As the world continues to embrace sustainable energy solutions, solar power has emerged as a leading option for both businesses and homeowners. 

Solar energy not only reduces reliance on traditional grid-based electricity but also offers long-term cost savings and environmental benefits. 

However, the perception that solar power is prohibitively expensive still persists. In this article, we will explore five cost-effective solar packages that can be tailored to meet the energy needs of your business or home. 

By considering these options, you can make a financially smart and eco-friendly investment in solar energy.

1. Small-Scale Residential Package

This package is ideal for homeowners looking to harness the power of solar energy for their residences. 

It typically includes a small photovoltaic (PV) system with a capacity ranging from 3 to 5 kilowatts (kW). 

Also read: What To Expect From A 5kva Inverter Installation

The package may include solar panels, an inverter, mounting equipment, and a monitoring system.

To ensure cost-effectiveness, homeowners can take advantage of local and federal solar incentives and tax credits that help reduce the upfront installation costs. 

Additionally, many solar companies offer flexible financing options, such as solar leasing or power purchase agreements (PPAs), allowing homeowners to adopt solar power with little or no upfront investment.

2. Medium-Scale Commercial Package

Businesses can benefit greatly from medium-scale solar packages. These packages are designed to meet the higher energy demands of commercial establishments, including offices, retail stores, and small factories. The capacity typically ranges from 10 to 100 kW.

Also read: Solar Vs Generator: The Best Option and Why

To make this package cost-effective, businesses can explore third-party financing options like solar leases or PPAs, which allow them to access solar power without the burden of high upfront costs. 

With these arrangements, the solar provider takes care of the installation, operation, and maintenance of the system, while the business pays a fixed monthly fee for the energy produced.

3. Community Solar Package

Community solar projects offer an excellent, cost-effective option for individuals who cannot install solar panels on their property or prefer not to. 

In a community solar arrangement, multiple participants share the benefits of a single solar installation, located off-site. 

This package allows homeowners, renters, and businesses to subscribe to a portion of the solar array’s output.

Community solar programs often provide subscribers with predictable electricity rates, offering potential cost savings compared to traditional utility rates. 

Additionally, these projects often involve partnerships between solar developers, utilities, and local governments, leading to additional financial incentives and reduced costs.

4. Off-Grid Solar Package

For remote locations or areas with limited access to the traditional power grid, off-grid solar packages offer an independent and cost-effective solution. 

These packages consist of solar panels, batteries for energy storage, inverters, and other necessary equipment.

Also read: Hybrid Inverters: Meaning, Uses, Pros, and Cons

While off-grid solar systems require an upfront investment in batteries and storage, they eliminate the ongoing cost of relying on diesel generators or extending power lines. 

Over time, the savings from reduced fuel and maintenance costs make off-grid solar a viable and cost-effective option for remote homes, farms, or businesses.

5. Solar Farm Subscription Package

For businesses or individuals with substantial energy needs, subscribing to a share of a solar farm can be a financially attractive option. 

Solar farms consist of large-scale solar installations that generate electricity to be fed into the grid. Subscribers receive credits or a percentage of the energy generated based on their investment.

By subscribing to a solar farm, customers can benefit from economies of scale, as large-scale solar installations tend to be more cost-effective compared to individual rooftop systems. 

This package is particularly appealing to businesses seeking to offset their energy consumption with clean, renewable energy while reducing long-term electricity costs.

6. Net Metering Solution

Net metering packages are particularly beneficial for businesses and homes with high energy consumption. 

This package includes a larger solar panel system, an inverter, and a bi-directional meter. The bi-directional meter measures the energy supplied to the grid and the energy consumed. 

This setup allows you to take advantage of net metering programs, where excess electricity is fed into the grid, offsetting your energy consumption and reducing your electricity bill.

7. Government Incentive Package

Many governments and municipalities offer incentives and subsidies to encourage the adoption of solar energy. 

