Solar energy has taken off a lot in recent years. It seems many more businesses are turning to solar as a way to save energy and create a “greener” company. Some may worry, however, about the function of solar panels in the winter. Will solar panels still collect energy while covered with snow? Here is a bit more information on how solar panels with during the winter.
Solar panels can work in cold temperatures
Solar energy still comes through the atmosphere on the coldest days of winter. Solar panels can pick up that energy and deliver it to a building’s electrical system without a problem. Excess energy can still be delivered to the city grid, too.
In fact, your panels may actually work better in colder temperatures. Much like how server rooms and spaces with many electronic devices are kept cool to help the devices run well, panels work best when they aren’t overheated. Solar panels have a maximum temperature rating where, above the temperature, they will absorb less energy. However, they don’t have a lowest functioning temperature.
Solar panels DO function in the snow
Solar panels can collect power through a thin sheet of snow. With larger amounts on the panel, they will struggle to bring in solar energy from the sun. Fortunately, there are a few aspects of solar panels that help them continue to function well, even on snowy days:
- Commonly, solar panels are set at an angle. This helps ensure that anything that lands on them (including snow) can more easily slide off.
- Even though snow can collect on a panel, even the winter sun can help quickly melt the snow, assisting in the process of removal.
- Solar panels are dark in color, which helps them absorb more heat, even with a covering of snow on top of them. This helps them clear off more quickly after a snowstorm.
- Snow itself is anti-soiling, which helps clean the panels of dirt and grime. When the snow melts, it essentially washes the panels.
- When snow is on the ground or the roof near a solar panel, it helps to create additional light to shine on the panels. The light bounces off the white snow and back to the sky, bringing more brightness.
Snow may seem like a problem for solar panels, but it does not cause major issues overall. In fact, in some ways, snow can be helpful for collecting more solar power. Snow guards can also be installed near panels. These additions can catch the snow and keep the panels themselves mostly clear at all times.
Don’t forget about the summer
While some may be worried about losing solar panel productivity during the winter, it’s good to remember that the days are much longer in the summer and offer more time for solar energy collection.
Most electric companies practice “net metering”, which credits your account for the amount of energy you send back to the grid. In the long days of summer, your business will likely produce more energy than it uses, leading to a bill credit. This can help offset any “negative” days you may have during the winter.
Solar panels are an excellent investment for any business. BD Electrical can explain in detail the benefits, and we can install a system that suits your place of work perfectly. Contact us today to discover how solar energy can save you money and help save the environment.
If you’re looking for a trusted commercial electrical company in southeastern Massachusetts, give BD Electrical a call or visit us online! 508-617-0800 | https://bdelectrical.services/
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