Solar in the Winter: Facts and Myths

With the recent freezing temperatures and snowstorms throughout the U.S., it’s important to clear up some of the common myths surrounding solar and energy storage in the winter. Solar systems continue to deliver significant benefits year-round. Whether it’s cooler temperatures or snowy conditions, solar panels are very resilient and effective during the colder seasons.

Let’s debunk some common myths about going solar in the winter and take a look at how to optimize your panels’ production throughout the colder months:

Myth #1: Solar Panels Don't Work in Cold Weather

Fact: Solar panels are actually MORE efficient in cooler temperatures

A common misconception is that solar panels utilize heat from the sun to generate electricity, but in actuality, solar panels rely directly on the sunlight, not heat. In fact, excessively high temperatures can reduce the efficiency of solar panels – as this can lead to overheating of the system which may slow down production. With a higher efficiency in winter, your solar panels are able to produce more energy per hour of daylight compared to hotter seasons (1). This means that even on crisp winter days, as long as there’s sunlight, your solar system can generate electricity at peak efficiency.

Myth #2: Solar Panels cannot Generate Energy in Cloudy or Snowy Weather

Fact: Solar panels can still generate electricity on cloudy or snowy days

Solar panels don’t just function on bright, sunny days. While direct sunlight is certainly ideal, solar panels can still generate electricity from diffused sunlight, which occurs even on cloudy days. Although production will likely be lower in rainy or snowy weather, your system continues to generate electricity and helps reduce your reliance on the grid.

Another reason production may lower in winter weather is from snow buildup on your roof, and therefore on top of the panels. Having a buildup of snow on top of your solar panels can block sunlight from reaching your panels, lowering production. If this occurs and the buildup doesn’t clear on its own quickly, you may want to get the snow cleared off the panels to limit any potential loss.

Myth #3: Snow Damages Solar Panels

Fact: High-quality solar panels are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions

The solar panels and equipment that we offer are tested by manufacturers to ensure they can endure a variety of weather events. From heavy snowfall to strong winds to extreme temperatures, these panels are built with durability in mind. For example, EnergySage, a trusted source in the solar industry, stated, “all solar panels are designed to bear a certain amount of weight and snow and ice accumulation will usually not be heavy enough to cause damage” (1).

Solar panels are typically installed at an angle (this angle is necessary as in New York, in the northern hemisphere, the sun is always located more southern in the sky, not directly overhead) which helps snow slide off, and most modern systems are highly resistant to the effects of freezing temperatures. Extreme accumulation of snow and/or ice may require removal to maximize solar panel output.

Additionally, quality solar panels and equipment generally come with a manufacturer warranty on the products, and in addition to our own warranty on the installation itself, even if your panels do get damaged this can usually be taken care of in a timely manner!

Myth #4: Shorter Days and Less Sunlight make Winter a Bad Time to Install Solar

Fact: Solar energy is a good investment at all times of the year – especially with solar energy storage options and constantly improving technologies

It’s true that winter days are shorter, meaning there are overall fewer hours of sunlight to generate electricity (2). However, modern solar systems paired with battery storage can help you make the most of the energy you produce. During sunny periods, even in winter, your solar panels can generate energy and charge your solar battery, storing energy for use when the sun isn’t shining or when energy demand peaks. This stored energy can keep your home powered through nighttime hours and ensure your solar investment works for you year-round.

Additionally, New York State offers net metering, which allows you to send excess energy back to the grid and earn credits that can be used to offset your electricity costs if production is lower during winter months.

Tips for Optimizing Solar Performance During Winter

Keep Panels Clear of Snow and Debris:

If snow accumulates on the panels, it can temporarily block sunlight from reaching them properly, so it’s important to clear it off if necessary. Even if snow accumulates on your solar panels, it typically will slide off on its own over time and doesn’t need to be manually removed. Whether you have roof mounted or ground mounted solar, since we are in the northern hemisphere, your solar panels are installed at an angle to maximize sunlight. This installation angle is beneficial for snow accumulation as it often melts or slides off before you would even need to clear the snow – cleaning off any dust or debris in the process!

If you do feel the need to clean the snow off manually, keep in mind there are specific tools, such as snow rakes, designed for use on panels to prevent scratching or other damages (3).

Monitor Your System’s Output:

Be sure to utilize your solar monitoring app, where you can easily track your system’s performance. Don’t be alarmed when your winter production levels don’t reach the same levels as warmer months – this seasonal difference is normal to a certain extent! Winter brings less sunlight hours, cloudy, snowy weather and overall less available energy. By monitoring your system, you can be sure to catch any potential issues early and ensure your system is operating at maximum efficiency! If you notice issues with your solar system, get in touch with our dedicated service team so we can get things back up and running as soon as possible!

Take Advantage of Energy Storage:

By storing excess energy in a solar battery, you can make the most of your solar system during winter months when sunlight is less abundant. Battery storage systems allow you to tap into your stored energy whenever your system isn’t actively producing energy – such as at nighttime or during power outages.

Currently there are no incentives for adding battery storage to your solar system, and so it can be smart to wait on adding storage until you’re able to save with incentives. Certain areas of New York State have these incentives available currently, such as Long Island, and so savings on battery storage are likely to come upstate in the near future.

Cold winter weather can bring questions about how well solar panels perform in colder months. The truth is, solar panel systems continue to provide significant energy savings, even when the days are shorter and temperatures drop. Using energy saving products such as solar battery storage systems, you can make even greater use of your system.

Get in touch if you are ready to go solar or add battery storage to your existing system!

Published: 1/24/2025

Ava Clemenzi

Ava Clemenzi, Assistant Marketing Specialist at Kasselman Solar, is a recent graduate of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Electronic Arts and Communication, Media & Design with a minor in biology. She is local to the Capital Region and joined Kasselman for the opportunity to expand upon her experience in the marketing and design field while working with and helping others in the community.