In the solar energy sector, stainless steel is a widely used material. The material SUS304 is steel is renowned for its strength, durability, and corrosion resistance. Among its variants, SUS304 stands out as a particularly popular choice across various industries, including solar energy. But what sets SUS304 apart, and why is it so favored?
Understanding SUS304
SUS304 is the Japanese designation for 304 stainless steel, an alloy primarily made up of iron, with 18% chromium (Cr) and 8% nickel (Ni). This composition ensures excellent corrosion resistance and workability, making it the most widely used stainless steel alloy globally.
Key Benefits of SUS304
Corrosion Resistance: SUS304’s high chromium content creates a protective layer on the surface, shielding the metal underneath from rust and other forms of corrosion. This makes the type of material ideal for solar installation material.
Durability: Known for its longevity even under harsh conditions, SUS304 is a cost-effective choice for projects where long-term durability is essential.
Versatility: Its excellent workability allows SUS304 to be shaped, welded, and finished to meet specific requirements.
SUS304 specific in Solar Energy
SUS304 is mainly used in roof hooks to provide a durable and good basis for solar profiles. The material is crucial for constructing mounting systems and panel frames, offering reliability and durability for outdoor installations exposed to the elements. This ensures long-lasting solar solutions.
Conclusion
SUS304 uniquely blends corrosion resistance, durability, and versatility, making it an excellent choice for diverse applications, including solar energy. Opting for SUS304 components means investing in solar mounting systems that withstand time, contributing to a more sustainable and reliable future.
Figuring out if solar panels are right for your home can be daunting. If you’re looking to install solar panels, you’ll come across a wide range of information listing out the good that solar has to offer.
Advantages of solar energy
1. Reduces your electricity bills
The biggest benefit for solar buyers is that solar panels can reduce your electric bills. As of 2024, the average household can save about $1,500 per year on electric bills when they install solar panels!
Solar power systems save money by reducing how much energy you need to buy from the grid. In areas with net metering policies, you can earn credits by sending excess energy back to the grid, saving you even more money.
2. Insurance against rising power prices
Electricity prices are high and only keep getting more expensive. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the average cost of electricity is about $0.16 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) - a 4.1% increase from the previous year.
Solar panels protect you from these rising electricity costs. Because you are producing your own energy, you don’t have to buy as much power from your utility and avoid paying those high energy rates. In fact, you’ll actually be saving more money with solar panels as electric rates get higher!
3. Solar is cheaper than ever
While electricity prices have continued to climb, solar panel installation costs have steadily fallen. The image below is a graph from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) of the cost per watt of solar installed on a residential and utility scale.
Solar technology costs less than half of what it did back in 2010. Now in 2024, the cost of solar sits at an average of $3.00 per watt. And when paired with good solar rebates or incentives like the 30% federal solar tax credit, you can bring down the cost even more.
4. Solar is a renewable energy source
Solar is a renewable source of energy, meaning that the sun’s power won’t deplete as we use it to make solar electricity. The sun’s energy will never “run out” – so you can always take advantage of it, without hurting the earth!
Plus, solar panels do not emit any harmful carbon dioxide emissions when they generate electricity, making them a source of clean energy and an integral part in fighting against climate change and reducing our carbon footprint.
5. Diverse uses
Photovoltaic energy can be used in many small and large-scale projects. From powering a home to running space satellites, solar panels are a great way to access energy in even the most remote places.
The most common uses for solar panels are on residential rooftops and large solar farms. But, some smaller-scale uses include solar phone chargers, solar-powered outdoor lights, and portable solar panels for camping and RVs.
6. Great financial investment
Solar panels can pay for themselves in just a few years with the savings accumulated on your electricity bill. In some cases, solar panels can provide better return on investment than in something like an index fund.
The average payback time for a home solar installation is about ten years, but it’s different for everyone. How long it takes to see a return on your solar investment depends on how much you paid for your system, your state, and the incentives available in your area.
7. Low maintenance costs
Solar panels don’t require much maintenance after installation. Solar panel maintenance is generally minimal and usually consists of solar panel cleanings once or twice a year to avoid dirt and buildup.
Solar panels and other solar system equipment have very low failure rates because they don’t have moving parts, especially when you choose reliable brands and a trusted installer. An installer or manufacturer's solar warranty may cover some issues with solar panels, but it’s unlikely the equipment will fail.
8. Energy independence
Solar panels allow homeowners to create their own energy instead of relying on the electrical grid, helping you achieve energy independence.
