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There is no such thing as the "best" panel in absolute terms, but there is a panel suited to every use. At Wattuneed, we help individuals make this crucial choice on a daily basis. This comprehensive guide will help you understand the fundamental differences between these two technologies and identify the solution best suited to your energy independence project.
Rigid photovoltaic panels are the traditional and most widely used technology. They consist of solar cells encapsulated between a layer of tempered glass on the front and a protective film on the back, all held in a sturdy aluminium frame.
Discover our selection of high-performance rigid solar panels at wattuneed.com.
Flexible panels represent a technological innovation that allows photovoltaic systems to be installed on surfaces where traditional panels cannot be mounted. Their frameless construction and ETFE polymer encapsulation give them unique flexibility.
"I equipped my motorhome with flexible panels three years ago. They are perfect for the curved shape of my roof and very discreet. The output more than covers my needs when travelling, and I can go anywhere without any height issues." - Philippe R., nomadic traveller
The choice between rigid and flexible depends primarily on your specific application. Here are our detailed recommendations:
Recommended choice: Rigid panels only
For residential installations, rigid panels are the obvious choice:
Typical configuration: 10-20 panels of 450-500Wp depending on consumption, with grid-connected or hybrid inverter.
Discover our hybrid solar kits with storage: here
The choice depends on your roof and your constraints:
Flexible configuration: 1 or 2 x 100-150Wp panels gluedRigid configuration: 1 to 3 panels of 450-500Wp on a structure
Recommended choice: mainly flexible panels
The marine environment favours flexible panels:
Exception: Rigid panels can be used on the rear gantry to maximise power.
Typical configuration: 2 to 4 flexible 100-150Wp panels on deck/bimini + possibly rigid panels on gantry.
Recommended choice: Rigid panels in general
Typical configuration: 4 to 8 rigid 450Wp panels with battery storage for complete autonomy.
Need help choosing? Contact our Wattuneed experts for free personalised advice.
Over 10 years of use:
The rigid model is three times more economical over time and offers superior performance.
"For my tiny house, I chose Wattuneed rigid panels despite a tight budget. Five years later, they are still producing perfectly and have only required annual cleaning. The initial investment has been more than recouped." - Émilie D., owner of an autonomous tiny house
Pro tip: For flexible pipes, create mini ventilation if possible by sticking them to a honeycomb panel rather than directly to the roof.
It depends on the model. Some reinforced flexible panels are designed to be "walkable" with soft shoes, ideal for boat decks. Always check the technical data sheet before walking on them.
For the same surface area, the difference in yield is 15-18% for flexible panels compared to 20-23% for rigid panels. Production is also affected by overheating due to direct bonding (additional loss of 10-15% in summer).
Technically possible but not recommended. Differences in behaviour can create imbalances. If necessary, use separate MPPT regulators for each type.
We recommend UV- and vibration-resistant structural polyurethane adhesives, such as Sikaflex 552, available in our range of accessories (here).
If your surface area allows, always opt for rigid panels. Their lower initial cost and superior durability make them the most economical choice in the long term.
The choice between rigid and flexible panels is not a question of technological superiority, but offinding the perfect fit for your application.
At Wattuneed, we offer both technologies because they meet complementary needs. Our expertise helps you make the right technical and economic choice for your energy independence project.
"Thanks to Wattuneed's advice, I opted for rigid panels on my tiny house and flexible panels on my boat. Each installation is perfectly suited to its use. The difference in performance and durability fully justifies this approach." - Marc and Julie, multi-equipped owners
WattuneedRue Henripré 124821 Andrimont, BelgiumTelephone: +32 87 45 00 34Email: info@wattuneed.comWebsite: www.wattuneed.com
Our technical team is available Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. to advise you on the choice and sizing of your photovoltaic installation, whether rigid or flexible, according to your specific needs.
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