Flexible solar panels tend to have significantly lower efficiency compared to rigid solar panels. Typically, flexible panels achieve about 15-18% efficiency under ideal conditions, whereas rigid panels generally operate with efficiencies around 20-23%, sometimes even higher with premium monocrystalline types reaching about 19-22% efficiency. Another source notes that flexible solar panels often range from 7% to 15% efficiency, while conventional rigid panels average around 19.2%.
The main reason for this difference is material and design constraints: flexible panels use much thinner solar cells and polymer coverings instead of the glass and aluminum encapsulation in rigid panels. This thinness and polymer layer enable lightweight, flexibility, and portability but reduce the amount of conducting material and durability, impacting the efficiency of converting sunlight into electricity.
Additionally, rigid panels typically have higher wattage output per panel (300-400 watts) compared to flexible panels (usually around 100 to 200 watts per panel), aligning with their higher efficiency. This means more flexible panels are needed to generate the same power as fewer rigid panels.
In summary:
| Feature | Flexible Solar Panels | Rigid Solar Panels |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Efficiency | 15-18% (can be as low as 7%) | 20-23%, premium up to 22% |
| Wattage per Panel | About 100-200 watts | 300-400 watts or higher |
| Material | Thin solar cells with polymer | Thicker cells with glass & aluminum |
| Durability | Lower lifespan (~5-20 years) | Higher lifespan (~25-30 years) |
| Flexibility & Weight | Lightweight and flexible | Rigid and heavier |
| Cost per Watt | Generally higher due to lower efficiency | More cost-effective due to efficiency |
While advanced research on flexible solar technologies (such as printed flexible solar cells) is achieving efficiencies around 11% on large-scale panels and even up to several hundred percent increases in energy density in experimental films, these are not yet standard commercial products.
Therefore, rigid solar panels remain the more efficient and durable choice for stationary, long-term solar power generation such as residential or commercial rooftops. Flexible solar panels are better suited for portable, lightweight applications like RVs, boats, or temporary use where their flexibility and ease of installation outweigh the efficiency losses.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/how-does-the-efficiency-of-flexible-solar-panels-compare-to-rigid-solar-panels/
