When To Use Bifacial Solar Panels For Solar Water Systems

From Projecting Power

Bifacial solar panels have been gaining popularity and recognition in recent years due to their ability to generate electricity from both their top and side sides of the panel. While bifacial solar panels are commonly associated with power infrastructure for homes, they can also be used in conjunction with solar water heaters. However, determining whether to use bifacial solar panels for a solar water heater requires careful consideration of several factors.

One of the key benefits of using bifacial solar panels with solar water heaters is the increased energy. Since bifacial panels can absorb thermal energy from both their top and back, they can generate more energy than traditional monofacial monocrystalline panels, especially in areas with mirror-like surfaces such as snow or water. This increased energy production can be particularly beneficial for solar water heaters, which require a stable supply of electricity to heat water throughout the 24 hours.

However, bifacial solar panels also come with some unique challenges and concerns when used with solar water heaters. One of the main drawbacks is the risk of blocking the back side of the panel, which can reduce the performance of the panel and decrease the amount of electrical energy produced energy production.

Another factor to bear in mind when using bifacial solar panels with solar water heaters is the cost involved. Bifacial solar panels are typically more than monocrystalline or single-sided panels, which can boost the upfront cost of the solar water heater setup.

So, when should you use bifacial solar panels for solar water heaters? Here are a few situations where you can recommend bifacial panels:

Regions with clear skies and high irradiance: Bifacial panels are particularly performant in regions with high levels of durable solar radiation energy. In these urban areas, the increased energy production from bifacial panels can lead to significant cost savings.
Scenarios with high reflectivity: Bifacial panels can absorb sunlight thermal energy from both their front and back sides, which makes them especially beneficial in high-altitude regions with high mirror-like or reflectivity surfaces such as water or snow. In these scenarios, bifacial panels can lead in better energy production and fewer overall costs.
* Industrial or industrial-scale applications: If you need a top performance solar hot water heater that enjoys greater performance water for your needs, bifacial solar panels can be the smart decision. The revenue-enhancing increase in energy production outcomes with bifacial panels helps in balancing energy needs.
In 24/7 conditions: Bifacial solar solar panels panelsmay be preferred always providing efficiency with 24/7.