Polycrystalline
Solar cell type made from multi-crystalline silicon with a bluish appearance and slightly lower efficiency than monocrystalline cells.
Also known as: Polycrystalline Solar Cell, Multicrystalline, Poly-Si
What Does Polycrystalline Mean?
Polycrystalline (also multicrystalline) solar cells are made from silicon composed of many small, differently oriented crystals. They are manufactured by casting liquid silicon into blocks, which is simpler and less energy-intensive than the Czochralski process.
Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Efficiency (module) | 16—18% |
| Appearance | Blue shimmering, irregular |
| Temperature coefficient | approx. -0.4%/°C |
| Market share (2024) | under 5% |
Comparison with Monocrystalline
| Criterion | Polycrystalline | Monocrystalline |
|---|---|---|
| Efficiency | 16—18% | 20—24% |
| Manufacturing cost | Lower | Slightly higher |
| Area per kWp | More | Less |
| Appearance | Bluish | Dark/black |
Historical Significance
Polycrystalline modules were the best-selling technology until approximately 2018, as they were cheaper to manufacture. As production costs for monocrystalline silicon fell and the efficiency gap widened, polycrystalline has been largely displaced from the market.
Practical Tip
Polycrystalline modules are no longer recommended for new installations. Today, they are mainly encountered in existing systems. Monocrystalline modules offer significantly higher yields per area at comparable costs.
Related Terms
Monocrystalline
Solar cell type made from single-crystal silicon with high efficiency and a characteristically dark, uniform surface.
Solar Cell
Semiconductor device that converts sunlight directly into electrical current through the photoelectric effect.
Efficiency
Ratio of usable electrical energy to incident solar energy -- indicates the effectiveness of a solar cell or system.