Cold Weather is Coming.
A common myth is that solar panels and snow do not work well together. Surprisingly, cold temperature typically improves solar panel energy production. The white snow reflects sunlight to improve photovoltaic (PV) performance. Solar panels require sunlight to generate electricity, not heat, meaning winter temperatures won’t impact solar system performance. Solar systems harness sunlight, converting it into clean electricity – with no carbon emissions or water usage. Solar panels are also durable and withstand winter weather, even in geographies with frequent snowstorms and ice.
Winter weather does bring shorter days and snow-covered solar panels, resulting in system output sometimes lower versus long summer days. The good news is today’s solar panels offer increased efficiency in colder weather and today’s solar systems utilize the surplus energy produced in summer to generate power and achieve efficiency throughout winter weather.
Do solar panels work with snow on them?
Snow on solar panels can actually be a thriving condition since during snow/ice glare (even mild conditions), the UV light is strong and penetrates – allowing the array to produce energy. While a solar system/array does produce less energy when completely snow-covered, the black color attracts heat and the angle of the panels allows snow to quickly slide off, resulting in energy output that is actually high due to sunlight reflecting up to the now-clear panels from the snowy ground.
Since clear, ice on solar panels does not block sunlight, resulting in continued energy production. Also, a solar panel’s waterproof design prevents ice damage.
To maximize the amount of winter weather energy generation – contact your professional installer to adjust the angle of solar panels and catch more sunlight during winter’s shorter days. Steeper angles capture more sunlight and limit the heavy snow accumulation. Even a 10 to 15-degree difference can maximize energy generation.
Important Note: Do NOT clear snow from solar arrays because you might damage the array and also the panels are often located on inclines or in dangerous areas to access, risking your safety. Melting snow can slightly clean solar panels, removing dirt/dust build-up to keep solar system efficient. However, it is important to schedule professional cleaning once or twice annually.
It’s true – solar panels are actually more efficient in winter weather!
How does that happen? Photovoltaic (PV) cells in solar panels create energy when sunlight (aka irradiance), hits the PV cells to activate electrons in the silicon. The overall energy produced by a solar system depends on the difference between resting and moving electrons. The faster electrons move, the more energy is produced.
So… do solar panels work in winter weather? YES because…
- Electrons at rest have less energy versus when electrons are activated by the sun, resulting in a difference that is larger for higher energy output.
- As temperatures drop, resistance of the wire drops, resulting in more power transmitted.
- Solar is more efficient in winter weather since there is less voltage drop in cold temperatures versus warmer/hot.
Should you install snow guards for your solar panel system?
Living in the Midwest where snow on solar panels can accumulate several inches, installing snow guards for your solar panel system is a good idea.
- Easy to install when the installer is already up on your roof and the solar panels are clean.
- If solar panels are already installed – snow guards can be installed after initial panel installation.
- Installing snow guards keeps loved ones safe from falling sheets of snow and eliminates repairs to landscape, fences, gutters, and even parked vehicles.
- A variety of designs available to safely shed snow from solar panels, but in general there are two types of snow guards: clamp-on guards & snow fences.
Cut into your energy costs today — get a quote from Illinois Solar Services. Our online quotation tool makes it easy for you to get a quote on solar, tailored for you.
Ready to explore further? Contact Illinois Solar Services: Email David Knight or call 309-444-0982 today!