BrightGridSolar panel performance depends on the entire installation. Panel efficiency is important, but roof orientation, shading, temperature, system design and household conditions can have a major effect on annual generation.
The main performance factors
- Solar irradiation
- Roof orientation
- Roof pitch
- Shading
- Panel efficiency
- Temperature
- Inverter efficiency
- Cable losses
- Panel degradation
- System maintenance
Roof orientation
The direction your panels face changes the pattern and amount of sunlight they receive.
Temperature
Solar modules are tested under standard conditions, but real-world output changes with temperature and environmental conditions.
System design
String configuration, inverter selection, cable design and panel-level electronics can all influence system performance.
Generation should always be modelled
A professional proposal should explain the expected annual generation and the assumptions used to calculate it.
Frequently asked questions
Why are my solar panels producing less electricity?
Possible causes include seasonal weather, shading, dirt, inverter problems, electrical faults and normal system degradation.
Does temperature affect solar panels?
Yes. Solar module electrical performance changes with temperature, which is why manufacturers publish temperature coefficients.
Lucy Anderson
Solar Performance Analyst at BrightGrid Energy
