Types of Solar Panels in India – Cost, Efficiency & More

But one big question remains – what type of solar panels should you choose? The right panel affects your energy output, long-term savings, maintenance needs and even your solar ROI. 

In this guide, we explain the top solar panel types in India – Monocrystalline, Polycrystalline, Bifacial, and TOPCon. We compare their technology, efficiency, price, benefits, and best use cases to help you make the right choice.

Why Choosing the Right Solar Panel Matters?

When people think of solar, most assume the panels are all the same. They are not. 

• Two 5 kW systems with different panel types can produce different levels of electricity.
• Your roof size and panel will change what is right for you. 
• The climate in your region affects panel performance as panels behave differently in extreme heat. 
• Your payback period (how soon you recover your investment) depends on panel efficiency. 

Let’s look at India’s four major panel categories. 

Types of Solar Panels in India

1. Polycrystalline Solar Panels

Polycrystalline panels (Poly panels) are made by melting multiple silicon fragments. They have a recognisable blue, grainy look and for many years, they were the most commonly installed panels in India. Today, they are still widely used in budget-driven projects. Polycrystalline panels are best suited for large homes, schools, MSMEs, warehouses and agricultural solar pumps. 

Pros

• Good for large roofs
• Lower cost per watt
• Reliable performance

           Cons

• Lower efficiency (15-17%)
• Requires more installation space
• Less efficiency in high temperatures. 

2. Monocrystalline Solar Panels

Monocrystalline solar panels are made from a single crystal of silicon. Known for their sleek black appearance, these panels have a higher efficiency and long lifespan. 

Monocrystalline panels are widely used solar panels in India for both residential and commercial projects. If you’re considering the best monocrystalline panels in India, brands like Tata Solar, Waaree, Adani and Rayzon Solar offer reliable options. 

Pros

• Great performance even in low sunlight
• Lifespan of 25+ years
• Ideal for limited roof space

           Cons

• Slightly more expensive than polycrystalline panels.

3. Bifacial Solar Panels

Bifacial solar panels are becoming extremely popular in India—especially in ground-mounted and industrial projects. These panels can generate electricity from both front and rear sides, using reflected sunlight.

For example, if a bifacial panel is rated 550W, in the right conditions, it can produce 600–700W without increasing panel size. Bifacial solar panels are good for solar carports, industrial sheds, and commercial plazas. 

Pros

• Upto 30% more energy output
• Great for open installations
• Strong performance in reflective areas (white roofs, desert soil, etc)

            Cons

• Needs correct installation height
• Slightly expensive
• Works best with elevated racking systems.

4. TOPCon Solar Panels

TOPCon (Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact) is the latest solar technology used in high-efficiency panels. These are upgrades of monocrystalline panels and known for low energy loss and superior performance in heat, perfect for Indian conditions.

According to an IEC study, TOPCon panels degrade 34% slower than normal mono PERC panels. These panels are best for industries, factories, and data centres. 

Pros

• High Efficiency
• Better performance in high temperature regions
• Faster ROI

            Cons

• Premium Pricing
• New technology, trusted installer required.

Factors to Consider Before Buying Solar Panels

Here are some factors you must look into while choosing the appropriate solar panel:

• Efficiency

If your roof space is small, it’s worth opting for a high efficiency panel like monocrystalline or TOPCon panel as they generate more power off a limited area. 

• Roof Space

The roof size also comes into the picture in choosing the appropriate type of panel. Small rooftops require higher-efficiency panels to yield sufficient power with fewer panels. But if you own a bigger shed roof or industrial roof, you may also look at going with the polycrystalline or bifacial panels that require more space but are also worth the investment in terms of money.

• Budget vs ROI

Don’t select panels solely based on cost. High-quality panels cost more initially but yield higher long-term returns and shorter payback periods.

• Brand Reputation

Go for trusted brands like Rayzon Solar, Tata Solar, Adani Solar, and Waaree.

• Installer Quality 

A good installer like GreenOcean Solar provides proper design, mounting and maintenance.