How Do Bifacial Solar Panels Work?
Bifacial solar panels operate similarly to conventional solar panels, converting a portion of direct sunlight into usable electricity through solar cells. However, what sets them apart is their ability to harness additional sunlight that enters the panel and reflects within the glass until absorbed by another solar cell.
When flush-mounted on a rooftop, these panels prevent any reflected light from reaching the backside of the cells. This attribute makes bifacial solar modules particularly advantageous for flat commercial rooftops and ground-mounted arrays. The additional space allows for greater tilt and enables reflected light to bounce toward the rear of the modules, further enhancing their performance.
Benefits of Bifacial Solar Panels
Prepare to be amazed as we unravel the remarkable advantages that bifacial solar panels bring to the table:
Better Performance
Harness the power of innovation with bifacial solar panels as they unlock a new era of energy generation. By capturing sunlight from both sides, these marvels produce a significant boost in power output. Certain manufacturers, such as Bluebird Solar, assert that bifacial panels can generate up to 30% more energy than their monofacial counterparts. This enhanced efficiency not only means more electricity but also allows homeowners to optimize space by installing fewer panels while fulfilling their energy requirements.
Durability
Bifacial solar panels shine in durability with their frameless design and robust construction. Encased in tempered glass on both sides, these panels offer exceptional resistance to various weather conditions, UV rays, high temperatures, and even strong winds. As a result, bifacial solar panels boast extended lifespans, making them a reliable and long-lasting investment for harnessing clean energy.
Reduced Potential-Induced Degradation (PID)
Bifacial solar panels present a game-changing alternative to their mono-facial counterparts. The absence of a metal frame enhances their visual appeal and mitigates the risk of potential-induced degradation (PID) for solar cells. With no need for grounding, these panels offer unparalleled flexibility in design, including the sleek and alluring complete glass frame.
Impressive Aesthetics
Diverse in their designs, bifacial modules offer a plethora of options, including the elegant frameless variety. Renowned for their visual appeal, many enthusiasts find the complete glass frame of bifacial solar panels to be highly aesthetic, distinguishing them from their monofacial counterparts.
Works Well in Diffuse Light
In addition to their numerous benefits, bifacial solar panels perform exceptionally well in diffuse light conditions. This remarkable feature makes them an economical choice in the long term. The increased surface area of bifacial panels enables them to capture and convert diffuse light more effectively, ultimately reducing expenses compared to monofacial panels.
Longer Warranties
One notable advantage of bifacial solar panels is the extended performance warranty period, which can stretch up to 30 years. This extended assurance not only showcases the confidence of manufacturers in the durability and reliability of these panels but also provides peace of mind to solar energy enthusiasts.
Low Maintenance
Bifacial solar panels require minimal upkeep and only periodic cleaning. Whether you’re considering solar panels for your home or any other application, the efficiency and ease of maintenance offered by bifacial solar panels make them an attractive choice.
Types of Bifacial Solar Panels
Different types of bifacial solar panels offer various advantages in terms of durability, weight, and cost:
Glass/Glass Bifacial Panels
Discover the robustness of bifacial solar panels featuring double-sided glass surfaces. These structurally superior panels exhibit remarkable strength, enabling them to withstand heavy wind loads compared to their counterparts.
Glass/Transparent Backsheet
Explore the realm of lightweight bifacial modules with a glass front side and a protective transparent back sheet. Weighing less than their glass/glass counterparts, these modules offer cost savings in transportation, labor, and tracker installations where applicable.
Bifacial Panels vs. Monofacial Panels
In the ever-evolving world of solar technology, advancements pave the way for progress. The question arises: will bifacial PV panels overshadow their monofacial counterparts soon in the context of solar panel prices in India? Let’s explore the differences:
Polycrystalline Solar Panels
Focused on harnessing sunlight solely from the front side, these panels offer an efficiency range of 16-17%. They currently cost approximately ₹24.5 per watt.
Monocrystalline Solar Panels
Similar to polycrystalline solar panels, these monofacial counterparts collect sunlight from the front side only, with an efficiency range of 19-21%. They cost roughly ₹29 per watt.
Bifacial Solar Panels
Setting a new standard, bifacial solar panels capture sunlight from both the front and back sides, boosting their efficiency to an impressive 22%. However, this advanced technology comes at a higher price, currently averaging around ₹28 per watt. The performance of bifacial panels relies on the surface they are installed on, with snow enhancing their efficiency by reflecting a significant amount of light.
Conclusion
Bifacial solar panels outshine their monofacial counterparts in terms of advantages and efficiency. However, the decision between the two ultimately hinges on individual needs. In the past, the high cost of bifacial panels made them less favorable for residential applications. But with recent advancements, bifacial solar panel prices have significantly dropped, allowing them to enter the residential sector. This development presents homeowners with a compelling opportunity to harness the benefits of enhanced solar panel efficiency. With solar panel manufacturer like Bluebird Solar leading the way, the future of bifacial solar panels looks incredibly bright.
Embrace the future of solar energy with bifacial solar panels and experience the remarkable benefits they offer in your journey towards sustainable living.