Black solar modules are also commonly referred to as all-black modules. They are monocrystalline photovoltaic modules where most of the components are black. This includes solar cells, reflectors, back sheets and module frames. All-black photovoltaic modules impress with their aesthetic appearance. The disadvantage is that the price is higher, and the efficiency is slightly lower at high temperatures.
Advantages of all-black photovoltaic modules
The biggest advantage of black home solar kits is their aesthetics. You can see the white backing film between the individual solar cells for normal monocrystalline solar modules. For black solar modules, the module frame and back sheet are black. Therefore, these modules are ideal for dark roofs.
Aesthetic overall picture
The back foil of the all-black module is black. For common monocrystalline solar modules, they are white. The grid pattern of solar cells is not so obvious. If you want “all black”, the module frame and mounting system are also available in black. This way, you can achieve a unified and visually appealing overall picture. Especially on dark roofs, the photovoltaic system becomes less conspicuous and blends in better.
Reduced reflection and higher light absorption
Mounting systems are usually made of aluminium. Aluminium is flashy and reflective. A black mounting system reduces these reflections. This is especially beneficial in narrow buildings, as it prevents neighbours from being disturbed or dazzled.
The installed monocrystalline solar cells have high efficiency. Solar cells are often silver-grey. However, this colour reflects a lot of sunlight, so the light doesn’t reach all the solar cells. Therefore, the solar cells are coated with a reflective layer. This is black on monocrystalline solar modules, even on modules that are not completely black. The black reduces reflections from the solar cells, allowing them to absorb more light.
The silicon used in monocrystalline solar cells can also be dyed black. During production, silicon is bombarded with short laser pulses. The pulses roughen the surface and thus greatly reduce reflections from the solar cell. This increases light absorption and thus increases the solar module’s efficiency.
Long warranty period
The all-black solar module is equipped with high-quality monocrystalline silicon solar cells. These compensate for the power loss caused by the higher temperature of the black solar modules. Due to the high quality of the solar cells, manufacturers can usually guarantee a long lifetime for the modules.
Disadvantages of black solar panels
The main disadvantage of black solar panels is that they heat up faster. This is because all model components are black. As the temperature of the solar module increases, the efficiency decreases with little loss. In addition, black modules are more expensive than ordinary photovoltaic modules.
The higher the temperature, the lower the efficiency
The efficiency and performance of photovoltaic modules degrade with increasing temperature. Black absorbs heat from the sun’s rays faster and thus heats more. The Tec Institute conducted a test in which completely black solar modules warmed up by an average of 5 degrees on a sunny day. This results in a power loss of approximately 2.3%. However, this performance loss is barely noticeable in private use.
The black back panel absorbs sunlight
Typically, solar modules use a white backing film so that light between the solar cells can reflect on them. However, the black film does not have this effect. It absorbs the sun’s rays, thereby reducing the solar cell’s performance.
Black solar panels cost more
Generally speaking, the cost of all-black photovoltaic modules is higher than that of ordinary modules. All-black PV modules are produced similarly to monocrystalline modules but using particularly high-quality cells. The extra work, more precisely painting the frame and mounting system black, will also cost more. The higher price is just a price for better looks and aesthetics.
Why are all black solar panels black?
The all-black photovoltaic modules use black to meet the aesthetic needs of many photovoltaic owners. With new buildings increasingly featuring dark roofs, all-black photovoltaic systems look prettier. So not only are the solar cells black, but other components like the back sheet and frame are also black.
Which manufacturers offer black modules?
Aleo Solar, Germany
BenQ Solar, Taiwan
JinkoSolar, China
LG, South Korea
Renogy, US
Meyer Burger, Switzerland
Panasonic, Japan
Solar factory, Germany
SOLARWATT, Germany
SolarWorld, Germany
Trina Solar, China
How much do black photovoltaic modules cost?
The costs for black solar modules range from a module price of 160 to 310 euros. The price varies greatly depending on the manufacturer and the module’s performance. The costs per kWp are between €600 and €950.
Conclusion
Black solar panels in Texas are very popular on dark roofs. Thanks to their full black look, they blend unobtrusively into the design. In addition, they reduce the reflection of the sun’s rays, thus preventing the neighbours from being dazzled. As a result, they also absorb more heat, leading to a marginal performance loss.
Full black PV modules are high-performance monocrystalline solar modules. It’s worth using if you value the design and aesthetics of your build.