A Guide to Bifacial Solar Panels (2024)

Bifacial solar panels absorb energy from both direct sunlight and reflected rays, producing around 11% to 23% more energy than monofacial solar panels. While a ground-mounted solar panel system is ideal for maximizing sunlight absorption, rooftop solar panel placement may not be suitable, especially if the roof doesn’t face the direction of sunlight. 

In the UK, bifacial solar panels are gaining propulsion regardless of their higher price tag. Understanding their operation is necessary, they transform sunlight into electricity by utilizing both direct and reflected light. Before investing, consider a few factors like installation location, cost, and efficiency. Bifacial solar panels offer considerable energy gains, particularly for those with immense space and optimal conditions, contributing to sustainable energy practices. For the best solar panel installation services choose Solar Steve and enjoy the rest of the years worry-free.

How do bifacial panels work?

Sunlight reflects off different surfaces, contributing to the generation of electricity by solar panels on both sides. This phenomenon becomes apparent in environments like snowy terrains, where the reflection of light especially brightens the surroundings. Such reflections hold climate change implications, especially concerning Arctic ice melting. As ice gives way to water, it absorbs more sunlight and heat, aggravating the warming trend.

Bifacial solar panels

Bifacial solar panels, close to traditional monofacial ones, function likewise but with a compulsory design difference. According to Jake Edie, an adjunct professor at the University of Illinois Chicago with a specialization in clean energy, bifacial solar panels feature a transparent backside rather than an opaque one. This design allows them to absorb solar energy from both sides, improving their efficiency.

However, bifacial solar panels find their optimal use in utility-scale and solar-power commercial installations or buildings with flat rooftops, as reported by Edie. Residential rooftops, typically installed using standard methods, may not provide sufficient light exposure to the panels’ backside, limiting their additional benefits. Contrarily, solar panel installations on flat rooftops or ground-mounted solar panel systems capitalize on reflected light from the ground, making bifacial solar panels a preferred choice in such scenarios. Visit our Contact Us page and avail best services today.

Regardless of their advantages, factors like cost and suitability need consideration before going for bifacial solar panels. While they offer enriched efficiency, especially models like 410w or 400-watt bi-facial solar panels, they may come at a higher price compared to standard options. Additionally, for smaller installations, the benefits of bifacial solar panels may not justify the investment. Therefore, potential users should weigh the advantages and disadvantages of bifacial solar panels, considering factors like installation location, pocket-friendliness, and energy conditions, before making a decision.

Bifacial solar panels vs. monofacial solar panels

When comparing monofacial and bifacial solar panels, each offers unique advantages:

Bifacial Solar Panels:

• Design: Absorbs light from both sides
• Energy Generation: Generates more energy
• Installation: Ideal for elevated, flat surfaces
• Cost: Slightly more expensive
• Use Case: Commonly used in commercial and utility-scale solar projects

 

Monofacial Solar Panels:

• Design: Absorbs light from one side
• Energy Generation: Standard energy generation
• Installation: Can be installed in a variety of ways
• Cost: More affordable
• Use Case: Suitable for residential and smaller installations

How Much Energy Can Bi-facial Solar Panels Generate?

Bi-facial solar panels display optimal performance when situated in the vicinity of highly thoughtful surfaces, including swimming pools, glass, sandy, stony, or snowy areas. While the front side of the panel remains the primary absorber part of sunlight, certain bi-facial models can improve energy production by as much as 30%. The accurate amount of additional energy generated depends on the environmental conditions surrounding the solar panels.

Pros & Cons Of Bi-facial Solar Panels 

Bi-facial solar panels uk are experiencing a ripple in popularity, owing to their combination of affordability and efficiency. An increasing number of residences and commercial establishments are going for the option of bi-facial solar panels over monofacial ones to capitalize on their benefits. However, it’s essential to assess whether the advantages overpower the disadvantages before making a final decision. 

Key factors to consider include the price of bi-facial solar panels and understanding how they work. Regardless of their boosted efficiency, potential weaknesses such as installation costs and compatibility issues may arise, prompting careful evaluation before choosing bi-facial solar panels.

The Plus Points Of Bi-Facial Solar Panels

Bifacial solar panels offer several advantages that make them increasingly appealing to homeowners and businesses alike. Visit this article for information, These advantages include:

Increased Efficiency: 

Bifacial modules can generate power from both sides, resulting in a powerful boost in energy production specifically because of double production at the same time. Some manufacturers claim they can produce up to 30% more energy compared to traditional monofacial solar panels. This higher efficiency means homeowners can also install fewer solar panels to meet their energy needs, saving both space and costs.

Enhanced Durability: 

Bifacial solar panels, being frameless and covered on both sides by compressed glass, tend to be more durable. The compressed glass is weather-resistant, UV-resistant, and capable of resisting high temperatures and strong winds. This sturdiness contributes to longer lifespans for bifacial solar panels.

Aesthetic Appeal: 

Bi-facial solar panels come in different designs, starting from frameless options, which may appear aesthetically attractive in comparison to monofacial solar panels.

Effective in Diffuse Light: 

Bi-facial solar panels perform well in diffuse light conditions, thanks to their extra surface area. This feature contributes to lower long-term costs compared to monofacial panels.

Reduced PID: 

Frameless bi-facial solar panels are less susceptible to potential-induced degradation (PID), a phenomenon where electrical currents vary from their intended path, corroding the solar cells. Additionally, bi-facial solar panels without a metal frame eradicate the need for grounding, as there are no exterior metal contacts.

Longer Warranties: 

Bi-facial solar panels often come with extended warranties, sometimes up to 30 years, providing homeowners and businesses with added peace of mind regarding their investment.

In short, the numerous benefits of bi-facial solar panels, including increased efficiency, durability, aesthetic appeal, performance in diffuse light, reduced PID risk, and longer warranties, make them a compelling choice for sustainable energy solutions.

The Negative Points Of Bi-Facial Solar Panels

Initial Costs: 

The manufacturing process of bi-facial solar panels often leads to a higher price tag, with these panels costing up to 10% more than monofacial solar panels.

Installation Costs: 

Bi-facial solar panels, being heavier and requiring specialized equipment to maximize their benefits, gain higher installation costs compared to monofacial panels. 

Conclusion:

Go solar with Solar Steve! While bi-facial solar panels offer countless benefits like increased efficiency and improved durability, it’s crucial to weigh the initial investments and installation costs. Solar Steve can help you navigate through the advantages and disadvantages to make an informed decision about your solar investment. Visit Solar Steve’s website and let us guide you towards sustainable energy solutions.