The Government Incentive Package takes advantage of these programs, providing financial benefits and reducing the overall cost of installing solar panels. 

By leveraging these incentives, businesses and homeowners can make solar energy an even more cost-effective and financially viable option.

Conclusion On Cost-Effective Solar Packages

Solar power is no longer just an expensive luxury but a practical and cost-effective energy solution for businesses and homeowners alike. 

By considering the five solar packages outlined above, individuals and organizations can find a cost-effective option that aligns with their energy needs and budget. 

Whether it’s a small-scale residential installation, a medium-scale commercial system, a community solar project, an off-grid solution, or a solar farm subscription, the benefits of solar power, including reduced electricity bills, tax incentives, and environmental sustainability, make it a compelling choice. 

Embrace the power of the sun and invest in a solar package that not only saves you money but also contributes to a cleaner and greener future.

Click Here To View Our Various Solar Packages

In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about hybrid inverters, including how they work, their benefits, and their different types.

A 5kVA inverter is typically used in homes, small offices, or commercial settings where there is a need for backup power during power outages or where there is no access to grid power. 

Polycrystalline PERC cells, also known as PERC solar cells, are made from significantly smaller silicon shards, and they are less expensive

Read to know the different solar panel types, their uses, capacities, advantages and as well as disadvantages.

A lithium solar battery stands apart from other battery chemistries due to its high energy density and low cost per cycle. This article is a comprehensive guide on Lithium solar batteries.

You’ve certainly heard of solar technology, such as solar panels if you’re an ecologically aware homeowner or company owner interested in decreasing your carbon footprint. The term “ecosystem” refers to a group of people who work in the construction industry.

Monocrystalline or polycrystalline silicon solar cells are the most common types of conventional solar panels. 

While solar panels have been around for decades, solar technologies are always evolving, providing new alternatives. Thin-film solar panels are one of those choices. In this article, we’ll go through this cost-effective and environmentally beneficial thin-film solar panels

Thin-Film Solar Panels: What Are They?

Thin-film panels, like other types of solar panels, use the photovoltaic effect to convert light energy into electrical energy. In contrast to typical systems, they are second-generation cells that are extremely light and flexible. Photovoltaic, or PV, materials are stacked in numerous thin layers to form them.

The term “ecosystem” refers to a group of people who work in the construction industry. Three essential components make up each cell: a photovoltaic material, a conducting sheet, and a protective layer.

Aside from their small shape, thin-film solar panels differ from typical monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels in terms of production materials and efficiency, but we’ll go into that more later.

What Is the Efficiency of Thin-Film Solar Panels?

While being less expensive than monocrystalline and polycrystalline silicon panels, thin-film solar panels are less efficient and have a lower power capacity. 

Efficiency has been the most difficult hurdle for these panels, and it varies depending on the type of thin-film photovoltaic panel used, but it has improved with time.

Solar Frontier, the world’s largest copper indium selenium (CIS) solar energy provider, attained a conversion efficiency of 22.3% in 2015. This was a 0.6% gain over the industry’s previous record, but most thin-film solar substrates vary from 6% to 18% efficiency.

Despite they are not yet available to consumers, researchers from the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems were able to achieve a record 68.9% efficiency of gallium arsenide (GaAs) panels when exposed to laser light.

Here are the four most common types of thin-film solar panels and their efficiency ratings:

1. Amorphous silicon (a-Si) panels: 7% efficient
2. Cadmium telluride (CdTe) panels: 9% to 15% efficient, with the highest lab test hitting 18.3%
3. Copper indium gallium diselenide (CIGS) panels: 12% to 14% efficient, with tests hitting 23%
4. Organic photovoltaic (OPV) panels: 18.2% efficient

Thin-Film Solar Cell Varieties

There are various types of thin-film solar panels, as was previously mentioned. Each is composed of a different material, which affects the overall cost and efficiency of the panels. 

