Australia, renowned for its abundant sunshine, faces scorching heat waves that pose challenges for solar energy systems. Solar panels‘ efficiency can decline as temperatures soar, impacting energy production. However, strategies and technologies are available to help maximise solar efficiency during these heat waves, ensuring continued energy generation and optimal performance.
Ready to upgrade your solar panels and take your energy savings to the next level? Embrace the energy efficiency revolution by upgrading your solar panels, battery or solar inverters with Energy Matters.
With our 3 free solar quotes, you can compare plans from pre-qualified and vetted installers in your area and find the perfect solution for your home and business. Harness the sun’s power and save money on electricity bills while reducing environmental impact. Let Energy Matters guide you towards a brighter, more sustainable future.
The challenges of heatwaves and solar power
Extreme temperatures can significantly impact solar panel efficiency. As temperatures rise, the silicon cells in solar panels become less efficient at converting sunlight into electricity. This means your solar panels may produce less power during a heatwave, just when you need them most.
In addition, heat waves can also increase your energy consumption. You’ll likely crank up the air conditioning and use other appliances more frequently to stay cool. This can put a strain on your solar system, potentially leading to power outages. Read more about Aussie Heat Wave: Can Solar Panels Get Too Hot?
Strategies to supercharge your solar efficiency in heatwaves
But fear not Aussies! There are several steps you can take to boost your solar power output and keep your cool during heatwaves:
- Panel maintenance and cleaning: Regularly cleaning your solar panels is essential for optimal performance. Dust, dirt, and even bird droppings can significantly reduce efficiency. Aim to clean your panels at least twice a year, more frequently if you live in a dusty or polluted area. Read more about Cleaning Solar Panels: Why, When, and How You Should Do It and Solar Panels Maintenance.
- Panel tilt and orientation: The angle and direction of your solar panels can significantly impact their efficiency. In general, tilting your panels towards the equator and maximising their exposure to direct sunlight is ideal. However, consider slightly adjusting the tilt during heatwaves to reduce the heat exposure on the panels. Consult a solar installer or use a solar panel tilt calculator to determine the optimal angle for your location and season. Tilting your panels is not just a simple case of going up on your roof and making alterations. A solar installer will need to assess your system and solar array to see if tilting is possible and additional fees will be required. Read more about Which Direction Should Solar Panels Face In Australia? and Solar Panel Tilt: Does the Angle of My Solar Panels Really Matter?
- Ventilation and cooling: Proper ventilation around your solar panels can help to keep them cool and improve their efficiency. Consider installing vents or fans near your panels to circulate air and reduce heat buildup.
- Smart energy management: Invest in a smart energy management system to monitor your energy consumption and production in real time. This will allow you to adjust your energy usage patterns to optimise solar power utilisation and minimise reliance on the grid during peak demand periods.
- Battery storage: Consider adding a battery storage system to your solar setup. This will allow you to store excess solar energy generated during the day and use it to power your home during the evening or during heatwaves when the grid is under strain. Read more about Solar Battery Storage Systems – A Complete Guide.
- Upgrade your inverter: If your inverter is old or inefficient, it may be wasting precious solar energy. Upgrading to a newer, more efficient inverter can greatly affect your system’s output.
- Appliance upgrades: Upgrade your home appliances with energy-efficient models. This will help to reduce your overall energy consumption and put less strain on your solar system, even during heatwaves. Read more about How Do I Make My Home More Energy Efficient?
Looking to save extra with your Sungrow, GoodWe or Tesla Powerwall 2 installed solar battery*? Origin and Energy Matters have teamed up to provide customers with an additional way to save and make money!
Join Origin Loop VPP as an Origin electricity customer and earn a $400 bonus! Earn $1/kWh during peak demand by letting them draw on your battery-stored solar energy.
You’ll also enjoy a 13 c/kWh feed-in tariff^ and enjoy full transparency through the Origin app. No lock-ins; leave anytime, and your yearly energy export is capped at 200kWh. Win-win for you and the grid!
If you already have solar and a battery*, then sign up today! If you don’t, get up to 3 obligation-free quotes by getting in touch with us right away.
*Your battery must be eligible to participate. | ^Feed-in tariff rates are subject to change at any time. All FIT amounts include GST where applicable.
Additional tips for staying cool and saving power
- Close curtains and blinds during the day to keep out the heat.
- Use ceiling fans and natural ventilation whenever possible.
- Take advantage of off-peak energy rates by running appliances at night or during cooler times.
- Seal air leaks around windows and doors to prevent conditioned air from escaping.
- Invest in a programmable thermostat to automatically adjust the temperature when you’re not home.
Read more about off-peak hours in Australia
- Top 5 Off-Peak Electricity Providers in Australia
- Off Peak Electricity Times In NSW
- Residential Electricity Demand Charges – What You Need To Know
- Reducing Commercial Electricity Demand Charges
Stay cool and powered up with a supercharged solar system!
By following these tips, you can beat the Aussie heat and keep cool while enjoying the benefits of solar power, even during the most scorching heatwaves. Remember, a little planning and preparation can go a long way in ensuring that your solar system continues optimally throughout the year, saving you money and helping you stay cool and comfortable.
So, don’t sweat it out next time a heatwave rolls in. Take control of your energy and stay cool and powered up with a supercharged solar system!
Switching to a better plan?
You may already have an energy plan but want more power or to shop for a better deal.
Energy Matters‘ “Free Energy Bill Comparator” is a cutting-edge energy bill tool that compares your area’s most competitive retail offers. We collect the data from our wide range of trusted retailers, allowing you to decide on the switching plan and find the best deal for your needs.
If your goal is to get more electricity and minimise the cost of your gas and electricity bills, switch to a better plan now!
