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Having solar panels in the North East and in similar cloudy climates will generate more than enough electrical energy to power your home. However finding the best type to maximise your energy is essential.
What types of solar panels are out there?
As of 2025, there are nine main types of solar panels in the UK, but in this post we will be discussing the top three options for North East weather:
• Monocrystalline
• Polycrystalline
• Thin Film
How do these types of solar panels compare with each other?
The most important factors that need to be considered when buying solar panels for North East properties include cost effectiveness, sun absorbency, sustainability and energy conversion effectiveness. Let’s see how our top three options compare:
Monocrystalline solar panels are known for their darker, sleek appearance and anti-reflective properties due to being made from single-crystal silicon bars, which can be an aesthetically pleasing choice to some. More importantly, Monocrystalline can cut down your energy bills by 70% with efficiency rating of 18%-24% and an average lifespan of 20-45 years, making it suitable for domestic properties. On the other hand, the initial purchase of Monocrystalline is more expensive (around £703 per 350-Watt panel, including installation) in comparison to Polycrystalline and Thin Film solar panels.
Polycrystalline is praised for its sustainable manufacturing process as it is made from multiple silicon crystals which are poured into square moulds, therefore leaving less waste product in the manufacturing process than Monocrystalline. Another advantage Polycrystalline has over Monocrystalline is its cheaper initial costs, which lies at an average of £562 per 350-Watt panel with installation. Where Polycrystalline fails is within its efficiency rating of 13%-16% and its lifespan of 25-30 years, which is less promising for effectiveness in cloudy North Eastern weather.
Finally, Thin Film solar panels are perfect for smaller properties and structures such as sheds, caravans and mobile homes due to its flexible nature and material structure. Out of all three options, Thin Film wins the cost effectiveness category at the average price of £416 per 350-Watt panel with installation, making this the cheapest solar panel option. But despite being the most cost-effective option, Thin Film has the lowest efficiency rating at 7%-13% and the shortest lifespan at 10-20 years.
Final Verdicts?
Conclusion
Ultimately, the needs and requirements of the property and the household determine what type of solar panels are best to install. However our recommendation would most likely be Monocrystalline due it’s longer lifespan and higher efficiency rating being more effective in cloudy conditions and being a better long term financial investment for your reduced bills, which makes the installation costs more than worth it.