My Roof Has Shading – Can I Still Get Solar?
If your roof has shading from trees, buildings, or chimneys, you might be wondering whether installing solar panels is worth it. The short answer is yes, you can still benefit from solar, but the amount of shade on your roof and when it occurs during the day can impact the system's performance. Here’s what you need to know and the options available to make the most of your solar panels.
How Does Shading Affect Solar Panels?
Solar panels generate electricity when sunlight hits them. If part of a panel is shaded, it produces less electricity. This is where it gets tricky:
With string inverters (a common setup), all the panels are connected in a series. If one panel is shaded, it can lower the performance of the whole system, much like how a single weak link affects a chain.
With micro inverters or power optimizers, each panel works independently. If one panel is shaded, it won’t drag down the others, so the system overall is less impacted.
How Much Does Shade Reduce Solar Performance?
The impact of shading depends on:
How Much Shade Your Roof Gets: A small patch of shade for a few hours a day will have a minor effect, but if large areas are shaded for most of the day, it could reduce your system’s output significantly.
When the Shade Occurs: Shade during peak sunlight hours (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.) has the biggest impact. Early morning or late afternoon shading matters less since panels naturally produce less energy during those times.
What Are Your Options If Your Roof Has Shade?
1. Use Micro Inverters or Power Optimizers
Instead of a traditional string inverter, consider using micro inverters or power optimizers. These technologies allow each panel to operate independently, so shading on one panel doesn’t affect the rest of the system. This can significantly improve performance on a shaded roof.
2. Adjust the Panel Layout
Your installer will assess your roof and recommend the best placement for the panels. For example:
They may avoid shaded areas altogether.
Panels can be installed on a different part of the roof that gets more sunlight, like the garage or shed.
3. Trim or Remove Trees
If trees are causing shade, trimming branches or removing certain trees can improve your solar system’s performance. This option depends on local regulations and your personal preferences.
4. Consider Adding a Battery
A solar battery stores the energy your system produces during sunny periods for use later. This can help you maximize your savings even if your panels aren’t producing at full capacity due to shading.
Will Shade Make Solar Not Worth It?
Even with shading, solar can still be a smart investment. A professional installer will design a system tailored to your roof and energy needs. Keep in mind that:
Feed-in tariffs (the rate you’re paid for exporting power to the grid) and lower energy bills mean even a partially shaded system can pay off.
Technology like micro inverters ensures you’re getting the most out of your panels, even in less-than-perfect conditions.
What’s Next?
If you’re worried about shading, the best first step is to book a consultation with a solar professional. They’ll assess your roof, measure the shading, and recommend the best setup to maximize your solar savings.
Solar is more adaptable than ever, so don’t let a bit of shade stop you from enjoying the benefits of clean, renewable energy. Contact us today for a free quote and expert advice tailored to your home!
