Rooftop solar systems, also known as photovoltaic (PV) systems, are overwhelmingly a very reliable way to generate renewable energy, as they rely on the sun.
However, the efficiency of solar systems can be affected by latitude, season, and climate. This is because the duration of daylight varies by latitude (your location north or south in relation to the equator) and the time of year – there are typically fewer hours of sunshine in winter, for example.
The amount of electricity generated by solar cells is dependent on exposure to sunlight – so of course, they will produce more energy when the sun is high in the sky and less energy on cloudy days or when the sun is low in the sky.
The efficiency of solar cells can also be impacted by anything obscuring the cells. This can include dense cloud cover, heavy rain, dust, and ash from bushfires.
Extremely hot days can also affect the efficiency of solar cells by reducing the voltage generated and increasing the electrical resistance of the circuits, so ventilation is important.
If panels are installed a few inches above the roof, airflow can help cool them and a good installer will ensure that crucial components such as the inverter are in the shade.
It’s important to know that high quality solar panels are better at absorbing ambient light and conducting it efficiently compared with low quality panels, and can also tolerate heat better.
Remember, Australia is one of the sunniest countries in the world and one of the best places to capitalise on solar energy generation. And with the addition of battery storage to your solar PV system, you will always have a reliable supply of electricity, no matter how crazy the weather gets!
