Monitoring and solving solar shading issues

Solar energy offers a sustainable and cost-effective solution for Australian homeowners and businesses, converting our sun’s golden rays into power for our homes. Yet, just like a rainy day can bring a bit of gloom, shading can pose challenges to the optimal performance of your solar system.

Understanding the Impact of Shading

Shading, even if partial, can significantly affect your solar panels’ efficiency. A shadow on just a portion of a solar panel can reduce the output of the entire system, leading to decreased energy production and potential financial losses over time. Think of it as a kink in a hose, slowing the flow of water – a shaded solar panel can impact the flow of energy.

Preventative Measures

Before shading becomes an issue, there are proactive steps you can take:

• Regular Site Evaluations: Periodically assess your solar installation’s surroundings to identify potential shading culprits.
• Strategic Tree Planting: When landscaping, consider the mature height of trees and their shadows during different times of the day and year.
• Infrastructure Planning: Before adding structures like pergolas, sheds, or antennas, evaluate their potential shading impact on your solar panels.

Regular Maintenance and Upkeep

To ensure your solar system operates at peak efficiency:

• Tree Trimming: Regularly trim trees and shrubs growing near your solar installation. This not only reduces shading but also protects your panels from falling branches.
• Monitor Performance: Keep an eye on your system’s output. A sudden drop might indicate a new shading issue. Solar monitoring systems can be particularly useful for this.
• Panel Cleaning: Dust, dirt, and bird droppings can accumulate on your solar panels. Periodic cleaning helps maintain efficiency and reduces potential shading caused by debris.

Addressing Unchangeable Shading Issues

Sometimes, surroundings change. New buildings, growing trees, or permanent structures might introduce shading issues that weren’t present during your solar system’s initial installation. Addressing these challenges requires a blend of practical adjustments and technological innovations:

Repositioning Panels:

Before deciding on whether it is worth repositioning panels, a thorough assessment by solar experts is essential. They can identify shading’s extent and evaluate other parts of your property for better sunlight exposure.

Repositioning might involve shifting panels to another roof part or setting up a ground-mounted system if space allows. The goal is to move panels where they receive maximum sunlight throughout the day.

Weigh the costs of repositioning against potential energy output gains. Sometimes, minor repositions can bring significant improvements, while other times, benefits might be marginal.

Technological Solutions:

Devices like Optimisers and Microinverters can help panels operate independently. With optimisers or microinverters, each panel functions individually, mitigating the effects of shading on one or a few panels. Both ensure that one shaded panel’s performance doesn’t drastically impact the entire system.

These technologies can be added to existing solar systems. If not installed initially, they can be retrofit to improve a shaded system’s performance.

Conclusion

Optimising your solar system’s performance is a continuous task. By proactively managing shading and seeking expert advice when needed, you ensure your solar investment shines brightly, providing maximum benefits for years to come.

Shading challenges are unique to each situation. For decisions on repositioning, retrofitting with new technology, or both, consult with a trusted solar provider like 1KOMMA5° for tailored solutions.