Small shadows – big impact on photovoltaics and balcony power plants

Even small Shading can the Performance and the yield one balcony power plant or a Photovoltaic system Often underestimated, even a palm-sized Shadow on one solar module now Loss of income of 30% or more. The reason lies in the electrical structure of PV modules: Several Solar cells are to so-called Thongs in series connection connected, and the weakest point determines the total current flow. If a single cell is shaded, the power of the entire Module strings – even if all other cells are optimally lit.

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Technical background: Half-cell modules, strings and bypass diodes

Half-cell modules and bypass diodes can influence Partial shading reduce by bridging shaded areas. In practice, a Partial shading but often several Substrings at the same time, whereby the Loss of income larger than expected. The effect can be light string Compare: If an element fails or is blocked, this immediately affects the overall picture.

Typical causes of partial shading in solar modules

Fixed objects such as roof edges, balcony railings, satellite dishes or antennas cast moving shadows on the PV modules. vegetation like trees or shrubs, their shadow effect changes with the seasons. Point shading by leaves, bird droppings or snow caps is often underestimated, but can cause disproportionately large Performance losses Especially in winter, when the sun is lower in the sky, shadows become significantly longer and Solar Panels in places that were unproblematic in summer.

Series connection or parallel connection – influence on the yield

The Connection type Photovoltaic system is crucial for the impact of Shading. In a series connection determines the weakest PV module the yield of all modules connected in series – a single shadow can therefore Overall Performance drastically reduce. In a parallel circuit Each module works independently, allowing Partial shading only the affected module is affected. This solution requires more cabling, but is often the better choice for systems with changing lighting conditions.

Opportunities to reduce yield losses due to shade

A targeted one Planning of Module placement is the most important step: Orientation and tilt angle should be chosen so that typical Sources of shadow be minimized. Performance optimizer or micro inverter ensure that individual Solar Panels can work independently. Regular cleaning and Visual inspection help to avoid small, often overlooked shadows. With the help of a Shading analysis or PV planning software The shadow behavior can be simulated throughout the year and the optimal positioning of the photovoltaic modules be determined.

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Conclusion: Secure yield despite partial shading

Partial shading is a common, often unavoidable factor in balcony power plants and Photovoltaic systems. With an optimized Module layout, the right one Connection type and an intelligent Storage solution again Solar Bank 3 Pro can be Loss of income This ensures that electricity production remains stable – regardless of whether the sun is shining unhindered or temporarily Shadow is interrupted.