It’s not really your fault if you mix up terms such as “solar panels” and “PV Modules” casually. After all, they’re both components of one system, True? 

However, while they sound fairly similar, they are not quite the same. Both of these are components of solar energy systems and refer to different items. 

A solar panel is the entire assembly that contains one or more PV modules, the individual units that convert sunlight into electricity. 

So why does it matter?

Because when you know the difference between solar panels and PV modules, you can make a more informed decision while choosing the right solar system for your home or business.

That’s why, in today’s blog, we’ll break down exactly How solar panels work, clear up any confusion around solar energy systems, and help you make an informed choice for your solar investment.

Solar Panels and PV Modules

We receive this question frequently: “Is a PV Module the same thing as a solar panel?” 

Not exactly. Think of it like a car engine and a car – they’re not the same thing. We’ll break down the terminology for you:

Component

What it is

What it Does

PV Module

A single piece of equipment made of solar cells

Converts sunlight to electricity

Solar Panel

A group of PV modules

Parent – the final product that gets installed to produce energy

So the Conclusion is, every Solar panel is a collection of PV modules. But not every PV module is a solar panel.

Think of it like this:

Solar Cell → PV Module → Solar Panel → Solar Array → Complete Solar Energy System

Differences Between Solar Panels and PV Modules

Having clarified the basic definitions, we want to look at some key real-world differences between solar panels and PV modules. These differences are very important since they impact how solar systems are designed, what they will perform like, their cost, and how we should go when selecting them.

1. Construction: What’s Inside Each Of Them?

  • PV Module: Made of solar cells that are interconnected and seen in a protective casing. This is where the magic happens, converting sunlight into electricity.
  • Solar Panel: A solar panel has multiple PV modules. It’s essentially the entire system, with multiple connections, wiring, and mounting hardware to complete the system.

Quick analogy: If PV modules are like a solar cell’s workout routine, then a solar panel is the entire fitness regime (lots of modules doing their thing together).

2. Power Output: More Modules, More Power

  • PV Module: A PV module on its own will produces approximately 300W to 585W to run a few small appliances but and not enough power to fully run a home or office.
  • Solar Panel: A solar panel has several PV modules, allowing it to produce more power (usually between 900W – 1.5kW depending on how many PV modules are included). This is why you require a solar panel for actual energy production.

3. Cost: What’s More Expensive, And Why?

  • PV Module: A PV module’s cost depends on its efficiency, size, and brand.  Monocrystalline PV modules are more expensive but more efficient.
  • Solar Panel: Solar panels are naturally more expensive because they include not just the PV modules, but also the frame, wiring, and junction box. All the bits and bobs that make it ready to install!

Types of Solar Panels: Which One Is Right for You?

There are different types of solar panels, and where there are different types, there are different efficiencies and costs. Below is a guide for you to help with the type of solar panels that will work for you.

Type of Solar Panel

Efficiency

Best For

Key Advantage

Monocrystalline

18-24%

Limited roof space

Most efficient, works in low light

Polycrystalline

15-19%

Budget-conscious

More affordable, still good for space

Thin-Film

10-18%

Large installations

Flexible, lightweight, less efficient

Monocrystalline Panels

  • Best for: If you’re tight on space and want the most power in a small area, go for monocrystalline panels. They offer the best efficiency, making them ideal for rooftops with limited space.

Polycrystalline Panels

  • Best for: Polycrystalline panels are perfect for large spaces where you can install a lot of panels. They’re more cost-effective, but slightly less efficient than their monocrystalline cousins.

How Solar Panels Create Electricity?

This is what happens when you get solar energy systems attached to the roof (the easiest situation to use here is the residential model that all states follow.)

  • Step 1. Sunlight Hits The PV Modules: The solar cells in each of the PV modules take in the sunlight energy and convert it into direct current (DC).
  • Step 2. DC to AC: The DC is then sent to the inverter that converts the DC to alternating current (AC) – which is what powers your home and business.
  • Step 3. Electricity Powers Your Devices: The AC power then flows from the solar panels into your electrical system, powering your home and everything plugged into it, including your electric car.
  • Step 4. Storing Excess Electricity: If your system is producing more power than you can use at that instant, it can go to solar batteries. This can be very useful overnight when the sun is not shining or on cloudy days like the days that the residential system does not produce enough power for your needs.

Why Understanding the Difference Matters?

It’s simple. Understanding the difference between solar panels and PV modules will allow you to:

  • Determine the type of solar panel you need: do you need high efficiency or low cost?
  • Estimate total system size and potential output: The PV modules in a solar panel determine how much energy the solar panel will produce.
  • Get the best value for the money: If you understand the parts and their prices, you will be more informed about how your solar energy system is designed to your best advantage and you will not overpay for your solar energy system.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between solar panels and vs. PV modules is not just about knowing technicalities, it is about ensuring your solar energy system will be adequate for your needs. In doing so, it allows you to make decisions about the size, performance, and design of your solar energy system, enabling you to decide what is overpriced but will provide you with value.