My favorite Solar Panels: www.mobile-solarpower.com/300w-solar-panels.html My favorite Ground Mount: www.mobile-solarpower.com/ground-mount-racks.html ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ *Does off-grid solar confuse you?* Check out my DIY friendly website for solar system blueprints and current product recommendations, and so much more! www.mobile-solarpower.com *Join our DIY solar community* #1 largest solar forum on the internet for beginners and professionals alike: www.diysolarforum.com *Check out my Book* Best-selling and beginner-friendly guide to 12V off-grid solar! amzn.to/2Aj4dX4 *My Favorite Online Stores for DIY Solar Products:* *Signature Solar* Offgrid One-Stop-Shop. Best Value 48V LiFePO4, Victron and Offgrid Specific Heat Pumps: www.signaturesolar.com/?ref=h-cvbzfahsek *Current Connected* SOK, Victron, Mr.Cool Heatpumps and High Quality Components. Fantastic customer support: currentconnected.com/?ref=wp *Epoch Batteries* My favorite high-quality 12V battery: www.epochbatteries.com/products/12v-460ah-lifepo4-battery-ip67-heated-bluetooth-victron-comms?rfsn=7352625.50494d *Litime* My favorite 12V budget battery!: www.litime.com/?ref=XBIA62RFcalHns *Watts247* Need international shipping for large batteries and big inverters? Check them out! watts247.com/?wpam_id=3 *Renogy* A classic 12V solar store that has been around for ages! DC to DC Chargers and more! renogy.sjv.io/n1VjXx *Rich Solar* Renogy's biggest competitor! Similar products, but at a better price: richsolar.com/?ref=h-cvbzfahsek *Battery Hookup* Cheap cell deals bit.ly/2mIxSqt 5% off code: diysolar
If you want to see my test results of mono versus bifacial over the course of multiple days and how much energy they collected in the same conditions, check out this video: ua-cam.com/video/Lbhx2fBiU5o/v-deo.htmlsi=ZnKDuyzxu-XpzG5G
3:23 in Florida we have white quartz on the west coast for our beach sand. It is so white you almost go snow blind Even though Florida is very humid, we rarely get 100° days However, we rarely get a cold day either. The majority of Christmases you sweat So how do you think the bifacial would perform if mounted nice and high, like a 10-ft air gap underneath it, and then the white quartz sand deposited all around and underneath it for reflection?
Just outa of curiosity can you mount one straight up and down and put aluminum foil under it. Wonder what it would get and then angle the foil for better reflection.
I’ve been running the previous ET Solar 410w bifacials Will recommended for about 4 years now fully off grid and love them. I can get 122%+ efficiency regularly in winter temps with snow on the ground. I feel the bifacials really shine in less than ideal conditions like heavy clouds and snow storms. It’s amazes me how my 5000w array can still pull in 2000w+ during a complete whiteout snowstorm where I have no idea where the sun is even while looking for it. It’s a great feeling when it’s like that outside all day and you know you’re still covering your loads and charging your batteries. Mine are mounted about 2’ off the ground on the low side of the panel with Tamarack Solars mount where you use 4” rigid pipe in the ground and 3” rigid tying them together horizontally. It’s not the cheapest but it’s rock solid and allowed me to get 5000w all in a nice clean line with only 4 holes in the ground.
I have ET solar non bifacial 410w and they are can push 430-450w and I have noticed they are bit more efficent than trina monofacial 480w in low light scenarios.
Agreed about not being to worried if it snows. I have one 16 panel ground mount with bifacials. Once I clean off the panels even on an overcast day there is more than enough power to run the house and not deplete that batteries. Also get my highest power generation in the winter despite the sun not being in the optimal height for my ground mount angles.
CanadianSolar 455Watt BiFacials were recommended for my northern exposure and cold winters. It's amazing to see the output on a -20F day in bright sun, but even on a cloudy day, they can deliver plenty of power. I built a tall ground mount from old telephone poles to get them up and off the ground so that all the snow we get here doesn't bury them, and it really helps with the gain year round.
I think one other advantage with biracials in the north is where the sun comes up and sets. It basically comes up in the north east and sets in the north west so youd get extra hours of production if your panels are pointed south.
I live about 75 miles south of Will, on the AZ side of the river. The area is an active cattle ranch and I have long believed that it could produce even more cattle if covered with panels mounted just high enough to allow the cattle to graze underneath. Agrivoltaics!
This for real! I recently purchased a couple Ecoworthy 195 Watt bifacials. I am super-impressed. I have them on a raised rack at about a 45 degree angle, mounted on my garage roof. I had an existing array of non-bifacials mounted to the roof at a similar angle. The bifacials consistently outpace my traditional panels.
I have 10 jinko 405w bifacial and the most I have seen on my eg4 6000xp app all together was 5,393 watts if we divide it by 10 it's 539.3 watt on each panel. so I truly believe they work. now I live in Puerto Rico in the center of the island and up in the mountains the temperature is in the mid 70s my panels are on top of my flat roof and it has a white coating (sealer) that helps a lot on getting the most use of each panels
Are you feeding that into your 6000XP's two MPPT's? Each MPPT is rated to 4000W so be careful to not burn out your inverter. That would void your warranty. I have ten 400W Talesun bifacial panels, on rare occasions here in Ocala, Florida they produce slightly over 4000W. I may remove one panel from to avoid exceeding that 4000W input. I'm very happy with my EG4 6000XP, it hums along flawlessly!
