DO SOLAR PANELS WORK IN WINTER?

Temperatures do not drop in winter because the earth is farther from the sun, contrary to popular belief. The earth is farthest away from the sun in July and closest to it in January. So, what does this mean for your solar panels as the weather cools? We’ll answer any questions you have about how a solar panel installation works in the winter.

DO SOLAR PANELS WORK IN SNOW?

If you’ve ever wondered, “Will solar panels work in cold climates during the winter?” you’re not alone. Many people believe that solar panels do not work during the winter, but this is a myth. Solar panels work just as well during the winter as long as they are not covered in snow for an extended period (yes, even in the snow). Although heavy snowfall can reduce sunlight penetration, panels produce more electricity in winter than you might think. Anti-reflective glass designed to absorb maximum sunlight covers the silicon on premium solar panels, generating more electricity. This means that solar panels generate more heat from the sun than the surface of your roof. That heat melts snow faster than it does on your roof, allowing your solar system to continue producing power even when there is heavy snow on the ground. In many cold climates, winter precipitation is limited to a few days. Between November and March, Denver, Colorado, receives between two and three days of snowfall totaling more than 0.1 inches. Snow melts in a matter of days, especially on solar panels!

Furthermore, solar panels are designed to withstand 20 to 40 pounds of weight per square foot, so snow is rarely a threat. During the manufacturing process, all solar panels are subjected to pressure tests to determine quality and durability. And, because ratings vary by a panel, you can choose higher pressure ratings if you live in a snowy area.

DO SOLAR PANELS NEED WINTER MAINTENANCE?

The great thing about solar panels is that they require little to no maintenance for the majority of the year, including the winter.

If you live in an area that experiences heavy winter storms — think polar vortex level — you may want to hire a professional to remove wet, heavy snow from your roof if you’re concerned about roof safety. CellSol Energy takes extra precautions by installing snow guards in areas where snow can accumulate and cause damage.

Solar battery storage is also an important consideration during the winter — and throughout the year. This is because a battery allows you to store energy regardless of daily production.

Battery storage works by collecting all of the electricity generated by your panels and storing it in your home rather than sending it back to the power grid. As a result, you can use that stored energy when you need more power than your panels can provide, such as at night or on cloudy days.

HOW EFFECTIVE ARE SOLAR PANELS IN WINTER?

Remember this important fact about solar energy: it is not about warmth — it is about sunlight.

Summer solar power generation vs. winter solar power generation may surprise you. Because solar panels work more efficiently in cooler temperatures, cold, sunny weather is an ideal time to generate energy for your home. The industry-standard specifications for PV systems are made at 77oF, but they perform even better in colder temperatures. Even in the coldest temperatures, when the sun shines, solar panels produce the electricity you need to become more self-sufficient by generating your power.

LOOKING FOR SOLAR INSTALLERS IN YOUR AREA?

Even wind, cold, rain, and snow can’t keep solar panels from doing what they do best: generating clean energy to help you live more sustainably. And now is a great time to invest in a solar-powered home so that your installation is ready for the long, hot summer days. If you’re ready to make the switch, we’re here to assist you. CellSol Energy, a leading residential solar installer in Pakistan, has outfitted numerous homes and commercial businesses with solar, and we perform safe, contact-free installations to protect you and your family from COVID-19 spread. Contact us today for a no-obligation consultation, and we’ll get your home on the path to clean energy.