The question being asked nowadays is “do solar panels need direct sunlight to generate electricity?” and this is still left unanswered. Even though a solar panel’s efficiency is mostly dependent on continuous exposure to sunlight, this does not mean it cannot perform at all if there is no sunlight
However, shading is the most common yet completely overlooked issue that solar panel owners face, especially during the cloudy season. Despite its independent performance, even partial shading can cause an efficiency drop of the solar panels.
The best solar companies in Pakistan, like Beacon Energy, are providing ultimate solutions for residents worried about their solar performance in shade. However, it is an inevitable problem, and precautions are better than cures in this scenario. Therefore, we bring this blog to you to understand how you can optimize the performance of your solar panel in shaded conditions.
How does shading affect your solar panel performance?
If you think that reduction in energy production due to solar shading is proportional, you are not entirely correct. While it is assumed that if 1% of cells are not exposed to direct sunlight then the panel loses 1% of efficiency. However, what happens is very different.
Unlike conventional electrical circuits, every solar cell performs as the component of an interconnected string and is part of a single system that determines the overall efficiency of the panel. If one cell is affected by shade, it will impact the efficiency of the whole system.
Impact of Shading on Energy Production
There is no evidence of any major impacts on energy generation regarding solar shading, but it can still be troublesome and produce comparatively less energy in two ways.
Optimizing solar panel performance in the shade
Top solar companies in Islamabad and Pakistan, like Beacon Energy make sure they think ahead of time and ensure no major issue occurs that may pose a challenge for solar panel performance. Shading can occur from various sources, be it natural or manmade. For example, trees and their overgrown branches can lead to potential shade for your solar panel. Other than this, high rise buildings near your home can also be a cause of shading. Even small amounts of dust and debris can also partially affect the exposure of PV cells to sunlight and impact performance.
But why worry when Beacon Energy, the best solar company in Pakistan is here? Here are _ different ways to optimize solar performance in shade.
i. Strategic installation planning
Prior to investing, it is necessary to plan the solar panel’s installation in a strategic manner. This is important to maximize direct exposure to sunlight and uninterrupted energy generation. Elevated mounting systems are helpful to position panels at a higher altitude. Other than this, it is the foremost duty of the installation company to assess the site before installing the panels. Beacon Energy, the best solar installation company in Pakistan, ensures proper installation of solar panels at ideal spaces on your roof. By assessing the shaded and exposed areas, the company prioritizes maximum and efficient output of your solar panels and minimum issues after installation.ii. Choosing the right inverter
Solar inverters are essential to convert DC into useable AC power. For optimum performance, it is essential to choose the type of inverter that extracts maximum power from your solar panels even if there is no partial or complete exposure to direct sunlight.Whether you are choosing a string or a microinverter, you must choose wisely according to the temporary or permanent shading of your installation space.
iii. Investing in power optimizers
If neither a string inverter nor a microinverter is your choice, you can invest in power optimizers. As they are installed on each panel, power optimizers regulate the output of your solar panel by maximizing power generation even in partially shaded regions. An interesting feature that sets them apart is that if one panel is impacted by shade, the power optimizer automatically adjusts the voltage for the rest of the system to be operated efficiently. You can avail yourself of these devices if your panels are facing occasional shading, e.g. from trees and buildings.IV. Continuous monitoring
Solar panels are a long-term investment and like every other important investment, they require regular monitoring as well. A solar monitoring system helps you keep track of your system’s energy production and stay alerted about any efficiency drops. Best solar companies in Pakistan, like Beacon Energy offer robust monitoring apps that empower you to stay connected to your solar system. Also, in case of any weather changes or shading, you are alerted immediately which ensures that you take proactive actions.Why choose Beacon Energy?
Solar performance during shading in Pakistan is a recurring discussion topic these days and an inevitable problem. But you can minimize the impact with proper strategies and correct choices, such as proper installation, investing in the right type of inverters or power optimizers, and robust monitoring of the solar energy system and its output. But most importantly, choosing the top solar company in Pakistan makes all the difference! Beacon Energy provides the best range of solar products for optimal energy production. So contact us today for seamless solar solutions and enjoy maximum energy production even when there is no sunlight!