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When it comes to renewable energy, many people question how well solar panels actually work in the UK during winter. With shorter days and overcast skies, you might wonder: do solar panels work on cloudy days, and can they still generate enough energy to make them worthwhile?
The answer is a resounding yes!
Let’s dive into how well solar panels perform during winter months, and what makes them such a valuable investment for UK homeowners…
Solar Panels and Battery Storage: A Year-Round Solution
While it’s true that solar panels generate more electricity during the summer, they are still really effective at generating power during winter - even in the gloomy UK! Solar panels rely on daylight rather than direct sunlight, which means they can produce electricity even on cloudy days.
Interestingly, rain can even be beneficial for solar panels by naturally cleaning off dust and debris, helping to maximise light absorption.
To maximise the benefits of solar panels in the winter, it’s a great idea to pair them up with a solar battery storage system. Battery storage allows you to store any excess energy generated during the day, ready for you to use in the evening when it’s dark. This is particularly useful in winter when the sun sets earlier, as your home can still be powered by renewable energy long after the sun goes down.
Do Solar Panels Work on Cloudy Days?
The UK is known for its grey skies, especially during winter. Lucky us!
With advancements in solar technology, modern panels are designed to be highly efficient, capturing as much light as possible even when our days are shorter and the sky is overcast. While clouds do reduce the amount of sunlight reaching the panels, they don’t completely block it. According to the Environmental and Energy Study Institute, on partially cloudy days solar panels can still produce up to 80% of their maximum output - so much so, that in February 2022, solar was able to provide more than 20% of the UK’s electricity supply!
It’s also worth noting that colder temperatures can actually improve the efficiency of solar panels! Excessive heat can reduce the performance of photovoltaic cells, so the cooler climate in the UK works to their advantage.
The South West: A Solar Power Hotspot
If you live in the South West, you’re in one of the best regions of the UK for solar energy. Areas like Cornwall, Devon and Somerset receive higher levels of solar irradiation compared to other parts of the UK, making them ideal for solar panel installations. Even in winter, the South West benefits from milder weather and more daylight hours than regions further north, boosting the efficiency of solar panels.
The combination of favourable weather conditions and the increasing affordability of solar technology makes the South West a fantastic place to invest in solar panels and battery storage. Whether you’re looking to reduce your energy bills or lower your carbon footprint, installing solar panels is a smart choice for your home, your bills and our planet.
Why Solar Panels in Winter Still Make Sense
Investing in solar panels in the UK isn’t just about summer savings; solar panels can operate throughout the year, regardless of the season. They continue to function in rainy, snowy or frosty conditions, though energy output is generally lower in winter. This is mainly due to shorter daylight hours and the sun sitting lower in the sky.
As for snow, while a thick layer can temporarily block sunlight, in the UK’s mild climate, properly installed panels usually shed snow quickly, either by sliding off or melting due to residual heat.
Here are a few reasons why solar panels remain a great option, even during the colder months:
- Daylight Dependency: Solar panels generate energy from daylight, not sunlight, ensuring they work even during shorter winter days.
- Battery Storage Benefits: Pairing solar panels with a battery storage system allows you to store energy for later use, maximising efficiency.
- Long-Term Savings: Solar panels provide year-round savings on energy bills, reducing your dependence on the grid regardless of the season.
- Environmental Impact: Generating your own renewable energy reduces your carbon footprint, contributing to a greener future.
So, do solar panels work in the UK in winter?
Absolutely!
While output will dip during the darker months, advancements in technology and the option to pair panels with battery storage make them a reliable and sustainable energy solution all year round.
For residents in the South West, the benefits are even greater, thanks to the region’s advantageous climate.
How to get the most out of your solar panels in winter
- Check for debris: Regularly inspect and clean your panels to remove dirt, leaves or obstructions that could reduce how much light hits them. It's best to hire professionals for hard-to-reach areas.
- Optimise energy use: Run your household appliances during peak solar hours, use smart plugs/timers, shift heat pump usage to daytime and limit high-energy use in the evening to make the most of reduced daylight hours.
- Utilise battery storage: Store excess energy for cloudy days using a solar battery, monitor charge levels and prioritise daytime charging.
- Monitor performance: Use apps to track energy production, consumption and trends. Set alerts for issues and review data regularly.
- Reduce energy consumption: Minimise non-essential energy use on low-production days, switch to LED lighting and use energy-efficient devices.
- Choose the right energy tariff: Compare tariffs to maximise savings and make the most of your solar potential.
Get a Solar Panel Quote
If you’re considering making the switch to solar panels, winter is no reason to hesitate. With proper planning and installation, solar panels can help you save money, reduce your environmental impact, and enjoy renewable energy - all year long.
Contact Natural Generation today to learn more about our solar panel options, and discover how we can help you make the most of solar power.
