Are bifacial solar panels suitable for small businesses?

Bifacial solar panels can be a suitable and effective choice for small businesses in the UK, but their appropriateness depends on specific factors related to the business location, roof type, and energy needs. These panels are designed to capture sunlight on both their front and back surfaces, increasing energy production by up to 30% compared to traditional monofacial panels. This increased efficiency can translate into greater electricity savings and a faster return on investment for small businesses.

Why bifacial panels can work well for small businesses

• Higher energy yield: Bifacial panels capture reflected light from surfaces such as light-coloured roofs, pavements, or ground coverings beneath the installation. This means they can generate significantly more electricity, which is beneficial for small businesses looking to reduce energy bills or become partially energy self-sufficient.
• Ideal installation environments: Many UK small businesses have flat or low-pitch roofs, especially on commercial or utility buildings. Bifacial panels perform well on flat rooftops where they can be mounted on frames that optimise exposure to sunlight and ground reflections.
• Durability: Bifacial panels are usually double-glass panels, making them more robust and long-lasting, which suits the commercial use where reliability is crucial.
• Versatile mounting options: Apart from roofs, they can be installed vertically as fences or pergola roofs, offering small businesses creative options for solar deployment that traditional panels don’t provide.

Real-world UK examples and suitability

• Businesses with flat roofs in industrial estates, warehouses, or office blocks in the UK are excellent candidates for bifacial solar panels. For instance, a small manufacturer in the Midlands could install bifacial panels on their flat warehouse roof, using a reflective roof surface to boost energy production.
• Retail outlets or cafes with outdoor seating areas might use bifacial panels as pergola roofs, capturing solar energy while providing shade for customers.
• Bifacial panels can also be used in double-faced fences around small business premises to generate additional power without needing extra roof space.

Costs and economic considerations

• The cost for bifacial solar panels, including installation, typically ranges from £9,900 to £11,000 for an average domestic-scale system. For small businesses, the price tends to be around 10% higher than traditional monofacial systems due to the advanced technology and more complex installation requirements.
• Despite the higher upfront cost, the increased efficiency and energy generation can lead to better savings and an improved payback period over the panel's lifetime.
• With UK policies supporting renewable energy and a continued focus on reducing carbon emissions, investment in bifacial panels can also improve a business’s sustainability credentials, which is increasingly valued by customers and stakeholders.

Pros and cons specific to small businesses

Pros

• Up to 30% higher energy output than conventional panels.
• Durable, double-glass design suitable for commercial environments.
• Flexible installation options (flat roofs, vertical mounts, pergolas).
• Can contribute to business sustainability goals and reduce energy costs.
• Suitable for locations with reflective surfaces to maximize gains.

Cons

• Higher upfront cost than traditional solar panels.
• Needs specific roof or ground conditions to achieve full efficiency benefits.
• Installation complexity can be greater, potentially increasing installation time.
• May need reflective ground surfaces nearby to optimize performance.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Ignoring roof suitability: Installing bifacial panels on roofs with dark, non-reflective surfaces or shaded areas will limit the benefit of their rear-side energy capture.
• Poor system design: Failing to optimise mounting angles or not including reflective ground material will reduce expected efficiency gains.
• Underestimating costs: Not accounting for the slightly higher installation and equipment costs can affect project budgeting.
• Not considering maintenance: While durable, bifacial panels still require regular cleaning to avoid dust or dirt buildup reducing performance.

Practical advice for UK small business owners

• Evaluate your roof type and surroundings for reflectivity and shading before deciding on bifacial panels.
• Consult with solar specialists who understand bifacial technology and commercial installations.
• Factor in potential government incentives or renewable energy schemes available in the UK that can reduce installation costs.
• Consider combining bifacial panels with energy storage solutions for maximum self-use and resilience.
• Think creatively about mounting locations—not just roofs but pergolas, fences, or canopies—to make the most of your available space.

In summary, bifacial solar panels offer a promising solar solution for UK small businesses, especially those with suitable roof conditions and a desire for higher energy yields and sustainability. While they involve a slightly higher upfront investment, the efficiency gains and versatility can make them a cost-effective and future-proof choice.