With the UK’s cloudy skies, short winter days, and occasional snow, many homeowners wonder if solar panels still work in winter in UK. The answer is yes, Solar panels rely on light, not heat, so they can produce power even on cloudy days. When sunlight hits the silicon cells, it frees electrons and creates electricity.
While direct sunlight provides the highest output, diffuse light on cloudy days still yields energy. Panels designed for low-light conditions, like bifacial or REA Fusion2 panels, can capture reflected or scattered light, which improves winter performance.
Maximising Winter Performance
- Choose the Right Inverter
Microinverters or hybrid inverters with low start-up voltages (as low as 22V) can generate electricity even in minimal light, unlike conventional inverters that require 80–200V to start. - Keep Panels Clean
Snow, leaves, or dust can lower performance. Gentle cleaning helps ensure optimal light exposure. - Optimise Panel Angle
A steeper tilt (35–45°) captures the low winter sun better. - Monitor Performance
Smart apps allow you to track performance in real-time, helping maintain energy generation consistently throughout the year.
Advantages of Cold Weather
Solar panels work better in cold temperatures. Each panel has a temperature coefficient of around -0.5% per °C, meaning efficiency increases as temperatures drop below 25°C.
Snow can also improve performance through the Albedo effect, which reflects sunlight back onto the panels. When panels are installed at an angle, even lightly snow-covered panels can still produce energy.
Cloudy Days and Snow
Even on overcast days, solar panels generate electricity, although at a lower capacity. Panels designed for low-light conditions paired with microinverters keep output steady despite grey skies.
Snow rarely blocks all sunlight. Light can penetrate up to 5–8 cm of snow, and the reflective quality of snow can enhance energy production. Dark panel surfaces absorb sunlight, helping melt snow faster and restore full output.
Bottom Line
Despite the winter in UK, solar panels are a reliable and efficient energy source. Cold temperatures increase efficiency, and modern panel technology ensures electricity generation even on cloudy or snowy days.
By choosing high-performance panels, low-voltage inverters, and expert installation, homeowners can enjoy solar energy all year round and reduce their reliance on the grid.
Next Steps for Your Solar Journey
To make solar work in both winter and summer:
- Consider high-efficiency panels and microinverters.
- Keep panels clean and correctly angled.
- Get expert advice for a system suited to your roof and energy needs.
Solar Dreams offers MCS-certified solar installations across the UK, with free quotes and custom designs to maximise energy generation throughout the year.
