Will Solar Panels Work On Cloudy Days?
Solar panels are one of the most important developments in modern energy production. When businesses or homeowners switch to solar, they understand there will be a significant investment.
So, with that investment, it’s not uncommon for several doubts and questions to arise. One question that comes up on a frequent basis is the following: What will happen to my solar panels on cloudy days? Will their charging/operation be affected?
The short answer is the following: Yes, solar panels do work on cloudy days. They just do not work as effectively as they do on a sunny day – but they do function.
Solar Panels and Cloudy Places
Cities with cloudy and rainy climates – contrary to what solar critics say – are still the most popular places for solar panel installations. The deciding factor for the massive adoption is the cost of electricity – not the amount of electricity.
Most cities – throughout the entire year – are not completely sunny. But they choose solar power anyway because it saves electricity costs. Famous cloudy but hilly cities have solar panel systems because of their mild temperatures and long summer days. For maximum solar production, it’s the ideal condition.
Solar Output and Cloudy Days
The exact amount of energy generation depends on certain factors:
- Density of clouds
- Quality of solar panels
Some panels work efficiently in diffused and reflected light. What does that mean? They can capture a broad range of the solar spectrum – the red and blue wavelengths. That helps them generate more energy output even on overcast days.
Keep in mind that you can still get sunburned on a cloudy day. So, you know the sun is making its way through the clouds.
Edge of Cloud Effect – A Unique Phenomenon
There is an unusual phenomenon called the edge of cloud effect which suggests that solar panels produce more electricity than they do even on some sunny days. It happens when the solar radiations pass over the edge of the clouds. That magnifies its power and capacity. Sunlight gets magnified through the process of refraction when the sun is emerging from cloud cover or from behind them. The intense light causes the panels to generate more energy and dramatically boost the solar output. This phenomenon balances out the losses during full cloudy days.
So Now You Know About Cloudy Days
Now that you’ve hopefully gotten the answer you were looking for as to whether or not solar panels work on cloudy days, you may still have a collection of other questions that revolve around whether or not you should invest in solar power for your home or business. You may find the answer you’re looking for on our FAQ page. If not – or you’ve already decided that you’d like to go with solar power – here’s who to talk to…
Solar Energy Solutions of America
Reduce emissions and save money. Find quality services/products at the best prices, that will work for decades. We are your one-stop solar provider, from engineering to installation to ongoing service. We can install your residential solar panels, but we also deal in commercial solar panels. Call us at 239-339-8727.