Energy independence allows homeowners to take power into their own hands and control where your home is getting energy from.
The role of the solar mounting system is critical. If you need a roof mounting system for your home’s roof, you can contact us. Our solar rooftop mounting system includes tile roof mountings, color steel roof mountings, flat roof mountings, standing seam roof mountings, etc.
Solar mounting and racking systems are the structures a solar PV panel would be mounted unto. The core function of solar mounting / racking system is to allow solar panels to rest on a surface, be it ground or rooftop mounted, and hold it in place to receive the most sunlight throughout the years – allowing the solar panels to consistently generate solar electricity.
Why are solar mounting & racking so important?
Without a proper solar mounting / racking system, your solar PV panels would be susceptible to vibrations caused by naturals elements, like wind, which may result in solar PV panels to become loose and cause undesired affects.
Solar mounting / racking systems are generally made of aluminum. It’s a strong, sturdy material, and does well against the weather.
The different types of solar mounting / racking systems
Solar mounting / racking systems are often seen with solar rails, where the solar PV modules rests on. The solar PV modules are locked down to the railings with clamps. These railings can be extended to allow solar PV modules to be inclined to better receive sunlight. There are mounts specially designed for pitched roofs, ground mounted and flat roofs. Though as technology grows, we’re seeing more carport mounts and floating solar mounts too.
Solar racks are then retrofitted on rooftops (slated, flat concrete, metal deck, etc) with additional accessories to help hold the railings on the roof.
GRD Tile Roof Mountings is designed with great suitability for installing framed and framless panels on the roof, which are applied to both commercial and residential roof system.
Innovative design, pre-assembled clamp and standard components make the installation simple to save your installation time and cost.
Different hooks are compatible with various tile roofs.
Color steel roof mountings is suitable for large area color steel roof, need to match aluminum alloy clamping hook respectively according to different types of color steel roof, which including standing seam roof, angle break type roof, buckle type roof, fixed part connection type roof, to achieve the most stable installation effect.
This kind of fixed way will not damage the waterproofing of the original building, and can be effectively combined with the original roof.
Standing Seam Roof Mounting is designed with exclusive clip lock kit for metal roof sheet with non-penetration solution.
Which makes the roof sheet be beyond rust, keep the roof intact and better water proof.
It eliminates the need for traditional L feet, just need bolt to fix, save labor time and reduce materials used in installations.
With GRD highly pre-assembled structure, can make the installation steps much easier.
GRD Tile Roof Mounting is designed with great suitability for installing framed and framless panels on the roof, which are applied to both commercial and residential roof system.
Innovative design, pre-assembled clamp and standard components make the installation simple to save your installation time and cost.
Different hooks are compatible with various tile roofs.
Color steel roof mountings is suitable for large area color steel roof, need to match aluminum alloy clamping hook respectively according to different types of color steel roof, which including standing seam roof, angle break type roof, buckle type roof, fixed part connection type roof, to achieve the most stable installation effect.
This kind of fixed way will not damage the waterproofing of the original building, and can be effectively combined with the original roof.
Standing Seam Roof Mounting is designed with exclusive clip lock kit for metal roof sheet with non-penetration solution.
Which makes the roof sheet be beyond rust, keep the roof intact and better water proof.
It eliminates the need for traditional L feet, just need bolt to fix, save labor time and reduce materials used in installations.
With GRD highly pre-assembled structure, can make the installation steps much easier.
Asbestos / Metal Roof Mountings
Asbestos / Metal Roof Mounting is designed with innovative rail, standard components and highly pre-assembled clamps, which make the installation to be simple with great flexibility.
Trapezoidal Roof Mountings GRD-SS04 / GRD-SS07
GRD-SS04 mountings kit and GRD-SS07 mountings kit are both mini rail sulutions, which are designed for trapezoidal shape metal sheet roof.
The mini Rail is unity of rail and hook, which can work as rail and hook.
It can be fixed on roof to hold solar panels directly without rails, which can save installation time, suitable for large-scale installation.
Solar mounting systems, it is used to fix solar panels to various surfaces such as solar rooftop mounting system, solar ground mounting system, BIPV waterproof carport, etc.
Solar mounting systems help hold solar panels or arrays in place and work as the support structure for the solar modules. Solar mounting systems are usually made of steel or aluminum supports that can hold solar panels in place under extreme loads from wind, snow and frost.
