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Beyond Black and Blue: The Spectrum of Solar Panel Colors and Their Functions

For some, the idea of installing big black or blue panels on their roof compromises the aesthetic appeal of their home and serves as a superficial deterrent from going green. Well, now you can color coordinate your care for the environment and individualize your energy independence. 

Let’s delve into the different solar panel color options and their respective functions to determine which panel color suits your solar style.

Why Are Most Panels Black or Blue?

Solar cells are made from crystalline silicon, and the color variation depends on the purity of the silicon and how light interacts with it. Monocrystalline solar cells are made from a single silicon crystal, giving the panel a black color. Polycrystalline solar cells are made from many silicon crystals, giving the panel a blue color.

Are There Any Other Color Options?

Yes! There are other solar panel color options available. The efficiency, however, is significantly reduced, and the main impetus for other color options is almost purely aesthetic. 

Solar panels on barn roof, Waldfeucht-Bocket, Germany

Green Solar Panels

One of the biggest benefits of green solar panels is that they can be seamlessly integrated into natural environments. They blend beautifully with bushes and trees, and can even be strategically placed to compliment landscaping. This panel color option is perfect for the nature lover who wants to preserve the integrity of their green scenery.

White Solar Panels

White panels are popular for businesses and buildings that need to maintain a particular profile or historic appearance. They are less conspicuous than their black and blue counterparts and can operate at temperatures up to 30 degrees lower than standard panels. White also reduces heat absorption, so the interior of the structures to which they are attached will remain cooler.

Other Colorful Panel Options

Red, orange, brown, yellow, and even custom color options are being added to the aesthetic array of available colored solar panels. Dyed cells and specialized coatings are broadening the panel palette to pair well with any domicile style. Keep in mind that efficiency is significantly reduced, so the colorful panel options are best reserved for solar scenarios that favor fashion over function.

Solar panels

Clear Solar Panels

Yes, I know, clear is not a color. It is, however, a departure from the standard black and blue, and transparent solar panels — also known as photovoltaic (PV) glass — serve more of a practical purpose than the colorful PV panels. While they are slightly more expensive and slightly less efficient than standard panels, the application potential for PV glass is very exciting as solar technology continues to advance.

What Color is Right for You?

When it comes to going solar and picking a panel color, it really comes down to priorities. If efficiency is at the top of your list, standard black or blue PV panels are the best options. If your concerns are more about conforming to an architectural style, color scheme, or blending in with nature, a colorful choice is the way to go. Whatever your preference, the solar experts at Gurr Brothers Energy can answer all of your questions and set you up with a solar panel system that best suits your needs!

August 3, 2023

Author: Hunter S.

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