Using Solar Energy In The Wintertime

The Benefits Of Solar Energy

Solar energy has become one of the most popular forms of alternative energy many people now have access to. Even if you can’t install solar panels on your own house, many utility companies and energy grids are turning to solar energy as an extra option for their customers. This kind of energy is cleaner, more effective, and can save you money throughout the year compared to traditional gas and fossil fuel alternatives. Unfortunately, it’s a common myth that solar energy loses power during winter. When the sun is out less or there’s snow on the ground, it’s only logical that solar energy efficiency will decrease, right? In fact, the exact opposite is true.

Solar Output In The Winter

Yes, the sun is out less during the winter months. The days are shorter, there’s plenty of snow on the ground in most regions, and it’s usually cloudier on a daily basis. Despite all of this, solar panels can actually work more efficiently in colder temperatures. Heat can affect the internal workings of a solar panel to the point where it is less effective at converting solar energy into power for batteries around the home. These kinds of panels are designed to survive in freezing temperatures, so they aren’t at risk of malfunctioning or breaking down when it gets cold outside. Instead, they are in an environment where the solar energy conversion process is more effective, meaning you will see a higher energy output and a lower utility bill during the season.

The Effects Of Snow

A little bit of snow on the ground, or even on the solar panel, won’t drastically affect the energy output of the device. In fact, since snow reflects a lot of sunlight, it can increase the output by directing more sunlight to the panel. The only time snow will affect the solar panel is if there is a lot of buildup on the panel itself. During blizzards, for example, it isn’t uncommon for several inches to a foot of snow to build up on the panel. When this happens, you can easily clean the snow off using a special tool. These panels will be regularly cleaned by a professional, keeping them free from obstructions throughout the year.

Cloud Cover

The true benefit of solar energy is the fact that you don’t need direct sunlight to have power. While direct sunlight creates the most optimal conditions for the solar panel, all it needs is any kind of light to work. In other words, as long as you can see outside, the solar panel is doing its job. Many people hooked up to solar electric grids barely even notice a difference in the overall energy output during the winter months. Efficient batteries and other alternative energies can supplement the decrease in energy production so you won’t see any noticeable effects when the weather isn’t perfect.

Hooking Up To Solar Energy Today

These days, it’s easier than ever to get the benefits of solar energy without installing a single panel. With more utility companies turning to solar energy as an option to offer their customers, all you have to do is contact the experts to see what options you have nearby. If you live in Texas and are looking to explore the possibilities of solar energy, check out our website or get in touch with all the information you need for our services. We can walk you through the process of taking advantage of solar energy regardless of the time of year.