N-Types Cost More Upfront
It is certainly true that if cost is a factor in your desire to install a solar package: a solar battery and solar panel system on your house, then P-type panels are cheaper: the average cost of solar panel installation in Sydney is $4,990 for a 6kw solar system. These numbers are based on the cost of a P-type solar panel system because, in general, N-type systems are less widely available and, therefore, more expensive upfront.
N-Type Cells Are More Efficient
When it comes to efficiency, N-type cells take the cake. This is due to the fact that they are dipped in phosphorus, which, in contrast to boron, doesn’t have a degrading effect on the cell’s longevity. Chinese solar manufacturer JinkoSolar heavily contributes to the N-type solar panel market, boasting an efficiency rate of 22.5% and a guarantee of just a 13% degradation after 30 years.
If efficiency is what you’re looking for and a maximum return on your big investment in a solar installation, then N-type panels are the way to go.
N-Type Panels Last Longer
In addition to their efficiency rating, the longevity of N-type cells is also a consideration. As mentioned, N-type cells are dipped in phosphorus, which is a non-reactive chemical component that provides stability to the silicon as the electricity travels through the cells, but doesn’t have the negative side-effect of degrading the cell’s lifespan over time through LID.
Panel will provide you with maximum efficiency in your limited, making your investment go much farther, despite the lack of roof space. You could also pair your N-type system with the best solar batteries that money can buy to increase your existing available power and make your small roof footprint work in your favour.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a small-scale, cost-effective solar energy solution, choose a P-type system. You’ll likely be more than pleased with it and get your money’s worth in energy savings throughout its lifetime. Or, use those energy savings to invest in an N-type panel setup when possible. But, if money is no object, or you have extensive solar energy needs, then the more efficient but less-affordable N-type system would probably be your best bet.
