How to increase the efficiency of photovoltaic panels?

Photovoltaics have been enjoying enormous popularity in Poland and around the world for several years. This technology allows for independence from rising energy prices while simultaneously supporting environmental protection. While solar panels are highly efficient on their own, their actual performance depends on many factors that investors often overlook. It's worth knowing what can reduce energy production and how to effectively counteract it.

What affects the efficiency of photovoltaic panels?

PV module efficiency is a percentage value that determines how much solar energy is converted into electricity. Theoretical parameters provided by manufacturers are obtained in laboratory conditions – at a temperature of 25°C and solar radiation of 1000 W/m². Unfortunately, in real-world conditions, panels operate at much higher temperatures, which reduces their efficiency.

The efficiency of PV installations is influenced by factors such as:

level of sunlight,
angle and direction of roof slope,
shading of the module surfaces,
quality of assembly,
selection of installation power,
climatic conditions - especially temperature.

High temperature - the silent enemy of photovoltaics

Each degree above 25°C means a 0.37% drop in panel power. If the roof is made of heat-sealed roofing felt, its surface can heat up to 80–85°C in the summer. This means that PV modules placed just above the roof operate at a similar temperature, and efficiency can drop by more than 20%.

Development based on the product cards of the LONGi LR4-72HPH modules

Efficiency of photovoltaic installations during the year

Panels produce the most energy during the summer months – from May to September. Unfortunately, this is when roofs heat up the most, resulting in a decrease in efficiency. In practice, this means that energy yields can be significantly lower than the calculations in installers' quotes based on laboratory data.

That is why it is so important to take care not only of the modules themselves, but also of the appropriate operating conditions.

Graph of the dependence of photovoltaic panel efficiency on temperature

How to increase the efficiency of photovoltaic panels?

One solution is to use light-reflecting membranes, which replace traditional roofing felt or sheet metal. Light-colored water-based polyurethane membranes are often used for this purpose, such as Neoproof® PU W -40 and Neoproof® PU Fast -30 ; light-colored acrylic membranes, such as Neoroof® ; or solvent-based, two-component polyurea-based waterproofing membranes, such as Neoproof® Polyurea R and Neoproof® Polyurea C1 .

All of these products are Cool Material certified, confirming a high degree of solar reflection and reduced roof temperature. They are also characterized by high durability, flexibility, and ease of application. They can be applied using a roller, brush, or spray.

Two-component products, thanks to the addition of a hardener, are significantly more durable than single-component water-based products. It's worth keeping this in mind when selecting the right material.

Why are membranes a better choice than bituminous felt?

Lower roof temperatures – special coatings reflect solar radiation, limiting surface heating to approximately 30–45°C. This allows the panels to operate in optimal conditions and produce more energy.
Less weight – felt weighs approximately 6-7 kg/m², while the membrane weighs only 1.5-2.5 kg/m². This is a huge difference considering the additional load generated by the panels and mounting structure (18-25 kg/m²).
Waterproofing and no joints - the liquid membrane creates a uniform, tight coating, eliminating the problem of leaks typical of roofing felt.
Ease of maintenance - any repairs can be carried out quickly, most often by local repainting.
Better reflection of sunlight - the white membrane acts as an additional light source that the panels can use, increasing their efficiency.

Roof prepared for photovoltaics - an investment in profitability

Many investors focus solely on the cost of panels and installation, ignoring the condition of the roof covering. However, the roof itself is crucial to the performance of the entire system. Choosing a reflective membrane instead of another layer of roofing felt allows us to:

increase energy yield,
accelerate return on investment,
reduce the risk of overloading the structure,
improve the durability and tightness of the roof.

Summary

Photovoltaic panels are an excellent investment, but to fully realize their profitability, it's important to ensure not only the right modules and inverter, but also the right substrate. Reflective waterproofing membranes are a solution that reduces panel heat buildup, increases their efficiency, and shortens the payback period.

Before installing photovoltaics, it's worth asking yourself: does my roof provide optimal operating conditions for the PV modules?

If you want to learn more or choose the best solution, please contact us

+48 717 026 346 or biuro@trokentech.pl

Visit the TrokenTech and discover the available product range.

Tags: Energy efficiency , Roof waterproofing , Urban heat islands , Solar reflection

Published in: Roof waterproofing

Author: TrokenTech Technology Department

The Trokentech technology team is a group of experts with knowledge in the field of innovative production technologies and the secrets of chemistry. Is responsible for the quality control of our products, developing unique recipes and comprehensive systems, and technical advice. Thanks to their commitment and knowledge, you can be sure that you get the highest class solutions. If you need professional advice, contact us by phone: +48 717 026 346, by e -mail: biuro@trokentech.pl or visit one of our branches in Wrocław, Katowice, Poznań, Warsaw or Gdańsk.

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