Double sided solar panels which collect light on both sides and move to follow the sun’s position produce over a third more energy than standard systems. Most solar panels installed around the world are fixed in one position, without the ability to adapt to where the sun is in the sky.
Researchers have looked at the benefits of combining solar panels that track the sun with double-sided solar panel arrays for the first time. This article is more than 2 years old.
Double-sided solar panels can absorb energy from both sides: they absorb energy directly from the sun and also from the reflected energy off the ground on their rear side. The goal for any solar panel is to absorb as much energy from the sun as possible, and this design allows for an additional energy source.
Solar panels generally rely on energy coming directly from the sun. But some panels can generate electricity from rays after they bounce off the ground. Bifacial solar panels, the reversible fashion accessory of the solar industry, are double-sided panels that absorb solar energy from both sides.
These double-sided solar panels make the most sense in solar farms and commercial systems, but they can work for your home if you have the right setup. Bifacial panels can work on your roof, but not if they're installed flush. Solar panels generally rely on energy coming directly from the sun.
Double-sided solar panels, also known as bifacial modules, produce 35 percent more energy when combined with single-axis trackers. This increase is even greater when combined with dual-axis trackers, at 40 percent more energy production.