Bifacial Solar Panels: How Do They Work & What Is Their Yield?

Bifacial solar panels: double the benefits of the sun Did you know that the solar panels in our Plug & Play solar panel set are bifacial? Many customers ask us this question, and rightly so: it is one of the biggest advantages of our solar panel sets, but not everyone knows exactly what it entails. In this article, we explain what bifacial solar panels are, how they work and why they provide you with extra yield when you buy solar panels from PlugInSolarEnergy. What does "bifacial" mean? The word bifacial literally means "two faces". With a classic solar panel, only the top side generates energy from the sunlight that falls directly on it. With a bifacial panel, it is different: both sides of the panel convert light into electricity, both the front and the back. The back does not capture direct sunlight, but does capture reflected light from the surroundings. Think of light that reflects off: A light-colored roof or facade A patio, driveway or gravel path Snow in the winter months White walls or reflective surfaces nearby Why does this produce more energy? Because a bifacial panel also utilizes this extra reflected light, you generate more energy with exactly the same surface area than with a traditional panel. Depending on the surface and the way you place the panels, this can amount to 10 to 20% extra yield. The more reflective the surface under or behind your panels, the greater that effect. So a white gravel roof or a light tile floor on your patio works in your favor. More yield, no extra costs The great thing is: this benefit is included as standard when you buy a plug and play solar panel set from us. You do not pay anything extra for it, but you do benefit from a higher yield throughout the year. Especially in combination with the simple, plug-ready installation of our solar panel sets, you can easily get the maximum out of your investment in solar energy at home. Tip: placement makes the difference Do you want to make the most of the bifacial effect? Then keep the following in mind: Are you placing your panels on a patio or driveway? Light-colored paving enhances the effect. Do you have a flat roof? White gravel or a light roofing material under the panels works well. Provide enough space between the bottom of the panel and the surface, so that the light can reflect well. Conclusion Bifacial solar panels are a smart technology that produces more energy for you without extra costs, simply by making smart use of reflected light. At PlugInSolarEnergy, these panels are included as standard in our Plug & Play sets, so you can benefit from maximum solar energy without any hassle. Frequently asked questions about bifacial solar panels Do bifacial solar panels also work without a reflective surface? Yes, even without a specifically reflective surface, bifacial solar panels work just like classic panels. The extra yield simply comes on top when there is reflected light. Are bifacial solar panels more expensive than classic solar panels? Not at PlugInSolarEnergy: bifacial panels are included as standard in our Plug & Play solar panel set, without an additional price. Can I combine bifacial solar panels with a home battery? Absolutely, you can perfectly combine your solar panel set with a home battery such as the Marstek Venus E or Growatt Nexa, so that you can also use the energy you generate yourself in the evening. Curious about our sets? View the full range on our Plug & Play solar panel set page and discover how easy it is to get started with solar energy yourself.