A solar panel is made up of cells packaged and connected with electrical contacts called busbars and fingers/ribbons to form a module that is available in different output and voltage ratings.
According to traditional industry standards, modules can either contain 60 Cells or 72 Cells. The only difference between 60-Cell and 72-Cell solar panels is merely in their size. The 72 cell solar modules have 12 more cells and thus are about a foot larger. Except for space and of course, more output, there are no differences between the two types of modules. The difference becomes more consequential on a larger scale.
However, many manufacturers now moving away from the traditional 60/72 cell modules and are now offering modules with up to 144 cells. In this case, the differences are very significant because the cell arrangement is not merely a matter of choice, design or aesthetic considerations but of innovations in cell technology. The top manufacturers have all but stopped issuing the traditional 60/72 cell and many more manufacturers are joining the bandwagon. These new modules are expected to completely displace the traditional panels in the coming years.
The thumb rule is to go for what fits the available space, one's power needs and of course one's budget. Our university-trained engineers at SolarKobo will help you choose the right solar panel module that suits your peculiar needs and fits your budget.