Solar Panel Efficiency: Important Factors To Consider Now
Solar Panel Efficiency: Solar panels are becoming increasingly popular in Pakistan because many people have switched to this energy-efficient solution. But have you heard about the solar panel efficiency? There are several factors that play a key role in improving the power and production of solar panel energy. In this blog, we mentioned some of the important factors you need to consider if you are considering installing solar panels.
What is Solar Panel Efficiency?
When solar panels hit the sunlight, they generate electrons that further create electricity. The efficiency of the solar panel is the amount of electricity produced when sunlight falls on the surface of the solar panel. Or, in simple words, the higher the efficiency of the solar panel, the more electricity is created. This depends on several other factors, such as the amount of sunlight that falls on the panel, etc.
Factors Affecting Solar Panel Efficiency
Now that we have understood the efficiency of the solar panel, the following are some factors you need to consider:
1. Solar Panel Angle
One of the most important factors that affect the solar panel efficiency is the angle of the solar panel. Since solar panels must consume maximum sunlight for maximum energy production, the panel angle plays a large role and affects efficiency by 10% – 25%. Therefore, there are two things you need to consider in this respect:
Tilt Angle: The angle between the solar panel and the ground is the angle of tilt that maximizes the exposure of the sunlight.
Azimuth Angle: It is an angle between the solar panel and the northern vector that allows the panel to face the direction of the sun.
2. Temperature
People assume that solar panels work better at high temperatures, which is not right. Solar panels require a suitable temperature for proper work, and very high temperatures could have a negative impact on them. Therefore, it is important to know the correct temperature for solar panel systems. The ideal temperature that maximizes the efficiency of the solar panel is 25°C or 77°F.
However, it also varies depending on the type of solar panels you installed. Such thin cells are not very sensitive to high temperatures and can produce more electricity on hot days than other types of solar panels.
Types of Solar Panel
The type of solar panel installed plays a key role in maximizing efficiency. There are three types of solar panels you need to know:
Monocrystalline: Solar panels made from one layer of silicon formed into bars. Because they are single-layer, electrons have more space to move and create more electricity. Therefore, the monocrystalline type of solar panels is more efficient and costly.
Polycrystalline: As the name suggests, polycrystalline solar panels are made of many molten silicon crystals that are converted into silicon wafers for the panel. It provides less electron freedom and is therefore less efficient than monocrystalline solar panels.
Thin Film: This type of solar panel lacks the use of crystalline silicon material and instead uses other materials that are bright absorbers. They are less effective than the other two types of solar panels.
If you are considering installing the solar system, the following efficiencies of these three types of solar panels are what you must consider:
| Monocrystalline | 15–20% |
| Polycrystalline | 15 – 20% |
| Thin-film | 10 – 20% |
Low Maintenance
If you have a solar panel system installed, it is important to maintain it, which plays a major role in the solar panel efficiency. By proper maintaining, I mean its cleaning. Since solar panels are installed in open areas, usually on the roofs, they most likely get dust and other waste materials. Therefore, maintain clean solar panels to maximize their efficiency. You can do so with either a pressure dishwasher or non-abrasive cleaning agents. You must consider the following factors:
- Do not use harsh cleaners, and be gentle on the solar panels.
- Look for any damage and get it sorted before it gets out of hand.
- Clean the solar panels in the early morning or in the evening when they are not working properly.
- Turn the power off before cleaning.
Also read: 10 Money Rules to live a richer life
Final Verdict (Solar Panel Efficiency)
To sum up, solar panels are an energy-efficient solution, and people are widely attracted to them. However, there are several factors that you need to consider to maximize the solar panel efficiency. Look for a suitable solar panel angle to improve energy production. In addition, choose the type of solar panel wisely because different types have different levels of efficiency.
Also read: How to Clean Solar Panels to Improve Their Performance