Space

PV modules are very sensitive to being in the shade. Even a branch of a leafless tree can seriously affect the performance of the panel. A solar panel is made up of many cells and if a single cell is affected by shade it will draw all the electricity formed by the other cells into itself, causing the panel to produce a much lower current. What certain manufacturers have done though is place diodes in between the cells, reducing the problems caused by partial shading. It is for this reason that solar panels be placed in an area where there is no shade, especially between 09h00 and 15h00 when the panel is producing most of it's electricity.

Batteries should be kept in a dry room with good ventilation and kept away from interference by children and pets. They should always be kept upright. The optimum temperature range for a battery is between 27°C and 13°C, any lower or higher than this and the performance will diminish significantly.