How North-Facing Solar Panels Perform in the Scottish Winter

Solar panels have become a pivotal part of the UK’s shift towards renewable energy.

Their efficiency is often associated with direct sunlight however, the potential of solar energy is not limited to sunny climates or optimal south-facing orientations. In fact, even in challenging environments like the Scottish winter, north-facing solar panels can work effectively. How do we know that?  Because we have installed many north facing solar panel systems and can see first hand the energy results that they can produce, even in the darker months of winter in Scotland.

Understanding Solar Radiation in Scotland

Scotland’s latitude means that it experiences long, dark winters, with the sun lower in the sky compared to more southerly regions. This lower solar angle naturally reduces the amount of direct sunlight that solar panels receive. However, this does not render solar panels ineffective. Instead, it highlights the importance of understanding the nuances of solar radiation.

In winter, much of the solar energy comes in the form of diffuse radiation, which is sunlight scattered by the atmosphere and clouds. Diffuse radiation can reach solar panels from all directions, not just directly from the sun. Therefore, north-facing panels, though not in the optimal position to capture direct sunlight, can still harness this scattered light, contributing to their energy output.

One of the surprising advantages of winter conditions is the reflective quality of snow. Snow-covered ground acts as a natural mirror, bouncing additional sunlight onto the solar panels. This albedo effect can boost the performance of north-facing panels by increasing the amount of light they receive, especially when direct sunlight is scarce. Moreover, snow on the panels themselves can melt quickly due to the heat generated by solar cells during operation, minimising any potential energy loss.

Temperature Efficiency

Solar panels are more efficient in cooler temperatures. While it might seem counterintuitive, solar panels generate more electricity in cold weather than in hot conditions. This is because high temperatures can cause the panels to overheat, reducing their efficiency. In contrast, the cool Scottish winter provides an ideal environment for solar panels to operate efficiently, offsetting some of the reduced sunlight with increased electrical output per unit of sunlight received.

Advances in Solar Technology

Modern solar technology has significantly improved the performance of solar panels in less-than-ideal conditions. Advancements in photovoltaic (PV) technology have led to the development of panels that are more sensitive to a broader spectrum of light, including the diffuse light prevalent in Scotland’s winter months. These technologies ensure that even when direct sunlight is limited, solar panels can still produce a meaningful amount of energy.

Energy Storage Solutions

One of the key strategies to maximise the effectiveness of solar panels in any orientation is to pair them with battery storage systems. In Scotland, where winter days are short and the sun’s angle is low, storing excess energy generated during brighter parts of the day is crucial. By storing this energy, businesses can continue to rely on solar power during the darker hours, reducing the dependency on the grid and enhancing the overall efficiency of the solar system.

Optimised Installation and Design

The effectiveness of north-facing solar panels can be significantly enhanced through thoughtful design and installation practices. For example, angling the panels to maximise their exposure to the available sunlight, or installing them on roofs with a slight tilt, can help capture more diffuse light.

Economic and Environmental Benefits

Despite the perceived challenges, north-facing solar panels in Scotland still offer substantial economic and environmental benefits. While they may not produce as much energy as south-facing panels, they still contribute to reducing electricity bills and carbon footprints. Moreover, any renewable energy generated during the winter reduces the need for fossil fuels, contributing to Scotland’s ambitious targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

North-facing solar panels can indeed work effectively even in the depths of the Scottish winter. Through the combination of diffuse radiation, the reflective properties of snow, cold-weather efficiency, advanced solar technologies, and energy storage solutions, these panels can still provide meaningful energy output. While not as optimal as south-facing panels, north-facing installations are far from ineffective, and they play a vital role in Scotland’s renewable energy landscape, helping to make solar power a viable option year-round.

And at Low Energy Services, we can assist your business with installing new solar panels for north facing roof space that can help you reduce your need for energy from the grid and help your business become more environmentally friendly.  We cover all of Scotland for Solar Installations and Battery Storage Systems.  To find out more about the process behind solar installations and how they can benefit your business, get in touch today.