Detailed Effects of Hail on the Solar Panel Systems

Hail on the Solar Panel – Solar panel systems have gained significant popularity in recent years as an eco-friendly solution for generating electricity.

As more homeowners and businesses turn to solar energy, it becomes essential to understand how different environmental factors, particularly extreme weather conditions, impact the efficiency and durability of these systems.

One of the most destructive weather elements is hail. While solar panels are designed to be robust, hailstorms can pose serious challenges.

In this article, we will explore the effects of hail on solar panel systems, ranging from physical damage to long-term economic implications.

1. Nature and Severity of Hail

Hail forms when water droplets are carried into cold areas of thunderstorms, where they freeze and grow into hailstones.

The size of these hailstones can vary significantly, from small pea-sized pellets to large golf-ball or even softball-sized chunks.

The speed at which hailstones fall is also a critical factor; larger hailstones can reach speeds of up to 90 miles per hour.

This combination of size and speed creates a substantial impact force when hailstones strike surfaces, and solar panels are no exception. Understanding the varying severity of hail is essential when assessing the potential risk it poses to solar panels.

read also: Storm-Resistant Homes: A Comprehensive Guide to Designing and Building Anti-Storm Houses

The size and speed of hailstones play a critical role in the damage they can inflict on buildings, vehicles, and other structures. Here’s how they correlate:

Hailstone Size

Hailstones range in size from tiny pellets to large, destructive spheres:

1. Small Hail (<1 inch, about pea-sized):
   • Typically does not cause significant structural damage.
   • Can harm plants and minor damage to soft or thin materials like window screens.
2. Medium Hail (1–2 inches, quarter to golf-ball-sized):
   • Can crack or break windows.
   • May cause dents in vehicles and roof damage, particularly to shingles.
3. Large Hail (2–4 inches, tennis-ball to softball-sized):
   • Can puncture roofs, break windows, and cause structural damage to weaker buildings.
   • Severe risk to vehicles, often denting metal and shattering windshields.
4. Giant Hail (>4 inches, grapefruit-sized and larger):
   • Capable of penetrating roofs, destroying walls, and collapsing weaker structures.
   • Significant threat to human safety and livestock outdoors.

Hailstone Speed

The speed of a hailstone depends on its size, air resistance, and wind:

• Small Hail: Falls at approximately 20–40 mph (32–64 km/h).
  • Low destructive potential.
• Medium Hail: Falls at speeds of 40–60 mph (64–97 km/h).
  • Can cause notable damage, especially to brittle materials like glass.
• Large and Giant Hail: Can exceed speeds of 100 mph (160 km/h) when falling from high-altitude thunderstorms.
  • High momentum allows these hailstones to break through roofs, damage vehicles, and compromise structural integrity.

Other Factors Affecting Damage

1. Building Materials:
   • Asphalt shingles, aluminum siding, and older materials are more vulnerable.
   • Reinforced roofs and impact-resistant materials can better withstand hail.
2. Angle of Impact:
   • Wind-driven hail can strike at angles, increasing damage to walls and windows.
3. Density and Shape of Hailstones:
   • Denser hailstones have more destructive potential.
   • Jagged hailstones can cause greater surface damage compared to smooth ones.
4. Duration of Hailstorm:
   • Prolonged exposure to large, fast hail can compound damage.

2. Physical Damage to Solar Panels

The most direct effect of hail on solar panels is physical damage, which can occur in several ways:

• Micro-cracks: Even small hailstones can cause micro-cracks on the surface of solar cells. These cracks may not be immediately visible but can gradually worsen over time, leading to a reduction in the panel’s efficiency.
• Broken or shattered glass: Larger hailstones can break or shatter the protective glass layer that covers solar panels. This glass is typically made from tempered materials to resist impact, but hailstones over a certain size can overwhelm the glass’s durability.
• Damage to solar cells: In some cases, hail may cause internal damage to the solar cells themselves, even if the glass appears intact. This hidden damage can reduce the panel’s ability to convert sunlight into electricity and may require immediate repair or replacement.

