If you’ve started your research on installing solar panels, you may have wondered if they’ll still work in winter. After all, the days are shorter and colder, and sometimes the UK does throw a bit of snow at us. The short answer is: Yes, solar panels work in the winter.
They actually work better in winter than most people realise. But, for a more in-depth look at the factors that influence winter performance, as well as how you can maximise your solar power all year long, read on.
Solar Panels 101: How They Work (Even in Winter)
Solar panels use photovoltaic (PV) cells to convert sunlight into electricity, not heat. They respond to photons in light, which means that, as long as it’s light, your system is generating power.
Solar panels do work in the dark, of course, but they don’t produce energy. The days are shorter in winter, but as long as it’s light, your panels will work.
Cloudy days or gloomy weather won’t make your solar panels stop working completely. Output will be less on cloudy days, but it won’t be 0. And there are many places with less sunshine than the UK that use solar panels, such as Germany.
Less Sunlight = Less Power?
As mentioned, solar panels will produce less power during winter. With fewer daylight hours, and the sun being lower in the sky, it’s not a question of whether solar generation will be affected but by how much.
Solar panels in the UK produce around a fifth of their annual output in the November to February period. That’s far less than during the summer, of course, but it can still help with your electricity bills.
Put simply:
- A 4kW system will generate around 300–350 kWh/month in summer
- That could be as low as 100–150 kWh/month in winter, depending on your location and roof pitch/orientation
Reduced power generation can still help you offset electricity bills and reduce dependence on the grid. Solar panels can also be paired with solar battery storage systems for even greater self-sufficiency.
Can Cold Weather Impact Solar Performance?
Solar panels generate less power in hot conditions, as PV cell performance starts to drop. Panels are often more efficient in cooler temperatures, which means winter can improve voltage output, provided there’s light.
Less sunshine in January, compared with July, is not offset by the fact that cold air supports better performance per unit of sunlight.
Is snow on Solar Panels problematic?
Snow can be a concern for many people, but it’s rarely as bad as they think. This is because:
Snow rarely stays on solar panels for long
In the UK, heavy snowfall is quite rare and often doesn’t last very long. Solar panels are usually installed at an angle steep enough for snow to slide off once the sun comes out.
Solar Panels Are Dark and Absorb Heat
Solar panels are usually black or dark in colour, so they absorb a lot of heat, much more than a regular roof tile would. This helps to melt snow more quickly.
Thin Snow Lets Light Through
Light dusting of snow doesn’t block all sunlight from reaching solar panels. PV panels can generate electricity through thin layers of snow. Efficiency will be slightly reduced, of course.
Heavy snowfall might be an issue in some areas, but if you need to keep panels clear, use a long-handled soft-bristled brush (never get on your roof). You can also speak to your installer about anti-snow technology.
Other Tips to Maximise Solar Panel Performance in Winter
Solar generation will be lower in winter, but there are several ways you can get the most out of your solar investment during the colder months.
Install a Solar Battery Storage System
Solar batteries store surplus energy generated in daylight hours for use at night. These are especially useful in winter, when there are fewer daylight hours but high demand for energy.
Regular Cleaning
Dirt and debris on solar panels can block sunlight and reduce output. Rain usually keeps most solar panels clean, but it’s worth checking after heavy storms or snow.
Solar Monitoring App
Monitor your solar panels using a solar monitoring app. This will allow you to track your system’s performance, see dips in output and understand your energy consumption throughout the seasons.
The Long-Term Benefits Are Still Worthwhile
Solar performance is lower in the winter, but solar panels still have a year-round benefit. With a well-installed system, you can save hundreds of pounds each year on your electricity bill.
Solar power you don’t use (when your home isn’t consuming as much as your system generates, such as during the day or when you’re out) can be sold back to the grid through schemes such as the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG).
And even when your panels aren’t generating, they’re still helping you to:
- Reduce your carbon footprint
- Offset rising energy costs
- Enhance your home’s energy independence
Conclusion
Solar panels work in the winter, and they work better than many people realise. Reduced sunlight and occasional snow aren’t optimal , but solar panels still generate electricity.
Solar panels don’t stop working just because it’s cold, and they can even work more efficiently in cold weather.
If you’re thinking of going solar, don’t let winter put you off. With a suitable system, smart usage, and the right battery setup, you can still benefit from solar power all year long.
Go Solar, Even in Winter
Eden Power Ltd helps UK homeowners transition to clean, reliable energy sources. We offer solar panels for first-timers or people looking to upgrade with a battery and are here to support you throughout the seasons.
