What is a common cause of failure in solar PV modules?

Physical damage, such as from hail or high winds, is indeed a common cause of failure in solar PV modules. Solar panels are designed to withstand certain environmental stresses, but extreme weather conditions can exceed those thresholds. For instance, hail impacts can crack the glass surface of the panels, leading to reduced efficiency or complete failure. High winds can displace or break modules if they are not securely mounted or if they are subjected to debris. Such physical damages compromise the structural integrity and operational reliability of the solar panels.

While improper installation techniques can lead to issues, and inadequate monitoring systems can prevent the identification of performance problems, none of these directly cause the modules themselves to fail in the way that physical damage does. Excessive sunlight exposure is also not a cause of failure since solar panels are designed to convert sunlight into electricity and can operate effectively under prolonged sunlight conditions without failing. Thus, the emphasized choice highlights a tangible risk factor that directly impacts the performance and longevity of solar PV systems.