Do solar panels work in the snow?

With over 10,000 homes installing solar panels this year, the first real heavy snowfall of last week will have had many looking up to their roof's and wondering.

The picture depicts the results of a days snowfall on an everyday garden solar lamp in Buxton.

Imagine a similar amount covering the solar panels on your roof and it's a safe bet that they won't be generating anything.

It's also worth remembering that dust / dirt in the summer can have a similar effect so you should if possible aim to give your solar panels a clean (in accordance with your manufacturers/installers instructions).

Although rain showers should give the panels a quick wash off taking care of much of the accumulated muck.

White Wednesday.

As I sit writing this, it's minus 3 outside and there's another foot of snow forecast to fall and join the foot and a half of snow that's already laying about.

It's literally White Wednesday - the 1st December 2010.

I was planning a long piece about keeping warm during the bad weather but the Government website (and many others) have that pretty well covered. It's good advice and if we're still in the grips of an icy winter, then take a moment to read up.

Click here.

Stay warm folks and it goes without saying that if you have elderly neighbours, then a quick call to see they're alright is a mighty nice gesture.

photo credit: bryn pinzgauer

It's Snow joke - Clear this Winter's snow without fear of prosecution

You might have missed the announcement a couple of weeks ago by the Transport Secretary that a new 'snow code' is to be introduced, following last winter's snow disruption.

The code will encourage homeowners and shopkeepers alike to "take common-sense action" to clear away snowfall which last year cost the UK £1 billion in disruption, without the fear of 'falling foul of legal action'.

Ministers say many people were put off clearing snow by the 'worry of being sued' if someone fell etc because they'd cleared a path or pavement.

The report also highlighted improvements that could be made in road grit logistics to help ensure there is enough supply for the worst of winters.

It also said Rail companies should make better use of contingency time-tables and de-ice more trains. Aviation bosses were also told to ensure airlines and airports had sufficient de-icer and to keep passengers better informed.

Hoorah! A victory for common-sense over crippling health & safety laws.

photo credit: lucy boynton