Can solar panels be customized in different shapes?

 When it comes to solar panels, most of us have the impression that they should be rectangular. Yes, because standard solar panels are rectangular, can solar panels be customized into other different shapes?

 

Yes, custom solar panels can be made in different shapes, and Findysolar has many years of experience in manufacturing solar panels so that we can customize solar panels in different shapes for you, such as round solar panels, or if you have other unique shapes, we can do that for you. However, our regular products are still mainly rectangular.

 

Why most solar panels are rectangular

Most standard small solar panels are rectangular because they are easier to manufacture and make the most efficient use of space. Each solar panel consists of one or more (tandem) strings of individual solar cells. Strings are strung together by hand or machine, using the same size cells, in a straight line. Very little material or space is wasted, resulting in a panel with a consistent border between the cell and the edge of the panel.

 

How to make cutouts and curves on solar panels

We fabricate the substrate for small panels using PCB / FR4 as the substrate and ETFE coating to the desired shape. Then, after applying the cells, sealant (EVA), and coating, we laser cut the assembly again. There is great flexibility in this process, and we have created a wide variety of panels using this technique.

 

Our glass and polyurethane solar panels are less flexible due to the thickness of the structural elements. Cutting polyurethane substrates or glass requires a waterjet or CNC machine. Inside corners are difficult to make and may require special tools.

 

Custom solar panel shapes are less efficient in using space.

We are happy to make custom-shaped solar panels, but they cost more per watt and produce less power per unit area than rectangular panels. First, the cells on a non-rectangular panel will cover a lower percentage of the available surface area. If you look at this round panel versus a rectangular panel at a similar power level, the round panel covers X% less area.

	Rectangle	Round
Total PCB Area (mm^2)	8,814	18,860
Solar Cell Area	6,585	12,960
% Area Used	75%	69%

 

Secondly, the cost increases because we need to discard more material in the production process.

 

Overall, the traditional rectangular solar panel design is the best economical and functional. Still, for some special projects where you need a particular shape, custom solar panels are available to meet your needs. If you need custom solar panels, contact us, a professional custom solar panel manufacturer in China.

 

Reprinted from Findy Solar - “Can solar panels be customized in different shapes”