Robinsun solar panels: Durable solutions for seaside conditions

Living by the sea has its perks: stunning views, fresh breezes, and abundant sunlight. However, the seaside environment can also present some unique challenges for solar panels, such as salty air, high humidity, and strong winds. For homeowners considering solar energy near the coast, understanding how solar panels resist these harsh conditions is crucial.

In this blog, we will walk you through the challenges that solar panels face in a seaside condition and how our Robinsun solar panels can deal with these challenges.

Challenges for solar panels posed by the sea

1. Salty air

Salt particles in the air can corrode metal components, including frames and electrical connections. Over time, this can compromise the durability and efficiency of solar panels.

2. High humidity

Excessive moisture increases the risk of condensation within the panel's layers, which could lead to electrical faults or reduced performance.

3. Wind and storms

Coastal areas often experience strong winds and storms. The force of these winds can damage poorly secured panels or mounts, while flying debris may pose additional risks.

How do Robinsun solar panels resist seaside conditions?

Currently we offer Aiko mono-glass solar panels and QN Solar bifacial solar panels. Both are of exceptional quality and suitable for installation around the coastal areas.

Aiko solar panels use black anodized aluminum frame and QN Solar ones use anodized aluminum alloy. This material is highly resistant to corrosion caused by salty air, ensuring the frame maintains structural integrity over time. The robust nature of anodized aluminum also helps the panels endure mechanical stresses like wind loads and impacts. 

Aiko solar panels use 3,2 mm tempered glass, offering high resistance to potential impacts, such as hail or debris, making it especially suited for windy coastal areas. The thick glass is less prone to microcracks caused by repeated environmental stress, ensuring long-term protection. QN Solar solar panels use dual 1,6 mm coated tempered glass. The dual layers of tempered glass provide extra strength against mechanical stress, such as flying debris during storms. The coating may also reduce salt deposits on the surface, minimizing maintenance needs and optimizing light transmission.

Both Aiko and QN Solar provide IP68 standard protection for the solar panel junction box with 3 bypass diodes. IP68 is a very high protection level, referring to dust tight and ingress of water in quantities causing harmful effects shall not be possible when the enclosure is continuously immersed in water under predetermined conditions. The 3 bypass diodes reduce power losses due to partial shading, a potential concern in areas with debris or salt buildup on panels.

QN Solar solar panels offer a max wind load of 2,400 Pa which converts to 62,5 m/s wind speed, making them resilient against strong coastal winds or storms. Mediterranean coasts often experience gusts between 20–40 m/s during storms or strong winds like the Mistral, Bora, or Sirocco. And our solar panels can withstand the strong winds. Aiko does not provide a maximum wind load amount but we can expect a good performance given its material use.

Conclusion

At Robinsun, we offer solar kits designed to withstand harsh conditions, including those found near the coast. Our solar panels feature corrosion-resistant materials, IP-rated components, and robust mounting systems, making them suitable for the seaside. Remember to rinse your solar panels with fresh water to remove salt deposits regularly and maintain efficiency.  Contact us via email, WhatsApp or call us directly if you have any questions.