Go green all year with solar panels
Installing Solar Panels in Winter
Installing in Winter -
is it worth it?
We often hear people saying that they are waiting until the sunnier months to install solar panels on their property, but winter can still be an excellent time to install solar panels especially as they continue to produce clean, renewable energy throughout these colder months (Solar PV cells generate their power from daylight - not sunlight or heat).
Here at Arc Line Design we want you to fully understand the benefits of a Solar PV system before you invest, as well as what you need to consider, to ensure you get exactly what you want and need for your property.
The Benefits
Faster Install Availability
- Quicker survey appointments
- Shorter installation lead times
- More flexibility around your schedule
Get Ready For Peak-Sun
By installing your panels in winter, your system will be fully operational before spring and summer arrive, allowing you to start to learn your system and maximise generation during the highest-output months
Reduce Winter Energy Bills
With electricity prices high, and continuing to rise, installing solar in the colder months means you can start offsetting winter energy use immediately, rather than waiting until next year.
Improved Panel Efficiency
Whilst your solar panels will produce less energy in winter months due to the shorter days and lower angle of the sun, cold temperatures can actually improve their efficiency per unit of sunlight hours when compared to very hot summer days.
What To Consider
So we know the benefits, but here's an overview of what you might want to consider when you install solar panels in the winter months:
Shorter Daylight Hours
Once installed, your solar output in winter will naturally seem low due to the shorter days (less hours of sunshine), lower sun angle, more frequent cloud cover. However, whilst it is lower, the system is still working and the long-term benefits will outweigh the seasonal dips.
Weather Related Delays
We will always prioritise yours, and our teams, safety. As such, some extreme weather (heavy rain, strong winds and frost) will occasionally interfere with our schedules. However, we will notify you immediately if the forecast looks challenging and work with you to agree a re-scheduled date.
Snow & Ice
A build up of snow can block sunlight and reduce or stop power generation. While the angle of the panels often helps snow slide off fairly quickly, heavy accumulations may require removal.
Add Battery Storage
If you want to optimise your systems output, you could consider pairing it with a solar battery. This allows you to store excess energy generated during the day for use at night or on overcast days.
What Does Less Energy in Winter Mean?
If your solar panels are generating energy that meets most of your household energy needs during the summer months, come winter, you might find you need more energy from the grid. This will depend on how much energy you are using, your panel positioning and if you have battery storage. Whilst overall Solar will help reduce your annual energy bills, lower energy generation in the winter months may mean you will see an increase in your winter energy bills compared to the summer months.
Get In Touch
Ready to discover exactly how much energy and savings solar panels could generate for your home? Our solar experts will design a system tailored to your property, energy usage, and budget—with no obligation and no pushing of unsuitable systems.
Call Arc Line Design today on 01603 975115 or use our contact form.
