Solar panels are basically energy modules that are used to convert solar power into electricity. They are made up of photovoltaic cells (also known as PV cells) connected in series with the help of busbars and solders. Their prime function is to absorb sunlight, which then results in the generation of a DC current. This DC current is further converted into AC current by means of an inverter.

Different types of solar panels that have been developed over the years have evolved on the basis of their material and manufacturing techniques. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks. However, all these types can be classified into two major categories i.e. mono crystalline silicon panels and polycrystalline silicon panels based on their composition.

Various types of solar panels might differ in terms of their specifications, but most manufacturers provide a warranty period for each type mentioned below. Further, solar panels come with technical specifications like output capacity, power rating and more that need to be considered before purchasing one. Here's a look at some types:

1) Mono-crystalline solar panel

This type makes use of silicon wafers cut from single-crystal ingots. They have high efficiency rates, low temperature coefficients and require less space due to higher power density as compared to polycrystalline panels. The power output ranges between 250Wp and 300Wp per panel.

2) Polycrystalline (multi-crystalline) solar panel

This type comprises polysilicon cells formed by molten silicon cast into

In India, solar panels are classified in various ways. One way is based on the number of junctions they have, with single-junction and multi-junction solar panels having 1 and 2 layers, respectively. Another way is based on the generation, which focuses on the number of cells. The most common generations are gen 1 and gen 2.

Single junction solar panels are used for capturing light from a single wavelength. These are made from a single material like silicon, gallium arsenide or cadmium telluride and have only one absorbing layer. These can absorb sunlight efficiently but do not have enough efficiency to be used in commercial applications. That is why multi-junction solar panels are used instead. These have more than one junction and can absorb light from different wavelengths. They have a high efficiency rate, but it comes at an expensive price as compared to single junction solar panels. For example, triple junction solar cells come with an efficiency rate of 30% while double junction ones with 23% and 20% respectively.

Single junction solar panels are made up of a single layer of a semiconductor material whereas multi-junction solar panels are made up of several layers that contain semiconductors with different bandgaps (the amount of energy needed for electrons to jump from one band to another). However, if you want your solar cells to generate more power, you need more semiconductor layers.

Single junction cells are cheaper but less efficient than multi-junction cells. The efficiency of single junction cells ranges from 21% - 24% while that for multi-junction cells ranges from 25% - 43%. Multi-junction cells are expensive as compared to single junction cells due to their complex manufacturing process and use of rare materials like germanium, gallium, and indium.

Then there is another way of classifying solar panels i.e. with regards to the generation they belong to, which focus on how efficient they are. The first generation (1G) technology is also known as conventional or traditional technology, uses single silicon or monocrystalline silicon as a semiconductor material. They are generally dark blue in colour, highly efficient and durable but are expensive as well because of the high cost involved in cutting the bivouac. The second generation (2G) technology uses thin film technology and has a lower efficiency than 1G cells but is cheaper as well because it does not require monocrystalline silicon for its manufacturing. In India, these are mostly used in commercial applications like large warehouses or industrial complexes. The third generation (3G) technology uses advanced thin film technologies such as cadmium telluride and copper indium gallium selenide for manufacturing solar panels which have higher efficiency levels.

If you're looking to buy a solar panel in India, here's what you need to know:

- Cost: The cost of buying a solar panel depends on its type. Most residential and commercial panels cost between ₹30,000 and ₹1 lakh (including the cost of installation).

- Subsidy: Once you have purchased a solar panel in India, you can apply for subsidies from the government. The subsidy is 30% of the cost (with a limit of ₹20,000). That means if your panel costs ₹40,000, your subsidy would be ₹12,000 (30% of ₹40k).

India has numerous solar panel manufacturers that supply different types of solar panels. On the basis of the number of junctions and generations, these solar panels have been divided into four categories – Single Junction, Multi-Junction, First Generation and Second Generation.

These modules come with a varying degree of efficiency and different price ranges. So let’s take a look at the price range of different types of solar panels in India.