The weather in the UK is very changeable because it is affected by various air masses, however, we can expect plenty of cloudy days across all four seasons. What does this mean for modern solar panels, and can they continue performing without a great deal of sunlight?

 

 

A blanket of white? There’s still plenty of light

Today’s crop of solar panels works reasonably well in cloudy weather. There is a reduction in the amount of energy produced because the sunshine on cloudy days is not as strong, however, high-quality solar panels from leading manufacturers are designed to capture sunlight that reaches the surface of the panel, which is then converted into electricity. It’s said that 48% of the year is overcast in the UK, however, the diffused light can still generate power, but it’s possible for efficiency to drop to 10-25 per cent efficiency.

 

 

Will solar panels work during wintertime?

Solar panels produce electricity all year round and even during the winter. They can play a pivotal role in supplementing your electricity needs and lowering energy costs. With the right system design and components, you can maximise your solar power even in challenging weather conditions. Rainfall can also be beneficial because the water helps clean the panels and keeps them free from dirt or dust, thus improving efficiency and overall performance.

 

 

Can heavy snow, high winds or hail damage solar panels?

Adverse weather can potentially damage solar panels if it is severe enough. However, most solar panels are designed to withstand various weather conditions, and they go through rigorous testing to ensure their durability. There are three main types of solar panels:

 

 

Monocrystalline

Typically black with a sleeker look to add a touch of class to domestic or commercial properties and generally boast higher efficiency ranges and power capacity.

 

 

Polycrystalline

Polycrystalline panels are cost-effective and instantly recognisable by their traditional blue colour, which is primarily due to an anti-reflective coating designed to improve the absorbing capacity and efficiency of the panels.

 

 

Amorphous

 

Amorphous modules are more flexible and can handle higher temperatures, yet they tend to have a lower output than traditional panels of the same size.

 

 

These options have multiple layers and have undergone rigorous testing to take on nature’s most powerful resources and harsh weather conditions. At Environmental Energies, we cover all aspects of solar PV. Our knowledgeable team will provide a site visit to assess the potential of your property for solar energy and build a PV system that maximises your return on investment. All panels are backed by excellent warranties for complete peace of mind along with being MCS certified.

 

 

If you’d like to learn more about how you can harness the power of nature to keep your energy bills low and drive sustainability, get in touch with our team today. We’ll be more than happy to help you explore the potential of solar power and how it can benefit your lifestyle or business.