Does Solar Only Work In The Summer?

Friday, 21st July 2023

Does solar only work in the summer?

One of the biggest questions on everyone’s lips when they are contemplating switching to green energy.

I am here to set you straight. The answer is no!

So how do solar panels work?

Solar panels rely upon the sun’s light rather than energy to generate electricity.

Panels are made up of photovoltaic cells which contain electrons. These electrons become energised when they come into contact with light particles, known as photons.

As with the majority of electrical equipment, solar cells function better in lower temperatures, as excessive heat may reduce the efficiency of the cells.

A chilly, sunny day will generate more energy than a hot, sunny day!

A rechargeable solar battery can help store this electricity so you can continue to use your green energy at night, during peak electricity usage or when the grid goes down.

Sunshine on a cloudy day

While, undoubtedly, solar panels are more productive in direct sunlight, there is a process that generates diffuse sunlight, which can also cause your panels to generate energy on cloudy days.

Diffuse light is sunlight that has been scattered by particles in the atmosphere, yet is still able to reach the earth’s surface. Therefore, energy can still be generated, just at a lower productivity level.

During winter months, we not only have to take into consideration the bad weather, but the shorter daylight hours too.

The good news is, usually with cloud, comes rain.

Rain can help the efficiency of your solar panels as it washes away dust and dirt that has built up over the months. This is why cleaning and maintenance is so important.

Let it snow!

Luckily, snow does not cling and pile up on solar panels like it would on most other materials as they are generally tilted towards the sun. The dark, reflective glass of panels accelerate snow melt.

In fact, even snow laying on the ground can reflect extra sunlight to your panels, almost like a mirror. We call this the “albedo effect.”

In the United Kingdom, our climate is not an immediate threat to efficiency and shouldn’t significantly impact solar energy production.

Solar battery storage is a great way to make the most of energy you have generated during the summer months.

In conclusion….

I think we have answered the burning question; "Does solar only work in the summer?

The months that generate the highest energy yield are between March and October.

However, we have now learnt that green energy can still be generated throughout the cold, dark winter months, and by adding battery storage to your system, you are gaining the maximum level of energy independence for your home or business.

Why not consider adding a solar iboost system to your hot water tank?

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Get in touch today and we can discuss your options and offer a free, no obligation quote.