Quick Answer
Solar panels are vulnerable to damage from lightning strikes, which can reduce their efficiency and lifespan. A direct hit can cause physical damage, while electrical surges can also harm the electronics.
Lightning-Induced Power Surges
Lightning can induce powerful electrical surges in solar panels, which can damage the inverters and other electrical components. These surges can occur even if the panels are not physically damaged by the lightning strike. In fact, research suggests that the inverter can be damaged by surges as low as 3 kilovolts (kV). To mitigate this risk, solar installers often use surge protectors and lightning arresters to divert electrical surges away from the inverter and other sensitive components.
Physical Damage and Efficiency Loss
When a lightning strike hits a solar panel, it can cause physical damage to the photovoltaic (PV) cells and the panel’s frame. This damage can lead to reduced panel efficiency, as some of the PV cells may be rendered non-functional. A single damaged cell can decrease the panel’s efficiency by up to 5%. In extreme cases, a lightning strike can also cause a fire or an electrical arc, which can further compromise the panel’s performance.
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