Extreme Hail Storms Are Wrecking Solar Farms—but Defending Them May Be Easier Than It Seems
How do solar panels typically respond to hail impacts?
Solar panels can generally withstand hail impacts due to their durable construction, featuring a layer of tempered glass. However, in severe hailstorms, the panels may sustain damage such as cracked glass, dented aluminum frames, or damaged solar cells and wiring. Measures like using protective covers, adjusting panel angles, and regular inspections can help mitigate hail damage risks.
What technologies do companies like Nextracker use against hail?
Nextracker uses a combination of sophisticated weather forecasting and solar panels that can turn to avoid direct hits from hailstorms. Their hail mitigation product connects weather forecasts from DTN and others, and uses the data to adjust panel angles ahead of hailstorms. The systems are operated with software that can be used both on-site and remotely, and they have battery backups to function during power outages.
What caused the damage to the Fighting Jays solar project?
The damage to the Fighting Jays solar project was caused by a severe hailstorm in March 2024, with hailstones as large as golf balls damaging thousands of solar panels across the 3,300-acre facility in Fort Bend County, Texas5.