Bifacial Solar Panels: The Future of the Solar Industry?

What are bifacial solar panels?

Bifacial solar panels are solar panels that can produce power from both of their sides. They use the same cells as their monofacial counterparts, but bifacial panels have a reflective back or dual panes of glass that hold the solar cells in place. Most such panels are made of monocrystalline cells because of their better efficiency, although polycrystalline variants exist too.

Bifacial solar panels have celled panels on both sides, allowing them to absorb light that would otherwise be reflected off the ground or other surfaces. Despite their efficiency, this technology is rarely used in residential installations and works best when employed on a utility scale or in commercial applications. Bifacial panels should be specifically elevated and angled to absorb the most light from the ground.

How does it work?

Bifacial solar modules use the same technology as conventional ones, just in a modified way. Solar cells on both sides of a panel absorb sunlight coming from different directions — the front takes in direct sun rays while the back absorbs light reflected from a surface. Therefore, the photovoltaic effect takes place on both sides and, consequently, the modules generate more electricity. Unlike monofacial panels, which allow part of the sunlight to pass through, bifacial ones try to minimize these losses.

Bifacial solar modules have a slightly different construction. They usually have metal connectors on both sides. Another notable feature is their slimness, as they require limited framing and are usually housed in a thin and transparent layer. The mounting for bifacial panels is slightly different, too. To operate at full capacity, the panels must have minimal shading on both surfaces, so their construction components should be smaller. Therefore, bifacial panels usually have narrower support rails, frequently constructed just at the corners of the racking system, and small junction boxes.

Bifacial modules can also come with trackers that enhance their performance even more. It is calculated that such modules can have 30-40 percent greater efficiency when combined with trackers.

Should you use them? Pros and cons

In theory, bifacial solar panels look like a great solution to minimize energy waste and make solar power plants more effective. But are they worth the hype? Here are a few pros and cons:

Pros

• ​Higher efficiency: Bifacial solar panels can generate electricity on both sides, so they can produce more electricity. As a result, fewer panels can generate more electricity than monofacial modules. Some manufacturers claim bifacial panels can produce 30 percent more electricity than single-sided ones. Their efficiency can be even higher with the right tracking systems and ground type.
• ​Less space required: Due to increased efficiency per unit, bifacial solar plants require less space. This technology is especially useful in cases of land limitations and the need to make the plant as efficient as possible.
• ​Longer durability: Bifacial panels are more durable because they don’t require frames and are glass-covered on both sides. Manufacturers usually use tempered glass, which is more resistant to high temperatures, UV, and strong winds.
• ​More flexible angle maneuvering: Bifacial solar panels have more flexible maneuverability. You can tilt and track panels to maximize electricity generation on both sides. It is also easier to find the most optimum angles for best efficiency.
• ​Longer warranty: Manufacturers usually provide longer warranties for bifacial panels.

Cons

• ​Higher price: Bifacial panels are made of monocrystalline cells, making them more expensive. Their manufacturing process is also more costly, resulting in a higher market price.
• ​Higher installation costs: Bifacial panels require more complex installation procedures due to their weight and delicate mounting structures.

The main drawbacks of bifacial panels are their costs. Therefore, this technology may not make much sense for individual users, but it could increase the return on investment in the long-term for commercial or utility projects.

Market tendencies and future perspectives

In 2018, additional tariffs were introduced for non-domestically produced solar panels. In 2022, an exemption was made for bifacial solar panels, potentially increasing their popularity in the near future.

The cost of bifacial panels has decreased significantly over the last two decades, and their market share is increasing. Examples of large-scale bifacial installations include Robins Air Force Base's 870-acre solar farm, the Taygete Energy Project in Texas with 340 MW solar power, and a 224 MW capacity LONGi power generation project in Mitchell County, Georgia.

However, bifacial technology is unlikely to make a big impact on the residential solar market due to pricing and the inability to operate effectively on residential rooftops.