It’s a common misconception that solar panels are made only for the Sunbelt. But solar isn’t just for hot climates like Florida, New Mexico, or Arizona. As solar power continues to grow in popularity, it’s becoming a more common and practical winter investment for homeowners across the country. In fact, some of the most popular regions in the United States for solar power have some of the snowiest winters.
According to The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New York are ranked in the top 10 states with the highest amount of installed solar in 2019. With stats like that, it’s safe to say solar power really can benefit anyone, anywhere. For countless families, solar energy is considered to be one of the most reliable and cost-effective ways to power homes during the winter months.
How Solar Panels Thrive in Cold Climates
People often wonder if their solar panels will work during the Long Island winters, and the answer is a resounding yes! Best of all? Solar panels actually produce electricity more efficiently in cold weather than they do in hot weather. This is because it’s less likely for solar panels to reach their peak temperature in the winter. At lower temperatures, electron reactions occur at a much greater rate. Solar panels on Long Island are therefore able to absorb even more energy from the sun. Basically, in cold weather, solar panels more efficiently generate electricity.
With solar energy, you can enjoy the following benefits all year long, especially during the icy winter months. Here are some of the reasons why solar panels thrive in the snowy, Long Island winters:
Durable, Sleek Design. During the cold, dark winter days, you may be wondering if your solar panels can withstand the blistering winds or heavy snowfall. Luckily, SUNation’s solar panels undergo pressure tests to assess durability and quality so they can withstand the weight of heavy snow. Solar panels need sunlight to produce power, so if your solar panels are covered in snow, they will not generate electricity. Luckily, most panels are designed to be tilted at an angle, so the snow will naturally slide off the panel all on its own. However, if you would rather take matters into your own hands, you may also consider using a solar panel snow rake for easy snow removal.
SUNation’s solar panel systems are fit to endure all seasons, from the harsh Long Island winters to our beautiful, warm-weathered summers. For any Long Islanders who require solar panel maintenance any time of the year, we are here to help you. SUNation Service, Inc., a division of SUNation Solar Systems, will ensure that your system continues to effectively produce the energy you need no matter the season.
Enhanced PV Performance. As the ambient temperature decreases, like it does during the winter, solar panels become more efficient energy producers. Each solar panel houses a number of photovoltaic (PV) cells, creating the photovoltaic effect that produces energy. The PV technology in solar panels converts sunlight to power, allowing the panel to produce more voltage. The more voltage it produces, the more electricity it produces. In addition to the PV technology, the snow itself influences solar absorption in its own unique way. Snow is white, of course, and the color white naturally reflects light. So, when there’s snow on the ground, the snow reflects light, adding to what the panels absorb and further enhancing the panels’ PV performance.
Reliable Backup Power. Solar plus storage technology allows your solar panel system to access energy even when solar production is lower than usual. Pairing your solar system with the Tesla Powerwall, for example, will provide several days of continuous power during an outage when managed efficiently. Powerwall is self-powered, meaning you can depend on Powerwall and solar to meet all your home’s energy needs, no matter the weather.
With a backup power source to your solar panels, you are able to produce clean, renewable energy for your family. Backup solar PV systems function much like regular generator systems in that they can provide you with additional power. However, battery backups can store any excess energy you aren’t using, saving you a bundle on electricity costs.
Net Metering. During the daylight hours, most solar customers produce more electricity than they use. Thanks to net metering, solar energy output is recorded on an annual basis, which allows you to benefit from the higher overall summer output versus the winter. Net metering lets consumers generate their own electricity any time of day or night, instead of only when it’s being generated. Essentially, net metering allows utility customers to generate their own clean electricity and reduces electricity bills.
Benefits of Solar Power
Solar energy can greatly benefit your family and the environment. Traditional electricity is sourced from fossil fuels like natural gas and coal. Installing solar panels reduces your dependence on fossil fuels to power your home and helps fight harmful greenhouse gas emissions.
In addition to being a green source of energy, solar power is a low-maintenance way your family can become energy independent. You can use solar to power your entire home, day or night, no matter the season. Solar energy is a dependable source of power for your family’s home, and it can save you a lot of money on your electricity bills.
How We Can Help
Our skilled team of solar energy experts can help you find the best solar system for your family’s unique needs. In addition to providing our Long Island community with solar panels, we also offer cutting-edge solar products like home and portable batteries. We proudly offer our community custom-built products with zero out-of-pocket solar costs and the best warranty in the industry.
It may be cold and dim outdoors, but your home doesn’t have to be. Solar power is a reliable and resilient energy source that generates clean, renewable energy year-round. Since 2003, SUNation Solar Systems has been designing solar arrays that will brighten your home and withstand the Long Island snowfall. Contact us today to speak with one of our knowledgeable solar experts.