@woolval52 no. all of that is not on one mppt. i have two strings of five panels each. and I'm using both mppt's one for each string so each mppt gets roughly 2,696.5 watts. it's been over 9 months now with my eg4 6000xp, and I haven't had any issues runs flawless 24/7
@@ajarivas72 no need for perfect coherent mirrored reflection of sun, diffuse light of white gravel or surface is actually better. White reflector eliminates lensed specular highlights and shadows which could actually harm panel and provide uncertain output if using homemade Mylar mirror. Also, remember, mirrors are expensive but effectively grey, limiting reflectance while also making secure mounting challenging. Painted wood, wall, elastomeric roof coating, plastic Tyvek sheething or quartz gravel are some suggestions.
I have the Atos 370w and have them mounted on an RV, about 1-2in off the roof flat, and I see them consistently hit 395-430w per panel in Florida sun when good breeze to keep them cool.. tested same from ground and determined that the white RV roof has to be the contributing factor…
I stoped watching your videos because i got ripped off by my solar guy. But i'm back to learn! I need to embrace this technology and its progression even if I had a bad experience. Future Electrician here.
I'm in Ohio and I've been thinking 45 degrees would help with snow self-clearing and give me a more direct angle in the winter. The channel Projects With Everyday Dave released a video yesterday on testing vertical mounting in an east-west configuration with bifacial panels. He's going to do some more testing with a north-south configuration as well. He's in Ohio as well so his results may be a little different from what you see.
I run 4 panels vertically here in TX. I have large fields running east west, so I have a lot of sun throughout the day. One side is 100W each for a max of 400W, side B is 200W each for a max of 800W. Taking temperature derating into account, I’m getting 350W out of 370 max on side A(4hrs AM sun), and 680W out of max 710W from side B (6hrs PM sun). The cool thing is, they still push 200W at noon just from albedo effect! I’ve seen other discussions and studies that suggest this orientation might yield more average power throughout the day, rather than trying to chase maximum exposure at mid day. Its working for me, but you need a long line of sight from tree lines or other houses to get this benefit.
Temp makes a huge difference in power output, on a really cold winter day in full sun I've gotten just under 115% STC, I actually overloaded my old charge controller
Great video! You forgot to account for the difference in angle (optimal versus actual) between the arrays. I'd love to see you start reviewing budget 48 volt inverters (i.e. build quality, output quality, ability to meet or exceed spec output power, true surge capacity and a multiday torture test at max capacity). With budget friendly 48 volt batteries, this type of setup for DIY solar generators makes a lot of sense.
I purchased bi-facial to install over my open overhang planning for snow and gravel reflection from below. I definitely need to study all of your videos to learn about installing and connecting them to my solar generator. Thank you for your channel.
I saw some tests done on Bifacials using highly reflective materials including mirrors, chromed metal sheeting, Mylar Thermal blankets and the bad thing about too much reflection is the excessive heat that is created. The tests showed wattage on the Bifacial side up around 60watts with the front of the panel covered by cardboard but temperatures on the solar panels were in excess of 160F with sunlight on the front and using (chromed metal panels or mirrors, etc) at close range on the back side of the panel. The sun baking the sun side and super reflective materials putting hot reflected light on the back side could rapidly shorten the life of the solar panels. (Too much of a good thing is often not good).
Yesterday @AveRage_Joe made a video about a test with bifacial panels and different reflective materials, and he showed some interesting numbers. The video is called... 415w BiFacial Solar Panels with Mirrors Mylar and More!!
I have 36000 watts of them. They work great in the snow on a high ground mount. The first hint of light reflects on the back and melts the snow very quickly. Plus, have you seen? People are standing them vertical with one facing east and one west and so on down the line. You get a M Style charge with two peaks. ✔️ it out.make a privacy fence
@brianfisher6799 I'm going to do vertical with 16 of my panels ( half ) just so I don't have to clean the snow off. I live at 9500' in park county colorado. Yes, South Park.
Another advantage to bifacial panels is I think the back side will hold up better in the long run. I've seen some mono panels with the back cracking. That help me decide to go with the bifacial
This is getting me really excited to see how our tracking array performs in the winter. I have about 1100 watts of bifacial panels mounted on a raised dual axis tracking bracket that has been up and running since July when we had our hottest temps. Now it's getting on toward October and I was nervous about the long gray days and heavy snows. This video has put me more at ease that we'll keep our cabin powered well during the winter.
Thanks for solid info & references. Bouncing off your info + reviews on Signature Solar, I just purchased 12 x 395 Watt Hyperion Bi-facial PV Panels from Advanced ... Solar, a warehouse just 2.5 miles away from my Northern California home. ... I thought $.30 per watt was an incredible deal. I have a sunny roof to place these on. I am thinking of white elastomatic roof coating the roof, and making my PV frame raised at North tops to angle towards the winter sun.
It's always wonderful to see what projects you share with us. Two Thumbs up. Can you create a sand battery storage unit to store excess energy production?
Will, Great videos. I am located in Phoenix AZ and have a home with about 50% flat while roof. It also has a 18-24 inch or so parapet wall on the edge of the roof area. I am thinking of mounting 8-10vertical bi-facial panels facing SE on the one parapet wall and 12-14 vertical bi-fical panels on another wall facing SW. With the white flat roof behind the SW facing panels I should get good gain in the mourning and really great gain in the afternoon and evening. My reason for vertical mounting on the parapet are as follows: vertical mounted to the parapet means I don't need to puncture the painted roof and repairs can be done without removing panels and hardware, cleaning of the panels would be easier and won't collect as much dust, the mounting should be less costly as the hardware should be about 1/2 or less than roof flat mounts, provided I can find good hardware for the mounting. I also need to check fire codes but generally this seems safer than panels of the flat roof. I would appreciate any comments.
