Solar Panels unaffected by Winter

PR Fire reports that energy efficiency specialists, Enerfina, are trying to raise public awareness of renewable energy by providing useful information about the reliability of solar panels.

Despite one of the harshest Winters for some years, solar panel installations around the UK still performed well.

PV Solar panels work on light rather than heat so clear sunny days in Winter work just as well as in Summer. In fact, there is evidence to suggest that the electronics inside solar panels work more efficiently in the Winter.

The only problem is the amount of available light with the shorter days and more chance of heavily overcast days. During Winter, panels can typically receive between 50% and 5% of Summertime radiation.

Finally, any snowfall that covers your solar panels will greatly impede their performance. Enerfina warns homeowners of following their installers advice on the best way to remove snow accumulations without damaging the panels or endangering themselves.

photo credit: maria keays

How to keep solar panels working efficiently during Winter

When looking out at the dark mornings and dark evenings, you could be forgiven for thinking solar panels don't work in the Winter at all.

However, there's still plenty of daylight to be had and whilst the shorter hours mean you won't generate much, you should still be able to generate a little.

So, if you've got solar panels already fitted and installed, then there are one or two 'housekeeping' chores you can carry out to keep your solar panels working at their most efficient.

Basically, anything that stops light reaching the panels is going to have an adverse effect so it's a good idea to give your solar panels surface a clean to remove any accumulation of dirt or grime.

Probably best not to attempt climbing on the roof for this one, try an extendable handle mounted squeegee with a little soapy water.

The panel should generate enough heat to melt a few snow flakes but for heavier snowfalls, consider clearing the snow off of the panel section.

There are also a number of specialist cleaners available for solar panels that work with a hose pipe attachment - a bit like a car cleaner system - so ask your local installer - they have details of what's recommended for your solar panel brand. Don't forget to follow the manufacturers instructions.

That's it. Keeping your solar panels clean or free from heavy snowfalls will make a big difference to how they perform for you during the winter.

photo credit: brian kusler

Keep that Snowman away from my Solar Panels

Missouri finds a new use for Solar Panels - in the Winter.

The Missouri Department of Transport has just signed a contract to install solar warming systems on two bridges near St Louis.

A bit like underfloor heating, pipework is incorporated into the bridges road surface and a heated solution is then pumped around the pipes keeping the bridges clear of snow and ice.

The energy for the heating system is provided by Solar Panels.

Now - if we could just figure out a similar system for the whole of Buxton....

photo credit: asw909