Solar panels generally rely on energy coming directly from the sun.
But some panels can generate electricity from rays after they bounce off the ground.
These panels function best when installed at ground level, absorbing sunlight reflected off the Earth’s surface.
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Here’s everything you should probably know about bifacial solar panels.
How do bifacial panels work?
Sunlight reflects, to varying degrees, off everything.
This effect even has climate change implications.
Research showsice reflects about 85% of sunlight, but open water reflects only 7%.
As Arctic ice melts, the water underneath absorbs more light (and heat).
Edie teaches a course on clean energy in the electric grid.
The key difference is with the design.
Edie explains that instead of having an opaque back, bifacial solar panels feature a transparent backside.
This feature allows them to absorb solar energy from both sides, he said.
Bifacial panels are generally best suited to utility-scale andcommercial solar installationsor buildings with flat rooftops, Edie said.
Standard installation methods don’t allow sufficient light to reach the backside of the panels on a residential rooftop.
This minimizes the additional benefits that bifacial panels can offer, Edie said.
How can I get bifacial solar panels?
The process is similar to getting traditional solar panels.
Many solar panel manufacturers in the US, includingSunPowerand Longi Solar, offer bifacial solar panels.
Consult with asolar panel installer or providerto ensure that bifacial panels fit your requirements and installation site.
How are bifacial solar modules installed?
Bifacial solar panels are installed in the same way monofacial panels are installed.
This method is handy for ground-mounted systems and flat commercial rooftops.
These include installations on flat commercial rooftops and vast fields with acres of solar panels.
Surfaces like sand andsnow will reflect more sunlightthan darker surfaces like asphalt.
Bifacial solar panel FAQs
How much do bifacial solar panels cost?
Bifacial solar panels are slightly more expensive than traditional monofacial panels.
However, the cost difference is often offset by their increased energy generation.
Can you use bifacial solar panels on a roof?
They perform best on flat commercial rooftops and ground-mounted systems.
Are bifacial solar panels worth it?
It depends on where you’re putting them.
Those passages have now been rendered appropriately as paraphrases.
