So, what do you need to know about picking the best locations for solar panels? How do sunlight and weather conditions impact solar panel installation? Read on to find out.
The Essence of Choosing the Right Spot for Solar Panels
After completing your “solar panels near me” search, the next phase is to learn the best spots for installing panels. You might be wondering why there’s so much emphasis on picking the right location; after all, you can just slap panels on your rooftops and call it a day, right? Well, it’s not that straightforward.
Sure, rooftops are standard spots for panels, but you also have to consider the environment by assessing the following:
- Are the panels installed at an angle that allows for optimum sunlight absorption?
- Are there obstacles that could block sunlight, e.g., overgrown tree branches or taller buildings?
- Is your rooftop free of debris?
- Is the weather condition in your area favourable for solar panels? (quality and durable sunlight, optimal temperature, low humidity)
- Do you get enough sunlight daily in your area?
These are important boxes you need to tick before deciding if solar panels are worth investing in for your current location.
Moving on, there are two crucial factors that decide how good a location is for solar panel installation: sunlight availability and climate conditions.
Areas with High Sunlight Intensity and Duration
It’s obvious that solar energy systems are heavily dependent on the amount and quality of sunlight to function effectively, notes leading property management company, Lone Eagle Philly property management experts. But just how much detail do you need to consider when it comes to sunlight intensity and duration?
Firstly, regions closer to the equator will receive better sunlight and experience longer daytime than regions farther from the equator. In addition, air quality, pollution levels, and cloud cover will impact the quality of sunlight panels receive.
As a result, installing solar panels in regions such as here in the UK still promises efficient solar energy production thanks to the other factors surrounding solar radiance. To further boost solar power systems, homeowners need to utilise solar technologies (batteries, inverters) and optimise solar panel orientation and tilt.
Areas with Favourable Climate and Weather
The other half of solar panel efficiency is the climate/weather condition of the area. Factors like extreme temperatures, humidity, wind, and dust have significant impacts on the quality of sunlight and the efficiency of solar power systems.
High temperatures affect the voltage of solar PVs, while low temperatures encourage power loss. In the case of humidity, increased levels lead to corrosion of solar panels when left unchecked. Dust and wind cause minor, or sometimes significant, damage to the panels, reducing efficiency.
Hence, solar panel installation should be guided by the climate and weather conditions of your location.
Conclusion
Picking the right spot for your panels is crucial to ensuring they perform optimally and also reduces the risk of damage that could lead to reduced efficiency. Therefore, it’s important to follow through with this guide and seek professional assistance before installing solar panels.
