When shopping for a solar panel brand, the issues at the forefront of people’s minds are usually topics such as the efficiency and wattage of a solar energy system. An issue often not given due attention is solar panel glass. The type of glass on a solar panel really does matter.
When you buy a solar panel, it’s a long term investment. It should serve you well for decades. While most manufacturers offer lengthy warranties, up to 25 years, it’s important to note the manufacturer needs to be around to honour it. There are still many fly-by-nighters in the solar panel industry. They cut prices by cutting corners on component quality.
While a warranty from a solid company is a great insurance policy, there’s also the inconvenience of needing to make a warranty claim. You have to pull the panels down and take them into the company. It’s all very disruptive and stressful. It’s best to have peace of mind from the outset. You can only have that if every part of the panel is of the highest possible quality.
Explore solar panel glass
The dangers of cheap solar panel glass
Cheap solar panel glass can cloud over time. Clouded glass greatly reduces solar panel efficiency. Broken glass, aside from being a general safety issue and even if the glass only cracks, can allow water to penetrate and create a fire hazard. Water and electricity simply do not mix.
When selecting either a monocrystalline, polycrystalline or amorphous solar panel, be sure to check out the type of glass on the panel. Look for panels that utilise tempered glass. There should be a clear statement to this effect in the panel specifications.
Why is glass used for solar panels?
Glass is used for solar panels due to a variety of reasons. One, glass in solar panels is used because it can transmit sunlight without absorbing it.
Second, the glass acts as a mirror, featuring a reflective coating on one or both sides that helps concentrate sunlight.
Third, glass is durable. Most solar panel glasses are tempered because they can withstand extreme weather conditions better.
Glass is easy to clean and will not require any special material. All you need is soap and water and you’re all set.
Also, one of the best things about glass solar panels is that they are easy to recycle. Once a solar completes its useful life, the glass can be broken down into small pieces and heated to powder. The power can be used in other products, such as fibreglass, building insulation, or flat panel displays.
When selecting solar panels, the type of glass used plays a crucial role in performance and durability. Two primary options are tempered glass and plate glass.
What is tempered glass?
Tempered glass, also known as safety glass or toughened glass, is up to six times the strength of normal plate glass. Its manufacture is by thermal or chemical means. We’ve witnessed panels using tempered glass flip over onto rock–strewn ground with some force without breaking. This is something we obviously do not recommend trying out, but it goes to show how strong the material is. When tempered glass does break, it shatters into small pieces rather than creating long and razor–sharp shards.
Benefits of tempered glass for solar panels
Durability
Tempered glass is more durable than regular glass, making it less likely to break from extreme weather conditions, such as hail, snow, and wind.
Safety
Tempered glass is a safety glass, meaning that it breaks into small, blunt pieces if it does break. This reduces the risk of injury from shattered glass.
UV resistance
Tempered glass is more resistant to UV radiation than regular glass. This helps to protect the solar cells from damage and ensures that the solar panel will continue to produce power for many years to come.
Thermal shock resistance
Tempered glass is more thermal shock-resistant than regular glass. This means that it is less likely to crack or break when exposed to sudden changes in temperature.
What is plate glass?
Plate glass is a basic, flat, transparent glass commonly used in windows. While it allows adequate light transmission, it lacks the strength and safety features required for solar panels. Its susceptibility to breakage under environmental stressors makes it less ideal for photovoltaic applications.
Flat plate glass in solar panels
This is most often found in cheaper brands of monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels made by small, relatively unknown companies. Learn more about the benefits of monocrystalline solar panels for Australian homes in our comprehensive guide. However, it can also be found in well–known brands of amorphous (thin film) solar panels that have a glass plate component.
Most amorphous panels can only use flat plate glass due to their method of construction. Amorphous panels’ usual creation involves applying special silicon–rich gas called silane at high temperatures directly to the back of a glass plate or to a steel plate. Some manufacturers get around the comparative weakness by using thicker flat plate glass. However, this is still not as strong as using white tempered glass.
When buying solar panels, don’t forget that this is an important point to check on – as mentioned, it should be clearly stated on the product specifications as to the type of glass used, as it’s an important feature. If it doesn’t, the chances are it’s flat plate glass and you should probably avoid those.
Energy Matters stocks a huge range of monocrystalline, polycrystalline and amorphous (thin film) solar panels. All are from quality manufacturers, all with full warranties, all adhering to the IEC 61730 solar panel standard and all at discount prices!
Don’t forget that you might also be eligible for solar power rebates if you purchase panels as part of a full system!
Tempered glass vs. plate glass: Key differences
While tempered glass and plate glass start as the same basic material, their properties and applications differ significantly. Plate glass, or annealed glass, is simply float glass that has been cooled slowly to avoid internal stresses. This slow cooling, or annealing, makes it suitable for general glazing applications where strength and safety are not critical concerns.
However, plate glass is more susceptible to breakage, producing large, sharp shards when it does break. In contrast, tempered glass offers superior strength and safety due to the tempering process. Here’s a quick comparison:
Strength and durability: Tempered glass is up to four times stronger than plate glass, making it more resistant to impacts and environmental stressors. This strength is crucial for solar panels exposed to various weather conditions.
Safety and breakage: Tempered glass breaks into small, relatively harmless pieces, while plate glass shatters into sharp, dangerous shards.
Applications: Tempered glass, such as solar panels, is used where safety and strength are essential, while plate glass is used in general glazing.
Thermal resistance: Tempered glass can withstand higher temperatures and sudden thermal changes without cracking, ensuring the longevity of solar panels in fluctuating climates.
Cost: Plate glass is generally less expensive to produce than tempered glass. However, the long-term benefits of tempered glass, such as reduced maintenance and replacement costs, often outweigh the initial investment.
Why tempered glass is preferred for solar panels
The application of tempered glass in solar panels offers several advantages:
- Enhanced protection: Tempered glass acts as a robust shield against environmental elements like hail, debris, and extreme weather, safeguarding the delicate photovoltaic cells.
- High transparency: It allows maximum light transmission, which is essential for the efficiency of solar panels. The clarity of tempered glass ensures that more sunlight reaches the cells, enhancing energy production.
- Longevity: The durability of tempered glass contributes to the extended lifespan of solar panels, reducing the frequency of replacements and associated costs.
- Safety compliance: Many building codes and industry standards require using safety glass in construction, including solar installations. Tempered glass meets these safety requirements, ensuring compliance and reducing liability.
Choosing the right glass for optimal solar performance
Tempered glass is an indispensable component of modern solar panels, providing essential protection against the elements and ensuring long-term performance. Its superior strength, safety features, and excellent light transmittance make it the ideal choice for this demanding application. When deciding which solar panels to invest in, remember the critical role of panel tempered glass.
Pick up some more helpful tips for choosing solar panels.
At Energy Matters, we are committed to offering high-quality solar solutions tailored to your needs. Our solar expertise in the industry ensures that you receive reliable, efficient, and safe solar installations.
Contact us today to explore our range of recommended solar products and services designed to harness the power of the sun for a sustainable future.
With our 3 free solar quotes, you can compare plans from pre-qualified and vetted installers in your area and find the perfect solution for your home and business.
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