Do Solar Panels Work Better in Hot Weather?

As we get closer to summer, with longer days and warmer temperatures, you might find yourself wondering if the sun's increased intensity will boost the performance of your solar panels, or perhaps you're considering investing in solar panels and wondering how the hot weather will impact their efficiency.

As we know, solar energy has become an increasingly popular choice for homeowners and businesses looking to reduce their reliance on traditional power sources. But do solar panels really work better in hot weather? While it might seem intuitive that more sunlight would automatically translate to more energy production, the relationship between solar panels and temperature is a bit more complex.

In this article, we'll explore the nuances of how solar panels perform in hot weather and what factors can influence their efficiency.

Do Solar Panels Work in Hot Weather?

The idea that solar panels don't work in hot weather is completely false. In fact, solar panels are designed to operate effectively in a wide range of temperatures, including hot weather conditions. While it's true that extremely high temperatures can slightly reduce their efficiency, solar panels continue to generate electricity even in the hottest climates.

You might notice a slight decrease in performance during intense heatwaves but this doesn't mean they stop working altogether. Instead, solar panels adapt to the conditions, and with proper installation and maintenance, they can still provide a significant amount of power even when temperatures are high.

At What Temperature Do Solar Panels Fail to Work?

In order for solar panels to stop working completely, temperatures have to reach around 85°C, and no country around the world experiences this level of heat. While it's true that solar panel efficiency decreases as temperatures rise, they don't simply shut down or fail in hot weather.

Will solar panels still work during heatwaves?

As mentioned above, solar panels never completely stop working in hot weather, and this holds true even during heatwaves. Remember, solar panels are designed to endure high temperatures and continue converting sunlight into energy. While their performance is optimal in cooler, sunny conditions, a solar system will keep producing power during a heatwave - it just might not operate at peak efficiency.

Looking for the most efficient solar panels in the UK? Explore our comprehensive guide to find the best options for your needs.

Why Does Hot Weather Affect Solar Panel Efficiency?

For every degree Celsius above 25°C, you can expect your panels to lose about 0.3% to 0.5% of their efficiency. Solar panels become less efficient in hot weather due to the temperature's impact on their electrical properties. This drop occurs because higher temperatures increase the thermal motion of electrons within the semiconductor materials, such as silicon, reducing the voltage output and overall power generation. Also, excessive heat can increase resistance in the panel's electrical components, further diminishing efficiency.

At What Temperature Do Solar Panels Work Best?

Solar panels work best at temperatures around 25°C. This is considered the optimal temperature for solar panel efficiency, allowing them to operate at their peak performance. When you're considering installing solar panels or evaluating your existing system, it's important to understand that as temperatures rise above this sweet spot, your panels' efficiency will gradually decrease. Remember, even though efficiency might dip slightly on hot days, your panels will still generate electricity effectively.

Have questions about temperature and solar panels? As one of the UK's best solar panel installers, we're here to address your concerns and provide expert guidance.

Is Summer Still Best for Solar Output?

It's a resounding yes - summer's longer days translate into more sunlight hours which means your solar panels have more time to soak up those rays and convert them into electricity. While it's true that solar panels can be slightly more efficient in cooler temperatures, the abundance of sunlight during summer more than makes up for this minor efficiency loss.

As Solar Energy UK Chief Executive Chris Hewett puts it, "Cooler weather is marginally better for efficiency but ultimately, more light means more power. Solar power works perfectly well in the Saudi Arabian desert – and the same panels are being installed there as on rooftops in Birmingham or a field in Oxfordshire."

This statement emphasises that solar panels produce more power with increased sunlight, and they are engineered to thrive in diverse climates, whether it's the intense heat of deserts or the milder conditions found in regions like the UK.

Should Solar Panels Be Cooled?

In the UK, it isn't necessary to cool your solar panels. While solar panels can become less efficient in extreme heat, the temperatures in the UK rarely reach levels that would significantly impact their performance. In fact, your solar panels often operate close to their optimal temperature range in the UK's temperate climate which is advantageous compared to hotter regions. The occasional hot summer day might slightly reduce efficiency but this is typically balanced out by the longer daylight hours and increased solar irradiance during these periods. Also, natural cooling factors like wind and rain help maintain your panels' efficiency by keeping them clean and preventing overheating.

Do Solar Installers Consider Temperature Before Installation?

When you're considering solar panel installation, professional solar installers, such as Glow Green, do take temperature into account before setting up your system. They understand that temperature plays a crucial role in the efficiency and performance of solar panels.

Your installer will consider various temperature-related factors to ensure your solar system operates optimally throughout the year. Here are the key temperature considerations that solar installers typically factor in:

• Ambient Air Temperature: Installers assess the average temperatures in your area as panels typically operate 20°C to 40°C above the surrounding air temperature.

• Solar Irradiance: They consider the intensity of sunlight in your location which affects panel temperature.

• Wind Speed: Installers may factor in local wind patterns as wind can help cool panels and potentially improve efficiency.

• Panel Color and Material: Installers may recommend specific panel types as darker panels can operate hotter than lighter-colored ones. However, this is unlikely to happen in the UK.

• Seasonal Variations: They'll consider how temperature changes across seasons, such as in winter or summer, and how this might affect your system's performance throughout the year.

• Temperature Coefficient: Installers will select panels with a lower temperature coefficient which indicates a smaller decrease in power output as temperature rises.

• Heat Optimisation: They may recommend strategies like increased panel spacing or tilting to improve airflow and reduce heat buildup, especially in hotter climates.

While professional solar panel installers consider temperature during planning and installation, the UK's climate generally doesn't require extensive temperature management measures, as it rarely reaches the extreme heat levels that necessitate such configurations.

Get a Solar Quote Today with Glow Green

Now that you understand how solar panels perform in hot weather and the UK's suitability for solar energy, you're likely considering the next steps to bring a solar system to your home or business. Getting a solar panel quote from Glow Green is a straightforward process that can help you understand the potential benefits for your specific situation.

By reaching out to Glow Green, you'll receive a personalised assessment of your property's solar potential. This tailored approach also ensures that you get accurate information about the costs involved of installing solar panels on your home or business.

Do Solar Panels Work Better in Hot Weather FAQs