The efficiency of a solar panel typically decreases when it develops cracks, as these cracks reduce the panel’s ability to convert sunlight into electricity. To estimate the efficiency loss due to cracks, we can make some simplified assumptions and calculations. Here’s a general approach to understanding the calculation:

a. Base Efficiency of a Solar Panel (Before Cracking)

Let’s assume the solar panel has an initial efficiency, denoted as ηinitial. For most modern solar panels, this value ranges between 15% and 22%. For this example, we’ll assume the initial efficiency is:

b. Impact of Cracks on Efficiency

The presence of cracks in the solar panel reduces its ability to absorb and convert sunlight, creating areas of the panel that are either non-functional or less functional. This efficiency drop is difficult to quantify exactly without specific data about the crack size and location, but we can estimate it based on the percentage of the panel affected.

Let’s define:

If the crack affects 20% of the solar panel’s area, we can estimate that 20% of the total power production capability is lost.

c. Calculation of New Efficiency

The new efficiency of the solar panel, ηnew, can be calculated by reducing the initial efficiency by the power loss percentage:

d. General Formula

For any percentage of the panel affected by cracks, you can use the following formula to calculate the new efficiency:

This formula provides a rough estimate and assumes the cracks uniformly impact the panel’s performance.

e. Further Considerations

• Micro-cracks can have a cumulative effect, leading to the formation of hotspots, which can further degrade performance beyond the initial crack-induced losses.
• Cracks may also allow moisture ingress, causing additional damage over time, which would further lower the efficiency.
• The actual loss in efficiency can vary based on the location of the cracks (e.g., cracks near critical wiring paths may have a more pronounced effect).

This calculation gives an approximation of how solar panel efficiency is affected by physical damage such as cracks. The actual performance loss should ideally be measured with specialized equipment.

3. Decreased Efficiency

Hail damage does not just affect the structural integrity of solar panels; it also impacts their efficiency:

Hail damage can indeed affect the structural integrity of solar panels, although modern solar panels are designed to withstand significant impact, including hailstones. Here’s how hail can impact the structural integrity of solar panels:

a. Microcracks in Solar Cells

• Cause: When hailstones hit the surface of a solar panel, especially larger or sharper pieces of hail, they can cause microcracks in the photovoltaic cells. These cracks may not be immediately visible but can affect the panel’s ability to generate electricity over time.
• Effect: Microcracks disrupt the electrical flow within the cells, leading to reduced efficiency and a gradual decline in power output. As more cells are damaged, the panel’s overall performance diminishes.

b. Damage to the Protective Glass Layer

• Cause: The glass layer on the top of solar panels serves as the primary shield protecting the cells beneath. Hailstones large enough can cause cracks or shattering of this protective glass.
• Effect: Cracks in the glass reduce the protection offered to the solar cells, allowing moisture, dust, or other contaminants to penetrate and degrade the cells over time. This can compromise the panel’s long-term functionality and require panel replacement.

c. Impact on the Frame

• Cause: The frame of a solar panel, often made of aluminum, can be dented or bent by large hailstones.
• Effect: A compromised frame may lead to water ingress or create structural weaknesses that make the panel more susceptible to future environmental damage. A bent frame could also affect the mounting of the panel, potentially causing alignment issues.

d. Delamination

• Cause: Delamination refers to the separation of layers within the solar panel, such as the glass and encapsulant layers, which can happen when hail damage is severe.
• Effect: Delamination leads to decreased durability and efficiency. It can result in moisture infiltration, corrosion of components, and eventual failure of the panel.

e. Water Infiltration

• Cause: Cracks in the glass or damage to the seals around the panel can lead to water entering the panel.
• Effect: Once water infiltrates, it can corrode the internal components, cause electrical shorts, and significantly reduce the lifespan of the panel.

