Flexible solar panels generally cost more upfront than traditional rigid solar panels due to the specialized technology and materials needed to make them flexible. Key points of comparison are:
Cost Comparison
- Flexible solar panels have a significantly higher price per watt than comparable rigid panels. For example, flexible panels can cost around Rs. 60 (~$0.75) per watt in India or £145 for a 100-watt panel, whereas rigid panels typically cost less (around £75-£125 for a 100-watt panel).
- The higher cost is driven primarily by manufacturing complexity and newer, less mature technology used in flexible panels.
- However, flexible panels can have cheaper installation costs due to their lightweight and adhesive mounting options, reducing labor and mounting material expenses.
Efficiency and Long-Term Cost
- Traditional rigid panels generally offer higher efficiency (15-22%) compared to flexible panels (10-18%, sometimes up to ~22% in high-quality models). Higher efficiency means more power output per panel, potentially reducing the number of panels needed.
- Rigid panels also tend to have a much longer lifespan—often 25-30 years—compared to flexible panels, which usually last 5-10 years, increasing their long-term cost-effectiveness.
- Flexible panels may incur higher replacement costs over time due to shorter durability and warranties.
Other Considerations
- Flexible panels are lighter (4-5 lbs vs. 30-50 lbs for rigid), easier to install on curved or irregular surfaces, and more portable, making them ideal for mobile or temporary setups like boats, RVs, or camping.
- Flexible panels are more prone to overheating and efficiency loss on hot days since they lack the air gap for cooling that rigid panels have.
Summary Table
| Feature | Flexible Solar Panels | Traditional Rigid Solar Panels |
|---|---|---|
| Cost per Watt | Higher (e.g., Rs. 60/watt or £145/100W) | Lower (e.g., £75-£125/100W) |
| Installation Cost | Often lower (lighter, adhesive mounts) | Higher (requires framing and mounting) |
| Efficiency | Lower, ~10-18% (up to ~22% in some) | Higher, ~15-22% |
| Durability/Lifespan | Shorter, ~5-10 years | Longer, 25-30 years |
| Weight | Much lighter (4-5 lbs per panel) | Heavier (30-50 lbs per panel) |
| Best Use Case | Curved surfaces, mobile apps, portability | Permanent, stationary rooftop systems |
Conclusion
Flexible solar panels cost significantly more upfront than traditional rigid panels and are generally less efficient and durable, which increases long-term costs. However, their unique flexibility, light weight, and ease of installation can justify their higher price for specialized applications such as mobile solar setups, curved surfaces, or temporary installations. For typical home or commercial solar installations focused on cost-efficiency and longevity, rigid solar panels remain the more economical choice.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/how-do-flexible-solar-panels-compare-in-cost-to-traditional-solar-panels/
