Flexible solar panels are no longer a novelty. They are being used extensively for various solar power applications. Due to their flexibility and thin profile, they are preferred in mobile power applications. Smaller panels can be installed even on the backpacks and other small items. Even home and business buildings are being equipped with these thin film sheets. The flexible PV sheets now offer the same light to energy conversion efficiency as the rigid panels. It is due to these advantages that thin solar panels have gained wide popularity.
Used for Various Applications
There are some places where rigid panels do not fit well. Flexible and thin solar sheets can be perfect for such places. The flexible and thin structure means this sheet can be installed on curved surfaces. It is a compact and lightweight product, making it suitable for roofs that cannot take more weight. The roofs of some buildings are not strong. The flexible solar sheets can be installed easily on such roofs. This power setup can be installed to power irrigation pumps, communication devices, and other electrical systems. Longer, wider and more sheets are used for applications where heavy-duty power is needed.
Installation Benefits
Rigid solar panels require services of professional installers. Services of these installers are also recommended for installing thin solar sheets but it is not that much necessary. You can install the flexible panels on your rooftop and other places yourself. Rigid and heavy panels require extensive systems of metal racks, ballasts and other systems to secure the panels to the rooftop. Such a heavy setup is not needed for flexible panels. This lightweight system can be installed using fewer materials. The labor and installation costs are lower with these film panels.
New Applications
These flexible sets are now being used in many new settings where use of rigid and heavy solar setup is not possible. For example, boats and yachts are perfect for these panels. The thin sheet sticks to the top surface and does not create drag on the boat. It makes the boat safe. The same benefits can be seen when solar sheets are installed on the roof of an RV. The ultrathin solar sheets can bend up to an extent, making them suitable for complex surfaces that do not have a flat surface.
With demand for flexible solar panels increasing in the market, manufacturers have come up with many new innovations in this product range. They have launched better solar films with higher efficiency and structural strength. The sheets can withstand harsh weather conditions. These panels can be found in various sizes for different power requirements.