Do Solar Panels work in Cold Climates?
Solar Panels and the Temperature
Solar panels convert sunshine into electricity even at temperatures below freezing. This is because solar panels only collect light energy from the sun and do not capture heat. The efficiency of solar panels is actually best in cold climates. A solar panel will produce power as long as sunshine is shining on it. The main causes of any decreased productivity throughout the winter will be the amount of snowfall and the shortening of the daytime.
In the winter, Solar Panels are less likely to be operating at their highest temperature or power. Once their temperature rises above the recommended range, solar panels start to perform adversely. According to research, panels start to lose effectiveness around 77ºF. The additional daylight hours throughout the spring and summer months make up for this decreased efficiency.
Do Solar Panels work When It Rains?
Although solar panels produce the greatest energy under direct sunshine, they can also produce energy from diffuse or indirect sunlight (radiation). Clouds and rainy days result in hazy lighting. But how do they differ? Solar energy that is directed directly from the sun to the earth’s surface is referred to as direct light. Sunlight that has been scattered by airborne particles but has nevertheless managed to reach the earth is referred to as diffuse light. As a result, the amount of electricity produced is influenced by the cloud cover’s density. Despite the fact that energy production declines as cloud cover gets denser, solar panels continue to provide more energy than one may anticipate. Rain also aids in keeping solar panels clean so they may continue to function effectively.
Do Solar Panels Work in Snow?
We now know that solar panels perform better in Cold Climates, but what about when it snows? The good news is that solar panels can still produce electricity even when they are covered in snow. Snow does not stop sunlight from entering solar panels, which keeps the energy-producing process going. Snow melts more quickly and glides off solar panels’ reflecting, black glass before it may impair operation. Additionally, installation racks are often slanted up between 30 and 45 degrees to prevent snow accumulation (to a point). A thin layer of snow will probably blow away or melt away quickly. In fact, snow from the ground can act as a mirror to reflect additional sunlight onto your solar panels on cold, clear days. The ability of solar panels to produce more electricity in the cold is known as the “albedo effect.”
Solar Battery Storage during Winter Storms
The grid could not hold up as well during winter storms as solar panels. During the winter, power outages can happen frequently, sometimes leaving people in the dark and the cold for days. Despite the fact that a record number of Americans are staying at home due to the pandemic, it is getting harder and harder to endure the next storm without dependable backup power due to rising global temperatures and an increase in extreme weather occurrences.
Installing a rooftop solar panel system that is grid-connected and has battery storage can provide you with clean, renewable backup electricity so you can get through the next power outage. Solar panels have proven to be highly durable in the face of severe weather. You may reserve your sunny days for a stormy day by combining your panels with a solar battery.
Conclusion
Solar firms provide various financing options and solar plans despite the fact that solar panels plus battery storage can be a major investment. Solar panels can help you withstand the storm even though they cannot affect the weather. Every winter day is an opportunity to draw energy from the sun. Start managing your own energy so you can stay energized throughout severe weather. Contact one of our knowledgeable Solar Advisors right away.