Maximizing Potential
- Mapping can help determine where solar panels would best be placed in order to minimize the probability of the surrounding trees’ shade blocking any sunlight. This maximizes power output, while leaving essential trees intact.Dereli, Z., Yucedag, C., and Pearce, J.M. (2013) Simple and low-cost method of planning for tree growth and lifetime effects on solar photovoltaic systems performance. Solar Energy, 95, p.300-307.
- Certain technologies are designed to maximize at full capacity even when one cell is shaded, unlike a traditional grid solar panel system.Wholesale Solar (2011). The effect of shade on solar panels.
Shade Impact
- Although power output decreases proportionally to the amount of the solar panel that is shaded, the efficiency of the solar panel does not decrease, no matter the size of the shade.Sathyanarayana, P., Ballal, R., Lakshmi Sagar, P.S, and Kumar, G. (2015). Effect of shading on the performance of solar PV panel. Energy and Power, 5(1A), p.1-4.
- When planting new trees around homes with existing solar panels, make sure the trees are far enough away to avoid scratching the panels and to prevent shade from blocking the panel. If trees already exist, make sure they are trimmed and properly maintained.Tadewaldt, L. (2015). Trees of solar panels: Do you have to choose? Urban Forest Professionals.