Why Do Solar Panels Reflect Light Despite Anti-Reflective Coatings?

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Solar panels appear shiny due to the reflective nature of their glass top layer and the aluminum wires used for electricity conduction. Despite being coated with anti-reflective compounds, these coatings still reflect approximately 30% of incoming light, contributing to overall inefficiency. High-quality solar panels, such as those used in space applications, exhibit a much darker appearance and higher efficiency. Currently, solar panels operate at about 15% efficiency, with ongoing research aimed at improving this figure. The discussion highlights the challenges in maximizing solar energy capture despite advancements in technology.
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I was just wondering why solar paneling is shiny. Doesn't that mean light is reflected and wasted?
 
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Yes - ideally it would be completely black.
In practice the glass top layer is reflective at low angles of incidence and the aluminium wires which carry the electricity away are also reflective.
You see this most in cheap low-power panels for calculators or toys, high grade panels eg. for space, are very black.
 
Well, yes, solar panels are indeed inefficient although not for lack of trying. They are actually coated with some kind of anti reflective compound, but this compound still reflects back about 30% of the light incident on it. Overall solar panels are only about 15% efficient, although newer techniques are trying to make them more efficient.

http://http://www.popsci.com/environment/article/2008-02/eye-anti-reflective"
 
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