California (CA)
Solar panel hotspots: what they are and why they matter in California
Hotspots are localised areas of overheating on a solar panel, typically caused by cell damage, micro-cracks, or persistent shading. They are the leading cause of accelerated panel degradation and are best detected via thermal imaging. Here's what you need to know.
How California's climate affects this issue
Hot, arid conditions significantly increase hotspot risk due to extreme thermal cycling and sustained high operating temperatures.
Climate
hot arid
Sun hours
5.8 hrs/day
Soiling risk
high
Solar adoption
high
Related issues
Cell hotspots
Localised overheating in individual cells caused by micro-cracks, shading, or manufacturing defects. Best detected via thermal imaging.
Typical loss: 5–20%
Check your California solar system
Use our free Solar Loss Checker to estimate how much energy your system in California may be losing.
Check my systemBased on conservative solar performance modelling and published degradation data
Updated April 2026 · Structured performance modelling
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