In Greek “mono” means one side, i.e., a monofacial panel means a single side facing the Sun, whereas a bi-facial panel means both the front and back end are elevated to absorb energy. In this blog, let us explore many such differences, pros and cons, and other parameters of bifacial solar panels vs monofacial panels.

Bifacial Solar Panels Vs Monofacial

Monofacial panels: These solar panels have one side reflecting the sun. The light is reflected on this side and can be generated into energy. The other side has a protective glass sheet facing towards the roof of the building.

Bifacial Panels: They absorb sunlight from both ends and generate electricity. From the front end, sunlight is exposed and the rear side receives the reflection off the ground, both are absorbed by solar cells.

Also, check out What are Frameless Bifacial Solar Panels?

FeatureBifacial PanelMonofacial panel
MethodEnergy generation from both the front and back sides of the panelDepends only front side for energy production
PriceHigher in the initial daysWhen compared, the price is less
InstallationUnique conditions are requiredThese can be installed easily
WeightHeavier in weightLightweight
OutputThe energy output is 18% higher in optimal conditions and weather.Lesser power in optimal capacity
Efficiency Yields greater efficiencymonofacial solar panels efficiency is less but durable because of its single silicon piece 
Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE)It is relatively higher than mono-facial about 2-8 % in higher light diffusion areas.When placed at an appropriate tilt angle it reaches good LCOE
Payback PeriodThe payback period is around 7 yearsAround 8 years
PlacementCan generate energy even when placed at a 90degree angle Mostly these are required to be installed at 30 & 45 degrees south of the equator.

Working of Bifacial Solar Panels

A photo voltaic cell is placed inside the module and has glass on both the rear side and front sides. The sun power enters the panel from the front side and arrives at the PN junction creating electricity there. For bifacial, the solar power can radiate from the back side also, it can enter the solar cell in the same way and this results in more power.

Bifacial panels are made of transparent glass through which the light passes and reflects on the surface.

Also See: Solar Panel Sizes and Wattage Explained

Bifacial Solar Panels Vs Monofacial Pros and Cons



bifacial solar panels vs monofacial

The below table shows the advantages of both bifacial and monofacial panels.

Bifacial Solar Panels ProsMonofacial Solar Panels Pros
They may be weighed more than that mono facial but are efficientLighter than bifacial
Can generate electricity at any angle and even works in diffuse lightInstalled in 30 & 45 degrees south of the equator gives greater yield
The companies are offering longer warranty periods of up to 30 yearsThese modules are abundant and easily available in the market
Glass is covered on both sides for more absorption and has less  PID(Potential induced degrading) They are manufactured to resist rough climatic conditions which results in longevity
No trackers are required, these adjust automaticallyNo special installation conditions or requirements
As they are frameless they look attractive It can be installed at low heights

The disadvantages of bifacial and monofacial panels are listed below

Bifacial Solar Panels ConsMonofacial Solar Panels Cons
As they have more layers and sheets, these are heavier.Lighter in weight but less durable
Need more maintenance and cleaning of dirt and debris and need a reflective surface for absorptionWhen compared, yields less energy in reflected sunlight locations
Not viable for shady areas and neighboring buildings with obstruction.They do not have the capability of capturing indirect sunlight
They have a higher upfront costMono PERC panels are slightly more fragile 
They need to be at least 4 meters high from the ground to get maximum output. Even though these are lighter, but need to be installed at lower heights. 
Suited for off-grid or flat-roofed surfaces as cannot be placed on uneven roofsThey should be placed in direct sunlight areas

Today, we learned the main differences between bifacial and mono-facial solar panels. Monofacial panels are pocket-friendly, simple, and installed easily, whereas bifacial are newer versions that yield high efficiency but are a bit complex. However, the choice you make depends on your requirements, space, and location. We hope this blog gave you a better insight and for more such content, keep exploring our website.

Recommended: 4 Different Types of Solar Panels

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Olivia is committed to green energy and works to help ensure our planet's long-term habitability. She takes part in environmental conservation by recycling and avoiding single-use plastic.

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