A polycrystalline solar panel module is made from a block of silicon that has multiple crystals. These panels are square in shape, and may have a surface that looks somewhat like a mosaic. That’s because of all the different crystals that make up the module. Other types of panels may appear smooth and even, because they are made up of only silicon crystals. These are called monocrystalline modules. The third type of panel uses a thin film layer of material otherwise known as amorphous.

Polycrystalline solar modules are less efficient than those made from a single crystal. However, they are much simpler to produce, and cost far less to manufacture. This makes them much less expensive for buyers. The durability and longevity, however, are comparable to their monocrystalline cousins. Polycrystalline solar panel modules could put solar power into the hands of people who could not afford the monocrystalline cells.