Quick Answer
When installing solar panels on a shaded property, consider the percentage and duration of shade, assess the impact on overall energy production, and select a suitable panel type or adjust the system design accordingly.
Assessing Shade Impact
To determine the effectiveness of solar panels in shaded areas, calculate the percentage of shade and its duration. Use the following guidelines: 25% shade for 4 hours or more reduces energy production by 10-15%, 50% shade for 4 hours or more reduces energy production by 20-25%, and 75% shade for 4 hours or more reduces energy production by 40-50%. You can use online tools or consult with a professional to assess the shade impact on your property.
System Design Adjustments
If your property experiences significant shading, consider the following design adjustments: install solar panels at a higher angle (more than 30 degrees) to reduce the impact of shadows, use microinverters or power optimizers to isolate shaded panels and maximize energy production from unshaded sections of the array, or implement a tracking system to move the panels to follow the sun’s movement. Consult with a professional to determine the best design adjustments for your specific situation.
Choosing Shaded-Friendly Panels
Select solar panels with a high efficiency rating (15% or higher) to maximize energy production in shaded conditions. Some panels are specifically designed to perform well in shaded environments, such as those with a high fill factor or those using advanced cell technologies like bifacial or PERC cells. When shopping for solar panels, look for products that have been tested and certified for shaded conditions, such as the UL 1703 or IEC 61730 standards.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.