Solar cells continue to evolve and are now one of the most widely used renewable energy technologies in the world. There are two types of solar panels that we will discuss today: monofacial solar panels and bifacial solar panels.
With the continuous optimization of “cost reduction and efficiency improvement” of solar power generation, monofacial solar cell modules and bifacial solar cell modules have attracted much attention and discussion among solar power industry stakeholders. I am. So what is the difference between monofacial and bifacial panels? What are their advantages and disadvantages? Before we delve into this topic, let us define these two types of solar panels.
Unifacial solar panels only absorb sunlight from the front of the solar panel, while bifacial solar panels have solar cells on both sides. As you can imagine, generating power from both sides of the panel increases the amount of power you can generate. And this is exactly why solar panel manufacturers have introduced bifacial solar panels. That’s because we can get more out of our solar system and therefore get more economic benefits.
How do monofacial photovoltaic panels work?
Monofacial modules are the most common and traditional type of photovoltaic module with a monofacial cell on the front. Monofacial solar panels work just like regular solar panels. It converts sunlight from the front of the panel into DC power, which can be converted to AC power using an inverter and used to power a building or home.
How do bifacial solar modules work?
Instead of a backsheet like monofacial solar panels, bifacial solar panels have a transparent backsheet, allowing either panel size to capture sunlight. This allows the panels to absorb not only direct sunlight but also reflected light. Typically installed only in tiled shelving systems or in-ground bifacial photovoltaic installation systems. These are because they produce more energy when the back of the panel can capture more reflected light. The higher you tilt the bifacial module, the more power will be generated from the bifacial module.
Where should I install bifacial solar panels?
It is necessary to take into account that the surface on which the bifacial solar panel will be installed is reflective. When installing bifacial solar panels on highly reflective surfaces such as white roofs, high terrain, or snow-covered areas.
Bifacial solar panels are also effective for residential buildings and are usually installed above ground. However, for most property owners looking to install a roof, there may be a better option than bifacial panels. Bifacial modules are best used in commercial or large-scale applications where the panel is placed high and angled from the mounting surface, allowing light to reflect off the back of the panel.
Do bifacial solar modules require special solar mounting structures?
Solar mounting systems for bifacial modules must be specially designed to avoid shadows caused by the solar structure on the back of the module. The beam or purlin of the solar mount must not cross the area of the solar panel. Additionally, bifacial solar panels are not suitable for installation in single-axis solar tracking systems with single-row arrays. This is because the rotation axis of this type of solar tracker obscures the back of the bifacial solar panel.
Mibet New Energy is a professional manufacturer of solar installation racks. We offer a wide range of solar mounting systems including ground solar mounting systems, bifacial solar mounts, rooftop solar mounts, floating solar systems, etc. Solar mounts specifically designed for bifacial modules include PGT4 ground mount solar racks and single axis solar systems. Rack with optional dual-row solar tracking system.
Advantages of bifacial solar modules compared to monofacial solar modules
- Generate more power: Bifacial solar panels can generate power from both sides of the panel, making them more efficient.
- Durability: bifacial solar panels are covered with tempered glass on both sides. Often more durable. This is because tempered glass is resistant to UV rays and can withstand high temperatures and strong winds.
- Works better in diffused light: The additional surface area also means the bifacial panel works better in diffused light. This means long-term costs are lower than monofacial panels.
- Reduced PID: Frameless bifacial panels reduce the potential for potential-induced degradation (PID) of solar cells. Here, the current deviates from its intended path, thereby corroding the solar module. In addition, the bifacial receiver module without a metal frame does not need to be grounded since there are no metal contacts on the outside.
- Long-term warranty: bifacial panels usually come with long-term warranties of up to 30 years, while monofacial panels only come with a 25-year warranty.
