As the peak hailstorm season approaches in the U.S., homeowners with solar panels are facing the risk of damage from hail. Lauren Martin, who leads marketing at Freedom Solar Power in Texas, points out that while damage from hail is uncommon, the increasing severity of weather due to climate change makes it hard to predict future risks. Last year, her company had to repair several solar systems in Austin after they were hit by baseball-sized hail.
According to data from GCube Insurance, which covers over 100 gigawatts of renewable energy assets worldwide, hail has caused more economic losses for solar panel owners than any other natural hazard. Although hail-related claims made up less than 2% of total claims from 2018 to 2023, they accounted for over half of the insured damage in solar projects.
Hailstorms can occur anywhere in the U.S., but they are most frequent in the central and southern plains, particularly in a region known as "Hail Alley," which includes states like Texas and the Dakotas. This area has also seen a significant increase in solar installations. From 2017 to 2022, residential solar adoption in Texas surged nearly 650%.
For homeowners considering solar panels, it’s important to choose products that can withstand hail. Modern solar panels can handle hailstones about the size of a quarter (1 inch in diameter) at speeds of 50 miles per hour, provided they have the right safety ratings. The UL 61730 rating indicates that panels have passed hail impact tests. Homeowners should also inform their insurance companies about their solar installations to ensure coverage for the equipment.
If you lease solar panels or have a Power Purchase Agreement, check with your provider regarding insurance responsibilities. After a hailstorm, it’s crucial to assess any potential damage. Large hailstones or strong winds can crack or shatter solar panels, but not all damage affects performance. Homeowners should monitor their solar output and reach out to their installer if they notice any significant changes.
Typically, hail damage falls under "acts of nature," which are not covered by solar panel warranties. However, homeowners insurance usually covers this type of damage. When contacting a solar installer for an inspection, it’s wise to involve your insurance provider to document the damage and get repair estimates. If you rent solar panels, simply notify your equipment provider about the damage.
With the likelihood of more extreme weather in the future, homeowners with solar panels should stay informed and prepared to protect their investments.