What Is a Bifacial Solar Panel? Benefits, Working, Price & Efficiency

Last Updated : January 15, 2026

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10 min read
What Is a Bifacial Solar Panel

The basic mono panels are gone; now there are advanced and high-efficiency solutions in solar technology in India, which are changing towards bifacial panels. As the electricity bills increase, as more people install rooftop under PM Surya Ghar, and as more people learn more about panel efficiency, people and businesses are demanding more power out of the same rooftop. And this is where bifacial solar panels come to the scene.

Bifacial solar panels produce electricity on both sides, which offers more output without the need to expand the area of installation. Bifacial TOPCon panels are now favored in homes, industries, and commercial buildings in 2026, when India is demanding better-performing and subsidy-approved modules. They are more durable, produce more power, and reduce the total cost of owning a solar system.

Bifacial panels are some of the wisest choices to make in case you are upgrading to solar this year. Let us learn more about bifacial solar panels in detail. 

What Is a Bifacial Solar Panel?

A modern solar panel is a bifacial panel that generates energy on both the front and back sides. In contrast to conventional monofacial panels, which collect reflected light only on the sunlit side, bifacial panels reflect light onto the ground or surrounding surfaces, providing additional electricity without extra panels.

They are constructed with a glass-to-glass structure that provides greater protection for the cells and extends the panels’ lifespan. This makes them particularly beneficial in India, where heat, dust, and long summers can harm standard panels.

Top Advantages of Bifacial Solar Panels

A number of real and practical advantages make the use of bifacial solar panels a smarter solution to residential and business homes in 2026 – 

Higher power generation

They produce electricity on both sides and therefore yield 8 to 30% more power than a mono-facial panel, sometimes even more on reflective rooftops.

Quickened Return on Investment (ROI)

The more power, the sooner the payback. Although there is a slight increase in the price of bifacial panels, the additional production saves you a lot of electricity bills in the short term.

Prolonged life and minimized degradation

The cell types employed in most bifacial panels are N-type TOPCon cells that are of an advanced nature and do not degrade as fast. Even after 25-30 years, you get improvement in your performance.

Stronger build quality

The glass-to-glass framework protects the module against humidity, heat, dust, and storms that are prevalent in India. This renders them suitable for the long-term rooftop and the ground-mounted applications.

Improved low-light and high-heat use

Indian weather is hard–mornings, evenings, rainy days, hot days. All these are better taken care of by bifacial panels compared to the mono panels.

Reduced unit-generated cost

Although the initial cost may be a little more, costs per kWh (actual power produced) will be reduced due to increased production.

What is the Efficiency of Bifacial Solar Panels?

Efficiency informs you of the power of a panel in terms of its ability to convert sunlight into electricity.

The current TOPCon modules in India are bifacial and are some of the most effective ones.

Typical Efficiency Range: 21%-23.5%

This is as compared to mono-PERC, which tends to pay 18-20%.

Why Bifacial Efficiency is Greater?

  • Better quality N-type cells
  • Reduced Light Induced Degradation (LID)
  • Dual-side capture
  • High-end glass-to-glass encapsulation

This is a higher rate of electricity output with the same amount of roof space, which is a big advantage in urban areas.

What are the General Applications of Bifacial Solar Panels?

Here are the best yet general uses of bifacial solar panels –

Residential rooftops

The houses with open terraces or reflective tiled roofs receive great generation.

Commercial and industrial buildings

Bifacial panels are preferred in factories, warehouses, schools, and IT parks since they reduce the amount of electricity bills by a great margin.

Carports & parking sheds

It is one of the best applications of them; they take the sunshine on both sides very well.

Ground-mounted projects

Bifacial modules are also common in large-scale solar farms, in hybrid and open-access configurations, because they have increased output.

Solar fencing & walkway sheds

Installation of low height whereby the light can be easily reflected.

Can Bifacial Solar Panels be Subsidized?

Yes, bifacial panels under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana can get a subsidy provided they fulfill the following conditions:

Eligibility Requirements

  • Panels must be ALMM-approved
  • The installation should be carried out by a DISCOM-empanelled vendor.
  • On-grid systems or hybrid systems on the rooftop are the only eligible ones.
  • The subsidy is deposited into the homeowner’s bank account.

