Several factors could contribute to the underperformance or malfunction of solar PV panels installed in Summerfield, Florida, compared to statewide solar installations. Here are some possible reasons:

1. Installation Issues

• Improper Orientation and Tilt: Solar panels must be installed at the right angle and orientation to maximize sun exposure. Incorrect alignment could drastically reduce energy production.
• Shading Problems: Trees, nearby buildings, or other structures may cast shadows on the panels, reducing their efficiency. Even partial shading can impact the overall output.
• Poor Electrical Connections: Faulty wiring or connections between the panels and the inverter or the electrical grid can result in the system not functioning properly.
• Inadequate Mounting: Roof-mounted panels that are not installed securely can shift or get damaged, affecting performance.

2. Substandard Equipment

• Defective Panels: There may be manufacturing defects in the panels themselves, such as micro-cracks in the cells or other component failures.
• Low-Quality Inverters: The inverter, which converts the DC energy from the panels into usable AC power, might be of poor quality or incompatible with the panels.
• Mismatch in Components: Using mismatched or incompatible components (panels, inverters, optimizers) can cause inefficiencies in the system.

3. Design Flaws

• Over-Estimated Energy Production: The system may have been designed based on optimistic projections of energy output without accounting for real-world conditions like seasonal changes in sunlight or local weather patterns.
• Undersized Systems: The system might have been undersized for the client’s energy needs, leading to lower-than-expected power generation.

4. Maintenance Issues

• Lack of Regular Maintenance: Solar panels need periodic cleaning and inspection to maintain peak efficiency. Dust, debris, or bird droppings can accumulate on the panels and reduce performance.
• Panel Degradation: Over time, solar panels naturally degrade, and if the degradation is faster than expected, the output can drop below anticipated levels.

5. Inadequate Permitting and Compliance

• Non-Compliance with Local Codes: Florida has specific regulations for solar installations. If the system was not properly permitted or failed to meet local building and electrical codes, it could lead to failures.
• Grid Connection Problems: If the system was not properly interconnected with the utility grid, it might not generate or store power correctly.

6. Environmental Factors

• Weather and Climate Conditions: Even though Florida generally has favorable conditions for solar energy, localized environmental factors like frequent storms or excessive humidity can impact performance.
• Heat Issues: High temperatures, common in Florida, can decrease solar panel efficiency. Panels lose efficiency as temperatures rise, which could explain the lower-than-expected output.

7. Lack of Monitoring

• No Performance Monitoring: If the system was installed without proper performance monitoring, the client might not have been alerted to early issues, leading to more significant problems over time.

Comparison to Statewide Installations

• Statewide, Florida has seen a rapid increase in solar installations, driven by favorable conditions and incentives. In general, the performance of solar systems in Florida is high due to abundant sunlight. However, localized issues with installation quality, improper system design, or poor maintenance can create outliers like your client’s case.
• Most successful systems involve careful design, proper installation by certified contractors, and regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance.

In your client’s situation, it will be important to review the installation reports, product warranties, and any available performance data to pinpoint the exact reasons for failure. It’s also likely that expert testimony from solar engineers could clarify the deficiencies.