Solar Panel Options: How to choose carefully?

October 6, 2024

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A Contractor in front of a  photovoltaic system
Construction worker installing solar panels on roof

As the demand for renewable energy continues to grow, solar panels have become a leading solution for homeowners and businesses looking to reduce their energy costs and environmental impact. 

The adoption of solar energy is driven by the availability of various financing options, which simplify the process for contractors and end users. 

With that in mind, we are eager to teach you the different solar panel options available and explain how our company, Eos Loan, a fintech solution, makes financing seamless for both contractors and homeowners.

Types of Solar Panels

When it comes to selecting the right solar panel for your project, understanding the different types is key. There are three main types of solar panels available on the market:

Monocrystalline Solar Panels

Monocrystalline panels are made from a single, pure silicon crystal. This gives them their distinctive dark black appearance. These panels are known for their high efficiency rates, often exceeding 20%, which means they can convert more sunlight into electricity compared to other types. 

They are space-efficient and durable, making them a popular choice for both residential and commercial projects. However, they tend to be more expensive than other types of panels due to the complex manufacturing process.

Polycrystalline Solar Panels

Polycrystalline panels are made from multiple silicon fragments melted together. These panels have a bluish hue and generally offer lower efficiency compared to monocrystalline panels, usually ranging from 15-17%. 

They are less expensive to produce, which makes them a more affordable option for homeowners looking to reduce upfront costs. Polycrystalline panels are ideal for large installations where space is not a concern and cost-effectiveness is prioritized.

Thin-Film Solar Panels

Thin-film panels are made by layering photovoltaic materials, such as cadmium telluride or amorphous silicon, onto a substrate. They are lightweight and flexible, making them suitable for unconventional surfaces like curved roofs or surfaces that cannot support heavy weight. 

While thin-film panels are less efficient (typically around 10-12%), they perform better in low-light conditions and are less impacted by high temperatures. Their affordability makes them a viable option for large-scale commercial projects where space and weight are considerations.

Ok, but how to choose properly?

home improvement loans
Home equity investment is an option to avoid monthly payments (Image Source: Adobe Stock)

Choosing the right solar panel for your project involves more than just comparing the efficiency of different types. Here are key factors to consider:

Roof Space and Size

The available roof space plays a crucial role in determining the type of solar panel you should choose. If space is limited, monocrystalline panels may be the best choice due to their higher efficiency, allowing you to generate more energy with fewer panels. If space is abundant, polycrystalline or thin-film panels may be a more cost-effective solution.

Budget

Solar panels come with varying price tags. Monocrystalline panels, although more efficient, tend to be more expensive. On the other hand, polycrystalline and thin-film panels offer a more affordable solution, though you may need more panels to achieve the same energy output.

Energy Needs

Your energy consumption will dictate the size and type of your solar installation. For example, a household with high energy demands might benefit from the higher efficiency of monocrystalline panels, while a business with moderate energy needs may find polycrystalline panels more suitable.

Aesthetics

Homeowners often consider the appearance of solar panels when selecting an option. Monocrystalline panels offer a sleek, black look that blends well with most rooftops. Polycrystalline panels, with their bluish tint, may be less visually appealing to some homeowners.

Know the main challenges of solar panels and how to deal with it

Solar Panels” by Matt Bango/ CC0 1.0

For both contractors and homeowners, understanding the complexities of solar panel financing can be daunting. Contractors often face challenges in securing financing options that are easy to implement and quick to approve. 

This can lead to delays in project timelines and unnecessary administrative burdens. Homeowners, on the other hand, may struggle to find the best financing terms, leading to confusion and frustration during the process of going solar.

These challenges can result in lost opportunities for both parties. Contractors may miss out on closing sales, and homeowners may be deterred from making the switch to solar due to the complicated and lengthy financing process.

In this situation, our company offers solutions to simplify and secure financing that best suits each homeowner’s profile.

Eos Loan and solar panel financing

This is where Eos Loan steps in to provide a seamless solution for both contractors and homeowners. As a fintech in the U.S. market, Eos Loan offers a platform that eliminates the pain points associated with traditional financing.

For Contractors: Boosting Efficiency and Sales

Eos Loan allows contractors to focus on what they do best—selling and completing projects—by simplifying the financing process. One of the standout features of Eos Loan is that the platform charges nothing for originations. This means contractors can increase approval rates and devote more time to selling and delivering solar projects rather than dealing with complex financing paperwork.

Additionally, Eos Loan’s AI-powered algorithm works to match project details with the most suitable lending options. By leveraging this technology, contractors are equipped with the best financing solutions for their clients, improving approval rates and reducing the time spent on administrative tasks. This not only increases efficiency but also helps contractors close more deals, ultimately leading to higher sales.

For Homeowners: A Simplified, Stress-Free Process

Homeowners benefit from Eos Loan’s streamlined approach as well. The platform ensures that they are matched with the best financing options based on their unique profile, eliminating the need to sift through multiple lenders or complicated terms. This results in faster approvals and a more straightforward process for securing the funds needed to install solar panels.

Additionally, by partnering with Eos Loan, homeowners enjoy the advantage of having contractors who are focused on providing top-tier service rather than being bogged down by financing issues. The result is a smoother, quicker process from start to finish, with clear financing options that align with their budget and energy needs.

What to expect with Eos Loan in financing?

Solar panels roof“/ CC0 1.0

As solar energy continues to grow in popularity, the need for efficient financing options becomes even more critical. Eos Loan is at the forefront of this shift, providing a secure platform that simplifies the entire process for both contractors and homeowners. 

By eliminating originations fees, offering AI-driven lending solutions, and reducing administrative burdens, Eos Loan ensures that more people can enjoy the benefits of solar energy without the typical headaches associated with financing.

Whether you’re a contractor looking to increase your approval rates and focus on closing more deals, or a homeowner seeking a stress-free financing solution for your solar project, Eos Loan is the partner you need. Their innovative platform takes the guesswork out of solar financing, making it easier than ever to go solar.

Ready to simplify the solar financing process? Visit our official website to learn more about how their platform can help you succeed in your solar energy journey, whether you’re a contractor or homeowner. See you next time!

Lin Zeri Avatar

I have 7 years of experience in the solar energy industry, with a deep passion for sustainability and clean energy solutions. Every homeowner deserves the opportunity to go solar and I am dedicated to making renewable energy more accessible and affordable for all.

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