The thing about
solar panels installation Surrey residents have to understand is when they are most efficient. If theyfail to do so, getting the best of solar energy becomes a dauntingtask. It’s also important because it’s the only way you can ensureproper installation.
So when are solar panels most efficient? What are those factors or elements that impact the efficiency of solar panels? How can you get the most out of your solar panels?
Solar Panels and Light Absorption
Any solar panel is most effective when the light intensity is at its peak. Therefore, there exists a linear relationship between solar panel power output and light intensity. It also means you need your panels to absorb as much light as possible.
It also means the solar panels will have fluctuating efficiency levels as the day goes by. Speaking of which, there are factors asides from the presence of sunlight that affect solar panel efficiency.
Different Factors Affecting the Efficiency of Solar Panels
- Time of the Day
It’s common knowledge that the sun’s intensity varies with the time of the day. And since solar panels rely on light intensity for their power generation, their efficiency is also affected by the time of the day.
Usually, light intensity in the early hours of the day is low, meaning that solar panels will generate little power at this time of the day. As the day lingers into the late morning to early afternoon, that’s when things get heated.
It’s during this period that solar panels are most efficient as it’s the time of the day they receive peak sunlight. And as you’d expect, solar panel efficiency is reduced to a minimum in the late evenings and practically zero at night.
- Presence of Clouds
Contrary to what most people think, solar panels don’t need direct sunlight to function properly. Even on cloudy days, your panels will work effectively to convert sunlight to electricity. Moreover, the presence of clouds indicates cooler panels since they aren’t getting a direct hit from the sun.
Combining cool panels with peak sunlight leads to more productive power output.
- Seasonal Changes
These also affect the level of power generated by solar panels because of the varying sunlight duration. Sunshine is experienced differently as the season changes. Summer comes with longer sunshine, while this is reduced during autumn and winter.
A few other factors come into play when determining the efficiency of solar panels. One is the angle the panels are positioned in. It’s best to position the panels facing north as this gives it better chance of absorbing as much sunlight as possible.
Can Solar Panels Suffer From Too Much Sunlight?
Remember that solar panels need sunlight to work. This doesn’t mean they are there to absorb the scorching heat from the sun. They lack the insulation needed to regulate heat and hence won’t function properly under intense heat.
Bottom Line
Knowing the factors that affect solar panels helps paint a picture of the best environment to install them in. This will ensure your panels deliver optimum performance.
