27/08/2024
Sun rays are more intense in summer when the sun is directly overhead for a larger proportion of the time. Efficiency of solar panels decrease slightly at hotter temperatures, so their energy needs and consumption patterns change. The difference is not extreme, but you would see higher output on a cooler day. Solar panels at the coast also perform better relative to those in hot areas like the Karoo due to the cool sea breeze.
Factors affecting solar output to monitor:
• Clean panels that are free from objects that could possibly throw shade onto them
• North facing panels generate the most power
• Peak output months geographically are:
a. Gauteng – August and October and reasonably flat output throughout the year
b. Western Cape – November to January with a decrease of 52% in winter
c. KwaZulu-Natal – Reasonably stable output
d. Northern Cape – Peaks in summer and 25% decrease in June
e. Mpumalanga – Higher output in winter months
f. Limpopo – Reasonably consistent with a 7% spread between the highest and lowest months
g. Free State – There is a 17% gap between the lowest and highest months with six months of very strong output
h. Northwest – Reasonably consistent output throughout the year with peak months between August and October
A few practical ways to optimize your solar efficiency in winter include:
• Using high-power electric appliances when solar panels are generating the most (in the middle of the day)
• Running washing machines and dishwashers at lower temperatures and during sunlight hours
• Where possible, cooking evening meals during the day (using a slow cooker on low power rather than the stove or oven during the evening)
• Washing on sunny days to avoid using the tumble dryer
• Turning off appliances and lights when not in use; and install timers and blankets on geysers.
Get solar ready now and create a green and prosperous future.
www.civicsolar.co.za
CIVIC GROUP
