Rain-Powered Solar Panels in Akron: Our White Paper

The integration of rain and solar energy harvesting represents an exciting frontier for renewable energy, particularly in cities like Akron, Ohio, where weather conditions fluctuate between sunshine and significant rainfall. 

This report examines the current state of solar energy in Akron, the potential of rain-powered solar technologies, and their applications in the region.

Current Solar Initiatives in Akron

Akron has demonstrated a strong commitment to solar energy adoption through several key projects:

The city secured $2.8 million from the EPA’s Solar for All program, aiming to install solar panels on 370 low-income homes, reducing household energy costs by $500 annually.

Since 2010, the Akron Metro RTA headquarters has been home to Ohio’s largest rooftop solar array (488 kW DC), generating 486,760 kWh annually and preventing 350 metric tons of CO₂ emissions—equivalent to 39,322 gallons of gasoline saved per year.

Nearby, Kent State University’s Geauga Campus installed a 322 kW ground-mounted solar system, covering 67% of the campus’s energy needs through a 25-year Power Purchase Agreement that requires no upfront costs while guaranteeing long-term savings.

Understanding Rain-Powered Solar Technology

Traditional solar panels suffer efficiency losses during rainy and cloudy weather, but hybrid solar systems are emerging as a solution by integrating triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) that can generate electricity from rainfall.

• TENGs function through the triboelectric effect, where the impact of raindrops on the panel surface creates an electrical charge, allowing for continuous energy production even in bad weather.
• A 2022 study showed that R-TENG hybrid solar panels had an average power density of 40.80 mW/m², which outperformed conventional solar cells (37.03 mW/m²) under rainy conditions.
• A paper-based Solar-TENG system has been developed, operating at 11.9V, enabling continuous power generation by capturing both solar radiation and mechanical energy from raindrops.

Performance of Solar Panels During Rainy Conditions

While solar panels still generate power during rainy or cloudy days, their efficiency is significantly impacted:

• On a foggy, rainy day, output can drop to just 10% of peak performance.
• Heavy storms can reduce solar production to nearly zero, making backup energy sources or storage solutions necessary.
• However, rainfall has one advantage: it naturally cleans solar panels, removing dust and debris, which helps restore efficiency after rain events.

Technological Innovations 

Recent advancements in hybrid solar-TENG systems have significantly improved their viability:

• Researchers have successfully integrated TENGs with perovskite solar cells, making raindrop energy harvesting much more effective than older silicon-based models.
• A next-generation Solar-TENG system enables uninterrupted electricity generation, making it ideal for:
  • Weather monitoring stations
  • Emergency power sources
  • Remote environmental sensors
  • Off-grid applications where consistent energy is needed

Potential for Rain-Powered Solar Technology in Akron

Akron’s frequent cloud cover and precipitation have traditionally been seen as a disadvantage for solar energy. However, rain-powered solar technology could turn this into an opportunity by ensuring a more consistent power supply year-round.

• The city’s commitment to renewable energy makes it a strong candidate for pilot programs testing hybrid solar-TENG systems.
• Low-income solar projects, such as the Solar for All initiative, could serve as an ideal platform to implement and evaluate this technology in real-world conditions.

Conclusion

Rain-powered solar technology presents a game-changing innovation that could solve one of solar energy’s biggest challenges: weather dependency.

• By harvesting both solar and kinetic energy from raindrops, hybrid systems could provide a steady energy supply, even in Akron’s unpredictable climate.
• As efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and durability continue to improve, Akron has the opportunity to lead the way in all-weather renewable energy solutions.

With ongoing research and strategic implementation, Akron could position itself as a pioneer in hybrid solar-TENG technology, benefiting both residents and municipal energy projects while maximizing renewable energy generation throughout the year.