Abstract: An optical collection apparatus includes a plurality of light transmissive optical reflectors and a plurality of planar bifacial solar cells. Each light transmissive optical reflector is configured to transmit indirect light impinging on first and second collection sides thereof. First and second photovoltaic sides of each of the plurality of bifacial solar cells are positioned to collect indirect light impinging thereon. The planar bifacial solar cells are arranged such that at least one light transmissive optical reflector of the plurality of light transmissive optical reflectors is positioned between consecutive ones of the planar bifacial solar cells. Each light transmissive optical reflector of the plurality of light transmissive optical reflectors is configured to reflect direct incoming light impinging on the first collection side thereof towards the first photovoltaic side of a corresponding one of the planar bifacial solar cells. A solar collection and shading system is also contemplated.

Abstract: A bifacial photovoltaic solar panel and solar panel assembly. The panel includes at least one transparent layer; bifacial photovoltaic cells positioned and arranged to absorb irradiance incident thereon on both sides; and at least one optical element. To form the assembly, the panel is connected to a mounting assembly. When in use, the mounting assembly obscures at least a portion of the panel second side, some cells receiving less irradiance via the panel second side than other cells due to the mounting assembly obscuration, and the optical element is arranged to direct irradiance incident thereon via the panel first side onto the first sides of the subset of cells whereby at least a portion of irradiance having been prevented from reaching the second sides of the cells by the mounting assembly is compensated for by irradiance reflected by the optical element onto the first sides of the cells.