Solar panels are an excellent renewable energy source, as they perform a simple but priceless task – convert sunlight into usable electricity. As such, it’s easy to assume that solar panels work best when it’s hot and sunny outside. While sunlight is the primary power source for solar panels, extreme heat can negatively impact solar panel performance. So, can it be too hot for solar panels? Let’s find out.
Solar panels work best when the temperature is around 77 degrees Fahrenheit. At this temperature, solar panels can convert sunlight into electricity with an efficiency rate of around 15-20%. As the temperature increases above this range, solar panel efficiency decreases because solar panels are made of semiconductors sensitive to temperature changes. When the temperature rises, the conductivity of the semiconductors decreases, reducing the amount of electricity that can be generated.
This is not breaking news, but In addition to temperature, solar panels also work best when they are exposed to direct sunlight. Solar panels should be installed in areas where they can receive the most sunlight possible. Solar panels installed in shady areas or partially covered areas will not generate as much electricity as those exposed to direct sunlight.
Solar panels work best in optimal conditions but can still generate electricity in less-than-ideal conditions. For example, on cloudy days or during the winter months, solar panel efficiency will decrease when there is less sunlight, but the panels will still generate usable electricity. Solar panels can still convert even small amounts of sunlight into usable electricity. However, the electricity generated may not be enough to power the entire home, so many homeowners choose to install a battery backup system to store excess electricity.
On the other hand, extreme heat can significantly impact solar panel performance more than cloudy or winter weather. In temperatures above 104 degrees, solar panel efficiency can decrease by as much as 10-25% because the semiconductors in the solar panels become less efficient at converting sunlight into electricity. This decrease in efficiency can be significant enough to affect the overall performance of a solar energy system.
Moreover, extreme heat can cause solar panels to degrade over time, reducing their overall lifespan. Heat can cause the materials in the solar panels to expand and contract, leading to cracking and other forms of damage. In the long run, this can result in reduced energy production and increased maintenance costs for the homeowner.
While solar panels can generate electricity in various weather conditions, extreme heat can impede their performance. Luckily for many homeowners, the extreme conditions that will dramatically impact performance are not expected year-round.
If you’d like to learn more about solar in Spring, TX, and the design/installation process, please contact us. As premier Houston solar installers, we’d be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding solar benefits.