The amount of the subsidy is determined by the size of the system –

1-3 kW: 40% subsidy

3-10 kW: 20% subsidy

Bifacial panels produce a higher output with the same system of 13 kW, hence most homeowners are choosing to use them to achieve optimum efficiency through the subsidy.

Key Features of Bifacial Panels

Here are the features that make bifacial panels stand out:

  • Dual-sided generation for higher energy output
  • N-Type TOPCon technology with 21–23.5% module efficiency
  • Lower degradation than standard mono-PERC panels
  • Glass-to-glass build offering stronger protection.
  • Better low-light performance in mornings, evenings, and cloudy weather
  • Improved heat tolerance, ideal for Indian summers
  • Longer lifespan may come with 30-year performance warranties.
  • Lower cost per unit of electricity, improving ROI

This combination of high efficiency and durability is why bifacial modules are becoming popular for rooftop homes, industries, commercial spaces, carports, and utility-scale projects.

Cost of Bifacial Solar Panels in India (2026)

Bifacial panels used to be expensive, but 2026 prices have become much more affordable due to local manufacturing boosts (ALMM, PLI scheme, etc.)

Average Bifacial Panel Price – ₹38 – ₹55 per watt

This depends on:

  • N-Type vs P-Type
  • Panel wattage (630 Wp to 720 Wp)
  • Brand and certifications
  • Mounting structure type (fixed vs elevated)

Estimated Rooftop System Costs (Bifacial)

System SizeApprox. Cost (Before Subsidy)
1 kW₹38,000 – ₹55,000
3 kW₹1.1L – ₹1.6L
5 kW₹1.9L – ₹2.5L
10 kW₹3.8L – ₹5L

Prices include the following factors –

  • Panels
  • Inverter
  • Structure
  • Wiring & protection
  • Installation
  • Net-metering support

Bifacial panels reduce the overall cost per unit generated. This makes them more economical in the long run.

Bifacial vs Mono-Facial Panels – A Quick Comparison

FeatureBifacial PanelsMono-Facial Panels
Power GenerationHigher (dual side)Standard (single side)
Module Efficiency21–23.5%18–20%
StructureGlass-to-glassGlass-to-backsheet
LifespanUp to 30 years20–25 years
Best ForHomes, industries, commercial rooftopsBudget residential users
Cost per wattSlightly higherLower
Output per kW1,200–1,450 units/year1,000–1,200 units/year
Heat performanceBetter in high temperaturesModerate

Latest Price of Bifacial Solar Panels With Installation (2026)

Let us learn about the latest price of the Bifacial solar panel, which will include – 

  • Panels
  • Inverter
  • Structure
  • Wiring & DC/AC protection
  • Labour
  • Net meter support

Estimated Installation Cost

SizeCost Range (₹)With Subsidy (₹)
1 kW38,000–55,000~20,000–25,000
2 kW76,000–1,10,000~40,000–60,000
3 kW1.1–1.6 lakh~70,000–95,000

Prices vary depending on –

  • brand
  • inverter type
  • region
  • structure height
  • cable thickness
  • distance from vendor

Component-Wise Cost Breakdown for Bifacial Solar Installation (2026)

ComponentWhat It IncludesEstimated Cost (₹)Notes
Bifacial Solar PanelsN-Type TOPCon / High-efficiency G2G modules₹20,000 – ₹32,000 per kWPrice varies by WP rating (630–720 Wp) & brand
InverterOn-grid / Hybrid MPPT-based₹10,000 – ₹22,000 per kWHybrid ~20–30% costlier
Mounting StructureGI structure, clamps, fasteners₹4,000 – ₹8,000 per kWElevated structure adds 20–25% more cost
DC/AC Wiring & CablingDC cables, AC cables, and earthing wire₹2,500 – ₹5,000 per kWDepends on thickness & roof distance
Safety ComponentsMCBs, SPD, earthing kit, ACDB/DCDB₹3,000 – ₹7,000 per kWMandatory for safety
Installation & LabourFixing, wiring, and commissioning₹5,000 – ₹12,000 per kWRegional labour rates differ
Net Metering FeeDISCOM processing + meter cost₹1,000 – ₹5,000One-time fee, varies by state
Documentation & InspectionVendor paperwork, GEDA/MNRE/State DISCOM approvals₹1,000 – ₹3,000Included by most vendors

