As the cold weather arrives, many assume it’s not the ideal time for solar panel installation. But, winter months can actually be a perfect time to make the switch!
While winter challenges us with colder weather and potential snow it is important to remember that despite the lower solar radiation, solar panels are still able to work well during the colder months. Even though they don’t produce as much power as they do during sunny summer days, they still provide a reliable source of energy.
Solar panels can still generate electricity during the winter, though their performance can be influenced by a few factors typical of colder weather. Here’s a breakdown of how winter conditions affect solar energy generation:
Sunlight Hours
Snow Coverage: Snow on panels can block sunlight and reduce energy production. However, if the snow isn’t too deep, it often slides off the panels due to their angle, or can be cleared.
Reflectivity of Snow: If there is snow on the ground, it can actually enhance performance by reflecting sunlight back onto the panels, increasing energy capture.
Temperature
Cold Weather Can Be Beneficial: In winter, cold weather can even improve efficiency because solar cells work better at lower temperatures and they have the possibility of overheating in the summer. In addition to surviving the cold, winter also helps improve their efficiency by lowering their electrical resistance.
The UK’s climate promotes consistent solar production without the overheating seen in hotter countries. Even on clear winter days, solar output remains strong despite shorter and cooler hours of daylight. It has been found that efficiency typically drops by 0.3%–0.5% for every degree above 25°C, making cooler temperatures ideal for solar panels to operate more effectively year-round.
Cloud Cover
More Cloudy Days: Winter often brings cloudy or overcast days, which can reduce the amount of solar energy generated. However, solar panels can still produce power on cloudy days, albeit at lower levels. Solar panels convert solar radiation into energy, not heat, and can still generate significant energy from diffuse sunlight on overcast days. Solar energy currently accounts for around 4.9% of the UK’s electricity supply, reflecting that even in cloudy conditions, solar energy can be highly effective.
Why Solar is a Smart Business Investment
Energy Savings and Financial Benefits:
Investing in solar power not only supports sustainability efforts, but it also makes financial sense.
Here’s why:
- Control over energy bills: Gain stability in fluctuating energy markets.
- Tax benefits: Take advantage of government incentives for renewable energy.
- Pay off your system while saving on energy: Each month spent paying your energy bill could instead be used to pay off your solar system.
- Protect business expansion plans: Reduce reliance on unpredictable energy costs.
- Boost your commitment to sustainability.
Start using the sun’s energy to power your tomorrow
Get in touch to find out about our turnkey project management service, which can help you investigate, plan, fund and install commercial solar panels from small residential rooftops to large solar farms.
It is easier and more affordable than ever for your business to benefit from renewables and Procure Smart can guide you every step of the way.
