Quick Answer
Ground-mounted solar installations can be damaged by a range of severe weather conditions, including high winds, lightning strikes, and extreme temperatures.
Weather-Related Damage from High Winds
High winds can cause significant damage to ground-mounted solar installations by lifting or breaking panels, loosening mounting hardware, and toppling entire arrays. Wind speeds of 50 mph or higher can start to pose a risk, while gusts above 80 mph are likely to cause significant damage. To mitigate wind damage, installers can use anchor systems like helical piers or deadman anchors to secure the array to the ground.
Lightning Strike Damage and Prevention Strategies
Lightning strikes can cause electrical surges that can damage solar panels, inverters, and other electrical components. To prevent lightning damage, installers should use lightning arresters or surge protectors to direct electrical surges harmlessly into the ground. Grounding systems with a minimum of 10 feet of grounding material and a 10% bonding requirement can also help protect against lightning strikes.
Extreme Temperature Damage Prevention
Extreme temperatures can cause solar panels to degrade faster and reduce their electrical output. To prevent temperature-related damage, installers can use thermal management systems like heat sinks or fans to cool the panels. Additionally, using high-efficiency panels and optimizing the array’s tilt and orientation can help reduce temperature-related losses.
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