Performance you can rely on from the space industry
Bifacial PV modules were invented for use by the space industry where the rear side of module is able to produce additional energy from the Earths- atmospheric reflection. Recent improvements in technology have reduced the cost production of these modules for domestic use.
Most efficient (up to 170 Watt/m2) and cost effective ($/Watt) modules on the market today.
Bifacial modules produce from 10% up to 50% more energy in comparison with monofacial modules with the same dimensions. Maximum gain is achieved with use of reflective or white color objects behind the modules (for instance the use of a quartz gravel, sand, snow, water surface, white painted or galvanized iron roof).
Bifacial PV modules have much lower operating temperature compared to monofacial modules (about 5-9oC) due to the passing infrared radiation. The reduced temperature of bifacial modules increases the energy gain by 2-10%.
Maximum advantage is achieved with solar trackers and soft concentrators where the PV modules are exposed to higher solar radiation than on the fixed frame.
The reduced temperature increases the life of the PV modules by avoiding degradation of the polymer encapsulant. In 20 years of use the power loss is 5-7% compared to 15-20% losses in monofacial modules.
The output warranty period is 25 years and freedom from defects in materials and workmanship for 2 years.
Materials and construction
72 monocristalline solar cells laminated between high transparent low iron 3mm
tempered glass and EVA film. The laminate held into a clear anodized aluminum
frame. Transparent Tedlar film is used in the backside laminate instead of a
white opaque one. Junction box contains: positive terminal, negative terminal,
circuit 0 point and bypass diodes. Hot-spot effects are prevented by bypass
diodes. These diodes are also used for preventing the module-s failure if it is partially shaded.
Installation instruction
The module is fixed with bolts through openings at the sides of the frame. The
location of the module should be in an opened position. The selected location
should provide maximum albedo illumination to rear side of the module. Module
should be installed not less then 50cm above roof or ground surface. The
distance between modules in array should be not less then 5cm to allow for
additional reflection. It is also reduce wind resistance and allow for free
access of air to the back surface of module. It is recommended that all rear
objects behind the module like frames, support structures or roof should be
painted a white color or made of a reflective material. Maximum gain with
bifacial modules can be achieved with using a solar tracker (up to 100% extra
power compared to fixed monofacial panels).
