power Output: More Modules, More Power
- PV Module: A PV module on its own will produces approximately 300W to 585W to run a few small appliances but and not enough power to fully run a home or office.
- Solar Panel: A solar panel has several PV moduless, allowing it to produce more power (usually between 900W – 1.5kW depending on how many PV modules are included). This is why you require a solar panel for actual energy production.
3. Cost: What’s More Expensive, And Why?
- PV Module: A PV module’s cost depends on its efficiency, size, and brand. Monocrystalline PV modules are more expensive but more efficient.
- Solar Panel: Solar panels are naturally more expensive because they include not just the PV modules, but also the frame, wiring, and junction box. All the bits and bobs that make it ready to install!
Types Of Solar Panels: Which One Is Right For You?
There are different types of solar panels, and where there are different types, there are different efficiencies and costs. Below is a guide for you to help with the type of solar panels that will work for you.
| Type of Solar Panel | Efficiency | Best For | Key Advantage |
| Monocrystalline | 18-24% | Limited roof space | Most efficient, works in low light |
| Polycrystalline | 15-19% | Budget-conscious | More affordable, still good for space |
| Thin-Film | 10-18% | Large installations | Flexible, lightweight, less efficient |
Monocrystalline Panels
- Best For: If you’re tight on space and want the most power in a small area, go for monocrystalline panels. They offer the best efficiency, making them ideal for rooftops with limited space.
Polycrystalline Panels
- Best For: Polycrystalline panels are perfect for large spaces where you can install a lot of panels. They’re more cost-effective, but slightly less efficient than their monocrystalline cousins.
This is what happens when you get solar energy systems attached to the roof (the easiest situation to use here is the residential model that all states follow.)
- Step 1. Sunlight Hits The PV Modules: The solar cells in each of the PV modules take in the sunlight energy and convert it into direct current (DC).
- Step 2. DC To AC: The DC is then sent to the inverter that converts the DC to alternating current (AC) – which is what powers your home and business.
- Step 3. Electricity Powers Your Devices: The AC power then flows from the solar panels into your electrical system, powering your home and everything plugged into it, including your electric car.
- Step 4. Storing Excess Electricity: If your system is producing more power than you can use at that instant, it can go to solar batteries. This can be very useful overnight when the sun is not shining or on cloudy days like the days that the residential system does not produce enough power for your needs.
Why Understanding The Difference Matters
Its simple. Understanding the difference between solar panels and PV modules will allow you to:
- Determine the type of solar panel you need: do you need high efficiency or low cost?
- Estimate total system size and potential output: The PV modules in a solar panel determine how much energy the solar panel will produce.
- Get the best value for the money: If you understand the parts and their prices, you will be more informed about how your solar energy system is designed to your best advantage and you will not overpay for your solar energy system.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between solar panels and vs. PV modules is not just about knowing technicalities, it is about ensuring your solar energy system will be adequate for your needs. In doing so, it allows you to make decisions about the size, performance, and design of your solar energy system, enabling you to decide what is overpriced but will provide you with value.
At Inter Solar Systems, we have taken all of this out of your hands. Whether you want to power a small home or a large commercial building, we provide a vetted solution and source solar panels and PV modules that provide you with high-quality power, savings over the long term, and peacepiece of mind.
FAQs
1. What’s the difference between a solar panel and a PV module?
A solar panel has a number of PV modules that can generate electricity together, while a PV module is just a singular component of a panel, like a single unit before they make a complete solar panel.
2. What is the process of solar panels work?
Solar panels work by using PV modules to collect sunlight and turn it into electricity, and an inverter changes it into usable energy as AC electricity.
3. Can I use PV modules without solar panels?
No, PV modules need to be combined in order to make solar panels to generate power.
4. Why are monocrystalline panels better, and therefore more effective than polycrystalline panels?
Monocrystalline panels are one crystal that gather sunlight and convert it into electrical energy, while polycrystalline panels are composed of many pieces of silicon that make them slightly less effective than monocrystalline panels.
5. Is it better to install solar panels that are high-efficiency panels?
Yes, especially if you do not have much surface area as high-efficiency solar panels will create the most power in the least surface area.