By Matt Collins Junior

Flexible solar panel is a utility invention in order to help us garner more energy from sunlight. Solar energy is fast emerging as an alternative to traditional energy generation methods that were taxing natures precious resources and were leaving very heavy carbon footprint i.e. an adverse impact on delicate ecology.

Other forms of solar panels like square shaped polycrystalline and mono-crystalline solar panels are hard-back and cannot be adopted to suit various available spaces. This is turning out to be their main disadvantage. People who are willing to install solar panels may not always find suitable place other than the rooftops. And in case the shape of rooftop do not support for easy installation of regular panels, it is difficult to find another area that is as large.

Flexibility comes to the rescue

Flexible solar panel comes to rescue in such situations. These solar panels are lightweight, convenient and above all, flexible. Flexible solar cells are created by amalgamating amorphous silicon on a thin plastic substrate and then binding the cells in either a polyester coating or any strong material. The size of the panel can vary from a few centimeters to many meters depending on the need. This makes it suitable for all purpose, unlike other hard solar panels that have a standard size.

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The flexibility enables utilization of those areas of a building that were hitherto not possible to reach by square shaped hard panels. The innovativeness of this product is further extended to make solar backpacks, solar thin film clothing and other apparel to suit various needs. Even after rolling and molding into various shapes, flexible solar panel does not lose their durability.

Another advantage flexible solar panel offers is that these can be printed on various surfaces. These can also be tailored to suit any style, shape and energy requirements. More innovations are making it possible to be installed these panels on vehicle tops and used underwater.

Way to go

The only negative point about these panels is their energy efficiency. Most of these panels are only 10 percent efficient i.e. they convert only 10 percent of the solar rays into electricity. This level is well below the levels of other hard, crystalline panels that give 15-20 percent efficiency. Though, 20 percent efficiency will not be a far target to achieve, considering the amount of research being thrown in the field.

However, they are highly space efficient as their flexibility enables installations even at inaccessible but solar-suitable places. These flexible solar panels are very useful for smaller gadgets that needs between 5 to 20 watts of power. A layer or film of flexible solar panels will be portable enough to carry in your vehicle for use along with smaller gadgets. They are also very easy for storage as they can be rolled or folded easily.

If energy efficiency is improved, flexible solar panel will become a very useful option that will soon be visible underneath the skyline basking in the sunlight.

About the Author: Matt Collins Junior invite you Save huge money on your energy bills by reading this

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