GRD solar rooftop mounting system includes Tile Roof Mountings, Color Steel Roof Mountings, Standing Seam Roof Mountings, Asbestos / Metal Roof Mountings, Trapezoidal Roof Mountings GRD-SS04 / GRD-SS07, Flat Roof Mountings, Asphalt Roof Mountings.
GRD BIPV waterproof carport is a derivative of GRD BIPV photovoltaic building integration, suitable for the installation of industrial and commercial photovoltaic modules, GRD BIPV waterproof carport has the function of traditional photovoltaic carport, effectively improve space utilization.
With the aluminum alloy mountings waterproof design, it will lower the maintenance cost and longer the system life.
We achieved good trust from customers because of our stable and excellent products, and we will try our best to become a world leading level of photovoltaic racking solutions supplier.
Solar PV (photovoltaic) systems are a popular way to generate clean, renewable energy from the sun. However, to ensure the optimal performance and longevity of a solar system, a reliable and robust mounting system is needed. The mounting system holds the solar panels in place and positions them at the correct angle to capture the maximum amount of sunlight. When choosing a solar PV mounting system, there are several factors to consider. Here are the top 5:
Type of surface: The type of surface the solar panels will be installed on will impact the choice of mounting system. For example, if the solar panels will be installed on a flat roof, a ballasted mounting system may be a good option. Ballasted systems use weights to keep the mounting structure in place, rather than penetrating the roof with bolts or screws. If the solar panels will be installed on the ground, a pile-driven system may be more appropriate, as it can be easily driven into the soil.
Load-bearing capacity: The mounting system needs to be able to support the weight of the solar panels, as well as any additional load, such as snow or wind. The load-bearing capacity of the mounting system should be able to withstand the most extreme weather conditions in the installation area. For example, if the area is prone to heavy snow, the mounting system should be designed to withstand the weight of the snow.
Orientation and tilt: The orientation and tilt of the solar panels are important factors to consider, as they impact the amount of sunlight the panels receive. In the Northern Hemisphere, solar panels should face south to receive the most sunlight, while in the Southern Hemisphere, they should face north. The tilt angle of the panels should also be adjusted based on the latitude of the installation site to ensure the panels receive optimal sunlight throughout the year.
Materials: The materials used to construct the mounting system should be durable, weather-resistant, and able to withstand the weight of the solar panels. Common materials used in solar mounting systems include aluminum, steel, and concrete. The materials should be selected based on the specific needs of the installation site, such as the local climate and weather conditions.
Installation and maintenance: The installation and maintenance of the solar PV mounting system should be done by qualified professionals. The installation process involves securing the mounting system to the roof or ground, connecting the panels to the mounting system, and wiring the system to the inverter and electrical grid. Proper maintenance is also important to ensure the longevity of the system and the safety of the people and property around it. The maintenance should include regular inspections of the mounting system and solar panels, as well as cleaning and repairs as needed.
In conclusion, choosing the right solar PV mounting system is crucial to the performance and longevity of a solar system. The type of surface, load-bearing capacity, orientation and tilt, materials, and installation and maintenance are all important factors to consider when choosing a mounting system. By taking the time to consider these factors and working with qualified professionals, a solar PV system can be installed safely and efficiently, providing clean and renewable energy for years to come.
A high quality solar mounting system design takes advantage of all the environmental factors in order to maximize energy output for the project owner’s energy usage requirements. The advantages of choosing the right solar mountings are:
Efficiency of the Solar System
The life of a solar PV system may be seriously affected by galvanic corrosion. Atmospheric conditions such as moisture and chlorides can cause serious structural failures in racking and mounting components. A solar panel efficiency is referred to as the fraction of sunlight energy that is converted into electricity. This has a direct bearing on what kind of mountings you use for your solar modules. The installer has to be careful in choosing the right material for solar mounting structures which is an important in lowering the total cost of ownership over the project term of 25 years.
Average Production / Yield
Photovoltaic mounting structure design is an important part of PV power plant design and its design principles. The conversion efficiency of a solar panel is directly related to the amount of direct solar irradiance that strikes the surface of a solar cell or panel. Apart from the effect of atmospheric attenuations, solar power absorption is also affected by the earth’s distance from the sun and the earth tilt angle with respect to the sun.
The durability of the System
Assessing solar mounting’s durability is critical as the equipment is expected to be exposed to extreme environmental conditions. When choosing the correct solar mountings, the following questions should be taken into consideration:
Will it be located near the corrosive sea air of a coastal area?
