Monofacial vs. Bifacial Solar Panels: Which is Best for Your Solar Setup?

Choosing between monofacial and bifacial solar panels can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re new solar energy users. Monofacial panels are the standard choice, which is reliable, affordable, and effective. On the other hand, bifacial panels can capture sunlight from both the front and back, offering more energy output. But is that extra efficiency worth the higher cost?

This is a common dilemma for many homeowners and businesses planning a solar setup. In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between monofacial and bifacial panels, from how they work to their costs and benefits. By the end, you’ll have a clear idea of which option fits your needs and budget, helping you make the right choice for your solar investment.

What Are Monofacial and Bifacial Solar Panels?

What is a Monofacial Solar Panel?

A monofacial solar panel is what most people think of when they hear the term “solar panels.” They have an active side, the one facing the sun—that captures energy, while the backside just sits there doing nothing. These are great for standard rooftop setups where sunlight only hits one side.

Monofacial panels have been around longer, and they’re typically cheaper to buy and install. Many homeowners choose them for simplicity and affordability. If you’re curious about how they fit into the bigger picture, this solar panel cost-benefit analysis compares the numbers and busts common myths about solar.

What is a Bifacial Solar Panel?

Bifacial solar panels step things up by collecting sunlight on both sides—the front and the back. This means they can capture direct sunlight from the top and reflect light from surfaces like snow or sand beneath them, giving you more energy output.

You’ll often see bifacial solar panels fences or vertical bifacial solar panels in setups where both sides can capture light. If you’re curious about performance and want a deeper dive into the best bifacial solar panels available, you can explore our top picks of bifacial solar panels for 2024.

Key Differences Between Monofacial and Bifacial Solar Panels

• Monofacial panels are great for typical rooftop installations, but they miss out on the extra energy boost that bifacial solar panels provide.
• Bifacial solar panels are more efficient in the right conditions, especially with reflective surfaces like concrete, water, or snow. They perform even better in creative setups, such as bifacial solar panels fences.
• If you’re curious about durability, take a look at this guide on the lifespan of solar panel. It covers what you can expect from both monofacial and bifacial panels.

Here’s a quick look at how monofacial and bifacial solar panels differ in key areas like efficiency, lifespan, cost, and application. I’ve also added some examples of popular models to give you context.

Specification	Monofacial Panels	Bifacial Panels
Efficiency	16-20%	20-30% (with reflective surfaces)
Performance Gain	Single-sided energy capture	10-30% gain from backside light absorption
Lifespan	25-30 years	25-30 years
Best Application	Rooftops, where only one side gets sunlight	Ground-mount arrays, reflective surfaces, vertical setups like bifacial solar panels fences
Cost	Lower upfront cost	10-20% more expensive (e.g., Aptos 400W bifacial solar panels)
Installation Options	Standard rooftops	Ground-mount, EcoFlow 220W bifacial solar panel for portable use
Popular Models	Boviet mono facial solar panels	Boviet 450W bifacial solar panel, 550W bifacial solar panels
Portability	Limited	High portability with EcoFlow 220W bifacial solar panel
Environmental Benefits	Standard performance	Better in high-reflectivity areas (e.g., snow, water)

Performance and Efficiency: Which One Works Better?

Performance-wise, bifacial solar panels have the edge. They offer more energy output by capturing reflected light, making them ideal for ground-mounted arrays or spaces with reflective surfaces. Models like the EcoFlow 220W bifacial solar panel or Aptos 400W bifacial solar panels work well in both residential and portable installations.

If space is limited, vertical bifacial solar panels might be your best bet. They can make use of both sides and work well in urban or commercial areas. You might also see Boviet 450W bifacial solar panels in commercial solar farms where maximizing efficiency is crucial.

If you are a traveler and want something that you carry with you on your journeys, portable solar can be your solution. Check out whether portable solar panels are the right choice for you to see if they fit your needs.

Cost and Installation Considerations

How Much More Expensive Are Bifacial Solar Panels?

Let’s be real, bifacial solar panels are generally more expensive than their monofacial counterparts. But the higher cost comes with better efficiency and longer-term savings. Some people also explore used bifacial solar panels to cut down on upfront costs.

What Installation Types Work Best for Bifacial Panels?

The best setups for bifacial solar panels involve ground mounts, rooftops with high reflectivity, or fences that let both sides absorb sunlight. They might not be the easiest to install on every roof, but creative designs like vertical bifacial solar panels make them an exciting option.

Lifespan, Maintenance, and Drawbacks

Both monofacial and bifacial panels are built to last, but bifacial solar panels might require a bit more thought when it comes to placement and maintenance. They need open space to shine—literally. Dust, shadows, or poor installation angles can reduce their efficiency.

One of the disadvantages of bifacial solar panels is that their efficiency can drop if dust, dirt, or nearby objects block light from reaching either side. Regular cleaning and precise installation at the right angle and height are essential for them to perform optimally.

So, are bifacial solar panels worth it? They can certainly be a great choice if you have the right setup, like ground-mounted arrays with reflective surfaces or open installations. However, monofacial panels may be more practical for rooftops and smaller spaces with less room for maintenance.

When and Why to Choose Bifacial Solar Panels?

So, when should you choose bifacial solar panels over monofacial ones?

• If you have the space and conditions (like reflective surfaces), bifacial panels will give you a higher return.
• For commercial setups, 550W bifacial solar panels offer massive energy output.
• In residential setups, you can explore options like the EcoFlow 220W bifacial solar panel for portability or the Aptos 400W bifacial solar panels for rooftop use.

Making the Choice: Optimize Your Solar Investment Today

When it comes down to Monofacial vs. Bifacial solar panels, the right choice depends on your specific needs. Monofacial solar panels are ideal if you’re looking for a straightforward, budget-friendly option for rooftops or smaller installations. On the other hand, bifacial solar panels offer higher efficiency and long-term value, especially in environments with reflective surfaces or ground-mounted setups. 

If you want maximum energy output and have the right conditions, bifacial solar panels like the EcoFlow 220W bifacial solar panel for portability or 550W bifacial solar panels for large commercial projects—are worth the extra investment. For those seeking simplicity, however, monofacial panels remain a solid choice. Whichever you pick, align your solar setup with your energy goals and budget.

FAQs

Q. Which solar panel is better, mono or bifacial?
A. It depends on your setup and budget—monofacial panels are cheaper, but bifacial panels are more efficient.

Q. What is the average gain of a bifacial panel?

A. Around 10-30% more energy compared to monofacial panels, depending on reflectivity.

Q. What is the best surface for bifacial solar panels?

A. Reflective surfaces like concrete or white rooftops work best.

Q. What is the best height for a bifacial solar panel?

A. Around 1 to 1.5 meters off the ground for optimal performance.