Narrow Solar Panels: Are They Suitable for Your Home?
Narrow solar panels have been around for quite some time, but most people are probably more familiar with its other name: flexible solar panels.
Narrow solar panels can be a great option when you need a renewable energy source that is portable, easy to install, and versatile. But what’s the catch? In this article, we will guide you through all the things you need to know about narrow solar panels.
Narrow solar panels.
What’s a narrow solar panel?
Similar to the conventional one, narrow solar panels use photovoltaic cells to generate electricity. While the basics remain the same, the two are different in form and composition.
Conventional solar panels are thick and heavy, consisting of at least 60 solar cells and weighing around 18-20 kg (on average). Because of this, conventional panels require a rigid mounting system and solid roofs to support the weight.
On the other hand, a narrow solar panel typically weighs around 2-3 kg, consisting of only 32 solar cells on average. These solar cells are installed on a flexible material, making them foldable on curved surfaces. You can practically install these panels on every surface where conventional panels cannot such as curvy structures, RVs and campers, boats, and even a backpack.
What are the pros of narrow solar panels?
To give you a better idea of what the technology offers, here are the pros of narrow solar panels:
A solution to structural problems
Thanks to its flexible nature, narrow solar panels can be installed on a variety of surfaces and locations, such as vertical walls and wavy structures. Just remember to hire a professional solar installation company to get the job done properly.
Versatile
Weighing up to ten times less than conventional panels, it can be used on a wide range of applications, such as:
Powering your caravan, boats, and many other recreational vehicles;
Can be incorporated into backpacks to provide an eco-friendly energy source for your adventures in the wild.
Easier and faster to install
Because it’s only a fraction of the size of conventional solar panels, it’s easier to move and install, which also results in a faster installation or maintenance process. In fact, if you know the technical side of the panels, you can easily install them on your own.
Reduced waste
Narrow solar panels require less raw materials in their production, contributing to a more resource-efficient manufacturing process. Additionally, their smaller size results in less waste during fabrication, aligning with the principles of sustainability.
Narrow solar panels have a range of uses.
What are the cons of narrow solar panels?
There are cons which are important to keep in mind when considering narrow solar panels:
Less efficient and lower power output
Narrow solar panels tend to be less efficient and have lower power output compared to conventional solar panels. Due to these characteristics, you’re going to need more roof space to produce the same amount of electricity as conventional panels.
Low durability and concern for the environment
Because of their thinner and smaller size, narrow solar panels are prone to damage, especially in challenging weather conditions. And even though it has the smallest carbon footprint, narrow solar panels use a large amount of toxic materials, raising issues for the environment.
Shorter lifespan and warranty periods
Although you have to pay an expensive upfront cost, conventional solar panels come with a long 25-year performance warranty, which is essentially a bang for a buck for that amount of investment. On the other hand, narrow solar panels typically come with a 5 to 15-year warranty, which still falls short compared to conventional solar panels for a price higher than the conventional one.
More expensive than its counterpart
The hefty upfront cost of conventional panels has become one of the biggest drawbacks when it comes to going solar. But with narrow solar panels, it’s even more costly due to the technology required to produce them. You also need to buy new expensive panels more often since they generally don’t last as long as conventional panels.
Solar energy is essential for a functional solar panel system.
Should I install narrow solar panels?
While narrow solar panels offer compelling advantages in terms of versatility and ease of installation, their lower efficiency and capacity, along with concerns about durability highlight the need for a balanced evaluation based on your solar needs.
For proper and reliable daily power generation for your home, conventional solar panels are the most effective in the long run thanks to their higher efficiency and power output.
For an off-grid, portable power source and use in a variety of applications or locations, such as camping or on boats, narrow solar panels can be a really great solution. You can also benefit from narrow solar panels if you want to install solar panels in unusually shaped places or buildings.
Get in touch with Phaser Electrical for a free solar quote today.
Content by Waste No Words.