Total Estimated Installed Cost (Bifacial Panels)

System SizeTotal Cost Range (Before Subsidy)
1 kW₹38,000 – ₹55,000
2 kW₹76,000 – ₹1,10,000
3 kW₹1.15 – ₹1.60 lakh

Simple Explanation of How Bifacial Solar Panels Work

A bifacial panel functions as any other solar panel except that it is better.

Here’s the easy version:

Front Side

Gathers pure sunlight and transforms it into electricity.

Back Side

Captures reflected sunlight bouncing off:

  • Your terrace floor
  • Nearby surfaces
  • Ground
  • Walls

This additional reflected light is referred to as albedo, and this is a natural way of enhancing generation.

What Makes It Work?

Glass on either side is see-through.

  • Very efficient N-type TOPCon cells.
  • Better light absorption
  • Low degradation

And the result?

More power, and no additional roof space is required.

Real-time Power Production with Bifacial Panels

The real performance will be determined by your location, weather, and your roofing.

Bifacial Systems Annual output average – 

  • 1 kW: 1,350–1,500 units/year
  • 2 kW: 2,700–3,000 units/year
  • 3 kW: 4,000–4,500 units/year
  • 5 kW: 7,000–8,000 units/year

Output is higher when – 

  • Roof is white/reflective.
  • Installation is elevated
  • Water tanks/trees do not cast shadows.
  • South-facing tilt is perfect.

This is the reason why installers suggest bifacial where you want to have a lot of production in a small space.

Bifacial Panels in India: Are they worth it? 

This is the reason why bifacial panels have become very popular in 2026 –

  • India receives abundant sunshine all year round.
  • The rooftop is sufficient in terms of light reflection to enhance production.
  • Electricity rates are increasing 67.10% annually.
  • Higher ROI because of 20-30% higher generation.
  • Reduced degradation = increased savings in 25-30 years.

When it comes to saving money in the long run and achieving a more solid performance, one of the best options that you can make in the present day is bifacial.

What are the reasons for using Avaada Electros’ Bifacial Panels
Avaada Electro is a reliable producer of solar modules in India, supported by Avaada Group, one of the rapidly growing clean energy conglomerate.

Key Highlights of Avaada Electro

  • Produces N-type (TOPCon) bifacial modules ( 630 -720 Wp ).
  • Has AI-controlled production lines (Butibori plant).
  • UL, ALMM-listed, IEC, and BIS certified.
  • Long-term linear performance guarantee.
  • Experience in solar mega-projects.
  • A part of the Avaada Group that recently entered into a 36,000 crore renewable MOU in Gujarat.
  • Powerful roofing, EPC, and maintenance network in India.

Avaada Electro’s high-efficiency modules comply with key government and subsidy requirements, making them suitable for both homes and industries.

Final Takeaway

A bifacial solar panel is considered one of the most intelligent investments in 2026. They generate higher power, are durable, and give a higher value compared to the normal solar panels. Bifacial panels bring a future-compliant solution in homes, businesses, and large-scale solar projects throughout India with the falling prices, high government subsidies, and advanced options via such manufacturers as Avaada Electro.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of a bifacial solar panel in India?

50-80 Indian rupees per watt, brand, and efficiency.

They do, but they work well on reflective or high buildings.

Yes, when installed using modules that are approved by ALMM by an empanelled vendor.

Generally 830% higher than mono panels.

Absolutely. They save more money and generate more energy in the Indian climate.

Non-obligatory, but elevated buildings contribute to generation at the rear.

Approximately 2530 years of slow depreciation.

On-grid or hybrid MPPT tracking inverters.

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Vinoo George

Vinoo George, is a Whole-time Director of our Company. He has received bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Madras in 1977. He is responsible for providing strategic direction, operational efficiency, quality management technology integration and overall capacity management in our Company.

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