Do solar panels work when the weather is cloudy and cold?
That’s an important question for anyone thinking about investing in solar, particularly in the North-east of Scotland, which has an average of less than seven hours of daylight a day during the winter months.
The good news is that they do work, even on the dullest of days, generating electricity for your home or business.
Read on to find out how and why solar panels are one of the best investments you’ll make, even in Northern Scotland:
- Solar panels are made up of solar PV cells (or solar photovoltaic cells), generating power from daylight, not sunlight or heat. When light shines on them, it makes particles called electrons move, creating electricity.
- Solar panels get most light around noon on a clear sunny day when the sun is highest in the sky.
- Solar panels work on cloudy days as they draw energy from the sun, benefitting from its natural energy every day, even when it’s cloudy or during the shorter days.
- Even when light levels are lower, for example on cloudy days, solar panels will still work as the sun is still there, even if it is hidden.
- While solar panels produce less energy in winter, the grey low light of a mid-winter afternoon still releases enough energy to make electricity Solar panels get most light.
- Most homes use more energy at times of the year when there are fewer hours of daylight. Adding a solar battery system to your solar panels is the solution. This can be done even if you have existing solar panels.
- Rain can help the efficiency of solar panels by washing off dirt or dust that prevents light getting through.
- Always seek advice from a professional, accredited company on the right system for your needs and requirements when considering installing a solar system.
Learn more
Find out more about installing our solar energy systems.
For more information about solar panels, and which systems would work best for your home or business, contact us today. We are professional accredited installers.
About Stuart Munro
Stuart Munro, Director of i-Protech Technology and i-Protech Renewables Ltd, has almost a decade of expertise with renewable energy. Stuart has solidified i-Protech’s stature as a leader in solar energy and battery storage solutions. His commitment to renewable technologies has not only advanced the company’s portfolio in electrical and security systems but also underscored his dedication to environmental stewardship.
