In Belgium, unpredictable weather conditions are nothing new, and hailstorms are no exception. When small ice pellets turn into fist-sized hailstones falling at speeds above 100 km/h, they can cause significant property damage, including to solar panels. Although solar panels are generally designed to withstand harsh weather, exceptions do occur. In this article, we discuss the importance of international standards for solar panel resistance, the types of panels best suited to withstand hail, and what to do if your solar installation is damaged.
International Standards For Solar Panel Resistance
Solar panels face the sky, which means they are directly exposed to the elements. However, not all solar panels are made the same way, and it is essential to ensure they meet international hail-resistance standards. The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) sets the following standards:
- IEC 61215: This standard applies to crystalline silicon photovoltaic modules, ensuring they can withstand hailstones up to 1.25 cm in diameter falling at a speed of 140 km/h.
- IEC 61646: Similar to IEC 61215, this standard applies to thin-film photovoltaic cells using cadmium telluride (CdTe) rather than silicon. While these installations are less common, they are gradually gaining popularity.
- IEC 61730: Extending the protection of the previous standards to connections, this standard aims to prevent electric shocks, fires, and personal injuries that could result from mechanical stress.
The Most Hail-Resistant Solar Panels
Even if solar panels meet IEC standards, some systems are more hail-resistant than others. Many solar panels on the market are made with borosilicate glass, designed to absorb shocks caused by high and low temperatures. Borosilicate glass is also used in Pyrex kitchenware, which speaks to its durability.
To better protect against hail damage, borosilicate glass should be tempered. This process improves the glass’s strength when properly treated, ensuring the efficiency and peak power of the solar installation remain unchanged.
The Impact Of Hail On Solar Production
Even with IEC-compliant solar panels, hailstorms can affect your solar energy production. The dark skies that often accompany hailstorms can temporarily reduce sunlight exposure, affecting panel performance. In addition, even minor impacts on photovoltaic cells could reduce the efficiency of your solar installation. Relying on IEC-compliant equipment is essential to minimize these risks.
What To Do If Your Solar Panels Are Damaged By Hail
If your solar panels are damaged by a severe hailstorm, it is essential to have the situation assessed by professionals. They can provide diagnostics, intervention, and maintenance for your solar installation, whether or not it was installed by a specific company.
Conclusion
Although hailstorms can be intimidating, proper preparation and compliance with international standards minimize the risk of lasting damage to your solar panels. Before starting any solar project, check that the proposed modules meet IEC safety standards. As we continue to face climate change, let’s hope devastating hailstorms do not become the new normal. By taking the right steps and using high-quality solar panels, you can ensure your investment stays safe and productive for years to come.