Your Guide to Solar Panel Efficiency
Choosing the right solar panels is about more than just a number. This interactive guide breaks down what efficiency really means, letting you explore panel types, simulate real-world conditions, and understand the financial impact of your choices.
Panel Technology Explorer
The solar market offers three main panel technologies. Click on a card below to see a detailed description and compare their key metrics in the chart. Understanding these trade-offs is the first step in selecting the right panel for your home.
Monocrystalline
The high-efficiency standard, offering the best performance and aesthetics.
Polycrystalline
The value-oriented choice, balancing cost and performance.
Thin-Film
Flexible and lightweight, best for niche and large-scale applications.
Monocrystalline Panels
Made from a single crystal of high-purity silicon, these panels are the most efficient and durable option. Their uniform black appearance is often preferred by homeowners. While they are the most expensive, their high power density makes them ideal for homes with limited roof space.
Real-World Performance Simulator
A panel's datasheet rating is based on ideal lab conditions. In reality, performance changes constantly. Use this simulator to see how temperature, sunlight (irradiance), and shading impact a panel's output in real-time.
Relative Power Output
Panels are at peak performance under STC: 25°C and 100% sunlight.
Maximize Your System's Performance
Getting the most out of your solar investment involves more than just panels. Proper maintenance, smart technology choices, and understanding degradation are key to long-term performance.
Proactive Maintenance & Shade Mitigation
Keep it Clean: Regularly cleaning your panels of dust, pollen, and debris can boost production by 5-15%. A simple rinse with a hose is often enough, but professional cleaning is recommended for safety.
Manage Shade: Even small shadows can drastically cut output. Plan your layout to avoid obstructions and trim growing trees. For unavoidable shade, invest in Module-Level Power Electronics (MLPEs) like microinverters or power optimizers to prevent one shaded panel from affecting the entire system.
The Inverter is Key: The inverter is the brain of your system. A high-quality inverter (96-98% efficiency) with Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) ensures you're always harvesting the most energy possible as conditions change.
Understanding Panel Degradation
All panels slowly lose efficiency over time. A typical panel degrades at about 0.5% per year, and manufacturers provide a performance warranty guaranteeing it will produce at least 80-90% of its original power after 25 years.
Personalized Financial Calculator
Is solar worth it for you? This dynamic calculator helps estimate your system size, costs, and payback period. Start with your consumption to get a recommendation, then adjust the numbers to match your specific situation.
Step 1: Define Your System
Recommended System Size
-- kW
Step 2: Define Costs & Savings
Step 3: Subsidy Guidelines & Application
PM Surya Ghar Subsidy Rules:
- For systems up to 2 kW: ₹30,000 per kW.
- For systems between 2 kW and 3 kW: ₹18,000 for each additional kW.
- Maximum Subsidy: Capped at ₹78,000 for systems 3 kW and larger.
Step 4: Financial Summary
Estimated Annual Savings
₹ --
Total System Cost
₹ --
Applicable Subsidy
₹ --
Your Estimated Payback Period:
-- Years
After this period, your electricity is virtually free!
Case Study: Residential Solar in Mysuru, India
Let's apply these concepts to a real-world example. Mysuru, Karnataka is a prime location for solar. Here's a look at the optimal setup and the local incentives available under the PM Surya Ghar scheme as of 2025.
10-11°
Optimal Tilt Angle
South
Optimal Orientation
>5
kWh/m²/day Solar Energy
PM Surya Ghar Subsidy
- For systems up to 2 kW: ₹30,000 per kW
- Example for a 3 kW system: ₹78,000 Total
- Maximum possible subsidy: ₹78,000
Plus, benefit from Net Metering to get credit for extra power sent to the grid!