Solar Panels Function Better in Colder Temps

If adding solar panels to your home is one of your New Year’s resolutions, you don’t have to wait until spring to install and get a return on your investment. Solar loans are affordable, even during winter, and research shows that colder temperatures are actually better for solar panel function. 

SFGate.com writes, “solar panels… are affected by their operating temperature, which is primarily a product of the ambient air temperature as well as the level of sunlight.” Although the direction of the sun and duration of sunlight do contribute to solar panel efficiency, temperature and adverse weather conditions can also influence energy production. 

Different solar panels have different reactions to temperature. Despite the variety of panels that are available through solar loans, in all cases, research has shown that as temperature increases, power efficiency decreases. 

“The impact of temperature on solar panel efficiency is known as the temperature coefficient…This value… reveals the impact of temperature on the panel,” says The Green Age. 

The Green Age says that tests conducted throughout the United Kingdom illustrate a correlation between reduced power productions and higher temperature coefficients. This has led researchers to conclude that solar panels—like other forms of technology—function better in colder temperatures. 

Solar energy is a great way to reduce your monthly utility costs. Consumers who choose to install solar panels during winter when efficiency is at its peak can save money on their monthly energy bills and pay their solar loans off sooner. 

“Solar panel power production works most efficiently in cold temperatures… the drop-off in efficiency begins at about 87 to 91 degrees Fahrenheit,” says SF Gate. In winter months in temperate climates throughout the U.S., solar panels are providing the biggest return on investments. 

Despite the correlation between lower temperatures and improved solar panel performance, colder temps can also mean adverse weather conditions. Solar panels function optimally during cold temperatures only if they are free from snow pack, ice and clouds.  

Although there is little to be done to remedy the cloud coverage from winter storms, homeowners looking to get the biggest return on their solar panel investment should ensure that during cold winter months solar panels are not obstructed. Consider mounting your panels on an angle to encourage snow drop off or use a broom to clear snow from panels. 

For a smart buy and quick payback on solar loans, consider purchasing and installing your solar panels this winter. 

Nicole Donaldson is a renewable energy writer for Fusion 360, an SEO and content marketing agency. Information provided by Elements Capital Group. Follow on Twitter.