Solar panels collect sunlight and convert it into valuable electricity. They are an innovation that allowed us to harness a natural resource into something that we can use every day.
Double-sided solar panels are a way to increase the efficiency of solar technology. If you want to learn more, keep reading for our double-sided solar panel guide.
What Is a Double-Sided Solar Panel?
A double-sided solar panel is also known as a Bifacial solar panel. These consist of panels exposed to the sunlight on both sides to generate more energy.
How Do They Work?
Bifacial panels work by collecting sunlight from each side of the panel to produce power. They are often installed on a reflective surface, like concrete, light stones, or a white roof. This draws in more sunlight and increases the generation of energy.
The top panels use direct sunlight to create energy, while the bottom panels use a reflective surface.
Design Options
Double-sided solar panels have a few different design options available to choose from. They are available in framed, frameless, dual glass, clear back sheets, using monocrystalline cells, or using polycrystalline cells.
Monocrystalline is more common despite the higher cost because it has greater efficiency by allowing more electrons to flow through. Polycrystalline panels have a lower output of energy but have been seeing improvements as technology advances.
How Are They Installed?
Bifacial solar panels have different methods of installation based on the design options you choose, but any type will need to be installed by a professional.
Framed panels are easier to install because traditional mounting systems are created for use with these types of panels. Frameless models require the use of clamps to mount them to your surface.
It also varies depending on whether you have them installed vertically or horizontally. A double-sided solar panel company can provide recommendations on which orientation will work best for your home.
Find more info on solar panel installation.
Why Would You Need Them?
Double-sided solar panel benefits can outweigh those of traditional single panels. If you have minimal space to work with, these panels do twice the work in the same amount of space.
They are UV-resistant from both sides and have a lower chance of overheating, making them more durable than their counterparts. Because they collect sunlight from both sides, you can tilt the panels in ways that provide the most energy.
These solar panels produce 35% more energy than single-sided options, making them more cost-efficient and effective.
Cost of Double-Sided Solar Panels
The initial cost of bifacial solar panels is around $0.01 to $0.20 more than single panels. The initial investment is more costly, but the efficacy of these panels reduces your electricity costs by 16% over time.
Add the Latest Tech to Your Home
Double-sided solar panels are the latest solar panel technology available to add to your home. Installing them in your home will save you energy, space, and expenses by giving you more power per panel.
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