Which factor greatly affects the performance of solar panels?

Temperature is a critical factor that significantly affects the performance of solar panels. Solar panels typically have an optimal temperature range in which they operate most efficiently. As the temperature increases, the efficiency of the solar cells can decrease, leading to lower electrical output. This phenomenon occurs because the semiconductor materials used in solar cells can lose some of their ability to convert sunlight into electricity at higher temperatures. Conversely, colder temperatures can improve the performance of solar panels.

While other factors like technician expertise, panel material, and battery type do play roles in the overall efficiency and effectiveness of a solar power system, they do not have as direct an impact on the performance of the solar panels themselves as temperature does. For instance, technician expertise relates to installation and maintenance, panel material affects durability and efficiency ratings but does not change with environmental conditions, and battery type influences energy storage rather than the immediate output from the solar panels. Thus, temperature stands out as a fundamental aspect of solar panel performance.