I've gone with all bifacial as those tend to be the most cost effective when I was ordering. One is on a taller ground mount while the others are on the EG4 ground system. It's amazing watching on sunny + cooler days pushing 16kW at times.
I see 500-650W bifacial panels for less than equivalent watts single sided new on Facebook marketplace all the time. I heard it was because tariffs are less on bifacial
Hello Will!!! Please don't forget to do a video on the car electric (12v) A/C compressor kit when you have a chance!!! Thanks for your videos, they're very informative and well explained!!!!
Will, is it possible to recycle a clear coolant across the face of a solar panel that will keep the temperature lower, and will it increase the output? Something like a clear antifreeze? Thanks.
At sea on a boat/yacht the doublefaced panel will make a huge difference, the sea will relflect the sunlight, have tested by simply mounting a downfacing panel under the normal set - with good results
I' live in Ireland, so not a very hot area of the planet, and my panels regularly exceed their rated output, so I just want to brag about my results too here in Ireland. (regularly 6kw from a 5kw array) and they are not bi-facial panels, so there you have it.
Yeah UK seems to be the sweet spot for temps, I'm down in Cornwall where we get a lot of cloud. I've angled mine towards the sky a bit more to perform better in cloudy weather. 84 x 410w so far :)
I’ve been using bi facial panels for a couple of years now I live full-time in a fifth wheel and they are so much more efficient than just the front side. I’ve also experimented using reflectics behind it and cardboard covered in heavy duty foil, you get a nice spike from the reflection behind it.
Currently installing 30 400a biracial on white flat roof usiing heavy duty frames at 28° and well of the deck. The frames and install are 3x the cost iof the panels. Thx Will,
Will, can you make a video on how to troubleshoot one or more strings of PV panels on the roof? I have 50 panels and need some direction on how you would test 15-year-old panels. Thank you
Great video! Very helpful information. Looks like you used the IntegraRack for the Panel install. Do you think overall the IntegraRack is as robust as the Brightmount system? The extruded Aluminum frames on the Brightmount look to be a heavier gauge than the IntegraRack seemingly to add strength. With the IntegraRack I see an advantage to having mounting points on both the rear and front of the frame legs, instead of 1 mounting point as with the Brightmount, which could add more structural support. It would be helpful to see how you have the new array attached to the roof, and since you have completed another install with it, seeing an update video with your opinion is always appreciated. I'll be making a decision in the next day or 2 about which system to purchase cost is still a big driver in the decision between the two systems, your input is greatly appreciated! Thank you for all you do!
@@WillProwse Thank you for the reply, yep I watched both videos a couple of times (no ad block!) Great info, really nice to be able to watch good comprehensive videos on both systems. You rock!
Hey Will, Have you compared mounting bifocals vertically with them mounted at the optimal tilt angle? Have you compared those mountings without ground reflectors to those mountings with ground reflectors?
Will - What is your opinion of mounting panels 13" up on a motorhome roof so they are over and shade the air conditioners vs flat to the roof and the panels get shaded by the air conditioners/fans ect? Is mounting that high on a roof dangerous or just fine (as long as solidly mounted)?
I've seen tests with est west orientation for bifacial. Mounted like a fence. In that config it gains more in the morning and evening. In your case in the video it might have been better vertical along the fence than on the ground.
Thanks again for anther really good video. I've been watching for a while now and I keep changing my viewpoint as to what and how I might do a system myself. There are other video creators that have been testing out vertical bifacial installations. It's an interesting idea under very specific conditions. My current thinking for me (upstate NY - near the PA border) ... ground mounted Bifacial panels, mounted at the correct angle for this latitude at least 3 feet above ground (snow), surrounded by some white stones (and side of house able to also reflect light). I'm thinking something like the EG4 18Kpv connected to the largest set of battery banks I can afford and the grid. I just don't know if I could pull it all off (I have done household electrical work ... and I do have a retired electrician friend). ... I think the process would make a good video. ; )
placed on a slanted roof and angled up to meet the average sun instead of laid parallel to the roof would a white or light coloured roof be beneficial?
Efficiency is the main goal when going solar, anything other than bifacial panels on raised seasonal adjustable mounts is inefficient. I get over 90% over my arrays output of 16 460w every sunny day year round 😉
Question. Is it beneficial to use bifacial panels on a white RV roof, if you are using a tilting system that exposes the roof when the panels are tilted to45 degrees?
I live in a cold climate where we get snow three to four months a year. I know i have to consider the voltage gain in winter. Would i need to consider the extra wattage when sizing an array of bifacials with a charge controller. I think as long as i keep the votage within parameters even when it gets negative temps outside I think the controller would just clip the extra wattage if it goes over the rating of the charge controller.
I have also been offered new 440w bifacial panels in large quantities at $.22/w. (~$97/ panel) including shipping to my location. 30 year warranty. I'm checking "listing" and "labeling" to make sure my state electrical inspector will approve them per 2023 NEC code. The state inspector also says the mounting hardware must be listed and labeled to meet 2023 NEC code. This company also has 5.12kwh batteries at $1200 each. Their inverters are expensive at $3000 each but can handle 16 of those batteries.
@LumnahAcres Al, these bi-facial panels should give you some amazing benefits with your upcoming solar project(s). Especially with your temps being much better in the summer and the snow in the winter!
Having a glass back should increase the panels' lifespan as well. I just purchased the 400-watt Hyperion panels for 120 bucks that I will be incorporating into the backyard lanai.
