As the temperatures continue to drop, many people find that their wallets are feeling much lighter than usual as the country continues to navigate the challenges of the cost-of-living crisis. With that in mind, managing energy bills has become the number one priority for most households, with individuals identifying new and creative ways to stay warm and power their homes without breaking the bank.
However, a recent “Which” study discovered that over 13 million households did not heat their homes during the cold weather last year as they were concerned about the cost. This is a scary statistic and one that we hope to be able to help reduce!
Here at Entire Renewables, we are one of the UK’s leading solar companies. Based in Cheshire, we provide our customers with innovative solar energy solutions that not only address financial concerns but also enhance energy security and efficiency, even in extreme weather conditions.
Today, we are here to answer the all-important question of ‘Do solar panels work in Winter?’ while we go into depth on the benefits of solar panels, we will also explain how we can help you reduce costs during this expensive time of year.
Financial Efficiency in the Face of Rising Energy Bills
It goes without saying that Winter is the most expensive season when it comes to energy usage. The tumble dryer is constantly running, artificial lighting is relied on more due to the shorter days and heating a house is a daily need. But fear not; contrary to popular belief, solar panels are just as effective throughout the colder months as they are in the summer.
How? Solar panels do not depend solely on temperature but on exposure to light. Yes, we are given less light in Winter; nonetheless, solar panels do not need direct sunlight to charge and function. Furthermore, cooler temperatures can even enhance their performance compared to the sweltering heat of summer. This is because it increases the flow of charge carriers and consequently reduces the voltage generated.
What About Solar Energy During Overcast Days?
As mentioned above, it is a common misconception that solar panels need direct sunlight to be powered. But in actual fact, they can still generate electricity on cloudy days. While there is a possibility that it will be at a slightly reduced rate, their technology allows them to utilise diffuse sunlight, ensuring a consistent energy supply even when the sky is overcast. This capability is undoubtedly crucial during Winter for obvious reasons.
Will You Have Energy Security in Extreme Weather?
We can all agree that the British Winter offers unpredictable weather patterns, from gale-force winds to a day of thick snow. These extreme weather conditions can often lead to power outages or even just weakness in the strength of power. However, by installing solar panels combined with a battery storage system, you are provided with a complete safety net.
This setup ensures that homes remain powered even when the grid is down, offering peace of mind and security in the face of whatever weather England throws at you. How does this work? Solar battery systems are designed to store the excess energy from your PV system, allowing you to use it how and when you see fit.
It’s important to note that the UK government also announced that they will abolish 20% VAT on top of battery energy storage systems (BESS) from 1st February 2024. The previous scope of VAT relief was limited to batteries installed together with solar panels, while the new scheme covers stand-alone battery installations and retrofit batteries.
How Do Solar Panel Installations Affect You Financially?
With the aftermath of Christmas combined with the current cost-of-living crisis, financial pressures are a struggle for many in this country. With that in mind, investing in solar panels can be a strategic move to mitigate this. While you are required to pay an initial lump sum, it is worth it when matched with the savings you will make annually.
In fact, households can expect to save between £160 and £420 a year when looking at the current Energy Price Cap rates. This is a long-term solution that involves less reliance on the grid, easing the financial burden of Christmas and the current climate. This makes solar panels not just an environmentally conscious choice but also a financially smart one. You can continue to see a return on our investment for years and years to come.
Choose Solar Today & Start Saving
Our team at Entire Renewables is passionate about generating awareness about the importance of considering solar panels as a viable and beneficial option for powering homes – during Winter and beyond. Not only could you be saving money, but you could be saving the planet, too. Did you know that with solar panels, you can reduce the carbon footprint of your home by 80% in one year?
So, despite the season’s shorter days and less intense sunlight, the technology behind solar panels ensures that they remain an effective source of energy, providing financial relief and security during the challenging months. If you’d like to learn more about solar installation for your home or discuss the best way to maximise the efficiency of your solar panels for winter use, book a no-obligation chat with our solar panel experts.
Simply get in touch via phone on 01606 374 994 or via email at info@entire-renewables.onyx-sites.io. Embracing solar energy is not just a summer affair; it’s a year round commitment to sustainability and economic efficiency!