What are flexible solar panels?
As solar energy grows increasingly popular, more individuals are opting for flexible solar panels rather than standard rigid panels.
Flexible or bendable solar panels are a very easy way to generate solar power. Flexible solar panels are only one inch thick and six pounds in weight. Highly efficient flexible solar panels may typically be bent to around 30 degrees and put on a boat, RV, van, or trailer.
Most systems are simply glued or taped to a surface using the supplied adhesive, making installation of flexible solar panels quite straightforward. However, the system's convenience has a drawback: the lack of space between the flexible panels and the ceiling can generate excessive heat, hurting the cells, destroying the panels, and limiting their lifespan.
What are the benefits of flexible solar panels?
1. Weight: Flexible solar panels are typically 20% heavier than rigid panels. This means that flexible panels can be mounted to structures that cannot withstand rigid panels' weight.
Because of their light weight, numerous flexible solar panels can be mounted on the car's roof, increasing the vehicle's energy efficiency.
2. Performance and efficiency: Flexible solar panels were formerly much less efficient than rigid panels. Flexible solar panels are now available that are just as efficient as stiff solar panels.
The optimal efficiency level is 18% to 22%. This efficiency level means that solar panels will convert the same percentage of sunlight obtained in this range into electricity under ideal conditions.
3. Flexibility: Flexible solar panels can be bent up to 50 degrees depending on the type. Because flexible solar panels are lightweight and pliable, they are simple to install.
It is extremely beneficial that you do not need to install a substantial frame and hence do not cause harm during installation.
As a result, flexible solar panels offer a low-cost and simple-to-install source of distant solar energy. If you frequently travel on weekends in a boat, camper, or trailer. Flexible solar panels are inexpensive and easy to install, and anyone who travels on weekends will appreciate them.
What are rigid solar panels?
The majority of people associate "traditional" solar panels with rigid solar panels. Photovoltaic (PV) systems, which consist of polycrystalline or monocrystalline solar cells that convert solar energy into electricity, are used in the majority of traditional solar panels. Traditional rigid solar panels often have an aluminum frame and a glass enclosure to protect the solar cells from scratches and weather changes.
Although certain portable "suitcases" are available, most rigid solar panels are placed in a fixed location. Because some homeowners and RV owners are hesitant to drill the necessary holes in their roofs, permanent installations necessitate the use of racking systems. Permanent rigid solar panel systems take more time and money to install than flexible solar panel systems, but rigid solar panels typically have a longer lifespan and provide more electricity.
What advantages do rigid solar panels have?
1.Cost: The present cost of rigid solar panels is low, their use time is lengthy, and their LCOE energy prices are low.
A typical levelized electricity cost for a solar photovoltaic system might be as follows:
Initial investment: $65,000
Tax break: $12,000
O&M: $6,000
The total cost is $59,000.
Annual electricity output average: 62,500kWh
PV equipment has a 30-year warranty.
Total electricity generated: 1,875,000kWh
$59,000 / 1,875,000 = $0.03147/kWh LCOE
The profitability of the solar system is determined by the price of power sold. The project will be profitable in the next 30 years as long as the electricity price is higher than $0.03147/kWh.
2. Lifespan: The most significant disadvantage of flexible solar panels is their very short lifespan.
Rigid solar panels for household solar systems are extremely durable and have a 25 to 30 year warranty.
Flexible solar panels, on the other hand, often have a one to three year warranty. This little warranty period does not imply that the product will survive longer. Flexible solar panels wear out faster than fixed rigid solar panels.
3.Durability: Rigid panels must be installed by an expert. They are, nevertheless, a considerably more durable product. If your area is prone to natural disasters such as storms, tiny hail storms, and snowstorms, you shouldn't be too concerned about them causing significant damage.
As a result, rigid solar panels are usually a better choice than flexible solar panels if you intend to generate and use solar energy on a daily basis. While the initial cost of a rigid solar panel system may be more, the lifespan and efficiency of a rigid solar panel system make traditional solar panels the better choice.
Maysun has long been regarded for offering the most technologically advanced and cost-effective rigid solar panels on the market. Meisheng solar panels have effectively entered several European markets, pouring additional vigor and vitality into the energy transformation. This significant milestone signals Maysun's entry into the European market with efficient and dependable solar solutions.
Maysun's solar panels come in a variety of specs and sizes to fulfill the needs of varied consumers. Maysun delivers highly customized solutions to ensure customers can maximize the use of solar resources and achieve significant savings in energy consumption, whether for home installations or industrial applications.
Reference：
Admin, S. and Admin, S. (2020) 'Flexible Solar Panels vs Rigid Solar Panels: Which Ones Better?
Wilson, C. (2022) Everything you should know about flexible solar panels when caravanning.
Batteries, B.B. (2023) 'The Pros and Cons of Flexible Solar Panels vs. Rigid,' Battle Born Batteries
Staff, L. of L.U. (2023) How to choose flexible solar panels.
Cummings, S. (2023) 'Flexible Solar Panels vs Rigid: Pros, Cons & Differences,' House Grail
Staff, L. of L.U. (2023a) Flexible vs Rigid Solar Panels: Which is Better for You?
