Do Bifacial Panels Produce More Energy Than Fixed Position Monofacial?

Bifacial Panel Technology

Bifacial panels use a transparent reflective layer, typically made of glass or ETFE (ethylene tetrafluorethylene), to capture light from the rear side of the panel. This technology allows the panel to absorb reflected light, increasing its overall energy production. The bifacial effect can be particularly pronounced when panels are installed on a white or light-colored surface, such as a metal roof or a snow-covered terrain.

Factors Affecting Bifacial Energy Production

Several factors influence the efficiency of bifacial panels, including the installation location, panel angle, and surrounding environment. Research has shown that bifacial panels installed at a tilt angle of 10-15 degrees can achieve higher energy production than fixed-position monofacial panels. Additionally, the reflectivity of the surface beneath the panel plays a crucial role, with white or light-colored surfaces resulting in higher energy gains.

Case Study: Bifacial Panel Performance

A study published by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) investigated the performance of bifacial panels installed in a fixed-tilt configuration. The results showed an average increase of 15% in energy production over a period of one year, compared to monofacial panels. The study also found that the bifacial effect was more pronounced during the winter months when snow covered the surface beneath the panels, resulting in an average increase of 20% in energy production.