Higher efficiency means less roof area for the same output — which matters most when space is tight. Here's how the four common panel types stack up for Indian rooftops.
| Type | Efficiency | Relative cost | Warranty | Degradation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Polycrystalline | ~16% | Base (cheapest) | 25 yr | 0.7%/yr |
| Mono PERC | ~19.5% | +8% | 25 yr | 0.55%/yr |
| TOPCon N-Type | ~22% | +22% | 30 yr | 0.4%/yr |
| Bifacial HJT | ~23% | +38% | 30 yr | 0.35%/yr |
The blue-tinted budget option. Lowest cost per watt, but the lowest efficiency means it needs the most roof space and tolerates heat least well. Fine when space is plentiful and budget is the priority.
Black cells, the current industry standard and the default most installers quote. The best balance of cost and efficiency, widely available with good supply and service. For most homes, this is the sensible pick.
Newer N-type cells with better low-light and high-temperature performance and slower degradation — meaning more output in year 25. The 30-year warranty and low degradation make it attractive if you plan to stay long-term, at roughly 20% more than mono.
Generates from both faces, so it needs elevated mounting or a reflective surface below to capture the bonus. On rooftops the rear-side gain is modest; on ground mounts it can add up to 12% yield. Highest cost, best for space-constrained sites or ground installations where the extra output is worth the premium.
In the calculator, switching panel type instantly updates the area your system needs, the panel count, and the cost — and if your system doesn't fit your roof with one type, it tells you whether a higher-efficiency panel would make it fit.
See how each panel type changes your area, cost, and payback in the calculator.
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