f. Long-term Performance Loss

• Cause: Even minor damage from hail that doesn’t immediately seem significant can cause long-term degradation in panel performance. Microcracks and small fractures can widen over time due to environmental exposure, such as temperature fluctuations and moisture.
• Effect: This leads to a gradual reduction in power output, which can ultimately lead to early replacement if performance drops too much.

g. Solar Panel Durability and Hail Testing

Most solar panels undergo rigorous testing, including impact tests simulating hailstones, to meet international standards (such as the IEC 61215). Typically, panels are tested to withstand hailstones up to 1 inch (25 mm) in diameter at speeds of around 50 mph (80 kph), which mimics the size and speed of most hailstorms.

h. Protection and Mitigation Strategies:

• Installation Angle: Solar panels installed at a steeper angle are less likely to suffer from hail damage, as the hail tends to bounce off instead of hitting head-on.
• Protective Coatings: Some manufacturers offer additional protective coatings or tempered glass that can increase resistance to impact.
• Insurance: Solar panel systems are often covered by home insurance policies, which can help mitigate the cost of damage repairs.

While solar panels are quite resilient, especially with advancements in technology, large or frequent hailstorms can still pose a risk to their structural integrity. Regular inspections after severe weather can help identify and mitigate long-term damage.

• Reduced energy output: Micro-cracks and damaged cells lead to lower energy production. The panel’s ability to absorb sunlight and convert it into usable energy decreases, which can significantly affect overall power generation.
• Hotspots and further degradation: Micro-cracks can also lead to the formation of hotspots on the solar panel. Hotspots occur when damaged areas experience higher resistance, which generates heat and further degrades the panel. Over time, this can cause irreversible damage.
• Water infiltration: Hail damage that cracks the glass or frames of the solar panel may allow moisture to seep into the internal components. This water infiltration can lead to corrosion and electrical failures, further reducing the panel’s efficiency and lifespan.

4. Structural Impact on Mounting Systems

While the solar panels themselves are at risk during hailstorms, the mounting systems that hold the panels in place can also be affected.

Large hailstones can loosen or dislodge components of the mounting hardware, potentially leading to vibrations or displacement of the panels.

Over time, these issues can weaken the overall stability of the system and may require repairs or adjustments to ensure the panels remain securely in place.

The structural impact of hail on solar panel mounting systems is an important consideration for ensuring the long-term stability and efficiency of solar installations.

While the solar panels themselves may be designed to withstand impacts, the mounting systems, which anchor the panels to the roof or ground, are also vulnerable to damage from hailstones.

Here’s how hail can affect these systems:

a. Damage to Mounting Hardware

• Cause: Hailstones, particularly larger ones, can strike the mounting hardware, such as bolts, brackets, and rails, which are typically made from metal (aluminum, steel, or stainless steel).
• Effect: Impact from hail can cause dents, cracks, or fractures in the hardware. Over time, even small damages can lead to corrosion, weakening the structure, and compromising the ability of the mounting system to securely hold the panels. Corroded or weakened hardware may increase the risk of panels becoming loose, misaligned, or even detached in extreme weather conditions.

b. Frame Deformation

• Cause: Hailstones that are large or travel at high speeds can strike the metal frames used to secure panels in place.
• Effect: A significant impact could cause bending or deformation of the mounting frame, which could lead to improper panel alignment. Deformed frames may create gaps, making the panels less secure and increasing the risk of damage from wind or further weather-related stress. In extreme cases, deformed frames could require entire system replacements.

c. Weakened Roof Mounts

• Cause: Hail hitting the areas where solar panels are mounted to the roof can damage the roof anchors and seals.
• Effect: Damage to roof anchors (typically bolts or screws securing the mounts to the roofing material) can result in a less secure attachment, increasing the risk of system instability. Additionally, cracks in the seals or holes in the roof caused by hail may allow water to infiltrate, which can lead to leaks, mold, and further damage to the roof structure.

