Solar modules are becoming more and more efficient and technological progress is constantly increasing the performance ratio of photovoltaic systems. At present bifacial PV modules are on everyone's lips and are increasingly being used in private PV systems. But are they always the best choice for commercial PV systems? This article describes the functions, advantages, disadvantages and applications of bifacial PV modules. It also compares their use in the commercial sector with conventional PV modules and identifies the factors that should be considered when selecting bifacial PV modules.
How do bifacial PV modules work?
Bifacial PV modules differ from conventional PV modules by the fact that they emit light both from the Front as well as from the back can be absorbed. This is achieved by using transparent or semi-transparent material on the back of the module, which captures the reflected light and uses it to generate electricity. As with conventional PV modules, the front of the module usually consists of monocrystalline solar cells and absorbs direct sunlight. The bottom layer usually consists of cheaper polycrystalline solar cells and generates energy from the reflected and transmitted radiation. They are available as glass-glass or glass-foil modules.
The main advantage of bifacial PV modules is that they additional power from the reflected light can generate. This leads to higher energy production compared to conventional modules, especially in environments with high reflectivity such as snow, water or sand. The performance of bifacial PV modules can be 5 - 30 % higher, depending on location than those of conventional modules.
Bifacial PV modules - their advantages
The use of bifacial PV modules offers several advantages for PV systems. Firstly, they can increase energy production when installed correctly and thus increase the yield of the system. They are particularly advantageous in locations with shallow sunlight, reflective surfaces or when the sun can illuminate the front and back of the modules. Although this does not apply to pitched roof or façade installations, it opens up new areas of application such as vertical PV fences or in agriculture.
In addition, bifacial PV modules are more attractive due to their higher output per area more efficient in terms of space utilization. This is particularly important for smaller private PV systems, where the available space is often limited. The use of bifacial modules makes it possible to generate more electricity on a smaller area.
Further advantages of bifacial PV modules are their better low-light behavior in diffuse light, their performance at high temperatures and their increased reliability. As they have both the direct sunlight as well as the reflected light They are less susceptible to power losses due to soiling or shading. This leads to a longer service life and improved overall system performance.
Disadvantages of bifacial PV modules
Although bifacial PV modules offer many advantages, there are also some disadvantages. First of all, the price of bifacial PV modules is around 15 % higher than conventional monocrystalline modules of the high-efficiency module class widely used in the private sector. This is partly due to the more complex design and the use of special materials on the back of the module. For homeowners who purchase electricity at the standard tariff, these additional expenses may still be a manageable investment. But for commercial photovoltaic systems in the megawatt range, several thousand modules from the mainstream or low-cost class are usually installed. In comparison bifacial PV modules are even up to 50 % more expensive. The various types of solar module should be checked for their cost-effectiveness as early as the system planning and calculation stage.
Another disadvantage of bifacial PV modules is their Higher sensitivity against dirt and shading on the rear side. As the reflected light is absorbed by the back of the module, dirt particles or shading can impair the performance of the modules. Bifacial PV modules therefore require a Regular cleaning on both sides and careful placement to ensure optimum performance. Also the Mounting systems are usually more complexas they require a greater distance from the reflective substrate. Especially on perfectly pitched roofs facing south or east-west, on which conventional solar modules can be optimally installed, even the additional yield of bifacial PV modules is usually not worthwhile.
Comparison: bifacial PV modules and conventional PV modules
The main difference between bifacial PV modules and conventional monocrystalline modules is that bifacial modules can utilize both direct sunlight and reflected light, while conventional modules only absorb direct sunlight. This leads to higher energy generation and a improved space utilization for bifacial PV modules.
Compared to conventional modules, however, bifacial PV modules are more expensive and require a Careful placement and cleaning on both sidesto ensure optimum performance. Conventional modules, on the other hand, are generally cheaper and less sensitive to soiling and shading.
When selecting PV modules, several factors need to be considered, including the location, available space, budget and expected energy production. Bifacial PV modules are a good option for PV systems that are installed on Substrates with a high degree of reflection be erected. Particularly high reflection values occur with snow coverings. However, light-colored foils, walls or sand are also suitable for this purpose. The efficiency advantage of bifacial PV modules decreases on green areas, concrete or asphalt.
Applications of bifacial PV modules
Bifacial PV modules are used in various areas of photovoltaics. They are often used where space is limited, and they develop their higher efficiency when they are Steep in front of reflective surface be installed. In any case, bifacial PV modules always require a greater and precisely calculated distance to the groundto be able to exploit their advantages over standard PV modules. They are therefore well suited for commercial applications such as Solar parks or for agrivoltaic systems, provided that they can be elevated high and steeply.
Such an elevation is also possible and sensible for solar carports or vertical PV walls or fences, such as those erected along highways or train tracks. Provided that the Expected additional yield of the bifacial PV modules the costs of the more complex assembly system such modules also pay off in urban environments, such as on flat commercial and industrial roofs. Here, they enable efficient use of the limited space available and contribute to the promotion of renewable energies.
However, conventional modules may be the better choice for systems with a low budget or in less demanding environments. In most cases, it makes sense to test different solar modules before selecting them. Calculate PV occupancy types from specialist companies to leave.
What should I bear in mind when choosing?
Several factors should be taken into account when selecting bifacial PV modules. First of all, the Location of the PV system analyzed and the Degree of light reflection can be determined. The higher the reflectance, the more advantageous bifacial PV modules are.
Furthermore, it is important to Available area and the Budget must be taken into account. Bifacial PV modules are generally more expensive than conventional modules and may require a larger investment. It is important to assess the long-term impact on the system's yield and to consider the Cost-benefit analysis carefully.
Finally, the Maintenance requirements of bifacial PV modules should not be underestimated. Cleaning the back of the modules can be time consuming and require additional resources. The availability of maintenance services and the implementation of a maintenance plan are crucial to ensure optimal module performance.
Conclusion
Bifacial PV modules also offer a promising solution for commercial PV systems in order to increase energy production and minimize energy consumption. Maximize yield. They have the advantage of using both direct sunlight and reflected light, which leads to higher performance and improved space utilization.
However, there are also some disadvantages such as higher costs and Increased sensitivity against soiling and shading. When selecting bifacial PV modules, the location, budget and maintenance requirements are therefore carefully calculated.
For smaller private PV systems, bifacial PV modules can be a Worthwhile investment represent. Nevertheless, it is advisable to familiarize yourself in detail with how these special solar modules work before making a purchase. Under the right conditions and with a suitable installation, bifacial systems can be quite effective.
Especially with commercial PV systems a module decision is made in the run-up to the Careful planning and a Comparative performance audit in which all factors are taken into account. In many cases, however, the additional benefit of bifacial PV modules is rather limited. Common applications for commercial solar installations, such as on large pitched roofs or façades, are therefore less suitable for bifacial technology. In cases of doubt, traditional Single-sided PV modules the safer choice and more suitable.