It would be interesting if you tested bifacial panels mounted up high with mirrored glass mounted 12-24" below the panels so there is good air flow to keep the panels cool and reflect as much solar energy as possible.
Is that the Integra rack on top of the bunker? If so, how did you attach it to the roof? I have a house that had a "professional" install last year (they were idiots!) and it is on the south facing side of my roof, but I want to double the size of the array. The north facing side slopes away from south, so I was thinking of using something like that Integra system so that I can get back to 30° facing south and also use bifacial panels. I have a standing seam metal roof and the company that installed the original system double ordered the clamps that go onto the standing seams, so I was thinking I could use those to mount the Integra racks. Does that sound reasonable?
What about the tilt angle towards the sun? From my own experience I've seen it make a 10% difference with regular panels and that was between two different angles. Your tests of flat on the ground vs angled would have a noticeable difference just from the mounting angle. Would adding an angle produce enough more power to counter the loss of panels due to the shadows? Probably not but it would be a lot closer than this test suggests.
Hey Will, with your expertise would have time to help out Herb-O-Matic with his solar systems? Has one on the house roof and another running a well pump. He's a humorous soul trying to get an old airport back on line in Az. I think. Thanks.
I suspect he's pulling our leg for reactions. Nearly everything he does begs for guidance. Yet, he's a totally capable electromechanical dude (he let it slip early on when he was still innocent). All youtubers somewhat soon learn that videos which inspire reaction will encourage engagement through the comments and buttons, which increase monetization. I find his solar videos beyond painful to watch - I just....can't. But there's lots of retired trade guys who love to share their knowledge. He is learning this. I'm still scheming how I can get those fallen hangar doors back up. And what about his RV batteries? Do they also get no love? I nearly died when they fell sick from that uncleaned swamp cooler reservoir. I had already told him to clean it! That does it, I'm firing up the RV, they need a buddy!
hi Will - what do you think about the JJN 200w bifacial 10bb panels? I plan to use them for long (2 week) camping and to get most use I was going to put a white large cardboard underneath each panel to get bifacial gain. I live in Northern California
How about a frame covering the backyard area at the height of the rear wall? You would get better sun exposure and a shaded rear yard. The frame would provide mounting points for solar panels.
My favorite Solar Panels: www.mobile-solarpower.com/300w-solar-panels.html
My favorite Ground Mount: www.mobile-solarpower.com/ground-mount-racks.html
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
*Does off-grid solar confuse you?*
Check out my DIY friendly website for solar system blueprints and current product recommendations, and so much more!
www.mobile-solarpower.com
*Join our DIY solar community*
#1 largest solar forum on the internet for beginners and professionals alike:
www.diysolarforum.com
*Check out my Book*
Best-selling and beginner-friendly guide to 12V off-grid solar!
amzn.to/2Aj4dX4
*My Favorite Online Stores for DIY Solar Products:*
*Signature Solar*
Offgrid One-Stop-Shop. Best Value 48V LiFePO4, Victron and Offgrid Specific Heat Pumps:
www.signaturesolar.com/?ref=h-cvbzfahsek
*Current Connected*
SOK, Victron, Mr.Cool Heatpumps and High Quality Components. Fantastic customer support:
currentconnected.com/?ref=wp
*Epoch Batteries*
My favorite high-quality 12V battery:
www.epochbatteries.com/products/12v-460ah-lifepo4-battery-ip67-heated-bluetooth-victron-comms?rfsn=7352625.50494d
*Litime*
My favorite 12V budget battery!:
www.litime.com/?ref=XBIA62RFcalHns
*Watts247*
Need international shipping for large batteries and big inverters? Check them out!
watts247.com/?wpam_id=3
*Renogy*
A classic 12V solar store that has been around for ages! DC to DC Chargers and more!
renogy.sjv.io/n1VjXx
*Rich Solar*
Renogy's biggest competitor! Similar products, but at a better price:
richsolar.com/?ref=h-cvbzfahsek
*Battery Hookup*
Cheap cell deals
bit.ly/2mIxSqt
5% off code: diysolar
If you want to see my test results of mono versus bifacial over the course of multiple days and how much energy they collected in the same conditions, check out this video: ua-cam.com/video/Lbhx2fBiU5o/v-deo.htmlsi=ZnKDuyzxu-XpzG5G
3:23 in Florida we have white quartz on the west coast for our beach sand. It is so white you almost go snow blind
Even though Florida is very humid, we rarely get 100° days
However, we rarely get a cold day either. The majority of Christmases you sweat
So how do you think the bifacial would perform if mounted nice and high, like a 10-ft air gap underneath it, and then the white quartz sand deposited all around and underneath it for reflection?
Correction! 16%, not 6%! Oops
You should build a solar pergola over the driveway. If you qualify to the federal grant money they will cover 30% of such a structure to put solar on.
White marble chips / gravel work pretty well underneath a ground mount for bifacial panels .
Made a mistake!!! 16 percent, not 6 percent. My bad!!!
For your environment it seems clear that the ground mount gives the best results for the price and difficulty of mount.
Yep, I caught that and thought i was gonna have to correct the teacher😅
Just outa of curiosity can you mount one straight up and down and put aluminum foil under it. Wonder what it would get and then angle the foil for better reflection.
@jamesgreen1857 I would guess it would narrow the gap between the high setup but it might also increase the heat... hmmm.
