Do Solar Panels Work on Cloudy Days? Your Solar Questions Answered

by Sudarsan
Solar-Panels

Did you know that you can save more than $200 a month on your electric bill just by going solar? While many people are put off by the installation cost of solar panels, they more than pay for themselves in the long term. Not only will they slash your electric bill, but you can also enjoy tax breaks and incentives!

If you’re considering installing solar panels on your house, you might be wondering about a few things. Do solar panels work on cloudy days? What about rain, snow, or fog? 

These questions are very common among solar beginners, so we compiled this article to put your mind to rest. In it, we will discuss to what degree solar power relies on the weather, so read on to learn more! 

Do Solar Panels Work on Cloudy Days? 

Many people who live in cloudy areas tend to think this means that solar power won’t work for them, and they start to wonder, “Are solar panels worth it?” However, it’s a misconception that solar panels stop working when it’s cloudy. Solar panels do work on cloudy days, but they will produce less energy. 

How do solar panels work? Well, they absorb UV rays, which are only partially blocked by clouds. In the same way that you will still get a tan on a cloudy day, your solar panels will still gather energy, if a little less. 

Do Solar Panels Work in the Rain? 

Rain on its own has no impact on your solar panels. In fact, it actually has a positive effect! Rain will naturally clean your panels by washing away dirt and dust. 

During a rainstorm, the main impact on the effectiveness of your solar panels comes only from the clouds overhead. 

Likewise, a light dusting of snow will have no impact on your solar panel. Heavy snowfall can create a problem, as it can put weight on your panels and block them from the sun. 

You can dust the snow off your panels or wait for it to slide off on its own, and you’ll be up and running again! 

How to Combat Cloudy Days

Only traditional solar panels generate less energy on cloudy days, but more efficient and newer models can provide better results. You can ask the solar installers near you for panels that will capture a full range of sunlight. 

In addition, you can also install a solar battery. Your panels can use it to store extra energy on sunny days. Then, you can use this energy to power your house on cloudy days and at night. 

Start Using Solar for Big Savings

So there you have it – do solar panels work on cloudy days? The answer is a resounding yes. If you’ve been on the fence and wondering, “Should I get solar panels?” hopefully this article will have helped sway you.

Solar panels are not only great for saving the environment, but they’ll help save you some money in the long term! Install some for yourself, and reap the rewards. 

If you enjoyed learning do solar panels work when it’s cloudy, we have lots of similar guides on our blog. Check it out for more!

You may also like