d. Cracks or Chips in Roof Surface

• Cause: Hail can not only damage the mounting hardware but also the roof surface itself, particularly if the roof is made of materials like shingles or tiles.
• Effect: Cracks, chips, or punctures in the roof can lead to compromised mounting points. Damaged roof surfaces may result in weakened structural integrity, affecting the overall stability of the solar panel system and increasing the risk of water infiltration, which can lead to further structural damage.

e. Structural Instability from Severe Damage

• Cause: In extreme cases, such as with particularly intense hailstorms, the cumulative effect of repeated or large hailstones hitting the panels and mounting system may cause more significant structural damage.
• Effect: The mounting system might experience enough impact to become unstable, leading to the displacement or collapse of solar panels. If the system is poorly anchored, the force of hail could eventually cause the mounting structure to fail, posing a serious safety risk.

f. Impact on Ground-Mounted Systems

• Cause: In ground-mounted solar systems, hail impacts can affect the metal supports and brackets that secure the panels to the ground.
• Effect: Large hailstones can damage these ground mounts, leading to potential structural failure or misalignment of the panels. Additionally, in cases of severe storms, the force of hail hitting exposed ground mounts could cause them to shift or loosen, reducing the stability and efficiency of the system.

g. Potential for Long-Term Wear and Tear

• Cause: Repeated exposure to hail over the years, even if individual impacts do not immediately cause significant damage, can lead to gradual wear and tear on the mounting system.
• Effect: Over time, the accumulation of minor impacts, along with the effects of weathering (such as exposure to UV radiation, moisture, and temperature fluctuations), can weaken the materials used in the mounting system. This can increase the risk of failure in the long term, especially in the absence of regular maintenance.

h. Increased Maintenance and Repair Costs

• Cause: Hail damage to the mounting system may require frequent inspections and repairs, particularly if the system is located in an area prone to hailstorms.
• Effect: While mounting systems are generally designed to be durable, hail-related wear may lead to higher maintenance costs over time. Replacing damaged hardware, realigning panels, or repairing the roof surface can increase the total cost of owning and maintaining a solar power system.

i. Protection and Mitigation Strategies:

• Hail-Resistant Mounting Systems: Some manufacturers offer mounting systems specifically designed to be more resistant to hail and other weather-related damage. These systems may use more durable materials or incorporate features that reduce the impact of hail.
• Reinforced Roof Mounting: For rooftop systems, ensuring that the roof anchors and mounts are installed with reinforced materials can help improve the system’s resilience to hail damage.
• Regular Inspections: Periodic inspections of both the solar panels and mounting system after significant weather events can help identify damage early and prevent further issues.
• Insurance: Many solar installations are covered under homeowner’s insurance policies, which may include coverage for damage caused by severe weather, including hail.

In summary, while solar panels themselves are designed to withstand hail to some extent, the mounting systems can be vulnerable to hail damage as well.

Regular maintenance, proper installation, and the use of durable materials can help minimize the impact of hail on the overall structural integrity of a solar power system.

5. Weather Resistance of Solar Panels

Despite the potential risks, solar panels are generally designed to withstand severe weather, including hail:

• Design and testing standards: Solar panels undergo rigorous testing to ensure they can resist various environmental challenges. For example, most solar panels meet the UL 1703 standard, which requires them to withstand hailstones up to 1 inch in diameter at speeds of up to 50 mph.
• Materials and durability: Manufacturers use tempered glass and durable frames to enhance the resilience of solar panels against hail. Tempered glass is much stronger than regular glass and is designed to resist breakage from impacts. Additionally, many panels are equipped with coatings that provide extra protection.

However, even with these safety measures, extreme hail events can still cause damage, particularly when hailstones exceed the size and speed that panels are tested for.

The weather resistance of solar panels is crucial for ensuring that the panels perform efficiently and remain durable over time, especially given that solar energy systems are exposed to a wide range of environmental conditions.