Can it handle the extreme heat of a desert?
Can it sustain the wind loading of that particular location?
Even if the environmental exposure is minimal, durability is still important due to the stresses imposed on the system over time.
Ease of Installation & Maintenance
A good mounting system should be modular in design to reduce installation time and cost. A pre-assembled mounting structure also decreases the risk of accidents to installers when they are operating on rooftops, carports. In such cases, they spend comparatively less time during installation and need fewer tools, so their exposure to the risk of injury and liability is reduced.
Solar power is growing faster than all other electricity sources in the U.S., representing 50% of the generation capacity installed in 2022. According to the latest Solar Market Insight Report, the U.S. installed 700,000 home solar systems last year, and the country now has enough solar capacity to meet the energy needs of 25 million homes. High-quality solar panels come with a 25-30 year product warranty, and homeowners paying high electric tariffs can achieve a payback period of less than six years.
One of the most important decisions when going solar is deciding where to install the photovoltaic (PV) array and inverter. Many homeowners choose roof-mounted systems, since they can take advantage of unused space. However, a solar carport is also a viable option: you get both a clean energy system and shaded parking areas in the same piece of land.
In simple terms, a solar carport is a canopy with photovoltaic panels that is installed above a parking area. Solar carports accomplish a dual function, providing a roof for your vehicles while generating electricity for your home. If you own an electric vehicle, a solar carport can also be combined with an EV charging station.
Solar carports work just like ground-mounted PV systems, since the racking structure is anchored directly to the ground in both cases. However, solar carports use a taller structure than ground mounting systems, since they must provide enough space to park vehicles.
Solar Carport vs. Traditional Solar Installation
Traditional solar installations take advantage of existing roof areas, and their racking system is attached directly to your roof structure. On the other hand, a solar carport is an independent structure anchored directly to the ground, which generates electricity while acting as a roof for your vehicles. Each type of system has advantages and disadvantages.
Benefits of a Solar Carport
A solar carport is slightly more expensive than a rooftop PV system of the same capacity, since you need a dedicated structure. However, solar carports also offer several benefits.
You can convert unproductive parking space into a renewable energy system.
Your vehicle is covered from rainfall, snow and UV rays.
Solar panels and inverters can be accessed more easily for cleaning, inspections and maintenance.
A solar carport can be designed with an orientation that maximizes the sunlight reaching your PV modules, increasing their electricity output.
The gel battery was invented in 1957. Gel batteries are one of two sealed lead acid batteries, the other being an AGM battery. Sealed lead acid batteries are distinct from other lead acid batteries in that they are maintenance-free.
Gel batteries are a maintenance-free alternative to flooded cell deep cycle batteries. They contain a silica-based gel in which battery electrolytes are suspended, allowing electrons to flow freely between plates. The nice thing about spill-proof gel batteries is that they don't leak even if the battery case is broken. These batteries also fight against corrosion and prevent overcharging.
The combination of Gel electrolyte along with highly porous glass micro fiber separator ensure reducing short circuit, higher capacity, longer service life,leak proof operation in any position. Brava advanced GEL Lead acid batteries approved with UL1989, CE, IEC60896, IEC61427, IEC60254, IEC60079 certificates provide maintenance-free and deep cycle performance for UPS, solar/wind, telecommunications, cathodic protection, navigation aids, remote monitoring, RV/marine, golf cart, switchgear, cellular radio etc.
gel battery applications
What's a gel battery?
A gel battery is a dry battery since it doesn't use a liquid electrolyte. In a gel battery, the electrolyte is frozen with silica gel. This keeps the electrolyte inside the battery, preventing it from evaporating or spilling.
This design stabilizes the battery and gives it a low self-discharge. This is a handy feature for batteries that lie idle for long periods.
10 Advantages of a gel battery
Maintenance-free. Because the batteries are comprised of gel instead of liquid, there is little to no maintenance to keep the battery working properly.
6-year lifespan.
Better performance until its end of life then performance drops off sharply.
You can install it sideways since it's spill-proof.Gel batteries have the advantage of being able to be used in virtually any position, because they don’t leak and are generally maintenance free. This greatly increases the number of applications gel batteries can be used for.
Better heat tolerance.
No Leaks: Even though wet cell batteries are sealed in a plastic encasement there is still the chance that it will leak. Gel batteries are also sealed but with a valve that removes excess pressure. This means that between the gel substance and the removal of pressure, there is nowhere for the mixture to go.
