Tree Shading Solar Panels

However as we outline below proper tree placement and pruning can allow solar panels to function in proximity to shade trees.

Tree shading solar panels.

Trees and buildings or other landscape features such as hills can block incoming radiation and cast a shadow reducing the usable solar radiation. Most states have few if any solar access laws especially in regards to shading from trees. Complaints are arising from an obscure state law known as the solar shade control act. As solar continues to grow trees shading solar installations is becoming more and more of a problem.

But i d definitely consider putting some more panels on the little second north facing roof. A renewable energy laboratory study found that shadows over pv photovoltaic panels reduce power production by one third. Shade from features in the immediate surroundings of your home can greatly affect the level of solar radiation reaching your panels. There s no denying that solar panels do not operate as well under shade.

Researchers are aware of the problem and are looking for ways to boost productivity in shady conditions. It protects homeowners investments in solar panels which can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Scott anders taylor day and carolyn adi kuduk 2010 hey your tree is shading my solar panels. Allow for the tree s root growth and canopy spread when.

Journal of sustainable real estate. California s solar shade control act. Combine that with the tree shading and those panels will probably lose about half their energy yield compared to unshaded north facing panels.