Solar panels can help you save money and reduce your carbon footprint, even during winter. Although the days are shorter with less sunlight, modern solar technology keeps them efficient year-round. In this blog, we explain how they perform in winter, share tips to boost efficiency and show how Barrington Solar helps homeowners achieve the most savings and sustainability.

A common misconception is that solar panels need direct sunlight to work. In reality, they generate electricity from daylight, not just sunlight. While they produce less power in winter because the days are shorter, they still work well, even on cloudy days.

In winter, solar panels can generate about 10% of their summer output [1], and cold temperatures can actually help them work more efficiently. Modern panels are designed to perform in low-light conditions so they produce reliable energy all year [2].

The role of battery storage

During winter, adding a battery to your solar panel system boosts efficiency. Batteries store extra energy generated during the day so you can use it in the evening or when grid electricity costs are more expensive [3]. With a battery, you can use stored energy at night, cutting down on expensive grid electricity [4]. This setup helps you save consistently throughout the year.

Customised solutions for winter savings

At Barrington Solar, we create custom systems to suit each client’s needs. For a recent project with a retiring homeowner, we installed a 2.975 kWp solar PV system with 425W panels and a 3 kW string inverter. The system generates around 2,228 kWh a year, with 49% used onsite and the rest sold back to the grid. Over 25 years, it’s estimated to produce 52,030 kWh, offering savings and environmental benefits. This project shows that even a small solar setup can help homeowners save money and be more sustainable [5].

Tips for maximising efficiency in winter

To get the most out of solar panels in winter, they should face south to catch the most daylight, with an inclination angle set to your latitude plus 10-15 degrees to better capture the lower winter sun. Using a battery lets you store extra energy for use at night, and running energy-heavy tasks during the day can boost efficiency even more. Don’t forget to keep your panels clear of snow and debris to keep them working their best [6].

Financial and environmental benefits

Solar panels are a smart choice for saving money and being more sustainable. You can save up to £483 a year on energy bills and even make extra money by exporting surplus electricity through programmes like SEG [7]. Solar panels also make your home more energy-efficient and can increase its resale value. 

Boost yearly savings with solar energy

Solar panels deliver year-round savings and environmental benefits. By optimising performance and adding battery storage, you can make the most of them, even in winter. 

Interested in reducing your energy bills this winter? Contact Barrington Solar today for a consultation tailored to your needs.

References:

1. https://energysavingtrust.org.uk/case-study/installing-solar-and-saving-energy/
2.  ibid. 
3. https://www.theecoexperts.co.uk/solar-panels/winter
4. ibid.
5. https://barringtonsolar.co.uk/case-studies/sustainable-transformation-in-action/ 
6. https://www.theecoexperts.co.uk/solar-panels/winter 
7. https://www.eonenergy.com/our-blog/do-solar-panels-work-in-winter.html