Can You Benefit From Solar Panels In Overcast Areas?
Solar panels can be a significant investment, so most homeowners want to maximize the benefits they receive from them. Because many people worry about the amount of energy they'll receive from their new panels, it's a typical concern to wonder how the weather might affect them. The United States is a large country with many varied climates, which means not all areas receive the same level of sunlight.
If you live in an area with many days that are typically overcast, rainy, or cold, then you might be wondering if you can still benefit from installing a solar system on your roof. While the answer to this question is an unequivocal "yes," it can help to understand why solar systems are so useful even outside areas with long, sunny days.
Solar Insolation and Photovoltaic Efficiency
You may not be familiar with insolation, but it's a term that has enormous implications for the effectiveness of any solar system. Insolation refers to the amount of energy from the sun that reaches a given patch of ground. The Earth's tilt means that areas closer to the equator have higher solar insolation, but many atmospheric factors can also impact this value.
However, your solar system cannot convert all of the energy that reaches the surface into usable electricity. Instead, the efficiency of your photovoltaic panels determines how much solar radiation you can effectively utilize. Most residential panels have an efficiency under 20%, but some higher-end PV panels can exceed this value.
Overcoming the Impact of Cloudy, Short Days
Although clouds block some sunlight, they do not stop all of the sun's energy from reaching the surface. A solar system may deliver less power on an overcast day, but your PV panels will continue to operate and provide you with energy. If you expect to experience many cloudy days, then you can choose to install higher-efficiency panels to capture more of the available sunlight.
If you have the available space, then installing additional panels is another option. By installing more panels, you capture more available sunlight. This strategy will allow you to generate more electricity even if you live in an area with relatively low solar insolation. Solar system installers are typically familiar with their area of operation, so your contractor can help you work out the best solution for your home.
The Importance of Local Energy Costs
Finally, keep in mind that the cost of electricity in your area is often the true determinant of the value of any solar system. If you live in a region with high electricity costs, solar panels will be highly beneficial even if you do experience rainy, cloudy weather. Since each kilowatt you generate will be more valuable, you will be able to reach break-even with your new system that much faster.
Contact a local solar system installation service to learn more.