Solar panels are most effective with unobstructed access to as much access to direct sunlight as possible, so are most often positioned on roofs or on top of carports. However, this also exposes your panels to other weather patterns like wind, storms, and rain. Hawaii experiences up to 30 inches of rain per year, much of which falls during the rainy season between November and March. If you’re considering adding solar to your energy system, it’s important to think about the effect our weather may have on your panel’s efficiency. This helpful guide aims to resolve any concerns or questions you may have about solar panels in the rain!
How Solar Panels Work
Modern solar panels work by using photovoltaic (PV) cells to convert sunlight into the electrical energy we can use to power our homes. Most solar panels on the market today use silicone semiconductors to complete electrical circuits in each PV cell that string together converted electricity from each cell in a panel to generate power. The number of cells connected to form your system depends on the size of your panel — the more cells, the more energy converted!
By design, solar panels need to be outside to work as intended. So the cells are protected by layers of glass or plastics sealed with waterproof adhesives in order to survive the elements. This means that solar panels are inherently waterproof and resistant to the effects of rain and other weather. High-quality panels can withstand heavy rain for up to 30 years before needing repairs, while the metal framing and mounting structure keep the panel in place during storms.
How to Prevent Rain Damage
Although solar panels are designed to withstand rain, heavy rain and frequent storms can reduce the efficiency of your solar panels and impact energy generation. Inspect your panels frequently for damage or cracks in the sealants, as well as condensation inside the panel itself. Rain can also leave dirt and dust clouding your panels, so occasional cleanings can help maximize your system’s efficiency.
Keep trees and other plant life trimmed and away from your panels and roof. Broken limbs, plant debris, and twigs can fall and rake against the panels, leaving behind scratches and dents that can let water infiltrate your solar panels and otherwise impair its performance. Yearly professional inspections will ensure your weatherproofing isn’t deteriorating or damaged, as well as provide any necessary repairs to keep your solar energy system in peak condition.
Upgrade Your Energy Resilience with Holu Hou Energy
Rain or shine, your solar panels help shrink your carbon footprint, especially when paired with an energy storage solution to save excess energy for whenever you need it — even during power outages! At Holu Hou Energy, we’re committed to making solar adoption more accessible than ever. We’re proud to be a Clean Energy Ally and approved contractor through the GEM$ program, which dramatically reduces the upfront cost of solar installation so more Hawaii residents can add solar energy to their homes. Contact us today to learn more about our program partners and our HoluPower xP energy storage system.
