Use of bifacial solar panels

Bifacial solar panels can be effective when installed on elevated structures such as solar carports, canopies and pergolas. Elevation allows more sunlight to reflect off surrounding surfaces and reach the underside of these panels, increasing energy production.

Bifacial solar panels generate electricity by capturing sunlight on both the front and rear sides. A portion of sunlight is directly absorbed by the solar cells, while some light gets trapped within the panel glass and eventually absorbed.

Monofacial solar panels use an opaque backsheet that only permits the front face of the panel to receive sunlight. Conversely, Bifacial solar features light-absorbing panels exposed on both sides. This enables them to absorb reflected light from surfaces such as white rooftops, sand, or snow.

With more surface area available to absorb sunlight, bifacial panels are generally more efficient than traditional monofacial panels. For example, a study by solar panel manufacturer LONGi found that bifacial panels produced 11% more energy than standard panels as part of a ground-mounted installation.

Bifacial solar panels are a smart upgrade for anyone looking to get more energy from the same space. Since they can capture sunlight from both sides, they often produce more electricity than regular panels. They're also built to last longer and look sleeker.

Ideally, bifacial panels should be aligned to ensure maximum sunlight exposure on both sides throughout the day. Plus, the tilt angle should be optimized based on the local latitude to maximize solar radiation capture. Bifacial solar panels are more sensitive to shading on either side.