Switching to solar energy is a smart investment, but choosing the right solar panels for your home is just as important. Different types of solar panels have unique features, efficiency levels, and compatibility with inverters and backup battery systems. Here’s a breakdown of the five most common types of residential solar panels, how they work, and their benefits.

1. Monocrystalline Solar Panels

How They Work: Made from a single, pure silicon crystal, monocrystalline panels are the most efficient and long-lasting option available. They generate electricity when sunlight hits the silicon cells, creating an electric field that converts energy into usable power.

Compatible Inverters: These panels work well with microinverters and string inverters, depending on the system size and shading conditions.

Benefits:

• Highest efficiency (up to 22%)

• Long lifespan (25–30 years)

• Works well with a backup battery for consistent energy storage

2. Polycrystalline Solar Panels

How They Work: These panels are made from multiple silicon crystals, making them slightly less efficient but more affordable than monocrystalline panels.

Compatible Inverters: Can be paired with string inverters or microinverters, depending on energy needs.

Benefits:

• More affordable than monocrystalline panels

• Good efficiency (15–17%)

• Works well with backup battery systems for energy security

3. Thin-Film Solar Panels

How They Work: Unlike traditional panels, thin-film panels use layers of photovoltaic materials on a flexible surface. They are lightweight and ideal for large surfaces.

Compatible Inverters: Best suited for string inverters due to their lower efficiency.

Benefits:

• Flexible and lightweight, perfect for unique installations

• Performs well in low-light conditions

• Can work with backup battery storage, but requires a larger surface area due to lower efficiency

4. PERC (Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell) Solar Panels

How They Work: PERC panels use an additional layer on the back of traditional monocrystalline cells to reflect sunlight and increase efficiency.

Compatible Inverters: Ideal for microinverters and hybrid inverters.

Benefits:

• Higher efficiency than standard monocrystalline panels

• Performs well in high temperatures and low-light conditions

• Works seamlessly with a backup battery for energy independence

5. Bifacial Solar Panels

How They Work: These panels generate power from both the front and back, utilizing reflected sunlight to increase energy production.

Compatible Inverters: Requires advanced microinverters or hybrid inverters for maximum efficiency.

Benefits:

• Produces up to 30% more energy than standard panels

• Great for open areas with reflective surfaces

• Perfect for backup battery integration to store excess energy

The Advantages of a Full Solar System with a Backup Battery

While choosing the right solar panel is important, combining your system with a backup battery ensures energy security. A full system allows you to store excess solar energy and use it during peak hours or power outages, reducing your reliance on the grid and maximizing savings. With rising electricity costs, having a complete solar-plus-battery system offers long-term financial and environmental benefits.

Top Solar Incentives in Utah, California, and Idaho

Utah:

• Rocky Mountain Power Battery Program: Homeowners can earn incentives for adding a backup battery.

• Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC): Homeowners can claim 30% of their system cost as a tax credit.

• Net Metering: Excess energy can be sent to the grid for credits on your electricity bill.

California:

• Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP): Provides substantial rebates for adding a backup battery to a solar system.

• Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC): Homeowners can claim 30% of their system cost as a tax credit.

• SMUD Battery Storage Program:The Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) offers significant incentives to homeowners who add a backup battery to their solar system, helping offset costs and ensuring energy resilience during peak demand times.

• Net Metering 3.0: Encourages homeowners to optimize solar production by pairing their system with a battery.

Idaho:

• State Tax Deduction: Allows homeowners to deduct 40% of the solar system cost in the first year and the remaining over four years.

• Federal ITC: The 30% federal tax credit applies to Idaho residents as well.

• Net Metering Programs: Offered by Idaho Power and other utilities to provide credits for excess solar production.

Making the Right Choice

Selecting the right solar panel for your home and backup battery system depends on your energy needs, budget, and home setup. At ES Solar, we handle everything in-house—from system design and installation to maintenance—ensuring you get the best possible solar solution. Whether you’re looking for maximum efficiency, affordability, or energy independence, we can help you find the right system and take advantage of available incentives.

Ready to Go Solar?

Contact ES Solar today for a free solar assessment and find out which system is best for your home!