Solar energy is a sustainable and economical alternative for generating electricity, and a common question is how solar energy works on rainy days.
In a photovoltaic solar installation, depending on changes in the angles of incidence of sunlight, the panels may not reach their maximum power, which is reflected in reduced efficiency and energy generation. Cloudy or rainy days naturally affect this capture.
However, it is important to note that solar panels stop generating electricity in these conditions.
Throughout this article, we will understand how weather conditions impact the performance of solar systems, the solutions for optimizing energy generation in these periods and answer the main questions about the viability of solar energy on less sunny days.
The impact of rain on the efficiency of solar panels
On rainy and cloudy days, the efficiency of solar panels can be affected, as they rely on direct sunlight to generate electricity at full capacity.
When the sky is covered by dense clouds, the amount of sunlight reaching the panels is reduced, resulting in less energy being produced. The rain itself does not prevent the panels from working, but the lower incidence of direct light reduces the intensity of solar radiation captured by the photovoltaic cells.
This reduction in direct sunlight affects electricity generation in proportion to the density of the clouds: the cloudier it is, the less energy is produced.
Average efficiency on cloudy and rainy days
On average, on a completely cloudy day, the efficiency of solar panels can drop to anything between 10% to 25% of its total capacity.
Even so, solar panels manage to capture some of the diffuse light, which is light scattered by clouds, and convert it into electricity.
Although less efficient, this generation can still partially supply energy consumption, depending on the capacity of the system, local climatic conditions and, above all, the demand in question.
Photovoltaic modules: technology for cloudy climates
The photovoltaic modules are designed to optimize power generation, even in cloudy or rainy weather conditions.
Unlike conventional panels, which rely primarily on direct sunlight, BYD modules incorporate advanced half-cell multibusbar technology. Thanks to this technology and the pass-through diodes in the junction boxes, the modules optimize generation even when shaded, while still managing to deliver a large part of their power by making the most of the existing light, even when it is reduced or diffused.
This technological innovation ensures that the solar panels maintain a good performance even on overcast days, maximizing the use of the little light available.
This feature is therefore crucial in regions where cloudy and rainy days are frequent, ensuring more stable energy production throughout the year. Thus, even without intense sunlight, it is possible to capture enough energy to supply part of daily consumption.
Advantages of rain for module maintenance
It's surprising to many, but rain offers an unexpected benefit for solar panel maintenance.
Far from being just a factor that reduces temporary energy production, rain acts as a natural cleaning agent. It removes dust, dirt and other debris that gradually accumulates on the panels.
This natural cleaning contributes to the long-term efficiency of the modules. Accumulated dust can obstruct the passage of sunlight, reducing energy generation capacity. By removing these blockages, the rain enables the panels to operate more efficiently.
So even if rainy days cause a momentary reduction in energy production, they end up benefiting the panels. The clean surfaces allow the panels to resume their maximum efficiency as soon as the sun reappears.
In addition, rainy days are usually accompanied by milder temperatures. This reduction in temperature can also improve the performance of devices, as excess heat can reduce their efficiency.
Energy storage and use on rainy days
O energy storage batteries and connection to the electricity grid are essential to ensure that you have power on rainy or cloudy days, when solar panels generate less electricity.
The batteries allow you to store the energy generated on sunny days, to use it when solar production is low. This helps keep the energy supply constant, without interruption, even in bad weather.
What's more, when the solar system is connected to the electricity grid, you can send the excess energy generated to the grid, accumulating credits.
These credits can be used on days when production is reduced, such as on rainy days when the panels don't capture as much sunlight. This combination of batteries and grid connection offers a reliable way of guaranteeing the continuous use of solar energy, regardless of the weather.
It is possible to maximize solar energy production
Solar energy is a highly adaptable solution to different climatic conditions. With advances in technology, modern solar systems can generate energy efficiently even in regions with predominantly cloudy or rainy climates.
Improvements in solar panels, such as the use of more efficient materials and the ability to capture diffused light (as happens on cloudy days), have made solar energy a viable option in places with little direct radiation.
So this means that even in the most challenging weather conditions, such as frequent rain or overcast skies, solar systems can still provide energy.
Meet BYD
BYD, recognized for its innovation in clean energy solutions, offers high-quality equipment for capturing, transforming and storing solar energy.
With its advanced modules and efficient storage systems, BYD guarantees a sustainable, affordable and reliable solution for all climates. Thus, by producing all the equipment needed for your photovoltaic kit.
Want to know more about how solar energy can transform your home? apartment or company? Get in touch with our experts.
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