Can Solar Power Plants Still Work During Rainy Conditions?

Solar Power Plants (PLTS) are one of the renewable energy solutions that are increasingly in demand because they are environmentally friendly and have abundant energy sources, namely sunlight. However, one question that often arises is: can PLTS still work when the weather is cloudy or rainy?

Before going any further, let's first find out how PLTS itself works. Yes, as we know, PLTS works by converting solar energy into electrical energy through solar panels containing photovoltaic cells. These cells capture photons from sunlight and convert them into direct current (DC). This electricity is then converted into alternating current (AC) by the inverter so that it can be used by household electrical devices or distributed to the electricity grid.

However, the question arises, when conditions are cloudy or even rainy, does it affect the performance of the PLTS, here is the explanation.

PLTS performance is influenced by the intensity of sunlight received by the solar panels. On a sunny day, solar panels work with optimal efficiency because sunlight directly reaches the surface of the panel. However, when the weather is cloudy or rainy, the intensity of sunlight decreases because it is blocked by clouds.

However, PLTS can still generate electricity in cloudy or rainy conditions, but with lower efficiency. This happens because sunlight is still scattered and reaches the surface of the panel, although in smaller quantities. The decrease in efficiency usually ranges from 10-25%, depending on the level of cloud density and the type of solar panel used.

Not only that, besides affecting efficiency, rain also has its own benefits for PLTS. Rainwater helps clean the surface of the solar panel from dust, dirt, or other pollutants that can reduce the absorption of sunlight. Thus, clean solar panels can work optimally again after the rain stops.

With that, the question "Can PLTS still work in rainy conditions?" The answer is "Yes" PLTS can still work in rainy conditions, although its efficiency decreases compared to when the weather is sunny. However, this decrease does not make PLTS completely non-functional. With good maintenance and technology that continues to develop, PLTS remains a reliable choice for generating environmentally friendly electrical energy, even in areas with weather that is not always sunny.

The use of energy storage batteries is also a solution to ensure that electricity supply is always available at any time, regardless of weather conditions. That way, PLTS remains a promising investment for the future of sustainable energy.

Together with SEI, let's switch to renewable energy!