The cost implications of using bifacial solar panels in energy storage facilities primarily revolve around their higher initial investment but potentially better long-term economics due to increased energy yield.
Higher Upfront Cost
- Bifacial solar panels generally have a higher purchase price compared to traditional monofacial panels. Their cost ranges about $0.50 to $0.70 per watt, translating roughly to $500 to $700 per 1-kilowatt system, and can be slightly higher in utility-scale projects by 1 to 5 cents more per watt.
- Installation of bifacial panels can be more complex and costly. They require more sophisticated mounting systems to maximize the energy gain from both sides, involving careful planning regarding tilt angle, elevation, and reflective surfaces.
Increased Energy Production and Efficiency
- Despite the higher initial cost, bifacial panels produce approximately 6% to 10% more energy than monofacial panels, sometimes even more depending on the setup and environment.
- Their efficiency ranges from 20% to 27%, and they can generate up to 50% more energy than traditional solar panels due to capturing sunlight from both sides.
Long-Term Cost Benefits
- The increased energy yield often compensates for the higher upfront costs over the lifecycle of the panels, improving the overall cost-effectiveness and lowering the levelized cost of energy (LCOE).
- Bifacial panels also exhibit more stable performance over time due to reduced potential induced degradation (PID) thanks to their glass-on-glass design, which can translate into lower maintenance and replacement costs.
Additional Considerations
- Bifacial panels may entail higher balance-of-system (BOS) costs and installation expenses, particularly when used with tracking systems or specialized mounts that enhance their performance.
- However, tariffs that previously affected solar panel costs in the U.S. exempt bifacial panels, slightly easing the cost pressure on these systems.
Summary Table of Cost Implications for Bifacial Solar Panels in Energy Storage Facilities
| Aspect | Implication |
|---|---|
| Initial Panel Cost | Higher ($0.50 – $0.70 per watt or more) |
| Installation Complexity | More complex, potentially higher costs |
| Energy Yield | 6-10% or more increase, up to 50% more energy |
| Efficiency | 20-27% |
| Long-Term Economics | Lower LCOE due to higher and stable output |
| Maintenance | Potentially reduced due to less degradation |
| Tariff Impact | Exempt from some tariffs, reducing costs |
In conclusion, while bifacial solar panels require higher initial investment and more careful installation in energy storage facilities, their improved energy production, greater efficiency, and durability can lead to lower overall costs in the long run, making them a financially viable option especially for large-scale or utility projects.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/what-are-the-cost-implications-of-using-bifacial-solar-panels-in-energy-storage-facilities/
