A common concern if you’re considering solar panel roofing for commercial properties is how it can generate energy during cloudy days and winter months when sunlight is less abundant. While the power it generates is always best during sunny days, it doesn’t mean your system won’t generate energy during less-than-optimal situations. Let’s learn more about their functionality during cloudy days and winter seasons in today’s post.
Performance on Cloudy Days
One of the primary misconceptions about solar roofing is that it ceases to function on cloudy days. While it’s true that solar panels are most efficient under direct sunlight, they are still capable of generating electricity even when the sky is overcast. Here’s how:
Diffused Light Utilization: On cloudy days, sunlight is scattered and diffused through the clouds. Solar panels are designed to capture and convert this diffused light into electricity. Although the energy output is lower compared to clear days, it is still significant enough to power various applications.
Advanced Technology: Modern solar panels are equipped with advanced technologies such as anti-reflective coatings and improved semiconductor materials that enhance their ability to capture low-intensity light. This allows them to maintain a reasonable level of efficiency even in less-than-ideal weather conditions.
Cloud Edge Effect: Occasionally, the edges of clouds can intensify sunlight by focusing it onto a specific area, temporarily increasing the solar panels’ energy output. This phenomenon, known as the cloud edge effect, can partially offset the reduction in energy production during overcast conditions.
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Performance During Winter
Winter poses additional challenges for solar energy collection due to shorter daylight hours, lower sun angles, and potential snow coverage. Despite these obstacles, solar panels can still perform effectively during the winter months:
Cold Temperature Efficiency: Interestingly, solar panels often operate more efficiently in colder temperatures. The efficiency of PV cells decreases as they heat up, so the cooler winter air can enhance their performance compared to hot summer days.
Sunlight Reflection from Snow: Snow can reflect sunlight, increasing the amount of light that reaches the solar panels. This can boost their energy production on sunny winter days. Additionally, the reflective properties of snow can help illuminate the panels from different angles, further optimizing energy capture.
Snow Shedding Design: Many solar roofing systems are designed with a tilt that allows snow to slide off easily. This prevents prolonged coverage and ensures that the panels can resume energy production as soon as possible after a snowfall. Moreover, the heat generated by the panels can help melt snow more quickly.
Battery Storage Solutions: To address the variability in solar energy production, many solar roofing systems are paired with battery storage solutions. These batteries store excess energy generated during sunny periods, which can then be used during cloudy days or at night, ensuring a continuous power supply regardless of weather conditions.
Related: How Much Do You Really Save Using Solar Energy?
If you’re still on the fence about installing solar panels on your roof, allow us at Roper Roofing & Solar to address your concerns. We can help you know more about solar and how it can offset your property’s energy expenditures. Call us today or visit our social media page to get started.