Understanding the Performance Level of Solar Panels at Winter
Maximising Solar Power Generation in Winter
As the demand for sustainable energy sources continues to rise, solar power remains a crucial player in the quest for cleaner and greener electricity as the UK heads towards net-zero. However, one common misconception is that solar panels are less effective during the winter months. In reality, solar panels can still generate significant power during winter, and understanding the factors influencing their performance is essential for maximising their efficiency.
Daylight Duration
While the days are shorter in winter, solar panels can still harness sunlight effectively. The key is to optimise the panels’ positioning to capture the available sunlight during the limited daylight hours. When we conduct site surveys for solar panel installations, we asses all of the variables so that your solar panel install is as effective at power generation as possible regardless of whether it is the height of summer or the depths of winter.
Angle and Tilt
Adjusting the tilt and angle of solar panels is crucial for maximising their performance in winter. In regions with distinct seasons, adjusting the tilt to a steeper angle during winter can help capture more sunlight, as the sun’s trajectory is lower in the sky. This can be done on certain types of solar panel installation and if you would like to know more, please contact us.
Temperature and Efficiency
Contrary to popular belief, cold temperatures can benefit solar panel performance. Most solar panels operate more efficiently in cooler conditions. While winter days may be shorter, the lower temperatures can enhance the conductivity of the panels, improving overall efficiency. So while there is less daylight to generate electricity, you are generating more electricity per hour of daylight than you would be during warmer weather.
Snow Coverage
Snow accumulation on solar panels can hinder their performance temporarily. However, many solar panels are designed to be self-cleaning, and light snowfall can slide off on its own. Additionally, cleaning panels when feasible can help ensure optimal performance. In cities like Glasgow, snow is a lot less common than it once was therefore snow coverage is rarely an issue for solar panels in urban, built up areas of the UK.
Clear Skies and Reflection
Winter often brings clear, crisp skies with less atmospheric interference. This can result in a higher solar irradiance, positively impacting the performance of solar panels. Additionally, snow-covered ground can act as a reflector, bouncing sunlight back onto the panels and increasing overall efficiency.
Battery Storage
To mitigate the impact of shorter days and longer nights, incorporating energy storage solutions like batteries is crucial. Storing excess energy generated during the day allows businesses to use solar power even when the sun is not shining. Battery storage systems are a great way to taking full advantage of solar panel installations and many of the solar installs that we do include some level of battery storage system installation as well. If you would like to know more about battery storage systems, please click here.
Regional Variations
The performance of solar panels in winter can also be influenced by geographical location. In areas with milder winters, solar panels may maintain high performance levels throughout the season. In contrast, regions with severe winter conditions may experience temporary drops in efficiency due to heavy snowfall.
While it’s true that solar panels may face some challenges during winter, their overall performance can still be substantial with proper planning and maintenance. Businesses can benefit from understanding the factors that influence solar panel efficiency in winter and taking proactive steps to optimise their systems. With our solar panel maintenance plans, we can help you every step of the way to ensuring maximum energy generation and reduced energy costs for your business.
As technology continues to advance, innovations in solar panel design and energy storage solutions will likely contribute to improved winter performance. As the world moves toward a more sustainable energy future, harnessing the full potential of solar power, regardless of the season, is a crucial step in reducing our reliance on conventional energy sources and combating climate change.
More businesses than ever before are turning to solar panels as a real way of controlling their companies energy costs. Having solar panels installed on the roof of your business will allow you to better control your energy expenses and even help your business to turn it into a revenue stream.
We install solar panels and battery storage systems for businesses across Scotland and England who want to reduce their reliance on the national grid, lower their energy costs and help reduce their carbon footprint.
The process of solar panels is quite simple. Solar Photovoltaic (PV) modules harness energy from the sun and generate this into electricity for use in and around your office building. Solar Panels only need daylight to produce electricity, meaning that they can provide energy all year around, even on a cloudy day in the North of Scotland.
Finance Options
Whatever size your business is, solar power can significantly reduce your companies energy costs while benefiting the environment. We are proud to be able to offer our customers multiple finance options through our financial partnership with Systems Finance so that your business can go green today rather than wait while saving for tomorrow.
Our range of finance options allow you to spread the costs into manageable payments and even have the solar panels installed for free if you sign up for a Solar PPA.
If you would like to know more about how your business can benefit from solar power 365 days a year, contact us today.
We pride ourselves on our service and the quality of our workmanship. Having originally founded as a green energy solution provider, we have grown to become one of the leading specialists in solar installation across the country. Quality matters to us, which is why our entire installation team is made up of 100% full time Low Energy Services staff members. Our installation team are Safe Contractor Approved and MCS Certified. This dedication to quality allows us complete control over the quality of our work and means that we can respond faster to the requirements of our customers. We are not reliant on sub contractors and can therefore guarantee our work to the highest of standards.
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