How to protect photovoltaic and solar panels from hail

Picture this scene: you have just completed the installation of a photovoltaic system. Each panel is perfectly aligned, ready to capture the sun's rays and transform them into clean energy. As you look at your investment, you think about the revenues from the sale of energy and the contribution to a more sustainable future. But one afternoon, the sky turns dark. The first raindrops become hailstones. Small at first, but soon large and fast, they hit the panels with force. The noise is deafening. When the hailstorm subsides, you set off to check the damage: broken glass, compromised photovoltaic cells, and a feeling of helplessness. 

This scenario may seem extreme, but it is a reality that many PV and solar system owners have experienced and continue to experience. Hail, unpredictable and devastating, is one of the most serious threats to these systems.

The impact of hail on photovoltaic systems and solar panels

Until a few years ago, photovoltaic and solar panels were rarely compromised by hail. The smaller and less frequent hailstones were hardly able to damage the protective surfaces of the modules. However, with the intensification of extreme weather phenomena linked to climate change, hailstorms have become more violent and recurrent. Today, hailstones reach an average size of over 5 centimetres in diameter, travelling at a speed of 150 km/h.

Hail causes major damage to several components of photovoltaic and solar power systems, including:

• Glass surfaces: cracks, breaks and water infiltration compromise the efficiency of the panel.
• Internal photovoltaic layers: violent impacts damage photovoltaic cells, reducing their ability to generate energy.
• Frames: deformations in the support frames compromise the stability of the entire system.
• Wiring and connectors: vibrations caused by hail loosen electrical connections.

In recent years, the use of insurance as a form of protection against hail damage to photovoltaic and solar power systems has become increasingly complex. While policies are a preventive measure to keep repair or replacement costs down, insurance premiums are constantly rising, prompting many owners to forego this form of ‘protection’.

With increasingly violent and frequent hailstorms, insurance companies have experienced an exponential growth in claims. This has led to an inevitable increase in annual premiums. According to a European report from 2023, the cost of policies for photovoltaic systems has risen by an average of 30 per cent over the past five years (rising in 2024). In Italy, too, record hailstorms have prompted some companies to revise their contract conditions, limiting the maximum limits for weather damage or imposing higher deductibles.

A further problem is emerging: some insurance companies are starting to refuse policies for plants located in high-risk areas. Areas in northern Italy, for example, are becoming ‘red zones’ for the insurance industry.

Practical solutions to protect solar and photovoltaic parks from hail

For owners of photovoltaic and solar parks, the only solution to cope with hail is to invest in preventive measures: here we talk about AntGran® technology.

This anti-hail system is based on a unique and highly efficient approach because it prevents hail from forming at altitude. Officially on the market since 2025, AntGran® represents a breakthrough in hail protection.

For owners of photovoltaic and solar parks, this means first and foremost the avoidance of investment impairment, and also zero repair/replacement costs. Panels, frames and wiring systems remain intact, reducing expenses for extraordinary maintenance and replacements. The energy efficiency of the systems remains unchanged, with no drop in production due to hail damage and therefore, better long-term performance.

But there is much more. Hail nets, stronger panels, the use of tempered glass, sturdy supports, and increased panel inclination will only be a vain memory, so without filters and shadows, the energy yield of installations will be secure. 

Finally, AntGran® is also an advantage for insurance companies. By eliminating the risk of hail damage, insurance companies no longer have to deal with large claims and can concentrate on other eventualities, other damage or unforeseen events, promoting a more sustainable and collaborative insurance system.