Good, i was thinking.. whats so great about 6%?.. lol
I’ve been running the previous ET Solar 410w bifacials Will recommended for about 4 years now fully off grid and love them. I can get 122%+ efficiency regularly in winter temps with snow on the ground. I feel the bifacials really shine in less than ideal conditions like heavy clouds and snow storms. It’s amazes me how my 5000w array can still pull in 2000w+ during a complete whiteout snowstorm where I have no idea where the sun is even while looking for it. It’s a great feeling when it’s like that outside all day and you know you’re still covering your loads and charging your batteries.
Mine are mounted about 2’ off the ground on the low side of the panel with Tamarack Solars mount where you use 4” rigid pipe in the ground and 3” rigid tying them together horizontally. It’s not the cheapest but it’s rock solid and allowed me to get 5000w all in a nice clean line with only 4 holes in the ground.
I have ET solar non bifacial 410w and they are can push 430-450w and I have noticed they are bit more efficent than trina monofacial 480w in low light scenarios.
Agreed about not being to worried if it snows. I have one 16 panel ground mount with bifacials. Once I clean off the panels even on an overcast day there is more than enough power to run the house and not deplete that batteries. Also get my highest power generation in the winter despite the sun not being in the optimal height for my ground mount angles.
CanadianSolar 455Watt BiFacials were recommended for my northern exposure and cold winters. It's amazing to see the output on a -20F day in bright sun, but even on a cloudy day, they can deliver plenty of power. I built a tall ground mount from old telephone poles to get them up and off the ground so that all the snow we get here doesn't bury them, and it really helps with the gain year round.
I think one other advantage with biracials in the north is where the sun comes up and sets. It basically comes up in the north east and sets in the north west so youd get extra hours of production if your panels are pointed south.
I live about 75 miles south of Will, on the AZ side of the river. The area is an active cattle ranch and I have long believed that it could produce even more cattle if covered with panels mounted just high enough to allow the cattle to graze underneath. Agrivoltaics!
@@georgemead6608 amazing!!!
Grew up around cattle and there's an old saying about them. What they don't eat or destroy they crap on. Better make it bulletproof.
Solar cattle!
@goodcitizen4587 good enough to eat 😋
Being from Georgia, and I have camped out there, I do not see how the cattle can survive out there without any grass to graze on.
This for real! I recently purchased a couple Ecoworthy 195 Watt bifacials. I am super-impressed. I have them on a raised rack at about a 45 degree angle, mounted on my garage roof. I had an existing array of non-bifacials mounted to the roof at a similar angle. The bifacials consistently outpace my traditional panels.
I have 10 jinko 405w bifacial and the most I have seen on my eg4 6000xp app all together was 5,393 watts if we divide it by 10 it's 539.3 watt on each panel. so I truly believe they work. now I live in Puerto Rico in the center of the island and up in the mountains the temperature is in the mid 70s my panels are on top of my flat roof and it has a white coating (sealer) that helps a lot on getting the most use of each panels
Are you feeding that into your 6000XP's two MPPT's? Each MPPT is rated to 4000W so be careful to not burn out your inverter. That would void your warranty. I have ten 400W Talesun bifacial panels, on rare occasions here in Ocala, Florida they produce slightly over 4000W. I may remove one panel from to avoid exceeding that 4000W input. I'm very happy with my EG4 6000XP, it hums along flawlessly!
@woolval52 no. all of that is not on one mppt. i have two strings of five panels each. and I'm using both mppt's one for each string so each mppt gets roughly 2,696.5 watts. it's been over 9 months now with my eg4 6000xp, and I haven't had any issues runs flawless 24/7
@@woolval52
Install mirrors on the ground
@@ajarivas72 no need for perfect coherent mirrored reflection of sun, diffuse light of white gravel or surface is actually better. White reflector eliminates lensed specular highlights and shadows which could actually harm panel and provide uncertain output if using homemade Mylar mirror. Also, remember, mirrors are expensive but effectively grey, limiting reflectance while also making secure mounting challenging. Painted wood, wall, elastomeric roof coating, plastic Tyvek sheething or quartz gravel are some suggestions.
I have the Atos 370w and have them mounted on an RV, about 1-2in off the roof flat, and I see them consistently hit 395-430w per panel in Florida sun when good breeze to keep them cool.. tested same from ground and determined that the white RV roof has to be the contributing factor…
Thank You Will and Everybody for All that you are doing for our Planet Earth.... Peace.. Shalom.. Salam.. Namaste
🙏🏻 😊 ✌ ☮ ❤
I stoped watching your videos because i got ripped off by my solar guy. But i'm back to learn! I need to embrace this technology and its progression even if I had a bad experience. Future Electrician here.
I really wanted to see a test on vertical mounted, would be super good not to have clean off snow/get thick ice stuck on panels during winter.
I'm in Ohio and I've been thinking 45 degrees would help with snow self-clearing and give me a more direct angle in the winter.
The channel Projects With Everyday Dave released a video yesterday on testing vertical mounting in an east-west configuration with bifacial panels. He's going to do some more testing with a north-south configuration as well.
He's in Ohio as well so his results may be a little different from what you see.
I run 4 panels vertically here in TX. I have large fields running east west, so I have a lot of sun throughout the day. One side is 100W each for a max of 400W, side B is 200W each for a max of 800W. Taking temperature derating into account, I’m getting 350W out of 370 max on side A(4hrs AM sun), and 680W out of max 710W from side B (6hrs PM sun). The cool thing is, they still push 200W at noon just from albedo effect! I’ve seen other discussions and studies that suggest this orientation might yield more average power throughout the day, rather than trying to chase maximum exposure at mid day. Its working for me, but you need a long line of sight from tree lines or other houses to get this benefit.
