Are Solar Panels Guaranteed to Work on Cloudy Days?

So, just how well do solar panels work on cloudy days? It’s an important question that often gets asked in the UK. After all, we do seem to get more cloudy days than most…

Understanding how well solar panels work in less-than-ideal weather conditions is crucial to anyone considering investing in a solar energy system. In the following article, we’ll delve into the mechanics of how solar panels manage to generate, even under the greyest of British skies.

The Basics of Solar Energy

Solar panels, otherwise known as photovoltaic (PV) panels contain solar cells made from semiconductor materials, such as silicon which generates an electric current when exposed to light. Although direct sunlight maximizes this effect, solar panels don’t need clear blue skies to keep up the good work!

Even Cloudy Days Can Be Efficient For Solar Panels!

It is true that solar panels operate most efficiently under direct sunlight, but they still produce electricity during cloudy weather too! However, just how well they do this depends on factors such as how dense the cloud coverage is and what kind of technology is used inside the solar panels. Other influences include:

• Light Diffusion—Clouds diffuse sunlight, which means that even indirect sunlight can reach solar panels. Although less intense than direct sunlight, diffused light will still generate electricity.
• Panel Technology – How solar panels respond to light depends on the type of materials they are made from. For example, monocrystalline panels are generally more efficient in low-light conditions than polycrystalline panels. Thin-film solar panels also perform better under diffused light but these are less efficient when compared to crystalline panels.
• Energy Output: On average, solar panels can produce 10-25% of their typical output on a cloudy day. The type of cloud cover, its thickness, as well as the angle and placement of the solar panels will all influence this.

Solar Energy Keeps the Clouds Cleaner and Greener

The environmental benefits that solar energy brings cannot be overstated. Even on cloudy days, solar panels reduce our reliance on fuels such as coal, gas and oil, decrease greenhouse gas pollution, and promote environmental sustainability.

Solar panels contribute to the UK’s 2050 Net Zero carbon emissions target. By generating an independent source of clean energy, a solar system reduces the need to use electricity produced by burning fossil fuel sources.

Some Practical Tips To Get the Best From Solar Panels

To get the best out of your panels in the cloudiest of conditions, it’s essential to consider location-specific factors.

• Orientation and Tilt – The direction and angle of solar panels are critical for maximizing energy production, especially in locations prone to cloudy weather. Panels should be positioned to capture the maximum possible sunlight throughout the year.

• Shading Analysis – This can identify potential obstructions that might impact solar panel performance. Removing or minimizing these obstacles can optimize energy output.

• Local Climate Data – Using past local weather data can help predict how much solar energy could be produced. It can also help set realistic expectations of how much energy your system is likely to produce in cloudy conditions.

• Solar panel technology – It’s important to select the most cloud-efficient material. Monocrystalline panels generally perform better in low-light scenarios.

Bust Those Clouds, Make Your Own Energy!

So, we hope this article has cleared up one of the biggest questions surrounding the efficiency of solar energy in the UK. Yes. Solar panels do work on cloudy days! Although the output won’t be as much as that created on the sunniest of days; the long-term financial savings, environmental sustainability, and energy independence will still outweigh these temporary dips in performance due to cloud cover.

If you have a property with an EPC rating of E, F, or G, you may qualify for government-backed solar panel grants in the UK under schemes such as ECO4 or the Great British Insulation Scheme. These grants entitle households with a low-efficiency rate to a free solar energy system that includes panels and battery storage.

Flexible monthly payment solar packages that include panels and battery storage are also available for as little as £50, with no upfront fees. Click the button below for more information.

Solar Panels Cloudy Days FAQS

Can a Solar Panel Work Without Sun?

Although they work best in the sunniest conditions, solar panels don’t need direct sunlight to work. So, they will continue to work in cloudy and wintery conditions. It’s important to note that they do not work at night. However, if you have a battery storage system fitted, you can use any electricity made during the day at night.

Do Solar Panels Work on Moonlight?

Unlike the sun, the moon does not generate light that contains photons. For this reason, solar panels cannot use moonlight to make electricity.

What Time of Day Do Solar Panels Work Best?

Solar panels work best during peak sunlight hours. This is usually between 9am and 3pm. Location, season and weather conditions also influence overall efficiency.

What Months Are Solar Panels Most Efficient?

Cooler Spring months can actually be better for solar panels as they generate more efficiently in cooler temperatures.