COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS BETWEEN MONOCRYSTALLINE AND POLYCRYSTALLINE SOLAR PANEL IN TERM OF PERFORMANCE AND EFFICIENCY
Abstract
ABSTRACT
This study presents a comprehensive comparative evaluation of monocrystallineandpolycrystalline photovoltaic (PV) panels based on experimental measurements conductedinSumaila Local Government, Kano State. The analysis focuses on output power and efficiencyunder varying irradiance and temperature conditions. Experimental data were obtainedfrom08:00 to 17:00 hours and analyzed using computational methods described in Chapter Three. Theresults were summarized in tabular and graphical form to ensure clear comparison betweenbothPV technologies. Findings reveal a strong dependence of input power on solar irradiance, withpeak values recorded between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm. Despite operating under identical
environmental conditions and receiving the same mean irradiance (389 W/m²) and input power(141 W), the monocrystalline panel consistently outperformed the polycrystalline panel. Specifically, it produced a higher mean output power (18.64 W) and achieved superior averageefficiency (13.33%) compared to the polycrystalline module (17.52 Wand 12.51%, respectively). Graphical trends further show that the monocrystalline panel demonstrated a more dynamicandefficient response to fluctuations in solar intensity, whereas the polycrystalline panel recordedcomparatively lower and more stable outputs. The assessment indicates that monocrystallinepanels offer greater durability, with an operational life expectancy of 25–30 years anddegradation rates of 0.3–0.5% per year. In contrast, polycrystalline panels exhibit shorterlifespans of 20–25 years and higher degradation rates ranging from 0.6–0.8%annually. Thesefindings align with previous research, confirming that monocrystalline modules retainhigherefficiency and structural stability due to their high-purity silicon composition. Overall, thestudyconcludes that monocrystalline PV panels are more efficient, durable, and reliable for regionswith intense solar radiation such as Sumaila in Kano State. Their superior performance underhigh irradiance conditions makes them better suited for long-term renewable energy applicationscompared to polycrystalline panels.
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