Temp makes a huge difference in power output, on a really cold winter day in full sun I've gotten just under 115% STC, I actually overloaded my old charge controller
@@brly4542 I noticed that today. The first cool day in Nor Cal. I was able to get 2.47kw where the most I've seen before was 2.05kw
getting above 90% stc is impressive regardless
Great video! You forgot to account for the difference in angle (optimal versus actual) between the arrays. I'd love to see you start reviewing budget 48 volt inverters (i.e. build quality, output quality, ability to meet or exceed spec output power, true surge capacity and a multiday torture test at max capacity). With budget friendly 48 volt batteries, this type of setup for DIY solar generators makes a lot of sense.
I have bifacial on my metal roof. I'm very impressed by their output
I purchased bi-facial to install over my open overhang planning for snow and gravel reflection from below. I definitely need to study all of your videos to learn about installing and connecting them to my solar generator. Thank you for your channel.
I saw some tests done on Bifacials using highly reflective materials including mirrors, chromed metal sheeting, Mylar Thermal blankets and the bad thing about too much reflection is the excessive heat that is created. The tests showed wattage on the Bifacial side up around 60watts with the front of the panel covered by cardboard but temperatures on the solar panels were in excess of 160F with sunlight on the front and using (chromed metal panels or mirrors, etc) at close range on the back side of the panel. The sun baking the sun side and super reflective materials putting hot reflected light on the back side could rapidly shorten the life of the solar panels. (Too much of a good thing is often not good).
I have 2400w of bifacial panels on my RV roof mounted flat and I have seen 2500w on my controller. I'm very happy.
Very cool, I live in Minnesota and want elevated panels to be able to store stuff/sit underneath them. Sounds like bifacial is worth it these days.
Yesterday @AveRage_Joe made a video about a test with bifacial panels and different reflective materials, and he showed some interesting numbers. The video is called... 415w BiFacial Solar Panels with Mirrors Mylar and More!!
I have 36000 watts of them. They work great in the snow on a high ground mount. The first hint of light reflects on the back and melts the snow very quickly. Plus, have you seen? People are standing them vertical with one facing east and one west and so on down the line. You get a M Style charge with two peaks. ✔️ it out.make a privacy fence
Have had them since 2019. Purposely bought
Was hoping to see Will test vertical mounting as there are papers that claim that vertically mounted bifacials perform the best. Still a great video.
Check out projects with everyday Dave. He covered this in a video
@brianfisher6799 I'm going to do vertical with 16 of my panels ( half ) just so I don't have to clean the snow off. I live at 9500' in park county colorado. Yes, South Park.
My next install will be vertical.
Another advantage to bifacial panels is I think the back side will hold up better in the long run. I've seen some mono panels with the back cracking. That help me decide to go with the bifacial
That's the more reason bifacial are better than standard panel..
Will it’s amazing how much better panels are now and cheaper 😎
DIY Solar Power with Will Prowse, amazing video dude
This is getting me really excited to see how our tracking array performs in the winter. I have about 1100 watts of bifacial panels mounted on a raised dual axis tracking bracket that has been up and running since July when we had our hottest temps. Now it's getting on toward October and I was nervous about the long gray days and heavy snows. This video has put me more at ease that we'll keep our cabin powered well during the winter.
I don't know if it was mentioned, vertical mount sometimes works well. However mid day sun would be drastically reduced.
I really appreciate this, Will. Every time I tried to research Bi Facial, well… Anyway, thanks for the useful info!
Thanks for solid info & references. Bouncing off your info + reviews on Signature Solar, I just purchased 12 x 395 Watt Hyperion Bi-facial PV Panels from Advanced ... Solar, a warehouse just 2.5 miles away from my Northern California home. ... I thought $.30 per watt was an incredible deal. I have a sunny roof to place these on. I am thinking of white elastomatic roof coating the roof, and making my PV frame raised at North tops to angle towards the winter sun.
Love my 395 watt Hyperion panels Bifacial
Good choice
🇨🇦 GOOD DAY,,,GLAD TO SEE YOU REVIEWING BIFACIAL PANELS,,,FOR US UP HERE IN THE NORTH WEST OF CANADA THEY ARE OUR BEST OPTION
I was thinking of getting some bifacials. Had questions. You answered them. 👍
It's always wonderful to see what projects you share with us. Two Thumbs up. Can you create a sand battery storage unit to store excess energy production?
Have a look at the Rondo Heat Battery. New use of old technology.
If the goal is reflective capacity, would mirrors be used ?
Will, Great videos.
I am located in Phoenix AZ and have a home with about 50% flat while roof. It also has a 18-24 inch or so parapet wall on the edge of the roof area. I am thinking of mounting 8-10vertical bi-facial panels facing SE on the one parapet wall and 12-14 vertical bi-fical panels on another wall facing SW. With the white flat roof behind the SW facing panels I should get good gain in the mourning and really great gain in the afternoon and evening. My reason for vertical mounting on the parapet are as follows: vertical mounted to the parapet means I don't need to puncture the painted roof and repairs can be done without removing panels and hardware, cleaning of the panels would be easier and won't collect as much dust, the mounting should be less costly as the hardware should be about 1/2 or less than roof flat mounts, provided I can find good hardware for the mounting. I also need to check fire codes but generally this seems safer than panels of the flat roof. I would appreciate any comments.
Wow.. i wish i had this skill .. just install things wherever i want. Lol. Thank you for doing this.
