The market for bifacial solar panels has been growing rapidly in recent years. This new technology is proving more efficient than traditional solar panels and can be installed in the same place. It has been on the market for a decade. This new trend is that solar panels can absorb sunlight from both sides, generating more electricity. Although a bifacial panel is expensive, competition is growing, and prices will soon be comparable to traditional mono-facial solar panels. Continue reading to learn more.

What are Bifacial solar panels?

Traditional or mono facial solar panels produce electricity by capturing sunlight only on one side, while the light that cannot be captured is reflected off. A bifacial panel has solar cells on both sides. This double-glazed solar panel can absorb sunlight and reflect it off the ground.

They are more efficient than traditional solar panels in producing electricity, but they are not suitable for rooftop installations. Bifacial solar panels are most effective for ground-mounted residential applications, such as pergolas. They are also well-suited for commercial or utility-scale applications.

Bifacial Solar Panels Design

Although they are generally monocrystalline, bifacial panels have a different appearance than traditional monocrystalline silicon panels. To reduce shading, they have a slim profile.

They are either made with a transparent back sheet or a dual-glass structure to capture maximum energy. They have the least shaded area on the front and back. This is why modern racking systems have smaller junction boxes and vertical support on the corners. Additionally, they use narrower support rails to minimize shading.

Benefits of a Bifacial Solar Panel

With more and more applications around the globe, bifacial solar panels are the future of solar technology. Here are some reasons why:

Efficiency

Solar trackers can produce 27 percent more solar energy from the best bifacial panels than traditional panels. Double-glazed solar panels are between 11 and 12 percent more efficient even without a tracker. They reduce the Levelized Cost of Energy and can work at higher temperatures.

Durability

Tempered glass panels for bifacial solar are very durable. They can absorb light and also serve as an effective shield against bad weather.

Design

The sleek design of these panels allows for direct sunlight and does not alter the exterior aesthetics. They are also used to make pergolas, barriers and awnings.

Ability to Complement

A bifacial module can perform at any angle. The panels can also be installed at 90 degrees. The space is efficiently used because fewer panels are needed to meet the energy needs.

Cost-effectiveness

Solar trackers and bifacial panels can cut power costs by up to 16%. Glass is also 20-30% less expensive than traditional sheets. The glass panels are smaller and require less maintenance, which in turn, reduces overall costs.

Overall, bifacial panels are one the most innovative innovations in the solar energy sector. They are expected to grow exponentially due to their low cost and high energy production advantages. It can absorb sunlight and produce electricity on both sides, making it a great choice for residential rooftop applications.