Record heat doesn't mean record solar power

[Mark]

Why record heat doesn't mean record solar power:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-62220512

The record for total daily energy generation from solar in the UK was 80.6 GWh on 29 May 2020.
It's thought around 64 GWh was generated by solar systems on Monday (18 July 2022).

[adam2]

Agreed, high temperatures reduce PV output.
This reduction can be substantial for older types of battery charging system. Grid tied systems are less affected, but the reduction is still noticeable. A more modern battery charging system with a high voltage array and a MPPT controller is similar to a grid tied array.

Greatest daily output still tends to occur in summer as the reduced output is more than offset by the longer hours of daylight.

[BritDownUnder]

I think it is something like a 1% efficiency reduction for every 1C rise above 20C. I think a panel in the sun could easily be 50C so a 30% reduction is more than possible on a sunny day.

[kenneal - lagger]

But the efficiency loss is probably made up for by the increased length and intensity of insolation as there is less cloud around.

[BritDownUnder]

But the efficiency loss is probably made up for by the increased length and intensity of insolation as there is less cloud around.

Not over here in Australia. It can be relatively cool and still nice and sunny. I find I get the best solar yield when there is a lot of cloud in the sky except where the sun is so you get both direct sunlight and the diffuse light from the sun coming through the clouds.

Winter solar yields are slightly lower I think because the elevation (altitude) of the sun is a lower angle and the sunlight is not striking at a direct 90 degree angle to the panels.