Minimal Risk: When damage occurs to a traditional lead-acid battery you are faced with a massive and dangerous clean up (not to mention the impact on anything the battery acid may come into contact with during the process). Gel batteries will not leak out if the casing becomes damaged, so there is a reduced risk of harm coming to the equipment and clean up hazards.
Vibration Resistant: One of the biggest complaints with wet cell batteries is that they are very susceptible to extreme vibration and other impacts. Gel batteries absorb the impact and vibrations, making them great batteries for items such as four wheelers.
No Fumes: Because these batteries are comprised of a gel substance there are minimal fumes created as a result of use. This means that there is a reduced need for ventilation which increases the potential applications gel batteries can be used for, as well as making them easier to charge anywhere.
Resistant To Discharge Death: When using a wet cell battery it’s important that you don’t allow the battery to discharge too much. Otherwise, it will never recharge. Gel cell batteries aren’t that way. They are deep cycle batteries which means that they can discharge more and still be recharged like new.
Disadvantages of a gel battery
You need to store it in a charged condition although this is less critical than as for a flooded lead acid battery.
It requires some ventilation as it releases gas when pressure builds up.
Sensitive to overcharging though this is less so than AGM batteries.
AGM is cheaper and can handle higher loads.
How Does a gel battery Work?
A gel battery (often referred to as a gel cell battery) is a lead-acid battery that is valve regulated. When the electrolyte is mixed with sulphuric acid and silica, it becomes a relatively stationary gel substance.
This gel mixture allows the battery to utilize the acid and electrolyte in the same way it would with a traditional lead-acid battery, just without the added maintenance.
When should you choose a gel battery?
Gel batteries are an alternative to flooded lead acid. They're suited for a battery backup system or an off-grid home. If you don't mind the extra expense, a gel battery is a better option if you're looking into lead acid batteries. This is because you won't have to worry about maintenance.
Are gel batteries better than AGM batteries?
Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) batteries are the other sealed lead acid battery. How do gel batteries compare to AGM batteries?
For starters, gel batteries can be more expensive. They also need specific chargers to prevent overcharging. Not using these chargers reduces the batteries lifespan.
They're also don't work as well with appliances that need a higher current because they have a higher internal resistance.
On the other hand, gel batteries have a longer lifespan. This is because:
They hold more acid because of their design.
They have a better temperature tolerance. They have improved heat transfer to the outside. The gel moves heat, whereas the absorbent glass mat of the AGM acts as an insulator.
They also maintain their performance over a longer period. AGM batteries gradually fade as they get older.
Feature
Gel batteries
AGM batteries
Cost
Expensive compared to AGM batteries
Less expensive compared to gel batteries
Charge
The battery can be ruined even if it is brand new if you make one charging mistake, like overcharging or using a tapering charger
Hold their charge well and charge quickly
Technology
Gel paste suspends the electrolyte in the battery case of a gel battery
Internally, the electrolyte is wicked into a glass matt to prevent leakage
Life expectancy
You can fully discharge gel batteries up to 90% and still get a much longer cycle life than you would with AGM batteries
Discharging your AGM battery more than 50% and up to 70% is okay, but doing so frequently will significantly shorten the battery’s cycle life
Are gel batteries better than flooded batteries?
A flooded lead acid battery is a wet battery since it uses a liquid electrolyte. Unlike a gel battery, a flooded lead acid battery needs maintenance by topping up the water in the battery every 1-3 months.
Gel batteries are the safer lead acid batteries because they release less hydrogen gas from their vent valves. This makes them safer to install where there is limited ventilation. Hydrogen release or gassing is a minor safety concern with flooded lead acid batteries.
Because of how they're made, they can be oriented in any way. They can be stacked pancake-style which may improve cycle life. Flooded lead acid batteries are kept upright to avoid acid spills.
What Is A Deep Cycle Gel Battery?
A deep cycle battery is a type of battery that can use to provide power for extended periods.
It stores more energy than conventional batteries, and it’s able to withstand the repeated charging and discharging cycles necessary in solar installations or other renewable energy systems.
Deep cycle gel batteries are among the most popular types of deep-cycle batteries on the market today because they’re designed with safety in mind while still providing high performance.
What Is The Difference Between A Deep Cycle Battery And A Gel Battery?
