Quick Answer
Environmental factors significantly impact solar energy production, with temperature, dirt, and shading being major contributors to reduced efficiency, resulting in lower energy output.
Temperature and Efficiency
Temperature is a critical environmental factor affecting solar energy production. For every 1°C (1.8°F) increase in temperature, solar panel efficiency drops by approximately 0.5%. This means that on a hot day, a solar panel array may produce 10-15% less electricity than on a cooler day. To mitigate this effect, solar panels are often installed with a slight tilt to reduce direct exposure to the sun’s rays and minimize heat gain.
Dirt and Shading
Dirt, dust, and other particles on the solar panel surface can reduce energy output by up to 25%. Regular cleaning can help maintain optimal performance, but it’s essential to use gentle methods to avoid damaging the panels. Shading from trees, buildings, or other obstructions can also significantly reduce energy production. To calculate the impact of shading, use the “shading loss factor” (SLF), which ranges from 0 (no shading) to 1 (complete shading). An SLF of 0.8, for example, means that the solar array will produce 80% of its rated capacity.
Load Calculation and Environmental Factors
When calculating the solar load for a project, it’s essential to consider environmental factors like temperature, dirt, and shading. A conservative approach can be taken by using the “derate factor” (DF), which accounts for the expected losses due to these factors. A typical DF range is 0.8-0.9, with 0.85 being a common value. By incorporating the DF into the load calculation, you can ensure that the solar array is oversized to account for the expected losses and meet the energy demands of the system.
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