What Happens to Solar Panels When It Snows: Understanding the Impact

Last Updated on 13/03/2024 by Caroline

What Happens to Solar Panels When It Snows: Understanding the Impact. For small businesses that have invested in solar panels, winter weather can raise questions about their efficiency during snowy conditions. How do solar panels perform when covered in snow, and what can small businesses expect when the white stuff starts falling?

• Solar Panels and Snow

When snow covers solar panels, their ability to generate electricity is temporarily reduced. The amount of energy produced directly correlates with the extent of snow coverage. However, this doesn’t mean solar panels become entirely ineffective.

• Clearing Snow from Solar Panels

The good news is that solar panels are designed with a slight tilt, allowing snow to slide off naturally in most cases. Additionally, they have a glass surface that heats up when exposed to sunlight. This heating effect can aid in melting the snow and causing it to slide away more quickly.

For small businesses that want to proactively clear snow, it’s essential to do so cautiously. Avoid using sharp or abrasive tools that could scratch the panels. Instead, a soft broom or brush can be gently used to remove the snow. Alternatively, some solar panel systems come with built-in snow removal capabilities, which can help clear snow more efficiently.

• Impact on Energy Production

While snow-covered panels generate less electricity, they don’t stop producing entirely. A light layer of snow might result in a minor decrease in energy production, while a heavy snow cover can reduce output significantly. It’s worth noting that the effect of snow on energy production is usually temporary, lasting only as long as the snow remains on the panels.

• Battery Storage

Small businesses with battery storage systems can benefit during snowy conditions. Excess energy generated before the snowfall can be stored in batteries and used when needed, providing a source of power during snowy days or at night when solar production is limited.

• Seasonal Considerations

For businesses in regions with significant snowfall, it’s advisable to account for seasonal fluctuations in energy production. Solar panels often generate less energy during the winter months, so having an alternative energy source or utilizing energy-efficient practices can help bridge the gap.

In Conclusion

While snow can impact the performance of solar panels, it’s a manageable challenge for small businesses. Solar panels are resilient and designed to cope with various weather conditions. Understanding the effects of snow and having a plan in place for clearing snow, if necessary, can help ensure that your solar panel system continues to provide clean and sustainable energy for your business, even in the winter months.

If you are interested in Residential Solar Systems or Business Solar Systems then please contact our friendly customer service team on info@solarstream.ie to request a call back from our Dublin office.