Installing solar panels brings cost-effective, clean energy to your home, as well as some peace of mind in the face of Oahu’s unpredictable power grid. But searching for and investing in “high-efficiency solar panels” only gets you so far! More than any other part of your home’s infrastructure, solar panels need the right conditions to perform at their best and generate the most energy for you to enjoy.
The efficiency of solar panels can vary greatly. Here are the top factors that impact your solar panel efficiency and keep you from maximizing your investment!
Panel Placement
The placement of your solar panels is key to their efficiency. Without proper placement, your energy potential could be halved or worse! Your solar installer should do their due diligence before placing your panels, but having an idea yourself is always helpful.
Shade
Solar panels need sunlight to do their job – it’s even in their name! Shade is the top reason your panels may not be as efficient as they could be. For peak solar panel efficiency, make sure any nearby tree cover or other plant life isn’t getting in the way of those bright sunbeams. Trim back any leaves and branches that may be getting in the way, and be sure to recheck your shade frequently to account for seasonal growth.
Panel Angle
Solar panel efficiency increases based on the angle at which the sun hits the photovoltaic (PV) cells in your panel, putting more pressure on your installation team to get the angle right. Making things harder, the sun’s position shifts over the course of the year. Seasonal variations are minimal here in Oahu, thankfully, so a consistent south-facing setup works well for capturing sunlight efficiently. Most systems are installed at a tilt of about 18 to 19 degrees, with slight adjustments to match the pitch of your roof or mounting surface.
Panel Age
Just like any device, your solar panels’ efficiency decreases as they age. Most solar arrays last at least 25 years – longer with proper maintenance and care – at their best efficiency rates. That doesn’t mean your panels suddenly die; their efficiency simply starts to decrease the older they get. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), this loss of efficiency can be anywhere from 0.25% to 0.80% each year, giving you time to plan your upgrade or replacement.
Panel Condition
It goes without saying that the most efficient solar panels are undamaged, clean, and well-maintained. Storms and wind are common throughout Oahu, so it’s best to check your panels frequently to clean off debris, dust, and bird droppings, and to identify any damage. Taking care of your solar investment means your panels will operate at higher efficiency rates for longer, providing you with more clean energy.
Make the Most of Your Solar with Holu Hou!
As the Hawaiian solar company dedicated to making solar accessible and efficient across the islands, Holu Hou Energy can help you maximize your energy output with efficiency tips, panel maintenance, and solar battery upgrades. Our skilled team brings years of experience to every project, so you get the most out of your solar equipment every day. Contact us today to adjust or expand your system!
