My Experience with Solar Energy
I have seen in my life that people install solar energy, but when the production fluctuates, they start getting tensed. When I saw rooftop solar panels being installed at one of my friend’s house, I also felt like exploring this topic deeply. The efficiency of solar energy varies in every season, and it is important to understand in which season we get more energy and in which we get less. Today, on the basis of my experience, I will tell you how the production of solar energy differs in every season and how it can be optimized.
Summer: Maximum Solar Energy Production
Summer season is a blessing for solar energy lovers. In this season, the days are long and the sun’s light is also strong, which gives the solar panels a chance to generate maximum power. I have observed that the efficiency of solar panels is at its peak in the months of June and July. There are some losses due to high temperature, but still the total production remains high. If you want to take maximum benefit of solar energy, then battery storage or running extra appliances in summer season can be a smart decision.
Monsoon: Solar Energy’s Biggest Challenge
Rainy season is a major challenge for solar energy production. Due to clouds and rain, the solar radiation is reduced considerably, and the panels are not able to generate as much energy as they do in summer or winter. I have observed that during the monsoon months (July-September) the power generation can reduce by almost 40-50%. For this reason it is necessary to have grid electricity or backup battery system. Secondly, rain and moisture can cause dust and dirt to accumulate on the solar panels, which further reduces their efficiency.
Winter: Cool Temperature, Better Efficiency
I found an interesting fact that even though the days are shorter in winter, the efficiency of solar panels is better. Low temperatures make solar cells work more efficiently, which increases their energy conversion rate. But because the days are shorter in winter, overall power generation is less than in summer. It is important to keep solar panels clear between November and February, because fog or shading from leaves can reduce energy production.
Spring & Autumn: Balanced Solar Output
Spring and autumn seasons bring a balanced phase to solar energy. During these months the temperature is moderate and there is adequate sunshine. I have observed that solar power production remains quite stable between March-April and September-October. These seasons are also perfect for solar maintenance as there are not too extreme weather conditions. Cleaning and inspection of panels is necessary during this time to maintain their efficiency.
Solar Energy Optimization Tips
From my experience, I have learnt that if solar energy has to be used efficiently in every season, then some important tips must be followed:
- Regular Cleaning – Dust and dirt can reduce the efficiency of solar panels, so it is important to keep them clean. 2. Battery Storage – Storing backup power for monsoon and winter is the best option.
- Panel Angle Adjustment – Adjusting the tilt angle of the panel according to the season can increase energy production.
- Energy Monitoring System – It is important to install a smart monitoring system which can track solar power usage and production.
Every season comes with its own different challenge and advantage. If we manage the solar panel system intelligently, then we can get the best energy output in any season.