Bifacial photovoltaic panel power generation parameters

What are bifacial photovoltaic (PV) modules?

EPJ Photovolt. Soufiane Ghafiri1,2,3*, Maxime Darnon2, Arnaud Davigny1, João Pedro F. Trovão3 and Dhaker Abbes1 Bifacial photovoltaic (PV) modules, capable of capturing solar energy from both sides of the cells, are becoming increasingly popular as their manufacturing costs approach those of traditional monofacial modules.

How to calculate bifacial solar power output?

The general formula for determining the total energy generation of a bifacial solar panel is the sum of the energy output on the front side and the energy output on the rear side. However, as the energy output on the rear side is much more difficult to calculate, the total calculation of bifacial power output requires some industry innovation.

What are bifacial solar panels?

Bifacial solar modules are modules that generate energy on both their front and rear sides, based on solar cells with two active sides. While the energy production of traditional monofacial solar panels is relatively easy to forecast, bifacial panels provide a bit more of a challenge.

Are bifacial PV modules better than monofacial solar panels?

Compared with monofacial PV modules, energy yields of around 10% higher (or even more) from bifacial modules in the field have been consistently reported by various parties [2,3]. Such increases in yield can considerably reduce the levelized cost of energy. Bifacial PV technology is not a new concept in the PV community.

Do bifacial PV modules need a power rating method?

In response to the strong demand for an appropriate power rating method for bifacial PV modules, the international standard IEC 60904-1-2 has been proposed, which describes the test methods and additional requirements for the I–V characterization.

Are bifacial PV modules degraded?

Degradation due to potential differences has been seen in bifacial PV modules based on different types of bifacial solar cells: n-type , and p-type , . The frame, glass, encapsulant, and other module packaging components can play an im-portant role in the extent of PID of PV modules.