If you are considering installing solar panels in your home, you may be wondering whether they work in winter when daylight is at its shortest length. Solar panels work by converting sunlight into electricity, which can be used as an alternative to sourcing power from the National Grid. In winter, when there is little in the way of sun, you’ll be pleased to know that you can still get power from your solar panels. Here is a guide to explain why.
Solar panels convert diffused light
Bright sunshine is great for solar panels to convert to electricity, but they also convert diffused light. That means that in winter when the sun is low or there is a lot of cloud cover in the sky, photovoltaic tiles will still be able to use that light to turn into energy for your home. However, with fewer daylight hours, the amount of electricity generated will be less than in the sunnier months.
Does location matter?
The southern areas of the UK typically receive more sunlight per year than the northern areas, so it follows that solar panels will be more productive in the south. However, whether you are choosing solar panels Gloucester or Dundee, they are still a worthwhile addition for homeowners looking to reduce their energy bills. More information on the benefits of solar panels can be found at https://gsmlimited.com/services/solar-panels/gloucester.
Are there any exceptions?
One occasion when your solar panels might not work in the winter is if they are covered in heavy snow. This layer will prevent light from reaching the cells in the tiles, so they will be unable to generate electricity. Yet, according to Renewable Energy Magazine, light snow still allows light to penetrate through, so solar panels will continue to work in these conditions.
If you have been having doubts about installing solar panels due to the long British winters, don’t be put off. While they might not generate as much electricity during these months, you are still going to make significant savings in energy consumption and your bills over time.