Photovoltaic material, a conducting sheet, and a protective layer are present in all thin-film panels, though. Let us examine the four most common varieties of thin-film solar cells in greater detail:

1. Amorphous Solar Panels

The most established type of thin-film PV technology is amorphous silicon (a-Si) solar, which is the oldest film-thin technology. To create a thin silicon layer on the glass, plastic, or metal foundation of this non-toxic panel, chemical vapour deposition is used.

Amorphous panels absorb a broad spectrum of light and operate well in low light. They may also be bent, which makes them less prone to cracking. The disadvantage with amorphous panels is that they lose efficiency quickly. Amorphous solar cells have an efficiency of 6% to 8%.

Amorphous solar panels are an interesting glimpse into the future of thin-film solar technology, but they are ineffective for the average home due to their poor efficiency. At the moment, a-Si PV panels can only produce one-third of the energy that a normal solar panel can. Calculators, outdoor lighting, and small gadgets all employ the technology.

2. Cadmium Telluride (CdTe) Panels

Amorphous silicon solar cells are the most advanced, while cadmium telluride (CdTe) panels are the most widely used thin-film modules.

After crystalline silicon (c-Si) cells, these panels are the second most popular in the globe.

Exactly as the name says, these cells are comprised of cadmium telluride, a chemical molecule that is good at catching and converting sunlight into energy. CdTe panels offer the quickest payback time of any thin-film panel now on the market and are less expensive than regular silicon thin-film cells.

The cadmium telluride panels also have the lowest carbon footprint of any film-thin panel on the market. Sadly, a major issue with these solar panels is that they contain a high concentration of cadmium, a hazardous metal. To cope with a such component, special precautions must be taken.

Although the panels are not dangerous to humans or the environment during the production process or when utilized to generate power on rooftops, the disposal of old panels remains a worry. Telluride is also extremely uncommon, making mass production of the technology challenging.

3. Solar Panels Made of Copper Indium Gallium Diselenide (CIGS)

Copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS) thin-film panels are created by stacking layers of copper, indium, gallium, and diselenide within conductive layers to form a strong semiconductor. Depending on the use, it can be placed on top of glass, plastic, steel, or aluminium.

The thin layers can be used in ways that traditional solar technology cannot because of their adaptable backings. CIGS thin-film is an extremely efficient technology, with some lab experiments showing efficiencies above 20%. Sadly, cadmium – the hazardous metal present in cadmium telluride (CdTe) panels — is also used in many CIGS panels.

However, some contemporary CIGS cells have replaced the chemical with more environmentally friendly zinc oxides.

Generally, the most significant negative is the cost. CIGS panels are still prohibitively expensive to manufacture, making it difficult for them to compete with CdTe or silicon solar panels.

4. Organic Photovoltaic (OPV) Solar Panels

The organic photovoltaic (OPV) panel is the last form of thin-film solar panel, and it generates energy by using conductive organic polymers or tiny organic molecules. An electrical current is carried between two electrodes in these solar cells by multiple layers of thin organic vapour or solutions.

Because the organic components employed are plentiful, the technique has a reduced cost from manufacturing to market.

Because absorbers vary in colour, OPV panels can be a variety of hues, including transparent, making them the go-to solar module for any aesthetic needs. Despite the hype surrounding its aesthetic potential, OPV solar is inefficient.

The typical cell efficiency is roughly 11%, which limits its usage in larger-scale activities. OPV also has a shorter lifespan than standard and other thin-film technology on the market, and organic PV cell deterioration is a continuing issue.

The Benefits And Drawbacks Of Thin-Film Solar Panels

Thin-film solar panels, like any other solar technology, have advantages and disadvantages depending on your needs and goals. Consider the following factors when evaluating whether thin-film solar panels are right for you.

Pros	Cons
Lower carbon footprint due to less semiconductor material	May contain cadmium – a probable carcinogenic
Easy and inexpensive installation	Lower efficiency than conventional panels
Great for portable applications (RVs, buses, boats)	More roof space is needed for the same energy capacity
Lightweight	Limited availability
Faster payback time than conventional panels	Shorter lifespan than conventional panels

Should You Acquire Thin-Film Solar Panels?

