System and Method for Protecting Solar Panels from Inclement Weather

A method comprising:

• receiving, by at least one processor of a solar panel positioning system, indications of inclement weather;
• and
• in response to at least one indication of inclement weather, performing further operations comprising:
• operating at least one actuator assembly to rotate at least one panel assembly comprising a solar panel and shield about a horizontal axis from at least one collection orientation that enables the solar panel to receive direct sunlight, and to a protective orientation that positions the shield above the solar panel to enable the shield to protect the solar panel from a falling object associated with the inclement weather;
• and
• maintaining the at least one panel assembly in the protective orientation for at least a predetermined period of time before allowing the at least one panel assembly to be rotated out of the protective orientation.

A solar panel positioning system comprising:

• at least one panel assembly comprising a solar panel and a shield, wherein:
• the solar panel is of a generally elongate rectangular shape defining a collection surface to receive direct sunlight from which to generate electricity;
• the shield comprises a sheet of material also of a generally elongate rectangular shape;
• and
• the shield extends in parallel to a back surface of the solar panel that is opposite to the collection surface;
• and
• a mounting frame comprising a horizontal component to which the at least one panel assembly is coupled for being supported above a support surface that is exposed to the sunlight, wherein the horizontal component is configured to be rotated together with the at least one panel assembly from at least one collection orientation that enables the solar panel to receive direct sunlight, and to a protective orientation that positions the shield above the solar panel to enable the shield to protect the solar panel from a falling object associated with the inclement weather.