One of the most common questions we get from potential solar photovoltaic (PV) system owners in Peterborough is whether solar panels can still generate energy in the winter. It’s only natural for folks in the UK to wonder about this, especially considering our shorter and sometimes gloomier winter days. But let’s bust a myth right away – solar cells are not rendered ineffective during the winter. In fact, solar energy remains a dependable and resilient source of renewable energy, even in the colder months. For those considering solar panel installation in Peterborough, rest assured that this investment thrives even in winter. In this blog, we are going to explore:
- How Solar Cells Work
- Cold Temperatures Boost Solar panel Performance
- Green Energy in Winter with Solar Panels? Absolutely!
- Snow’s Impact and Rare Occurrences
- Cloudy and Rainy Days: No Problem
- Making the Most of Energy with Solar Battery Storage
- Winter vs. Summer Savings with solar panels
How Solar Cells Work
To understand why solar panels continue to function effectively in winter, let’s first grasp the fundamentals of how these marvels operate. So, how exactly do solar cells work? These technological wonders are made up of photovoltaic cells, typically crafted from silicon, which generate electricity when they come into contact with light particles called photons. These energized electrons then create an electrical current, ready to power up various devices.
Cold Temperatures Boost Performance
Interestingly, solar panels actually perform better in colder temperatures. Unlike what you might expect, excessive heat can reduce their efficiency. A chilly, sunny day can generate more energy than a hot one because of the energy differential between sunshine photons and electrons in the solar cell. For a more in-depth exploration of the impact of cold temperatures on solar panels, you can check this detailed efficiency improvement for solar cells panels by cooling reasearch 1.
Green Energy in Winter with Solar Panels? Absolutely!
You probably already know that sunshine can be a precious commodity in the UK. According to statistic 2, the United Kingdom receives only 30% of the maximum amount of sunshine attainable in a year. Now, you might be wondering about the winter months. Do solar panels, especially those undergoing professional solar panel installation in Peterborough, generate green energy when the days are shorter and the skies are cloudier? Absolutely! While the energy yield is highest between March and October, solar panels operate just fine in winter since they rely solely on light, not heat, as mentioned in the ‘ How solar cells work’ section.
Snow’s Impact and Rare Occurrences
What about snow? Well, heavy snow is a rarity in Peterborough, but it’s good to know that solar panels are tilted towards the sun, preventing snow from piling up. Even if there’s a coating, a little melting and slipping occur as the surface warms. Indeed, during chilly and cloudless days, the snow covering the ground acts as a reflective surface, bouncing additional sunlight onto your solar panels much like a mirror. This phenomenon known as the“albedo effect” 3 allows panels to generate increased electricity in colder temperatures.
Cloudy and Rainy Days: No Problem
Cloudy and rainy days are a reality in English weather. While there’s less sunlight available during winter in Peterborough, solar cells can still generate a surprising amount of electricity. They work not only in direct sunlight but also in diffuse light scattered by clouds, ensuring a continuous power supply.
Making the Most of Energy with Solar Battery Storage
Now, let’s talk about making the most of the energy generated. Solar battery storage, a crucial aspect of any solar panel installation in Peterborough, is a fantastic solution, especially during winter days with shorter sunlight periods. It allows you to store excess energy generated in the summer for use during darker hours in winter.
Winter vs. Summer Savings
Finally, regarding winter versus summer savings, it’s true that you might use more energy in winter than your panels produce. However, you’ll compensate for that in the summer when you generate more than you need. Adjusting the size of your solar panel installation to your annual consumption ensures maximum return on investment.
Conclusion
In a nutshell, rest assured that solar panels work their magic on cloudy days and in the winter months! Embrace the green energy journey with Story Electrical, your best choice for solar panel installation and renewable energy solutions in Peterborough, UK.
Ready to take the leap into a greener future? Get in touch with Story Electrical for reliable solar panel installation in Peterborough and surrounding areas.
Call us at 07895 253848 or 01733 577599 to discuss your solar needs or simply fill out our Online Enquiry Form to get started.
Join the solar revolution with Story Electrical – Your partner in a brighter and sustainable tomorrow. We also make solar panel installations in the surrounding areas of Cambridgeshire, Lincolnshire, and East England.
Ref.: Efficiency improvement for solar cells panels by cooling reasearch 1
Ref.: Monthly average daily sun hours in the United Kingdom from 2015 to 2023 2
Ref.: Albedo effect explained 3