Thin-film solar panels are presently restricted in availability, but if solar technology continues to progress, these panels could take up in popularity.

Thin-film panels may be the most efficient and effective approach to reach your carbon footprint reduction goals and save money on energy expenditures if you have a larger home or company with appropriate roof space. They may also be a suitable energy source for portable use in vehicles such as RVs, buses, and boats.

Thin-Film Solar Panels: Final Thoughts

Thin-film solar panels offer a glimpse into the future of transportable and flexible solar technology. While the cells are not currently competitive with standard solar products, they show promise.

Owing to poor efficiency and the necessity for broader coverage areas, the panels are advised for commercial and small-scale applications rather than households.

And while their low prices are enticing, one of the substances usually used to create them — cadmium — has a high toxicity and can cause environmental damage once the PV modules are discarded.

If you’d love to acquire thin-film solar panels click HERE to contact us.

It is critical that you make an informed decision so as to get a good ROI. Here are some things to know before deciding going solar.

When it comes to solar panel installation, the goal is always to design your system to produce as much solar energy as possible. Solar panel technology has advanced significantly. Bifacial solar panels are a particularly exciting technological advancement. 

Despite the fact that bifacial modules have been around since the 1960s, they have recently become a disruptor in the solar PV market due to the development of PERC (passivated emitter rear cell) technology. So, what exactly is a bifacial solar panel, and why should you consider them? Continue reading to find out!

What Exactly Are Bifacial Solar Panels?

According to Wikipedia, a bifacial solar panel is a photovoltaic solar cell that can produce electrical energy when illuminated on both of its surfaces, front or rear. Monofacial solar cells, on the other hand, only make electricity when photons hit their front side.

The disadvantages of bifacial solar panels are not the same as those of conventional solar panels. By producing power from both sides, a bifacial panel increases overall electricity generation. 

They are often more durable because both sides are UV-resistant. When a bifacial solar panel is physically sound, the risk of potential-induced degradation (PID) is also reduced. Also, more electricity is made available, and the price of the balance of the system (BOS) falls.

When positioned on a brilliantly clear surface, bifacial panels generate more power from the backside (such as a white TPO ceiling or ground covered in light-colored pebbles, for example). This additional electricity generation has the potential to result in cleaner, more efficient, and 30% higher productivity.

Also read: 6 Factors Affecting The Lifespan Of Solar Panels & Its Solution

There are several bifacial module designs to choose from. We offer solar twin-cell and BIPV ranges in addition to the two main bifacial types. Some of them, but not all, are mounted. 

Others have clear back sheets, while others have dual-glass back sheets. Although polycrystalline variants are available, crystalline silicon cells are the most commonly used. Unfortunately, power generated by both sides remains constant.

Other types of panels that reveal the back of the cells include frameless and dual glass modules. However, these cells are still not considered bifacial. There are bus bars on the front and back sides of the cells that make up the actual bifacial panels.

On the roof, the mono-facial solar panels are arranged in parallel racks. However, if the bifacial panels are placed at different or inclined angles from the ground, they will produce more energy.

Pergolas and specific ground-mounted systems are two commercial applications for bi-facial solar panels.

The most incredible places to use these bifacial solar panels are in industrial or communication infrastructures. The panels are angled and tilted away from a mounting surface, allowing light to reflect off of them. Bifacial solar panels are now as efficient as conventional solar panels due to their smaller size and higher efficiency.

Furthermore, when used for industrial purposes, bifacial solar panels are particularly effective. Transparent surfaces, as opposed to traditional panels, provide clean and efficient energy.

How Are Bifacial Solar Panels Installed for Maximum Efficiency?

To understand the distinction, first, learn how a monofacial solar array is constructed. A monofacial solar panel system, or a collection of one-sided solar panels, is installed in racks parallel to a surface, such as a roof.

