Can it get too hot for solar panels?

28th July 2023

Commercial solar panels have always been seen as worthy investments across a number of sectors, largely because of the numerous benefits they provide – such as the opportunity to reduce energy bills, and cut down on your carbon footprint.

Solar panels are a great match for UK weather. Despite what people may think, they still function just fine even when the weather is overcast or cloudy. However, the most recent spell of hot weather has left many asking do solar panels stop working if they get too hot?

While it may surprise people to learn that just like any other piece of electrical equipment, solar panels can be slightly less effective in extreme temperatures, but the panels don’t just stop working as soon as it heats up outside.

Solar panels function by creating electricity from light. Sunlight is absorbed by the photovoltaic (PV) cells in the panels and converted into direct current (DC) energy. Then the DC energy is converted into alternating current (AC) which in turn is used to power your business’ appliances with electricity. The hotter the panels are, the more reduced the voltage they’re able to generate becomes, which can take them slightly less efficient for a short time. But to be honest, if we ever reach temperatures where it becomes a serious problem, your solar panels probably won’t be your top priority anyway.

Established trade association Solar Energy UK maintains that more solar power is created in the summer than any other time, regardless of the temperatures. So the idea that it will get too hot for solar panels or they’ll cease to function as soon as it starts to heat up outside is most certainly misinformation. Solar Energy UK Chief Executive Chris Hewett even stated: “Solar power works perfectly well in the Saudi Arabian desert – and the same panels are being installed there as on rooftops in Birmingham or a field in Oxfordshire”. So it’s safe to say if you’re considering solar panels for your business and you’ve been wondering ‘can solar panels get too hot’, the answer in the vast majority of cases is: no, they can’t.

So, now that’s cleared up, if you’re thinking of installing some solar panels for your own business, or if you’ve got any questions, you can count on us to have all the answers you need – our experts have over 30 years of combined experience, having helped SMEs and large corporations across a wide variety of sectors transform their business’ energy supply.

Each of our installations is bespoke, tailoring your solution on your specific energy profile, helping us to maximise carbon reductions and saving you thousands in energy bills. Feel free to look at our case studies for just a few examples of businesses which have reaped huge rewards from solar, such as Boeing and Irish Water. To find out how we can help you, feel free to give us a call today on 01282 421 489!

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