It is not uncommon for people to confuse deep cycle batteries and gel batteries. They are very different in many ways, but the most important distinction is that a deep cycle battery can be used regularly while a gel battery cannot.
So this is the big difference that I have shared with you between the deep cycle and gel batteries. Furthermore, the difference is;
Deep cycle batteries are made of lead-acid cells, which produce an electric current when they react with sulfuric acid and water.
A deep cycle battery is typically used in a boat or RV. It can be discharged more without damaging it than many other batteries, but it’s typically heavier and less expensive.
While A gel battery has additives that help prevent the electrolyte from leaking out of the cell when it’s overcharged.
This makes them safer to use in certain situations, like on motorcycles or scooters, often exposed to extreme temperatures.
Gel batteries also cost more than most types of lead-acid batteries, which means you’ll usually only see them in higher-end products.
Knowing this information will help you find the best type of battery for your needs!
How Long Do Deep-Cycle Gel Batteries Last?
When peoples buy an expensive battery, they want the time of lasting the batteries should extend. However, you can use deep cycle batteries for over 6 years or more if you charge properly and care about it.
It is totally up to you how you are keeping this battery to taking care of and whats your charging routine is to charge your battery.
Because, as you know, if you charge the battery over time, the battery may damage.
How Do You Revive A Dead Gel Battery?
Because gel batteries are sealed, unlike fluid-based batteries, the cells cannot access them.
The best technique to repair and recover a gel battery is fully discharged it and then slowly charge it again.
Are Gel Batteries Worth It?
Gel batteries are worthwhile since their performance is maintained throughout their lifespan. Its build custom, according to Battery University, produces a dome-shaped curve in its power output. There is no declining voltage, which is a common problem with other batteries.
Get a Gel Battery For All Your Needs
Gel batteries offer the ability to save energy for the benefit of future generations. As the supply of electricity decreases, batteries become more important to human life as the population grows.
We recommend using a gel battery because:
There will be no need to do routine maintenance.
There will be no spills, providing no considerable and hazardous risk because you will not come into contact with the acid.
Because of the low amount of corrosion, gel batteries can be used with sensitive electronic equipment.
Gel batteries are extremely durable and vibration resistant.
Because there is a reduced possibility of sulfuric acid burns, it is very safe.
The battery will last far longer than a lead-acid battery for the same amount of use because of its high lifespan.
So, what is the deal with all black-solar panels? Most solar panel manufacturing companies now have an all-black model, which is becoming more and more popular with customers. However, many people get confused about the difference between the two, and don’t know which type of panel is better for their home.
MONOCRYSTALLINE VS. POLYCRYSTALLINE
Before discussing all-black panels, we first must differentiate between monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels. In summary, polycrystalline panels are less efficient because some crystal formation occurs when they are being made. These crystals make it harder for electrons to flow through the cells. On the other hand, a lack of crystal formation in monocrystalline panels allows fir easy electron flow, making these panels more efficient. Because they are more efficient, they are also more expensive. Additionally, monocrystalline panels are darker in color, while polycrystalline panels have the traditional blue color.
Here is the visual difference between the two: monocrystalline is on the left and polycrystalline is on the right.
BLACK SHEETS AND FRAMES
There is a difference between a traditional dark-colored monocrystalline panel and these all-black models that we are talking about. Regular monocrystalline panels still have a white sheet and frame, while all-black panels have black sheets and frame. Below you can see the difference. The picture on the left shows traditional monocrystalline panels up close. The photo on the right shows a whole array panels with black sheets.
EFFICIENCY COMPARISON
Although the black sheets and frame gives these black panels a sleeker look, this does slightly decrease efficiency. All-black panels not only heat up more quickly, but also allow for less light trapping. Both factors decrease efficiency. On panels with white sheets, unused light is reflected then trapped to be used by the solar cell. This increases the cell’s current and makes cells with white sheet slightly more efficient. However, overall, all black panels are only 0.5% less efficient, so it is not a huge difference.
THE ROLE OF AESTHETICS
So, as it turns out, the major difference between all black panels and traditional, white-framed ones is simply the aesthetic. Many customers are concerned about how the solar array will look on their house, and for that reason they decide on the all-black panels. So, if you want a sleeker aesthetic from your array, the choice seems to be all-black array, as long as you are okay with sacrificing a little efficiency. However, if you want the most efficient and best deal for your investment, then traditional, white-framed panels are the way to go. All our most popular manufacturers sell both all-black and traditional models!
