Introduction
Are you thinking of installing solar panels for your home or business but are unsure which ones are best? Fear not, my sunny friend, because we've got you covered! In this blog post, we'll compare two types of solar panels: bi-facial solar panels and mono-facial solar panels.
What are Bi-facial Solar Panels?
Bi-facial solar panels are a unique type of solar panel that generate electricity from both sides of the panel. They are made up of a layer of photovoltaic cells and a transparent layer on both sides, allowing them to capture sunlight from both sides.
What are Mono-facial Solar Panels?
Mono-facial solar panels are the most common type of solar panels that capture sunlight from one side only. They are made up of a layer of photovoltaic cells, a transparent protective layer, and a metal backing.
Efficiency
One of the most important factors to consider when selecting a solar panel is efficiency. Bi-facial solar panels have a higher efficiency rate than mono-facial solar panels, with an average increase of 5-10% in energy output. They can generate more electricity from the same amount of sunlight due to their ability to capture sunlight from both sides.
Cost
When it comes to cost, mono-facial solar panels are less expensive than bi-facial solar panels. Bi-facial solar panels are relatively new technology and thus are more expensive to manufacture. The cost difference between the two varies depending on the manufacturer, but generally, bi-facial solar panels are 10-20% more expensive than mono-facial solar panels.
Functionality
Bi-facial solar panels can perform better in certain scenarios such as areas with high reflectivity, like snow or water. In contrast, mono-facial solar panels perform better in moderate to low reflectivity environments, such as deserts, where light absorption is more important.
Conclusion
Both bi-facial and mono-facial solar panels have their advantages and disadvantages; ultimately, the choice depends on your specific solar needs. Bi-facial solar panels are more efficient but cost more, while mono-facial solar panels are less expensive and suitable for most environments.
Choosing solar panels can be daunting, but by considering the efficiency, cost and functionality, deciding which one is best for you can be done in a sunny breeze!