Yes, bifacial solar panels offer greater cost savings in specific climates and environments where their design can maximize energy capture from both the front and rear surfaces. The key factor influencing this increased cost savings is the ability to capture reflected sunlight from the surface beneath the panels.
Climates and conditions favoring bifacial panels for cost savings:
- Sunny, high-irradiance environments with reflective ground surfaces: Places like Nevada and Arizona, with strong sunlight and suitable ground conditions that reflect light effectively (such as light-colored or sandy surfaces), enable bifacial panels to produce up to 10-25% more energy compared to traditional single-sided panels. For example, a solar farm in Nevada observed about 15% more energy generation with bifacial panels under these conditions.
- Environments with bright, reflective surfaces: Snow, sand, or white roofing materials can enhance the rear side’s exposure to sunlight, increasing total panel output and thereby lowering the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE). One commercial installation in Arizona recorded an 18% reduction in LCOE by switching to bifacial technology.
- Regions with high albedo (reflectivity): The greater energy yield of bifacial panels (which can range from 5% up to 30% more energy) is largely dependent on the albedo of the surroundings. High-albedo surfaces boost the rear-side energy capture, raising overall module efficiency substantially.
Summary of cost-saving advantages linked to climate:
| Climate/Condition | Impact on Bifacial Panel Performance | Cost-Saving Effect |
|---|---|---|
| High sunlight intensity | More direct solar irradiance on front surface | Increased energy production, lower LCOE |
| Reflective ground (sand, snow) | More sunlight reflected onto rear panel surface | 10-25% higher yield, reduced costs |
| High albedo environments | Enhanced rear-side energy capture | Up to 30% more energy output |
In contrast, areas with low reflectivity or shaded ground cover would see less of a benefit since the backside of the panel receives minimal additional light.
Thus, bifacial solar panels provide the greatest cost savings in sunny, reflective environments where the rear side can contribute substantial additional energy, directly reducing the per-unit cost of electricity and improving overall system economics.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/are-there-specific-climates-where-bifacial-solar-panels-offer-greater-cost-savings/