I've gone with all bifacial as those tend to be the most cost effective when I was ordering. One is on a taller ground mount while the others are on the EG4 ground system. It's amazing watching on sunny + cooler days pushing 16kW at times.
So would they be good in northern Alberta Canada, when its 40 below ?
Love Bifacials when we install off grid systems in the Sierras. And, Yes it is all we find now of value.
Could the 75% simply be a calculus of the angle of the floor panels to the meridian?
Cover a panel backing with lead sheet surely a better test?
Not a question of worth it anymore. They are all you can get. Nobody makes standard large panels anymore, all bifical.
Absolutely! It is crazy
I see 500-650W bifacial panels for less than equivalent watts single sided new on Facebook marketplace all the time. I heard it was because tariffs are less on bifacial
AveRage Joe did a good review on these, was pushing 10% increase from what I remember. Cool stuff!
Great job. I really like your channel. Very Informative. Thanks
starting with minute 4 in the video you show a nice iluminated wall just waiting for some pannels while at the same time you show shaded pannels
Hello Will!!! Please don't forget to do a video on the car electric (12v) A/C compressor kit when you have a chance!!! Thanks for your videos, they're very informative and well explained!!!!
Will, is it possible to recycle a clear coolant across the face of a solar panel that will keep the temperature lower, and will it increase the output? Something like a clear antifreeze? Thanks.
Thanks W-P,
COOP
...
Thanks Will ! TAKE CARE..
At sea on a boat/yacht the doublefaced panel will make a huge difference, the sea will relflect the sunlight, have tested by simply mounting a downfacing panel under the normal set - with good results
Thank you for the great info you have provided over the years!
Wait for your posts and appreciate your honesty and content.
I' live in Ireland, so not a very hot area of the planet, and my panels regularly exceed their rated output, so I just want to brag about my results too here in Ireland. (regularly 6kw from a 5kw array) and they are not bi-facial panels, so there you have it.
Yeah UK seems to be the sweet spot for temps, I'm down in Cornwall where we get a lot of cloud. I've angled mine towards the sky a bit more to perform better in cloudy weather. 84 x 410w so far :)
What part of Ireland are you.and did you buy your equipment from usa
How much more output if you use trackers--which track the sun throughout the day--with bifacial solar panels?
The increase in yield is not worth the money spent on such a rig.
Any experience on how these withstand golf ball sized hail? Thanks.
Would you be willing to do a video on what the output varies on roof-mounted solar panels - clean or dirty? Thanks!❤
Are those half cell? If not what do you think about them?
Hello my name is Alan Claiborne and once in awhile I understand you give stuff away after you got through using it doing it or whichever
Do you or should you install a circuit breaker or fuse from the solar panel before connecting to your energy storage device?
I’ve been using bi facial panels for a couple of years now I live full-time in a fifth wheel and they are so much more efficient than just the front side. I’ve also experimented using reflectics behind it and cardboard covered in heavy duty foil, you get a nice spike from the reflection behind it.
Currently installing 30 400a biracial on white flat roof usiing heavy duty frames at 28° and well of the deck. The frames and install are 3x the cost iof the panels. Thx Will,
Will, can you make a video on how to troubleshoot one or more strings of PV panels on the roof? I have 50 panels and need some direction on how you would test 15-year-old panels. Thank you
Did you pull a permit for the higher mount?
I read that mounting bifacial panels vertically had good results. Using them as a fence and even mounting them vertically in rows they performed well.
I think everyday Dave has a video on this
Do you plan on mount any bifacial solar panels along the wall and measure those results also?
Thanks
Great video! Very helpful information. Looks like you used the IntegraRack for the Panel install. Do you think overall the IntegraRack is as robust as the Brightmount system? The extruded Aluminum frames on the Brightmount look to be a heavier gauge than the IntegraRack seemingly to add strength. With the IntegraRack I see an advantage to having mounting points on both the rear and front of the frame legs, instead of 1 mounting point as with the Brightmount, which could add more structural support. It would be helpful to see how you have the new array attached to the roof, and since you have completed another install with it, seeing an update video with your opinion is always appreciated. I'll be making a decision in the next day or 2 about which system to purchase cost is still a big driver in the decision between the two systems, your input is greatly appreciated! Thank you for all you do!
Yes I have a both. I have videos on both too. I like Integra rack much much more. Stronger and easier to install
@@WillProwse Thank you for the reply, yep I watched both videos a couple of times (no ad block!) Great info, really nice to be able to watch good comprehensive videos on both systems. You rock!
Where is a good place to buy mounts online for the larger panels?
Hey Will,
Have you compared mounting bifocals vertically with them mounted at the optimal tilt angle?
Have you compared those mountings without ground reflectors to those mountings with ground reflectors?
Will - What is your opinion of mounting panels 13" up on a motorhome roof so they are over and shade the air conditioners vs flat to the roof and the panels get shaded by the air conditioners/fans ect?
Is mounting that high on a roof dangerous or just fine (as long as solidly mounted)?
Will can you do the same test in the winter, when the temperatures are less?
I've seen tests with est west orientation for bifacial. Mounted like a fence. In that config it gains more in the morning and evening.
In your case in the video it might have been better vertical along the fence than on the ground.
Hey Will, did you go to RE+2024? Any videos to share?
Btw nice video!
