How Solar Panels Perform in Winter and Storms

Winter’s here, and with it comes the icy fear that panels are nothing more than summer devices. As ice piles up and daylight hours shrink, you might wonder if solar power is still worth it. Don’t worry; it’s not time to throw in the towel just yet. Edmonton solar companies are still making it work for homeowners and businesses to help lower electricity bills and lessen carbon footprint. While ice can impact your panels’ performance, the real magic happens in colder temperatures. Yes, you can still harness PV energy during the colder months. But how do Edmonton solar panels work in these kinds of seasons?  Keep reading to find out how solar panels in Edmonton can keep your energy bills in check, even when the temperature drops.

The Science Behind: How Cold Weather Improves Panel Efficiency 

Lower temperatures reduce the electrical resistance in the circuits of your panels, making them more efficient. The real magic, though, is in the diffuse light. Even on overcast days or when the sun is low in the sky, panels still work because they capture light reflected off ice. This boosts electricity production. Plus, since panels don’t rely on heat but rather light, they perform better when it’s chilly, hence an ideal time for installing solar panels.

The Effect of Shorter Days and Lower Sun Angles on Energy Production

As winter settles in, the shorter days and lower sun angles reduce the amount of direct sunlight hitting your panels. On average, in Edmonton, daylight hours drop to just over 7 hours a day by December, compared to 17 hours in summer. This limits the amount of energy your system can generate. However, the loss isn’t as drastic as it sounds. Even with fewer daylight hours, snow reflects sunlight onto the modules. Plus, the cooler temperatures help your solar PV run more efficiently to compensate for the shorter days and lower sun angles.

Seasonal Variations and Power Generation Expectations

On average, solar Alberta produces around 25-35% of its peak output during the colder months. While this is less than summer’s 80-90%, it’s still significant. The cool temperatures boost efficiency, so modules convert sunlight into electricity more effectively, even on cloudy days. Ice reflects light onto panels, further increasing renewable energy generation. Though you’ll see a dip in output, especially on overcast days, solar solutions are still a reliable source year-round. With storage, you can bank excess power for when you need it most.

Effects of Snow Covering Panels 

Blocks sunlight	Ice buildup on modules prevents sunlight from reaching the photovoltaic cells
Snow melt	Cells generate a small amount of heat, which can melt ice and restore power, but this can take time.
Angle helps	Modules are usually installed at an angle so snow can slide off more easily, especially in Alberta’s dry snow conditions.
Efficiency dip	If ice remains for too long, you may need to manually clear it to keep your solar energy solutions running smoothly

Overall, snow reduces output temporarily but doesn’t stop PV systems from working entirely.

The Albedo Effect and Its Potential Benefit

The albedo effect refers to the amount of sunlight reflected off surfaces like snow, which can actually boost generation. Here’s how it works: Snow has a high albedo (reflectivity), which means it bounces more sunlight back toward your modules. This reflected sunlight hits the panels, which increases their exposure to light and enhances generation. The more snow around, the more light is reflected onto the cells and the higher the potential for extra power. For example: Assuming you have a PV panel with 16% efficiency. This means that for every 6 kWh of sunlight hitting the module, it only converts 1 kWh into electricity, while the other 5 kWh is lost as heat. Now, when snow reflects sunlight onto the panel, the amount of light hitting it increases. This effect is especially strong around noon when the sun is at its highest. In areas with snow, adjusting the panel’s angle to capture more reflected light can make a big difference in power production.

Factors Influencing Albedo and PV Efficiency

• Snow coverage: Fresh, light snow increases reflectivity.
• Panel angle: Tilted modules capture more reflected light from the snow.
• Bifacial cells: These collect sunlight from both sides and benefit greatly from the albedo effect.

Important Note: The estimation of albedo is important not just for PV modules but also in the energy efficiency sector. The albedo effect should not be overlooked and must be considered when calculating the payback period of a system.

Summer vs. Winter PV Performance 

Photovoltaic production fluctuates drastically between summer and winter.  Longer daylight hours in summer mean panels work overtime, producing up to 80% more energy. Wintertide, with shorter days, lower sun angles, and more cloud cover, sees a slight drop in output. Interestingly, colder temperatures can enhance panel efficiency by up to 0.5% per degree below 25°C. Here’s a quick comparison:

Factor	Winter	Summer
Daylight Hours	7+	16+
Sun Angle	Low	High
Energy Production	About 3% loss	6.27 kWh daily on average
Recommended Panel Angle	53 degree	43 degree
Efficiency	Increases by 0.05% per degree below 25 degrees Celcius	Can produce approximately 2 – 3 times more electricity

During the cold season, more cloud cover and lower angles reduce output, but with the right solar panel installation, you can still maximize efficiency for long-term reliability. 

Cons of PV Systems During Thunderstorms

While PV systems are generally reliable, thunderstorms can pose a few challenges:

• Lightning Risk: Although rare, lightning can damage your system. Install a surge protector to keep your cells safe.
• Reduced Efficiency: Cloud cover and heavy rain can reduce power production. Investing in storage guarantees you still have power when the sun is hiding.
• Physical Damage: Strong winds could potentially dislodge the modules. Ensure your installation is secure and properly mounted. Hire an experienced team for precise and durable installations.

These challenges are manageable with a bit of preparation, making solar a safe, sustainable energy solution for year-round use.

Tips to Maximize PV Performance During Winter/Storms 

• Keep Modules Clean: Gently remove snow with a soft broom, or hire a professional for larger setups.
• Adjust the Tilt: A steeper angle helps capture sunlight when it’s lower in the sky.
• Use Battery Storage: Store energy during sunny days to use on cloudy or stormy days.
• Avoid Shading: Guarantee trees, ice, or structures don’t block the panels’ sunlight.
• Monitor Performance: Regular checks ensure no damage or debris affects your system.
• Stay Informed: Watch weather forecasts to prepare for snowstorms or cloudy days.

 

 

Produce Power Even in Winter

Wintertime doesn’t mean your solar cells take a break. Despite shorter days and the occasional snowstorm, PV energy remains a dependable and efficient source of power. Cold weather actually boosts panel efficiency, and with a little maintenance, you can maximize performance. Investing in battery storage ensures you have power when the sun’s hiding behind clouds. Ready to make the most of your system this winter? Maximize your energy usage even in winter with a trusted solar company like MAG Solar. We’ll help you keep your energy costs low year-round. Let’s chat about the best solutions for your home or business today.