Here’s a breakdown of how solar panels are designed to withstand various weather challenges and the factors that contribute to their overall durability:

a. Resistance to Hail

• Design Features: Modern solar panels are specifically tested to withstand impacts from hailstones of varying sizes. The most common test involves simulating hailstones about 1 inch (25 mm) in diameter traveling at speeds up to 50 mph (80 km/h). This is intended to mimic the conditions of a typical hailstorm.
• Glass Protection: The tempered glass used in most solar panels is tough and designed to absorb and distribute the impact of hail without cracking. However, larger or more frequent hailstorms can still cause microcracks, which may reduce the panel’s efficiency over time.
• Impact Resistance: While the glass surface may withstand hail, damage to the internal components (e.g., solar cells or wiring) can occur if the impact is severe enough. Microcracks, for instance, can result in reduced electrical output.

b. Temperature Fluctuations

• Thermal Cycling: Solar panels are exposed to extreme temperature fluctuations, from freezing winters to scorching summers. These temperature changes can cause the materials in the panel to expand and contract, potentially leading to cracking or degradation over time.
• Thermal Management: High-quality solar panels are designed to endure thermal cycling by using durable encapsulant materials, which help absorb and redistribute the stress caused by temperature shifts. These materials ensure that the photovoltaic cells stay intact and operational despite the changes in temperature.
• Efficiency Reduction in Extreme Heat: While solar panels can function in high temperatures, their efficiency typically decreases as temperatures rise. However, the panels are designed with heat management features (such as an air gap between the panel and roof) to mitigate the effects of heat buildup and ensure continued performance.

c. Rain and Water Exposure

• Waterproofing: Solar panels are built to be weatherproof and are generally rated as IP65 or higher (Ingress Protection rating), which means they are resistant to dust and water jets. This makes them suitable for rain, snow, and even washing without damaging the internal components.
• Water Infiltration Risks: While rain is not a direct threat to solar panels, improper installation or damage to the protective seals and mounts can allow water to infiltrate, leading to potential damage to the electrical components. Panels that are properly sealed and installed have a lower risk of water damage.
• Drainage Considerations: For rooftop installations, it’s important to ensure proper drainage to avoid water accumulation that could affect the panel’s mounting system or cause corrosion.

d. Wind Resistance

• Wind Loads: Solar panels are exposed to wind forces, especially in coastal or open areas. High winds can place significant pressure on the panels, and improper installation could lead to them becoming loose or detached.
• Mounting Systems: To withstand high winds, solar panels are mounted using reinforced and secure mounting systems designed to handle strong gusts. The angle and location of the installation also play a role in minimizing wind resistance.
• Wind-Resistant Designs: Some mounting systems are designed to reduce wind resistance and prevent lift-off during storms. This is especially important in areas that experience hurricane-force winds.

e. Snow and Ice

• Snow Shedding: Solar panels can accumulate snow, which could reduce their efficiency temporarily. However, most solar panels are tilted at an angle, which encourages the snow to slide off. Additionally, the heat generated by the panels during the day (even in cold weather) helps melt snow accumulation.
• Risk of Ice: Ice build-up can pose risks to solar panels, particularly if ice forms around the edges of the panels or if melting snow refreezes. This could cause the panels to crack, damage the mounting system, or impact the electrical components. However, in general, the design of modern panels includes some protection against minor ice build-up.
• Structural Integrity: The mounting systems must be able to handle the added weight of snow or ice accumulation without compromising the panel’s positioning or safety.

f. UV Radiation

• UV Resistance: Solar panels are constantly exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. High-quality panels are made with UV-resistant materials to prevent degradation from prolonged exposure. This is particularly important for the polymer-based components (e.g., the encapsulant and backing materials) that protect the solar cells.
• Long-Term Durability: The UV resistance ensures that the panels maintain their structural integrity over time, even with years of sun exposure. Manufacturers often design their panels to last 25-30 years or more, with minimal degradation due to UV exposure.

g. Corrosion Resistance

• Material Durability: The materials used in solar panel frames, such as anodized aluminum or stainless steel, are designed to resist corrosion from exposure to rain, saltwater, and humidity. This is especially important in coastal or high-humidity environments.
• Protective Coatings: To further protect against corrosion, many solar panels are coated with special treatments that shield the metal parts from environmental damage. This helps preserve the panel’s structural and electrical integrity.

