Solar energy technology is constantly innovating allowing us to generate green energy more cheaply and efficiently to wean us off fossil fuel.
This is especially the case with bifacial solar technology which was originally used for space applications in the 1970s.
Now, thanks to breakthroughs in solar cell technology, we are beginning to see bifacial solar panels rising in popularity.
What are bifacial solar panels?
Unlike traditional one-sided solar panels which only capture sunlight on one side, bifacial solar panels capture it from both the front and back sides.
By using a reflective or transparent backsheet, it allows the sun’s rays to pass through the panel and be absorbed by the cells on the underside.
The technology generates more energy because light reflected from surfaces such as the ground and buildings is absorbed into the panels.
What are the benefits of bifacial solar panels?
Bifacial solar panels on their own can generate up to 20 per cent more energy than one-sided panels and work better than traditional panels do with light that’s been diffused.
Their energy production is boosted by between 30-40 per cent higher than traditional solar panels when they are fitted to a system that rotates the panels from East to West following the sun's path.
Bifacial panels are also stronger because they are covered on both sides by tempered glass, a type of safety glass that’s heat-treated to increase its strength and make it shatter-resistant.
The glass also makes the panels weather and UV resistant, helping the panels to withstand high temperatures and strong winds.
As such, manufacturers often offer a longer warranty of 30 years for bifacial solar panels compared to 25 years for a one-sided solar panel.
Another benefit is purely aesthetic; they can look sleeker than traditional solar panels.
Where are bifacial solar panels used?
Because bifacial solar panels can generate more electricity, they are increasingly being used where there is limited space to host the panels.
They are particularly suited to buildings located near to any reflective surfaces such as water, snow, stone, tarmac and glass.
As such, they are increasingly being used for commercial buildings as well as solar farms such as the Skeeby project in Richmond, North Yorkshire which uses 93,000 bifacial solar panels as well as other off-grid projects and buildings with flat roofs.
However, they may not be as suitable for house roofs as traditional solar panels because they work best at least four metres off the ground.
What are the disadvantages?
Bifacial solar panels are around 10 per cent more expensive than traditional solar panels because they need a special elevated mounting system to maximise the amount of light captured.
They are also heavier, so you need specialist equipment to install them, raising the cost. In addition, they need more maintenance than traditional panels because of dust and debris build up.
Also, depending on the environment, the underside of the bifacial solar panel may not perform as well, meaning any potential energy production benefits over one-sided panels, may be lost.
Can you use bifacial solar panels on solar carports?
Bifacial solar panels can work well on solar carports especially if surrounded by reflective surfaces you’d find in a large carpark.
Installing bifacial solar panels would also allow you to save the cost of installing a subroof while maximising energy generation.
If you want a subroof however bifacial panels may not be the best option - our team of experts at Solspan will advise you on the panels that are best suited to your site and requirements.
