Commercial solar panels are used by various businesses, governments, universities, schools, and solar farms. Residential solar panels are used on houses, including individual residences and apartment buildings. Commercial solar panels vary more than residential solar panels due to the different needs of different businesses. Below is an overview of the main factors that differentiate commercial and residential solar panels:

Commercial Solar Panels Are Bigger

A standard commercial solar panel consists of 96 solar cells, while residential panels are usually about 72 cells large. However, this distinction is not a harsh rule: Residents are free to buy commercial-sized panels as long as they fit their needs. Commercial-sized solar panels are not required in most homes, but you may choose to do so if you want your panels to be more efficient.

Business Panels Are More Efficient

When it comes to efficiency, it's no surprise that commercial panels are more powerful than residential panels. However, the difference in efficiency is not that huge, which may surprise some. While residential solar has an average efficiency of 18.1%, commercial solar panels are only 1.5% efficient at 19.6%. The effectiveness of a solar panel is directly related to its size. The bigger the panel, the better the effect. This small difference in efficiency may not be noticeable on a day-to-day level.

Difference In Color

By standard, commercial solar panels are always white. For residential panels, the options are wider. Available in black or white residential solar panels. The black one is the monocrystalline panel. They appear black because the single crystals interact with light in some way. These days, choosing a specific color for solar panels is more of a matter of personal style. Black solar panels are better for some looks. The ability of white solar panels to stay cool for extended periods of time can be a factor in some installations.

Pay Attention to Installation

When it comes to installing solar panels, there are various mounting systems on the market. Systems can be fixed or rail. In addition, the solar system can be installed on the ground or on the roof.

However, the most popular solar installation system is the rooftop solar system installed the roof. The same goes for residential and commercial solar panels. However, there are differences stemming from the types of roofs used in business and personal homes.

Commercial buildings often have flat roofs, while residential buildings are more likely to have sloping tops. Therefore, the installation of commercial solar panels is easier.

However, things are not that simple. Commercial solar systems can consist of hundreds of panels. So, depending on how big the system is, installation can take weeks or even months. Meanwhile, a residential solar system consists of only a few panels, so even if the installation process is difficult due to the roof structure, it only takes a few days.

If you’re willing to buy residential or commercial solar panels, you’ll need to install PV cables. At ZMS, you’ll find quality copper and aluminum solar cables at the best prices in the industry. 

Hope this was helpful for you. Any questions please contact us directly.