DNV launches new service to respond to climate change-driven hail risk for solar PV

DNV has introduced a groundbreaking service designed to provide solar photovoltaic (PV) developers with verified, data-driven assessments of hail risk across North America. By partnering with Jupiter Intelligence, a leader in climate risk analytics, DNV utilizes advanced climate science to offer a robust statistical approach for evaluating the threat of hailstorms today and in the future. This service comes at a time when extreme weather, particularly hail, is becoming an increasing concern for solar PV projects across the region.

In recent years, extreme hail events have caused significant damage to solar installations, even in areas not traditionally considered prone to hail. For instance, Texas alone has reported over $600 million in damages due to hailstorms within the past few years. The financial losses associated with such events have led to changes in insurance policies and raised concerns about the sustainability of solar projects in hail-affected areas. DNV’s service aims to address this uncertainty by offering precise data on the likelihood and size of hailstorms, helping developers better plan and protect their investments.

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Research indicates that severe hailstorms are shifting geographically, particularly northward in the central and eastern United States, regions with a growing density of solar installations. Historical weather data is no longer sufficient to predict future risks. DNV’s service offers solar developers projections on hail risks over the next 30 years, enabling more informed decision-making and risk mitigation strategies. As the industry faces the dual challenge of expanding renewable energy while confronting climate-related risks, this service offers a critical tool for ensuring the long-term viability of solar power projects.

By delivering actionable insights, DNV’s new initiative strengthens the resilience of the solar industry and helps it maintain its role in the global transition to clean energy. As solar power grows, addressing climate-related challenges such as hail becomes essential to safeguarding investments and the future of sustainable energy.