Shading Loss
Reduction in solar output caused by shadows from trees, chimneys, neighboring buildings, or other obstructions falling on panels. Even partial shading of one cell can disproportionately reduce string output.
Why It Matters
A shading analysis before installation is essential. Even 10% shading can reduce production by 30-50% with string inverters due to the weakest-link effect.
Related Tools
Related Terms
Shading Analysis
An assessment of how trees, buildings, or other objects cast shadows on your roof throughout the year, affecting solar production.
Bypass Diode
A small electronic component inside solar panels that allows current to flow around shaded or damaged cells, preventing them from becoming resistive loads that heat up and reduce output.
Microinverter
A small inverter attached to each solar panel, allowing independent operation and optimization of each panel.