If you are living in parts of the world where it is mostly sunny, then you surely could enjoy the maximum benefits of having solar panels because of the abundance of sunlight. Yet, did you know that in parts of the world where it is cold and snowy, solar panel use is still high?
The solar panels’ structure can withstand harsh weather conditions, so whether it is hot and sunny or cold and snowy, solar panels will still be a reliable source of energy. In regions where there is unlimited sunlight, solar panels can work optimally and generate electricity. But how do solar panels work in cold, snowy, and rainy weather?
Solar in Cold Weather
Solar panels make use of the light of the sun, not its heat, so even if it is cold, you can be assured that your panels are producing the needed energy. Panel cells do not necessarily demand direct sunlight to convert it into electricity. It requires the sun’s particles or photons, which they get from the atmosphere.
Solar panels then convert these photons into electricity. Therefore, the external temperature does not affect the capability of a solar panel for energy production. The colder temperature increases the efficiency of solar panels. In hot climates, research has shown that solar panels start decreasing efficiency when the temperature reaches 77°F and a one-degree increase after that could equal to a 1% decrease in productivity.
Therefore, cold weather with strong sunlight could be ideal for solar panels to work at its optimal.
Solar in Snowy Weather
People living in regions where they experience snow may be doubtful about the productivity of solar panels. If snow covers the panels, will they still work? Yes, while snow may cover the panels and only allows minimal sunlight to reach it, the panels will still work and produce electricity. The dark glass of the panels also helps in speeding up the melting of the snow.
The solar panel’s position is in an inclined angle, so the snow will slide down and will not cover the panels. Furthermore, a carpet of snow covering the system will also act as a mirror and reflects sunlight unto the panels, thereby increasing their electricity production.
So when it snows, you can still enjoy it without worrying about your panels.
Solar in the Rain
Solar panels are most productive when they receive direct sunlight. But they can still work by using indirect or diffused sunlight.
Radiation or diffuse light is a kind of light that disperses in the atmosphere. When it is rainy and cloudy, lights spread and can still reach the panels, that is why solar panels can still function during rainy days.
Rain can also wash away the dirt that is accumulating in the panels and can keep it clean and properly working.
How to Make it Work?
Solar panels can resist damage, but they are not indestructible. In severe weather conditions, which are only a few cases, such as when there is too much lightning or hail, the panels might get damaged, also.
So one way to ensure that the panels can work in all seasons is proper installation. If it installed correctly, it can be secured, and strong winds cannot blow parts of it. The angle of the panels may also need to be adjusted so as not to accumulate snow and dirt after the rain.
In cases of heavy snow, you need to remove it because it might bear much weight to the panels. You can check with your installer the warranty of your panels when these conditions occur.
If you are planning to go solar, yet hesitant because you live in a cold, snowy, or rainy region, then this might help you reconsider. The comfort and convenience of using solar panels still outweigh way much more its drawback.
To help you decide whether you should install a solar panel for your home or business, please call Solar Shop Online today at 1300 620 290 or send us an email at info@solarshoponline.com.au. Our customer service can provide the information you need for your purchase. For more information about the products and services we offer, please visit our website at https://www.solarshoponline.com.au/.