Solar Panel Efficiency vs. Temperature (2025)
One of the most significant yet often misunderstood factors is temperature. In this guide, we''ll explore the relationship between solar
For example, a panel with a temperature coefficient of -0.4%/°C means that for every 1°C increase in temperature above 25°C, the panel's efficiency drops by 0.4%. Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity more efficiently at cooler temperatures. When panels heat up, their voltage output decreases, leading to reduced overall power output.
With ambient temperatures often below freezing and panel temperatures around 10°C (50°F), the system regularly produced 10-15% more power than its rated capacity. The combination of high solar irradiance and low temperatures led to efficiency gains of up to 10% above rated values.
Since solar panels rely on the sun's energy, it's common to think that they will produce more electricity when temperatures rise. However, that's not the case. Photovoltaic solar systems convert direct sunlight into electricity. Therefore, these panels don't need heat; they need photons (light particles).
The overall power coefficient is negative, indicating decreased efficiency at higher temperatures. Contrary to what one might expect, solar panels actually become less efficient as they get hotter. This inverse relationship between temperature and efficiency is due to the physics of how solar cells work.
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