No matter how they are set up, solar panels are tilted (the angle of tilt is a 90Β° right angle between the surface of the solar panel and the sunlight) to face the sun. That’s because they convert to draw their energy source from the sun’s rays and therefore, whether on the roof or on the ground, the solar panels need to be exposed as much as possible to absorb the sun’s rays.
There is no doubt that solar panels are more efficient at higher altitudes. Furthermore, unlike at sea level, where they are more exposed to solar radiation, they are better able to convert energy into electricity for our daily activities.
Is solar energy more efficient at high altitudes
Solar panel systems are one of the highest sources of clean energy generation, but typically, they are installed at sea level, and some may wonder if solar energy is more effective at high altitudes? Basic reasoning would lead you to believe that it should be because it is closer to the sun, but let’s look a little deeper. Sunlight emits electromagnetic radiation, also known as solar radiation, and the cells in solar panels absorb this radiation to produce energy. However, sometimes this radiation is blocked by a variety of factors such as dust, dirt or snow, which prevents the solar panels from making full use of them. On the other hand, they work better at higher altitudes where there are fewer atmospheric barriers and less obstructions.
Often, the increased exposure to solar radiation leads to an increase in the voltage output produced, which inadvertently increases efficiency. This is very likely because at higher altitudes we get more direct radiation and very little diffuse radiation.
How can high altitudes improve the performance of solar panels
To understand how high altitudes can improve the performance of solar panels, it is important to understand what is holding back the full performance of terrestrial solar panels. So let’s find out why solar panels don’t perform at their maximum on the ground.
Weather
Several weather conditions have different effects on solar panel performance. When the sun is shining, contrary to popular opinion, solar panel performance is greatly reduced when it is too hot around and the temperature is too high. They depend on the amount of sunlight absorbed by the panels, not on the temperature around them. Solar panels, on the other hand, do not generate electricity during rain, snow and hail storms.
Shadows
Any shadows on solar panels can impair the efficiency of the panels and it can lead to a reduction in system output. A shadow does not have to be a cloudy sky, it could be something that blocks the solar panel from the sun. Therefore, when looking to install a solar panel system, firstly, you should make sure that there is nothing in the area that is blocking the solar PV modules. For example, trees, satellite dishes, tall buildings etc. should not block your solar panels.
Low maintenance
Over time, dust, dirt or debris may accumulate on solar panels. It is therefore assumed that solar panels are not cleaned regularly or maintained infrequently. In this case, the efficiency of the solar panels may decrease. Generraly, we have seen the factors that affect solar panels at low altitudes and prevent them from performing at their maximum, solar panels at higher altitudes will improve their performance. Solar panels are more efficient at higher altitudes because solar UV rays increase with increasing altitude in the atmosphere, due to the reduction in air molecules, emissions etc. and solar panels receive more sunlight.
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Why choose anodized aluminum frames for solar panels at higher altitudes areas
Solar aluminum frames can also be called solar panel aluminum frames. Nowadays, most solar panels use silver and black solar frames during production. Silver solar frames are a common style and can be used for ground-mounted solar projects. Black frames, on the other hand, are mainly used for rooftop solar projects, especially in Japan and the US market. Some even use all-black solar panels on their roofs because it can absorb more energy from the sun. In addition, black solar panels are placed on the roof for aesthetic purposes.
Why do solar panels need aluminum frames?
Aluminum solar panel frames, when combined with aluminum mounting brackets, can provide sufficient support for solar panels. The majority of our solar panel frames are made from anodized aluminum due to its strength, durability, and resistance. The main reason for using aluminum frames is to protect the solar panel components. Aluminum frames have good conductivity and can be used as a lightning arrester during thunderstorms. Lastly, aluminum frames are strong, stable, and corrosion-resistant. In fact, there are many surface treatments that can be used on aluminum frames, such as painted solar frames, PVDF solar frames, and electrophoresis solar frames. However, most solar panel frames are anodized solar frames.
Anodized aluminum is a non-conductive material that will not interrupt the normal operation of solar panels. It has a high level of tensile strength that can resist wind, snow, and other natural factors. Compared to ordinary aluminum, this type of aluminum is not affected by high temperatures. Therefore, they will not bend even under continuous exposure to the sun.
Anodized aluminum solar frames will not rust even in wet and quite humid conditions. The material has a strong resistance to environmental corrosive factors. This frame type is important for protecting solar panel components from lightning damage. Using anodized aluminum frame covers makes transportation and installation of solar panels easier. Solar photovoltaic (PV) cells and EVA encapsulation layers of solar panels are also supported by this frame type. This frame type also reduces damage caused by dust, dirt, and pollution.
How to choose the right aluminum frame for your solar panel? In fact, most solar panel factories have their own R&D centers and designs, and will design according to the requirements of solar panels.