Thanks again for anther really good video. I've been watching for a while now and I keep changing my viewpoint as to what and how I might do a system myself. There are other video creators that have been testing out vertical bifacial installations. It's an interesting idea under very specific conditions. My current thinking for me (upstate NY - near the PA border) ... ground mounted Bifacial panels, mounted at the correct angle for this latitude at least 3 feet above ground (snow), surrounded by some white stones (and side of house able to also reflect light). I'm thinking something like the EG4 18Kpv connected to the largest set of battery banks I can afford and the grid. I just don't know if I could pull it all off (I have done household electrical work ... and I do have a retired electrician friend). ... I think the process would make a good video. ; )
placed on a slanted roof and angled up to meet the average sun instead of laid parallel to the roof would a white or light coloured roof be beneficial?
I wonder if it would be worth it to choose a metal/reflective roof if you intended to mount these on the roof.
Would like to see an episode on a DYI North/South single axle sun tracker
Efficiency is the main goal when going solar, anything other than bifacial panels on raised seasonal adjustable mounts is inefficient. I get over 90% over my arrays output of 16 460w every sunny day year round 😉
Bifacial are the best
Question. Is it beneficial to use bifacial panels on a white RV roof, if you are using a tilting system that exposes the roof when the panels are tilted to45 degrees?
I live in a cold climate where we get snow three to four months a year. I know i have to consider the voltage gain in winter. Would i need to consider the extra wattage when sizing an array of bifacials with a charge controller. I think as long as i keep the votage within parameters even when it gets negative temps outside I think the controller would just clip the extra wattage if it goes over the rating of the charge controller.
I have also been offered new 440w bifacial panels in large quantities at $.22/w. (~$97/ panel) including shipping to my location. 30 year warranty. I'm checking "listing" and "labeling" to make sure my state electrical inspector will approve them per 2023 NEC code. The state inspector also says the mounting hardware must be listed and labeled to meet 2023 NEC code. This company also has 5.12kwh batteries at $1200 each. Their inverters are expensive at $3000 each but can handle 16 of those batteries.
What company is this? I’d be interested!
@@aaron647 Spitzer Energy. I met them at the National Assoc of Home Builders show in Las Vegas last February.
Please let us know what you find out!
What does 'large quantities' mean? Container loads of panels?
pallet sized quantities. Call Spitzer energy to get a price on your desired quantity.
What about vertical mounting you can put them pretty close together they get max cooling and reflections from neighboring panels.
Would aluminum foil underneath help out? Would a silver metal roof Really help?
@LumnahAcres Al, these bi-facial panels should give you some amazing benefits with your upcoming solar project(s). Especially with your temps being much better in the summer and the snow in the winter!
Which simulation software you recommend for me as i am currently researching on performance analysis of the bifacial PV module?
Having a glass back should increase the panels' lifespan as well. I just purchased the 400-watt Hyperion panels for 120 bucks that I will be incorporating into the backyard lanai.
It would be interesting if you tested bifacial panels mounted up high with mirrored glass mounted 12-24" below the panels so there is good air flow to keep the panels cool and reflect as much solar energy as possible.
Does the frame cost more than the solar panel
Is that the Integra rack on top of the bunker? If so, how did you attach it to the roof? I have a house that had a "professional" install last year (they were idiots!) and it is on the south facing side of my roof, but I want to double the size of the array. The north facing side slopes away from south, so I was thinking of using something like that Integra system so that I can get back to 30° facing south and also use bifacial panels. I have a standing seam metal roof and the company that installed the original system double ordered the clamps that go onto the standing seams, so I was thinking I could use those to mount the Integra racks. Does that sound reasonable?
What about the tilt angle towards the sun? From my own experience I've seen it make a 10% difference with regular panels and that was between two different angles. Your tests of flat on the ground vs angled would have a noticeable difference just from the mounting angle. Would adding an angle produce enough more power to counter the loss of panels due to the shadows? Probably not but it would be a lot closer than this test suggests.
Great test!
I'd like you to do a vertical test if possible, I'm guessing north south direction would be best
Hey Will, with your expertise would have time to help out Herb-O-Matic with his solar systems? Has one on the house roof and another running a well pump. He's a humorous soul trying to get an old airport back on line in Az. I think. Thanks.
I suspect he's pulling our leg for reactions. Nearly everything he does begs for guidance. Yet, he's a totally capable electromechanical dude (he let it slip early on when he was still innocent).
All youtubers somewhat soon learn that videos which inspire reaction will encourage engagement through the comments and buttons, which increase monetization. I find his solar videos beyond painful to watch - I just....can't. But there's lots of retired trade guys who love to share their knowledge. He is learning this.
I'm still scheming how I can get those fallen hangar doors back up. And what about his RV batteries? Do they also get no love? I nearly died when they fell sick from that uncleaned swamp cooler reservoir. I had already told him to clean it! That does it, I'm firing up the RV, they need a buddy!
@@mikemotorbike4283 Time to organize a work crew men. Find out if the Wife is a good cook.
Would be interested in seeing a vertical panel setup for comparison
I think you should also note to the subscribers that when laying on the ground flat you are also not aimed at the sun which will lower the output.
hi Will - what do you think about the JJN 200w bifacial 10bb panels? I plan to use them for long (2 week) camping and to get most use I was going to put a white large cardboard underneath each panel to get bifacial gain. I live in Northern California
What if I were to install mirrors on my roof first, so as to reflect sunlight back up. Would this work ?
540watts*6 bifacial Solar Panels 3kw maximum providing 16.20Unit daily, is it better or should be more? (kerala, India- hot area)
Thanks for sharing all of this!
How about a frame covering the backyard area at the height of the rear wall? You would get better sun exposure and a shaded rear yard. The frame would provide mounting points for solar panels.
Hey love your channel do you ever do a live question and answer show for us beginners , thanks
this would be great for marine environment too