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Solar panels are the cornerstone of renewable energy, as they offer a sustainable way of creating electricity. However, the efficacy of these solar panels can be influenced by a variety of outside factors. Installing a solar panel system into your life is a major investment, so it is important to understand all the ways to possibility maximise the production of solar energy. Below is a comprehensive overview of possible factors influencing said production.
Environmental factors
Temperature – Despite a strong corelation between heat and sunlight in our minds, solar panels surprisingly have a higher efficacy rate at lower, cooler temperatures. This is because high temperatures can actually reduce the efficiency of the photovoltaic cells that make up the solar panels by 10% – 25%. Solar panels typically perform at peak efficiency in temperatures ranging from 15°C and 35°C. Living in an environment that matches this weather will help increase the output of energy from your solar panels.
Irradiance – Irradiance is the measurement of fluctuating sunlight that hits the solar panels throughout the day. Overall, less sunlight that directly hits your solar energy system daily will result in less solar energy being reproduced, and more direct sunlight will produce more energy. Make sure the solar panels are situated on a section of property that gets the most amount of sun day to maximise your production.
Setup factors
Angle – It is also important to properly angle solar panels to gather as much sun as possible. Solar panels are most efficient when the rays of lights are hitting perpendicular to the surface of the panel. As the sun moves constantly, it is important to angle the panel in a way that keeps it perpendicular to the sun for the longest time. In the Northern Hemisphere, a south-facing orientation is ideal.
Coverage – whether it is shade or dirt, anything covering the panels direct access to sunlight will negatively affect the energy output. Make sure to regularly clean your panels in case of debris or dirt blocking the sunlight’s path, as this will severely affect the production of solar energy. Also, attempt to install the panels in a place that is not shaded or obstructed from the sun (this includes away from trees and building) to maximise the panels output.
Inverter efficiency
Solar panels are used to produce Direct Current energy (DC), which needs to be converted into alternating current energy (AC) to be used for homes and buildings. This is completed using an inverter. The quality of the inverter effects the conversion of DC to AC, as a high-quality inverter will result in changing DC to AC with very minimum loss. Inverters also work best when the DC input power is high.
Age and Maintenance
Solar panels can degrade overtime, which can result in a loss of production of solar energy. However, this can be combated with regular maintenance to keep the panels at full functionality for as long as possible. Click here to read about North East Solar’s maintenance options.
Overall, while some factors may be out of your control, there are many ways to maximise the output of energy via solar panels that can be accomplished from home. Here at North East Solar, we are committed to helping you through this process and creating a solar energy system that exceeds all expectations.
We Can Help You
From installation to maintenance, we ensure your solar panel installation process is as smooth as possible. We even take care of the paperwork for you! Contact us at 0191 500 1154 or go here for your FREE personalised quote to determine how many solar panels you need for your home or business.