Hello sun enthusiasts! Today, I am glad to bring you some fantastic news from the realm of solar energy. This summer, the United States is experiencing increased irradiance (the amount of solar energy reaching the target spot on the ground) on both the East and West coasts. Why does this matter, you ask? Well, for solar companies and anyone considering solar panels for their home, this could be an opportunity for more electricity generated by solar power.
In this post, I delve deeper into the effects of this summer’s weather patterns on solar energy in various regions of the United States. This will help you grasp the different factors at play, and hopefully, give you the information necessary to get the most out of your solar array for home.
During June, much of the continental United States witnessed irradiance that was moderately above average, between 5-10% higher than historical June averages. This increase was most notable along the East Coast. Thanks to the “heat dome,” cloud formation was suppressed, which allowed more sunlight to reach the ground. A great advantage for solar companies and households with solar panels, who saw an uptick in the solar energy they were harnessing.
In contrast, New Mexico and the Midwestern regions experienced below-average irradiance mainly due to increased cloud cover and atmospheric disturbances. New Mexico, despite the heatwave gripping the country, saw irradiance 5-10% below typical levels. Blame it on a tropical disturbance in the Gulf of Mexico that churned up moisture and atmospheric instability, resulting in thunderstorms over New Mexico.
The effects of these thunderstorms were not limited to decreased sunlight. Flash floods and large hailstorms caused significant disruptions. Hail can damage and sometimes even destroy solar panels, posing a significant challenge for solar companies. However, numerous utility-scale solar farms have employed single-axis tracking systems that can position the panels vertically to minimize possible damage.
The Summer Solstice, which happened on June 20th this year, saw the sun reaching its highest point in the sky in the Northern Hemisphere. Correspondingly, it is around this period that irradiance usually peaks across North America, providing a beneficial boost for those considering solar panels for their home.
In a nutshell, while each region might experience different irradiance levels due to weather patterns, what remains certain is the growing relevance of solar energy. Whether you represent a solar company or are an individual considering an investment in a solar array for home, remember that understanding these factors is pivotal for maximizing your solar energy usage.
It’s an exciting time for our industry, and with the rising efficiency and decreasing cost of solar technologies, there’s never been a better time for solar. Let’s continue harnessing the power of the sun, and create a cleaner and more sustainable future together.
Original Articlehttps://pv-magazine-usa.com/2024/06/28/new-mexico-solar-output-drops-amid-heatwave-induced-storms/
