How Do Solar Panels Work?
Solar energy comes from the sunlight that reaches Earth every day. A solar panel is made up of interconnected photovoltaic (PV) cells designed to convert this sunlight into usable electricity. When daylight hits the PV cells, they release electrons and create an electrical current. This clean, renewable energy can then be used to power homes, businesses and everyday appliances.
Harnessing solar energy helps us move towards a low carbon future while benefiting from a naturally abundant and limitless power source. But many homeowners across Essex, Kent, London and the surrounding South East ask the same question: “Do solar panels still work in winter, on cloudy days or when it snows?”
Below we break down how seasonal and weather conditions affect the performance of your solar PV system.
Do Solar Panels Work All Year Round?
Yes, modern solar panels work efficiently year round. While bright sunshine does boost output, solar panels only need daylight, not heat, to generate electricity. Even in the UK’s milder and cloudier climate, solar panels continue producing renewable energy every day. Solar technology is designed to perform reliably across all seasons, thanks to two key factors:
Temperature
Many people assume that hotter weather improves solar panel performance, but the reality is that higher temperatures can decrease output. Solar panel generation decreases in temperatures above 25°C. Solar panels actually work more efficiently in colder temperatures. In cool conditions, electrons rest at a lower energy state. When daylight strikes the panel, the electrons become energised, resulting in a larger voltage difference and improved output. This means your system can generate more electricity per hour of winter sunshine compared to extremely hot summer days.
Light
Solar panels rely on light, not heat, to produce power. Direct sunlight is ideal but even on overcast days panels can still absorb diffused light – sunlight scattered through cloud.
In cloudy weather, your system continues generating electricity, just at a slightly reduced rate. This is why solar PV remains a strong investment for homes across the South East, even during the typical British winter.
How Much Energy Do Solar Panels Generate in Winter?
During winter, solar panels naturally produce less electricity, mainly dur to the shorter days and heavier cloud cover. On average a UK solar PV system generates around 20% of its usual energy output during the winter months, with at least an hour of peak production each day. You system can even generate more on the bright, crisp winter mornings.
There’s also an unexpected benefit: rainfall helps keep your solar panels clean. Washing away dirt and debris, improving light absorption and supporting better efficiency. This is one reason why regular panel cleaning is important for maximising performance.
Do Solar Panels Work in the Snow?
Solar panels can still generate power even in light snow that is experienced in the South East. Sunlight can still pass through a thin layer of snow, reaching the PV cells beneath. The dark, reflective surface of a solar panel also absorbs heat, helping the snow melt naturally before it becomes an issue. Overall performance will depend on quality, orientation and the number of panels installed, but with solar panels being installed at a 30-45° angle, snow usually slides off easily.
If you find your panels are covered in heavier snow, a quick clean with a soft brush to remove the snow will get them back to their optimal performance.
Are You Ready to Join the Solar Revolution?
Contact SolarTherm UK today for a free, no obligation quote and design, tailored to your property, usage and future energy needs. No hard sell, just honest, expert advice.
Your home. Your energy. Your future.
