Bifacial Solar Panels: The Smart Way to Double Your Solar Energy Output
Bifacial solar panels are a big deal in the world of solar energy. Traditional panels only collect sunlight from one side. Bifacial panels, on the other hand, make electricity from both sides (front and back) by absorbing sunlight that bounces off the ground or other objects nearby. That means they can generate more power without occupying more space. This makes them one of the best options for individuals and businesses seeking to maximise their solar investments.
If you want to lower your carbon footprint, lower your electricity bills, or power a remote area, bifacial solar technology can help. It is more cost-effective, uses less energy, and has a better appearance. If you want to know how they work, how much they cost, and whether they’re worth it, this guide provides all the information you need to make an informed decision.
What Are Bifacial Solar Panels?
Bifacial solar panels are a type of photovoltaic module that captures sunlight on both the front and rear surfaces. The front faces the sun directly, and the back absorbs light that bounces off nearby objects, such as water, sand, ground, or roofs.
How Do They Work?
Bifacial panels are usually made with:
- Transparent back sheets or dual-glass construction
- Monocrystalline silicon cells (for higher efficiency)
- Frames or frameless designs (some allow more reflected light capture)
They can generate 10–30% more power than regular solar panels when installed correctly, especially on surfaces that reflect light.
Benefits of Bifacial Solar Panels
Increased Energy Output
- Capture light from both directions
- Benefit from albedo effect (light reflected from surfaces)
- Potential to produce up to 30% more electricity
Space Efficiency
- Ideal for locations with limited roof space
- Perfect for ground-mounted systems in open areas
Durability
- Double glass panels resist weather better than traditional panels
- Longer lifespan (often 30+ years)
Better ROI (Return on Investment)
- More electricity = shorter payback period
- Lower Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE)
Bifacial vs. Monofacial Solar Panels
| Feature | Bifacial Panels | Monofacial Panels |
|---|---|---|
| Light Capture | Front and rear | Front only |
| Efficiency | Up to 30% more | Standard output |
| Ideal Installation | Open, reflective areas | Any surface |
| Cost | Slightly higher upfront | Lower initial investment |
| ROI | Faster due to extra energy output | Slower |
Types of Installations That Work Best
Rooftop Installations
- Reflective rooftop materials enhance the backside performance.
- Mounts that are tilted or angled are best for airflow and reflection.
Ground-Mounted Systems
- Grounds with high reflectivity, such as white dirt or sand, are best.
- Ideal for business solar farms or large, open spaces.
Solar Carports
- Bifacial solar panels provide shade and light simultaneously.
- Enhanced aesthetics and functionality
What Influences Their Performance?
Understanding the things that affect how well bifacial solar panels work can help you get the most energy out of them. Another name for this is albedo. Surface reflection is one of the most important. Surfaces that are white or light-coloured, such as sand, concrete, or reflective roofing, allow more sunlight to hit the back of the panels, which means they absorb more energy. There is some reflection on natural surfaces, such as grass and dirt, but not as much as on artificial surfaces.
The height and tilt angle of the panels are also critical. By raising the sides, more light can reach the bottom, which improves the rear-side absorption. Setting the correct tilt angle also improves the way sunlight bounces off the panels, which makes them more efficient overall.
Last but not least, place and weather are significant. The best places for bifacial panels to work are sunny, dry locations with ample direct and reflected sunlight. During the winter, snow can also make things more reflective, but it may need to be cleared away periodically to prevent a drop in performance. You will get the most out of your bifacial solar system if you think about these things.
Top 10 Best Bifacial Solar Panels in 2025
People give these bifacial panels high marks for their long-term dependability, power output, and compatibility with various mounting systems. What you choose should depend on the type of job you’re working on, your budget, and how the installation will go.
