From locating credible installers to getting your budget sorted, switching to solar power requires a great deal of research. And while you may already be well aware of the benefits of solar, including lower energy bills and a lower carbon footprint, Queenslanders are often left wondering how durable solar panels are when it comes to Australia’s chaotic weather.
Between scorching summers and icy winters, Australia endures some of the most intense weather conditions around, leaving many Australians to question whether their solar investment will be affected. So, are solar panels weather resistant, and can they continue to generate renewable energy even during harsh rain, wind and sun? Read on to find out!
How does solar power for homes work?
Your solar panels are composed of three main components: the photovoltaic panels, the inverter and a solar battery if you purchase one. During the day, your panels’ cells absorb sunlight, converting it into a direct current (DC). The inverter then converts the DC into an alternating current (AC), which flows into your home and powers your appliances.
Given how solar panels generate electricity, many Queenslanders believe that summer is when their system thrives and is at peak production. However, this is not always the case. In fact, the best weather for peak solar panel generation may surprise you!
The best weather for solar panels
When we talk about the best weather for solar panels, it’s more practical to think about it in terms of temperature, as this is a greater indicator of solar panel efficiency. Solar panels work from sunlight, not heat, so the sunlight hitting the panels directly is the most optimal for solar panels. Direct sun with no clouds is the best scenario.
Most solar panel systems are tested for their performance at around 25 degrees, though they can work at peak efficiency during temperatures between 15 and 35 degrees. The heat level can determine their effectiveness, not necessarily the UV rating. The better your system performs, the more electricity can be generated.
It’s important to note that even though solar panels perform better during lower temperatures, Australia experiences long summer days, which means generation levels are higher than during winter.
Do solar panels work in cloudy weather?
Yes, but they may produce energy at a lower rate than on a sunny day. Think of it this way, anything that blocks sunlight from your panels, such as clouds, fog or shade, reduces the electricity your system produces. According to Paradise Energy Solutions, on a partly cloudy day, your panels’ electricity production can drop by 10% to 25%, depending on how frequently the clouds pass over your system.
Reputable solar energy installers will consider many factors when producing a quote for your own solar system, such as the type of roof you have, energy consumption and the weather conditions in your area.
Do solar panels work in the rain?
Yes, but its power production may not be at its highest, especially if heavy clouds are around. One benefit of rain on solar panels is that it is a low-effort, hassle-free way to clean your system. Consistent rainy weather can keep dirt, dust and other waste from covering your solar panels and blocking the sunlight.
For solar customers living in drier areas, you will need to clean your panels to prevent this waste buildup regularly. Qualified professionals best complete this task. As part of our service, Green Energy Technologies offers ongoing maintenance to all customers.
What about wind?
Wind can increase your system’s energy production by keeping your panels cool and reducing humidity levels — a major benefit to solar panel owners. Wind removes the water droplets that humidity causes on solar panels’ surfaces. These droplets reflect sunlight away from your solar panel’s cells, decreasing your electricity production and potentially the lifespan of your solar panels.
Commercial solar panels — are these weather resistant?
If you’re like most business owners, you want to know that you’re getting the most out of your investment. Here at Green Energy Technologies, we believe that no investment will deliver an ROI like solar panels, regardless of weather conditions.
While your system may be larger than a typical residential solar panel system, it will still withstand changing weather conditions, keeping your commercial solar power production levels stable.
Trust Green Energy Technologies for durable and high-quality solar panels
If you’re looking for durable and reliable solar panels for your home or business, look no further than the quality solar products available at Green Energy Technologies. Our GET360 solar panel package is the ultimate solar solution for homeowners, broken down into four easy steps — GET Going, GET Control, GET Battery and a $0 power bill.
If you are interested in installing solar on your property or business and are located in the Whitsundays, Townsville or Mackay area, contact our solar experts on 07 4940 2900 to discuss your options or get an obligation free quote directly from our website.