h. Dust and Debris

• Dust and Dirt Build-Up: In dry or desert regions, dust and debris can accumulate on solar panels, reducing their ability to absorb sunlight and lowering efficiency. However, solar panels are designed to be easy to clean, and the smooth glass surface often allows dust to be removed with minimal effort.
• Impact of Debris: Larger debris, like branches or rocks, can pose a physical risk to the panels, especially in high-wind areas. Proper installation and routine inspections help ensure that panels are kept free of hazardous debris.

i. Weather Resistance in Solar Panels

Solar panels are designed with advanced materials and engineering to withstand a wide range of weather conditions, including hail, high winds, extreme temperatures, rain, snow, and UV radiation.

The combination of strong protective glass, durable framing, weather-resistant coatings, and efficient thermal management systems makes modern solar panels highly weather-resistant.

However, it’s essential for homeowners and businesses to properly install and maintain their solar panels to ensure they remain protected against specific weather-related risks.

Regular inspections and prompt repairs after extreme weather events can significantly extend the lifespan of a solar panel system and maintain its efficiency over the long term.

6. Economic Impact

Hail damage to solar panels can have significant financial consequences:

• Repair and replacement costs: Depending on the extent of the damage, repairing or replacing solar panels after a hailstorm can be costly. Homeowners and businesses may need to invest in new panels, which can be a substantial expense, especially for larger solar arrays.
• Insurance coverage: Fortunately, many homeowners’ insurance policies cover hail damage, including damage to solar panels. However, policyholders should review their coverage to ensure that their solar system is protected. Filing an insurance claim can help offset repair or replacement costs.
• Downtime and energy loss: When solar panels are damaged, they may not function at full capacity or may stop working altogether. This downtime leads to reduced energy production and can result in higher electricity bills for those who rely on solar power for their energy needs.

Hail on the Solar Panel – The outline covers three key aspects of the financial implications of hail damage to solar panels. Here are detailed explanations of each point:

a. Repair and Replacement Costs in the US (Estimation in Dollar Currency)

• Costs of Repair/Replacement:
  Hail damage can vary widely, from minor cracks that can be repaired to significant damage requiring full panel replacement.
  
  Repair costs might range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per panel, depending on the extent of the damage. For larger solar installations, especially in commercial setups, the costs can escalate rapidly.
  • Example Costs:
    • Replacing a single solar panel can cost anywhere from $200 to $600, excluding labor.
    • Full system replacements for residential systems may range from $10,000 to $30,000, depending on the size and type of system.
  • Financial Implications:
    These expenses can be a significant financial burden for homeowners and businesses alike. Proactive measures such as protective covers or investing in hail-resistant panels may reduce potential costs.

b. Insurance Coverage

• Typical Coverage:
  Many homeowner insurance policies include provisions for hail damage, which often extend to solar panel systems attached to the property.
  
  Policyholders should check their policy documents to confirm coverage specifics, such as:
  • Coverage limits for hail damage.
  • Deductibles applicable to claims.
  • Exclusions or additional endorsements needed to protect solar panels.
  • Filing Claims:
    Filing an insurance claim can alleviate some financial strain by covering repair or replacement costs. However, the process may involve:
    • Assessing whether the repair costs exceed the deductible.
    • Providing documentation, such as photos and repair estimates.
    • Potentially facing increased premiums after a claim.

c. Downtime and Energy Loss

• Impact on Energy Production:
  Damaged panels might produce energy at a reduced efficiency or stop functioning entirely.
  
  This interruption affects homes or businesses relying on solar power, forcing them to rely on grid electricity, which is often more expensive.
• Cost Implications:
  Higher utility bills during downtime can compound the financial burden. For commercial setups, the energy loss could also disrupt business operations or incur penalties for failing to meet energy production targets.
• Mitigation Strategies:
  • Installing backup energy systems, such as batteries or generators.
  • Prompt repairs to minimize downtime.
  • Regular inspections to identify vulnerabilities before a storm.

d. Additional Notes

Proactive measures, such as installing hail-resistant solar panels or protective barriers, may mitigate hail damage risks.

