Do Solar Panels Work in the Winter?
Solar panels rely on sunlight to generate electricity, but that doesn’t mean they only work in the summer. You can generate clean electricity year-round with rooftop solar panels, including during the winter months. Your output will be lower during the winter since the days are shorter, but you might be surprised by how efficient solar panels can be even with reduced sunlight.
In this article, we explain how solar panels work in the winter and share tips to help you optimize your solar output and savings year round.
How Solar Panels Work in the Winter
Solar panels work by converting sunlight into electricity, not heat. Because of this, they can still be highly effective during the winter months. In fact, colder weather can improve solar panel efficiency. The problem with solar panels in winter is that the days are shorter, which means there are fewer sunlight hours during which your solar panels can produce electricity. The result is lower output. But just because your production is lower during the winter, doesn’t mean it’s non-existent. Your panels will still generate some power, which is better than relying fully on the electric grid. Plus, you’ll be able to use your net metering credits to offset your winter grid usage.
The Role of Net Metering
Net metering is a billing arrangement between you and your utility provider that allows you to trade electricity with the grid. When your solar panels produce more electricity than you need, you can export the excess to the grid and earn credits in exchange. Think of it as rolling your electric meter backward. When your solar panels are not producing enough power, you can use your credit to buy electricity from the grid, reducing the cost.
Net metering credits roll over month to month, so you can bank credit in the summer when your solar panels are producing a lot of electricity. In the winter, when production drops, you can use your banked credits to offset the cost of the electricity you buy from the grid.
What About Snow?
Snow is one of the most common concerns people have about solar panels in winter. So let’s address the big question: How do solar panels work in the winter when it snows?
Snow can temporarily cover your panels and block sunlight, but in most cases, it’s not a major problem. Here’s why:
Snow Melts: Solar panels are mounted toward the sun so that they receive optimal light. Since they’re positioned this way, they heat up quickly, melting snow soon after accumulating.
Snow Slides Off: Solar panels are typically installed at an angle, which helps snow slide off as it melts.
Durability: Solar panels are built to withstand the weight of snow, so you don’t have to worry about damage.
Snowy Day Solar Production: Sunlight can still reach your panels if they’re not fully covered with snow. So, with a lighter dusting, you may still be able to produce some power.
Do You Have to Clean Snow Off Your Solar Panels?
You almost never have to clean snow off your solar panels manually because it typically melts and slides off on its own before it becomes a problem. If there’s heavy snow, it may take a while to melt, which will reduce your production. But the slight increase in production you would gain by removing it before it melts naturally is not worth the risk. Climbing up on your roof is dangerous, especially in the winter, and brushing snow off your solar panels with abrasive equipment can damage them. When it comes to solar panels and snow removal, we recommend letting the sun do the work.
Tips for Maximizing Solar Panel Performance in Winter
If you want to keep your solar system running smoothly during the winter months, here are a few simple tips:
Monitor Your System: Check your solar monitoring app regularly to see how much electricity your panels are producing. This will help you spot any unusual dips in performance.
Install a Battery Backup System: Solar batteries store the excess electricity your solar panels produce when it’s sunny. You can use your stored energy to power your home after dark. Solar batteries can also be used during a power outage, giving you additional peace of mind.
Final Thoughts: Are Solar Panels Worth it in Cold Climates?
So, will solar panels work in the winter? Yes. Solar panels are designed to generate electricity year-round, regardless of cold weather or occasional snow. While winter conditions may reduce production, solar incentives like net metering help balance the drop in production.
Of course, winter production is only one factor to consider when thinking about installing solar panels for your home. Sustainergy Cooperative can help you weigh all the pros and cons to decide whether solar makes sense for your home. We are a local, worker-owned solar company that’s committed to doing right by our customers. We offer free, no-obligation solar assessments and are here to help you make the best decision for your home.
