Small Solar Panels – Do They Exist?
Availability and Standardization
In the early days of solar panels, they were smaller than they are today. There was no standardization of solar cells and panels, so many smaller, square-shaped solar panels were available. However, "many" is relative, as solar panels were still a niche product at the time and not as widely available as they are now. Their prices reflected this exclusivity.
As production scaled up and solar panels became a mass-market product, the variety of sizes and shapes decreased. To keep costs down, manufacturers standardized panel sizes.
As a result, options for small solar panels are limited. They are rarely found at wholesalers where most installers source their products. Even installers who purchase directly from manufacturers, such as Zonnefabriek, will struggle to find them. For instance, SunPower offers only one standard size for all its E- and X-series solar panels.
Alternatives to Small Solar Panels
High-Efficiency Panels for Small Roofs
For small roofs, maximizing output with fewer panels is key. High-efficiency solar panels provide the best solution. Zonnefabriek offers the highest-efficiency panels on the market. Ask your advisor for more information.
Shade and Placement
People searching for small solar panels often want to cover a specific roof section where standard panels don’t fit—perhaps due to a chimney or vent pipe obstructing placement. However, it's essential to assess whether installing panels in such areas is worthwhile. Shadows from chimneys or pipes could significantly reduce potential energy yield, making it impractical to place panels there.
Challenges of Small Solar Panels
Price
One major drawback of small solar panels is their cost. Those available on the market are 50% to 75% more expensive than standard panels for the same power output. As a consumer, you’d need to be willing to pay significantly more for a small panel when a standard one with much higher output costs nearly the same.
Replacement and Maintenance
Since small solar panel manufacturers are scarce, they can charge higher prices. Buyers should also consider the challenges of replacing or repairing a small panel if needed. Finding replacements or repair services for niche products can be difficult.
Aesthetic Considerations
Small solar panels are often sought for aesthetic reasons—to cover gaps left by standard panels. However, the manufacturers of small solar panels are usually different from those of standard ones. This means the small panels won’t look exactly the same, reducing their overall aesthetic appeal.
Specific Applications of Small Solar Panels
Off-Grid Use
Small solar panels are sometimes used for off-grid applications—installations not connected to the power grid but supplying energy locally to a specific device. Examples include small systems on sailboats or camper vans, as well as solar panels powering parking meters or traffic signs. Zonnefabriek specializes in grid-connected systems and does not offer products for small off-grid setups.
Future Innovations
In the future, new solutions may emerge, such as Tesla’s solar roof tiles. Although they are not yet widely available, they could become an interesting alternative. However, crucial details such as pricing and installation methods will determine their viability.
Select a category
Find your question
Enter a keyword to search through our FAQ
Click here for an overview of all terms used, with a brief explanation of each term.
List of terms