Can Solar Panels Still Generate Energy on Cloudy Days?

Posted at April 8, 2022 Posted In Uncategorized

Now you don’t have to be a solar expert to know that the energy provided by solar panels is generated from sunlight, so that does that mean that on days when the sun isn’t shining, your solar system won’t generate any energy?

Let’s look at the answer in a little more detail:

Solar panels generate less energy on cloudy days

Solar systems definitely produce less power on days when it’s cloudy or the sun isn’t shining at all, but clouds aren’t actually the obstacle that you might believe them to be. Solar panels produce energy by converting sunlight into direct current (DC), before an inverter turns it into alternating current (AC); the type of power that most homes run on. When the weather is cloudy, power might drop-off by around 10 – 25% when compared to a sunny day, but sometimes, the presence of clouds can actually enhance the solar panels performance, as it enables sunlight to be reflected or magnified.

So, conventional solar panels are able to generate power on a cloudy day, but some more technologically advanced panels use a very pure type of silicon and copper foundation, allowing the panels to continue working efficiently even in the event of prolonged exposure to elements such as wind, rain and snow.

How can a battery backup system help on cloudy days?

If you’re worried about not being able to generate enough energy to power your home on a cloudy day, you should invest in a battery backup system, which will allow you to store solar power during the day and use it when needed. In the event of a grid outage, battery backup can also provide timely backup power for your home.

Why are countries with cold climates big on solar power?

It seems counterintuitive doesn’t it; countries like Germany and South Korea, which frequently experience cold, wintry weather conditions, are two of the world’s biggest adopters of solar systems. However, economic factors can help to explain why people living in places or countries that don’t always have wall-to-wall sunshine, are flying the solar flag, and the cost of electricity is more often than not, the biggest driver of the popularity of solar power in a region.

The importance of working with a professional solar power provider

Provided you buy your solar system from a reputable manufacturer, and have the system installed by professionals, you shouldn’t have to worry too much about where to place your panels to get the most sunlight. A qualified solar installer will know how to design your system to minimize any potential issues with shading, such as form clouds or trees, and will set you up with a solar system that will merrily power your home, for many years to come.

Why not make 2022 the year that you go solar? To find out how you can benefit from a solar system this year, reach out to a local solar energy provider, and take your first steps towards a cleaner, more sustainable future.

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