Potential Drawbacks
- Higher Initial Cost: Bifacial solar panels are generally more expensive than traditional monofacial panels due to their complex design and additional materials such as glass on both sides.
- Installation Complexity: The installation process for bifacial panels requires careful planning and optimization of the mounting structure, tilt angle, and height, which can add to the overall cost and complexity of the installation. Proper site assessment and planning are necessary to maximize their potential benefits.
- Dependence on Reflective Surfaces: Bifacial panels rely on reflective surfaces to capture additional sunlight from the rear side. In environments with low reflectivity, such as dark roofs or non-reflective ground surfaces, the efficiency gains of bifacial panels are limited, making them less effective than traditional panels in such scenarios.
- Space and Obstruction Considerations: In residential settings, particularly with rooftop installations, the back of bifacial panels may be obstructed by the house itself, reducing their ability to capture reflected sunlight from the rear. This limitation can negate the benefits of using bifacial panels in these settings.
- Payback Period: The higher upfront costs of bifacial panels can extend the payback period compared to traditional panels, which might affect their viability for residential investments.
- Electrical Infrastructure Requirements: Since bifacial panels can generate more power, particularly from the backside, they might require upgraded wiring and electrical components to handle the increased output safely.
In summary, while bifacial solar panels offer increased efficiency and durability, their suitability in residential settings is limited by cost, installation complexity, and reliance on reflective surfaces. These factors make traditional monofacial panels a more practical choice for many residential applications.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/what-are-the-potential-drawbacks-of-using-bifacial-solar-panels-in-residential-settings/