Regular maintenance and inspection also play a crucial role in ensuring that insurance claims are processed smoothly and downtime is minimized.

7. Preventive Measures

To mitigate the effects of hail on solar panels, several preventive measures can be taken:

• Hail-resistant solar panels: Some manufacturers have developed hail-resistant solar panels that are designed to better withstand impact. These panels are equipped with thicker glass and more robust frames to reduce the risk of damage – Hail on the Solar Panel.
• Protective covers and barriers: Homeowners can also install protective covers, such as mesh screens or shields, over their solar panels to reduce the likelihood of hail damage. These barriers can absorb the impact of hailstones, preventing direct damage to the panels themselves.
• Maintenance and regular inspections: Regular inspections of solar panels can help identify early signs of damage, such as micro-cracks or loose components. Addressing these issues before they worsen can extend the life of the system and maintain its efficiency.

When considering solar panels with enhanced hail resistance, several manufacturers stand out for their durable designs and rigorous testing standards.

Here are five companies known for producing hail-resistant solar panels:

LONGi Solar
LONGi’s Hi-MO 5 Ice-Shield module features a 3.2-mm tempered glass front, enabling it to withstand hailstones up to 55 mm in diameter at speeds of 33.9 meters per second. This design offers enhanced durability in severe weather conditions. cite

SunPower
SunPower’s M Series panels are recognized for their high-quality construction and durability. While specific hail resistance data isn’t provided, SunPower panels are generally built to meet or exceed industry standards, including UL 61730, indicating resilience to hail impact. cite

Hanwha Q Cells
The Q.PEAK DUO BLK panels from Hanwha Q Cells are known for their robust design. These panels comply with industry standards like UL 61730, ensuring they can withstand hailstones of up to 25 mm at 23 meters per second. cite

Silfab Solar
Silfab’s SIL-380 BK and SIL-370 BK panels are designed with durability in mind. They adhere to industry standards such as UL 61730, providing resistance to hail impact and ensuring longevity in various environmental conditions. cite

AE Solar
AE Solar produces both polycrystalline and monocrystalline photovoltaic modules, including the world’s first Smart Shading Resistant Hot-spot Free PV module. While specific hail resistance data isn’t provided, AE Solar’s panels are designed for enhanced durability. cite

When selecting solar panels for hail-prone areas, it’s crucial to verify that they meet or exceed industry standards for impact resistance, such as UL 61730 or IEC 61730.

Additionally, considering panels with thicker front glass, like LONGi’s 3.2-mm tempered glass, can provide extra protection against larger hailstones.

Consulting with a local solar installer can provide personalized recommendations based on regional weather patterns and specific site conditions.

8. Case Studies, Hail on the Solar Panel

Real-world examples highlight the impact of hail on solar panel systems:

• Denver, Colorado (2017): A severe hailstorm damaged a large solar farm, with some panels shattered by golf-ball-sized hail. The incident led to extensive repairs and highlighted the need for better hail-resistant designs in regions prone to hailstorms – Hail on the Solar Panel.
• Residential systems in Texas: In areas like Texas, where hail is common, many homeowners have experienced damage to their solar panels during storms. These cases emphasize the importance of insurance coverage and preventive measures like protective covers.

9. Can Hail Storm Damage Solar Panels?

Hail on the Solar Panel – Hail can pose a significant threat to solar panel systems, causing physical damage, reducing efficiency, and leading to costly repairs.

While solar panels are generally designed to withstand typical hailstorms, extreme weather events can still cause harm.

Homeowners and businesses can protect their investment by choosing durable, hail-resistant panels, conducting regular maintenance, and ensuring their insurance policies cover potential damage.

By taking these precautions, solar panel systems can continue to provide clean, renewable energy, even in the face of unpredictable weather.