Solar Energy

12 Common Natural Disasters for Solar Installations: How to avoid them

The sun is a reliable source of energy – but it’s not invincible. Natural disasters can wreak havoc on solar installations at any time, leaving them in shambles and forcing costly repairs or replacements. From hurricanes to floods to wildfires, Mother Nature can wreak havoc on even the most robust solar systems.

The good news is that by understanding the risks and taking the necessary precautions, homeowners can protect their solar investments. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the common natural disasters that can impact solar installations and provide real-life examples from around the world.

12 Common Natural Disasters for Solar Installations

Below are some common natural disasters that solar installations especially solar panels may face.

1. Hurricanes

Hurricanes are one of the most destructive natural disasters, and they can cause significant damage to solar systems. High winds can tear panels off roofs, cause frames to bend, and damage inverters and other critical components.

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Heavy rains can flood solar arrays and lead to electrical shorts. In 2017, Hurricane Harvey hit Texas, causing widespread damage to solar installations in the region. Many homeowners had to replace panels, inverters, and other equipment.

2. Floods

Floods are another natural disaster that can cause damage to solar installations. Floodwaters can damage solar panels, inverters, and electrical wiring. In 2011, Thailand experienced severe flooding that caused significant damage to solar installations in the country.

Many homeowners had to replace their solar systems entirely, which was an expensive and time-consuming process.

Flooding on Solar Systems - Common Natural Disasters for Solar Installations: How to avoid them
Flooding on Solar Systems – Common Natural Disasters for Solar Installations: How to avoid them

3. Wildfires

Wildfires can also impact solar installations. Smoke and ash can cover panels, reducing their efficiency. Flames can damage panels and wiring, and the intense heat can cause inverters to fail.

During the Australian bushfire crisis in 2019 and 2020, many homeowners experienced damage to their solar systems. In some cases, panels melted due to the extreme heat.

4. Earthquakes

Earthquakes can cause physical damage to solar systems, such as broken panels or damaged mounting equipment, but more commonly, they cause electrical damage.

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When an earthquake occurs, the electricity grid can be disrupted, leading to power surges and other electrical issues that can damage inverters and other components. In 2011, the Tohoku earthquake in Japan caused widespread damage to solar installations in the country.

5. Lightning

A single lightning strike can cause significant damage to a solar panel system. The electrical surge from a lightning bolt can fry sensitive electronics and leave panels inoperable.

6. Hailstorms

Hailstones can come down hard and fast, causing damage to solar panels. Even small hailstones can crack or dent panels, leading to costly repairs.

7. Landslides

Landslides pose a unique challenge for solar panel installations, as they can cause the ground to shift and move beneath them. This can damage the mounting structure or cause panels to tilt or fall.

8. Extreme temperatures

Both heat waves and cold snaps can take a toll on solar panels. Extreme heat can cause panels to overheat and reduce their output, while freezing temperatures can lead to cracks and damage.

9. Volcanic eruptions

Volcanic eruptions can blanket solar panels in ash and debris, reducing their efficiency or rendering them inoperable.

10. Windstorms

Strong winds can cause panels to become dislodged or damaged, sending them crashing to the ground.

Common Natural Disasters for Solar Installations: How to avoid them
Common Natural Disasters for Solar Installations: How to avoid them

11. Sandstorms

Sandstorms can deposit a fine layer of sand onto solar panels, reducing their efficiency and output.

12. Ice storms

An ice storm can cause ice to accumulate on solar panels, weighing them down and potentially causing damage.

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How to Avoid Common Natural Disasters for Solar Installations

It is essential to take preventive measures to minimize the impact of natural disasters on solar installations. Below we will give various steps that homeowners, businesses, and solar installers can take to protect their solar investments from the potential danger of natural disasters.

So, if you’re looking to safeguard your solar installation from common natural disasters, read on to learn crucial tips to protect your investment.

1. Hurricanes and Tornadoes

To avoid damages due to hurricanes and tornadoes, installers need to install the solar panels in a sturdy structure and make sure to use high-quality materials that can withstand strong winds and hail.

2. Floods

Floods can damage solar installations and pose a risk to nearby homes and buildings. To avoid this, choose an appropriate location for the solar installation that is not prone to flooding.

3. Wildfires

Wildfires can destroy solar panels and other equipment. To avoid this, make sure to use fire-resistant materials and follow local regulations for fire safety.

4. Earthquakes

Earthquakes can cause structural damage to the solar installation. To avoid this, use earthquake-resistant materials and make sure the installation is properly anchored.

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5. Lightning Strikes

Lightning strikes can damage solar panels and pose a risk to the surrounding area. To avoid this, install a lightning protection system and follow electrical safety precautions.

6. Snow and Ice

To avoid damage due to snow and ice storms , choose an appropriate angle for the solar panels, use high-quality materials, and clear snow and ice from the panels regularly.

7. Extreme Heat

Extreme heat can cause damage to solar panels and decrease energy production. To avoid this, use high-quality materials that can withstand high temperatures and make sure the panels are properly ventilated.

8. Wind damage

Strong winds can also cause damage to solar installations. Wind can knock panels off their mounts or even rip them off the roof. To prevent wind damage, you should make sure that your solar panels are properly fastened to the roof or mount. You can also consider installing wind deflectors to help reduce wind resistance and protect your panels from strong gusts.

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For more information on how to protect your solar installation, check out this guide from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory(NREL).

Conclusion

Natural disasters are a significant risk to solar installations. However, by taking the necessary precautions, homeowners can protect their investments. It’s important to ensure that solar systems are installed correctly, and that the equipment is rated for the local weather conditions. Additionally, homeowners should have a plan in place for how to respond in the event of a disaster. By being prepared, homeowners can minimize the damage and quickly get their solar systems up and running again.

Additionally, the key to protecting your solar installations from natural disasters is to plan ahead and take necessary precautions. Investing in high-quality materials, properly installing systems, and regularly maintaining them can help to minimize the risk of damage from natural disasters. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your solar installation continues to provide clean energy for years to come.

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Simon Tyrus Caine

Simon Tyrus Caine is a solar energy expert with more than 10 years experience in the solar sector. Simon has worked and lived in more than 5 countries. Simon has been involved in solar installations, solar project development, solar financing as well as business development in the solar sector. At SolarEyes International, Simon manages content development and day to day operations of the organisation.

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