1. LONGi Hi-MO 6 Bifacial
- Efficiency: Up to 22.8%
- Type: Monocrystalline, PERC
- Highlights:
- Excellent rear-side efficiency (up to 25% gain)
- Low temperature coefficient
- Tier 1 manufacturer with global reliability
2. Jinko Solar Tiger Neo Bifacial
- Efficiency: Up to 22.5%
- Type: N-type TOPCon
- Highlights:
- Superior low-light performance
- Strong performance in extreme climates
- One of the most bankable solar brands
3. Canadian Solar BiHiKu7
- Efficiency: Up to 22.4%
- Type: N-Type TOPCon
- Highlights:
- Excellent bifaciality factor (up to 85%)
- PID-resistant with dual-glass durability
- Ideal for utility-scale solar farms
4. Trina Solar Vertex S+ Bifacial
- Efficiency: Up to 22.5%
- Type: N-type, Dual-glass
- Highlights:
- Lightweight dual-glass design
- 30-year performance warranty
- Great for high power-density rooftops
5. REC Alpha Pure-R Bifacial
- Efficiency: Up to 22.3%
- Type: Heterojunction (HJT)
- Highlights:
- Lead-free and eco-friendly
- Strong performance in shaded conditions
- Premium build quality
6. Qcells Q.PEAK DUO XL-G11 Bifacial
- Efficiency: Up to 21.9%
- Type: Monocrystalline PERC
- Highlights:
- Anti-LID technology to maintain long-term efficiency
- Strong warranty and performance guarantee
- Ideal for commercial arrays
7. JA Solar DeepBlue 4.0X Bifacial
- Efficiency: Up to 22.0%
- Type: N-type TOPCon
- Highlights:
- Strong rear-side output
- High mechanical load strength
- Excellent cost-to-performance ratio
8. First Solar Series 6+ Bifacial (Thin-Film)
- Efficiency: Up to 18.0% (lower but unique benefits)
- Type: Thin-film, Cadmium Telluride (CdTe)
- Highlights:
- Outstanding high-temperature and diffuse light performance
- Non-silicon tech; excellent for utility-scale use
- Ideal in harsh desert climates
9. Risen Energy Titan Bifacial
- Efficiency: Up to 22.1%
- Type: N-type
- Highlights:
- High rear-side gain potential
- Robust against PID and environmental wear
- Strong warranty support
10. SunPower Maxeon 6 Bifacial (Commercial)
- Efficiency: Up to 22.7%
- Type: IBC (Interdigitated Back Contact)
- Highlights:
- Market-leading durability
- High efficiency even in partial shade
- Premium pricing, premium performance
Bifacial Solar Panels Cost
| Brand & Model | Avg. Price per Watt (USD) | Estimated Panel Cost (550W) |
|---|---|---|
| LONGi Hi-MO 6 Bifacial | $0.38 – $0.45 | $209 – $248 |
| Jinko Solar Tiger Neo Bifacial | $0.40 – $0.48 | $220 – $264 |
| Canadian Solar BiHiKu7 | $0.38 – $0.46 | $209 – $253 |
| Trina Solar Vertex S+ Bifacial | $0.40 – $0.47 | $220 – $259 |
| REC Alpha Pure-R Bifacial | $0.50 – $0.60 | $275 – $330 |
| Qcells Q.PEAK DUO XL-G11 | $0.42 – $0.50 | $231 – $275 |
| JA Solar DeepBlue 4.0X Bifacial | $0.39 – $0.46 | $215 – $253 |
| First Solar Series 6+ Bifacial | $0.45 – $0.55 | $248 – $303 |
| Risen Energy Titan Bifacial | $0.38 – $0.44 | $209 – $242 |
| SunPower Maxeon 6 Bifacial | $0.60 – $0.72 | $330 – $396 |
The prices change based on where you live, the quantity you purchase, and the supplier. The costs of installation and system balancing are not included.
Cost Breakdown and Payback Period
Upfront Costs
- Average cost: $0.30 – $0.50 more per watt than traditional panels
- Dual-glass designs can be heavier, adding installation costs
Long-Term Savings
- Faster ROI (typically 4–7 years, depending on location)
- Reduced electricity bills
- Lower maintenance costs due to durable glass design
Are Bifacial Solar Panels Worth It?
Yes, many homeowners and companies find bifacial solar panels to be well worth the investment, especially those who want to maximise their long-term energy production and return on investment. They cost a little more than regular monofacial panels at first, but the extra energy they produce from both sides typically offsets the difference over time.
If everything goes according to plan, bifacial solar panels can produce 5 to 30 per cent more energy than regular panels. This results in increased energy savings, shorter return times, and a more efficient system. When placed in the correct location, bifacial panels showcase their value. Suppose the surface under the array is highly reflective, such as a white roof, concrete, or light gravel, and the installation method allows the back side to be visible (like a ground mount or elevated racking). In that case, you should get the most out of it.
They’re handy for commercial systems, solar farms, or net-zero buildings that need to maximise their space and output. When you consider that bifacial technology comes with more extended warranties, durable dual-glass, and the ability to work with advanced generators and tracking systems, it’s clear that it’s not just a trend but a wise investment that will pay off in the long run.
FAQs about Bifacial Solar Panels
What is a bifacial solar panel?
A bifacial solar panel is a type of solar module that collects sunlight from both its front and back surfaces. This means that it makes more energy generally than regular monofacial panels.
Are bifacial solar panels better?
Yes, bifacial panels are generally more efficient and can produce up to 30% more power in certain situations, especially when installed on surfaces that reflect light.
Are bifacial solar panels worth it?
If you can place them in the correct location, such as on the ground or a reflective roof, they are worth it because they can provide a faster return on your investment.
How to install bifacial solar panels?
For optimal rear-side gain, bifacial panels should be mounted on raised racks or trackers with sufficient space underneath to allow light to reach the backside. These panels should also be placed over reflective surfaces.
What does bifacial solar panel mean?
In contrast to most panels, which only absorb light from the front, this one is designed to capture light from both the front and the back.
What is the advantage of bifacial solar panels?
The main benefit is that they produce more energy because they have two sides of generation. This makes them more efficient in a range of lighting situations and saves you more money in the long run.