3 HN users recommended this demo3 months2024–2025score 3
Years with an HN recommendation, 2007–2026
HN points to it as real-world, side-by-side data on vertical versus angled panel orientation.
A hobbyist compares vertical bifacial solar panels against south-facing angled panels using winter production results. It tests whether the usual mounting approach is actually best.
“this person did a side by side experiment on their property with both angled and vertical bifacial with some interesting results.” (HN, 2024)
You'll still get more output for the same amount of panels when they're tilted in most places. This guy did some interesting real-world testing in a bunch of different circumstances - [this video]
Real-world testing of panel orientations in varied circumstances
[this video] this person did a side by side experiment on their property with both angled and vertical bifacial with some interesting results. Their advantage didn't seem to be efficiency but consistency.
Side-by-side test of angled vs vertical bifacial panels
There seems to be a real interesting mix of pros and cons (total watts generated through the year, by time of day, susceptibility to dirt and hail damage, reflections, etc.), especially with regards to mounting. This guy goes into a lot of detail: [this video]
Detailed look at tradeoffs of vertical bifacial panels
There is research coming out that vertical solar panels are more efficient. I think part of it comes from lower temps allowing for more efficient operating. No tracking or pointing required. Less cleaning as its not a flat surface for dust or fall impacts. [this video] edit: I see others have linked similar videos, all good sources on this topic.
Evidence that vertical panels can be more efficient
This guy compared different orientations: [this video] His conclusion is the vertical generate about 70% of optimal incline cells. The charge profile has two peaks, one in the morning, one in the evening. I can imagine using the vertical orientation for a fence. It would definitely keep them cleaner too.
Compares panel orientations; vertical yields about 70% of optimal
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