Quick Answer
Solar panels can withstand hail to some extent, but specific tests are crucial to determine their resistance. The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) has set standards for testing solar panel durability against hail.
Testing for Hail Resistance
The IEC 61701 standard outlines a test method to evaluate the susceptibility of photovoltaic (PV) modules to damp heat. To test hail resistance specifically, the IEC 61215 standard is used, which involves dropping 25 mm diameter steel balls onto the module at an initial velocity of 23 m/s, simulating hail. Each ball is dropped from a height of 1.5 m, and the test is repeated for a total of 1,000 impacts.
Hail Impact Resistance
Some solar panel manufacturers claim to have hail impact resistant modules. For instance, the UL 1703 standard, which is used in the United States, requires solar panels to withstand a 1-inch (25 mm) steel ball dropped from 20 feet (6.1 meters) high onto the module. This test simulates a hail storm with balls having a diameter of approximately 25 mm. In contrast, the Australian Standard AS/NZS 5033 requires a 30 mm diameter steel ball dropped from 5.5 m high. The choice of test and ball size can greatly affect the results and the claimed hail resistance of a solar module.
Certification and Labeling
Look for certifications such as IEC 61701, UL 1703, or AS/NZS 5033 on the solar panel’s product label. These certifications ensure that the solar panel has undergone rigorous testing for hail resistance, but the actual results of these tests can vary between manufacturers. Some manufacturers provide additional data on the hail resistance of their modules, such as the maximum allowed impact velocity, the number of impacts, and the resulting damage. Always inspect the product label and manufacturer documentation to understand the actual hail resistance of a solar panel.
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