Recent reports about the firing up of a coal power station in the UK have led to discussions about the efficiency of solar panels in extreme heat. However, it's essential to separate fact from fiction when it comes to renewable energy sources. In this post, we dive into the reality of solar power's performance during hot weather and debunk the misconceptions surrounding its efficiency.
"The idea that solar panels wilt in the heat is a gross and fundamental misapprehension." - Solar Energy UK
Contrary to popular belief, solar panels do not falter under scorching temperatures. Solar Energy UK, a member-led organization, has addressed the misconception, emphasizing that more solar power is generated during the summer, regardless of heat levels. Clearer skies, longer days, and ample sunlight contribute to increased power production from photovoltaic (PV) cells.
While it is true that higher temperatures can slightly affect the efficiency of solar panels, the impact is minimal. PV cells are designed to function optimally in a temperature range from -40°C to +85°C. Solar Energy UK clarifies that performance only begins to decrease slightly above 25°C, with a reduction of 0.34% for each additional degree. Even under scorching conditions, such as close to boiling point, the power output would only experience a decrease of approximately 20%, assuming other factors remain constant.
Alastair Buckley, Professor of Organic Electronics at the University of Sheffield, a leading technical expert on solar technology in the UK, affirms that high temperatures have a marginal effect on the overall output of solar power. He states, "If it's sunny and hot, you are going to get good power output. It doesn't fall off a cliff."
To support this claim, the University of Sheffield provides live PV generation data. The figures demonstrate that solar power has consistently met approximately 27% of the UK's power needs during lunchtime over the past week. This data reinforces the notion that solar panels perform reliably, even in the face of rising temperatures.
It's important to note that solar power technology remains consistent worldwide, regardless of varying climates. Chris Hewett, Chief Executive of Solar Energy UK, highlights that solar power works effectively in the scorching Saudi Arabian desert and employs the same panels found on rooftops in Birmingham or fields in Oxfordshire.
If you're interested in finding out more information on Solar Panel performance in hot conditions then please use this link to visit Solar Energy UK's fact checker.