All around the world, green energy is becoming more accessible and solar power is a key part of this development. However, because solar power utilises the sun to create power, its effectiveness changes based on the weather. This in turn varies between different climates. Regions that receive less sunlight and have more cloud coverage will get less effective use from solar power.
Most of the Australian climate provides the low cloud coverage and high sunlight levels that provide the perfect for solar power.
At Sunstainable, we’re keen solar enthusiasts. We have been providing commercial solar systems Melbourne, Sydney, The Gold Coast – everywhere in Australia – for over a decade. We’ve honed our skills and expertise about everything solar power over the years. So if you’re wondering why the Australian climate is one of those best suited to solar panels, we’re here to help you out!
Different Climates
For different regions to get the most out of renewable energy, they need to embrace the naturally occuring strong points occurring in their climate. For example, an area with high-powered winds can make much better use of wind power than a region with low-power winds. Ocean generated power will naturally be lacking for any countries that don’t have much, if any, access to the sea.
In terms of solar power, countries around the equator and in the southern hemisphere receive less cloud coverage than those in the northern hemisphere. This makes them more suitable for solar power.
Regions that get lots of rain, meanwhile, will have areas that are more likely to block sunlight, leading to less solar energy being transmitted to solar panels. Even tropical locations, which can provide great sunlight, also have frequent rainfall, which creates more clouds to block the sun.
Solar panels are still a great investment in these areas, as they can provide a convenient and easily accessible renewable energy. However, countries such as Australia can provide an excellent climate for solar panels, making them all the more advantageous.
The Australian Climate
The dry heat that exists in most of Australia is optimal for solar panels. Unlike tropical heat, dry heat isn’t correlated with humidity and rain clouds. Australia has a higher percentage of solar radiation per square metre than any other continent.
According to Geoscience Australia, the country receives on average 58 million petajoules of solar radiation every year. This is approximately 10,000 times bigger than Australia’s total energy use.
Other factors contribute to this too. As a relatively flat and sparse country, the rooftops of most houses in Australia have great access to the sun. Low cloud coverage prevents panel blockage.
Considering Solar Panels?
Australia’s natural solar radiation levels are too good to pass by. Whether you’re looking to get your first solar panels or upgrade to a better model, Sunstainable are happy to help you out today!