Bifacial solar panels, as opposed to single-sided panels, are installed on a tilt because they produce more energy when they are angled off the roof or ground at varying degrees.

The three advantages of the titled installment of the bifacial solar array are listed below.

1. Absorbing more sunlight

There is a lot of reflection in these types of titled installations. Because sunlight reflects off of all objects at various angles, bifacial solar panels can capture more of it.

2. Effective on overcast days

Because of the preceding point, bifacial solar cells can be productive on cloudy days, whereas monofacial solar cells are at a disadvantage when there is no direct sunlight. Furthermore, because they are more durable, bifacials are less susceptible to weather damage. 

Also read: What Happens To Solar Panels During Rainy Season

According to Wikipedia, because bifacial solar panels are more durable than conventional solar panel systems, warranties for them are typically 5+ years longer (that is, 30+ years versus 20-25 years).

3. Two energy surges per day

Depending on where it is placed, a titled installation can also create two peaks of energy during the day. For example, half of the bifacial in an array can be tilted to the east to catch the sunrise and early morning light. The second half can then be angled westward to catch the afternoon heat and sunset rays.

A vertical installation is another option for accomplishing this. The reflection of sunlight on the other side of the solar panels will also contribute to energy production during each peak.

Is A Bifacial Solar Panel More Efficient?

When we talk about efficiency, we’re talking about how a solar cell converts the amount of solar energy it receives into electrical energy. 

Although bifacial panels produce more electricity than mono-facial panels, they are not twice as efficient, though solar panel manufacturers are working to achieve that in the future. 

According to a study, bifacials can increase energy efficiency by 11% when compared to a conventional solar panel system. With a solar tracking system that continuously tilts solar cells toward the sun, bifacial solar cell efficiency can reach 27%.

This table compares bifacial solar panels to their competitors. 

Advantages Of Bifacial Panels

The most important aspect is improved performance. 

Because they can generate power from both sides of the panel, bifacial panels produce more energy overall. Traditional solar panels cannot generate the same amount of electricity as bifacial solar panels. When the modules are installed on a highly reflective surface, some manufacturers claim that the additional power generated from the rear will increase output by 30%.

Durability

Unlike traditional mono-facial panels, bifacial panels are frameless. Because the tempered glass is applied on both sides, they are frequently more durable. Tempered glass can withstand high temperatures, strong winds, and inclement weather. It is also resistant to UV rays.

PID, or potential-induced degradation, is caused by electrical currents deviating from their intended path. As a result, they cause damage to the solar panels. Bifacial panels that are not framed are used (without any metal). 

As a result, the risk of potential-induced deterioration of solar cells is reduced (PID). Furthermore, because the exterior lacks metal contacts, bifacial panels do not need to be grounded.

Work Better in Diffused Light: 

Because of the increased surface area, bifacial panels perform better in diffuse light than mono-facial panels. When considering long-term costs, these panels are thus affordable.

What Does The Future Hold For Bifacial Panels?

According to studies and results, bifacial modules can produce 10-20% more power than monofacial panels. If the conditions are ideal and single-axis trackers are used, the additional power can reach 30-40%.

Bifacial panels have proven to be a more efficient and productive option in large-scale off-grid installations; however, it is expected to find larger applications in even residential installations. According to a 2019 report, the bifacial market is expected to more than tenfold by 2024.

Final Thoughts

Bifacial solar panels provide a cutting-edge method of energy consumption by maximizing electricity production levels through clean energy generated during the sun’s rising and setting cycles. 

Before investing in this clean and sustainable energy source, consider your roof, available installation space, finances, and energy consumption habits.

Also read: 5 Things Every Industry Should Think About Before Going Solar

Bifacial panels allow for the construction of community solar farms close to where customers need them, reducing the need for extensive electricity transmission upgrades. 

Consider our collection for your next solar energy appliance purchase, as it now includes a larger selection of premium modules.

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