Solar Panels in Cold Climates | Solar Advice

Solar Panels in Cold Climates: Debunking Cold Weather Myths

Solar Panels in Winter: Separating Fact from Fiction

Many UK homeowners in 2025 still wonder: Do solar panels actually work in winter and colder weather? It’s a common concern, especially in colder, cloudier regions such as Yorkshire. Despite having less sunlight, shorter days and cooler temperatures, solar power can be surprisingly effective throughout the winter months.

Whether it’s domestic solar panels or commercial solar panels, we’re often asked whether it’s worth installing solar panels in the colder seasons. The short answer? Yes — and here’s why.

Myth 1: Solar Panels Don’t Work in Cold Weather

This is one of the biggest misconceptions about solar energy. Solar panels generate electricity from sunlight, not heat — and they can actually operate more efficiently in cooler temperatures. In fact, performance can decline in extreme heat.

In fact, for every degree above 25°C, panel efficiency has been estimated to drop by about 0.45%. So, a crisp UK winter day may provide better performance than a sweltering summer one — as long as there’s sunlight.

Myth 2: Snow Stops Solar Panels from Generating Power

In Yorkshire and much of the UK, heavy snow is rare — but even when it does fall, it doesn’t render panels useless at all.

Modern solar panels are mounted at an angle, so snow typically slides off on its own. Their dark surfaces also absorb heat from the sun, helping any snow to melt more quickly. In cases where light snow remains, panels can still generate energy by capturing diffuse sunlight that penetrates the snow cover.

Bonus tip: If you’re concerned about heavy snowfall in your area, consider bifacial panels, which can also absorb light reflected from the ground — including snow.

Myth 3: Winter Days Are Too Short for Solar to Be Effective

Yes, winter brings fewer daylight hours — but solar panels are still hard at work.

Even on cloudy days, they can harness diffuse sunlight. Advances in photovoltaic (PV) technology mean that today’s panels are more efficient than ever in low-light conditions. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), many high-efficiency solar panels maintain good output even on overcast days.

Plus, with battery storage becoming increasingly popular in 2025, excess energy generated during daylight can be stored and used at night — helping maximise winter savings.

Myth 4: Cold Weather Damages Solar Panels

Solar panels installed in the UK are tested to withstand a wide range of weather conditions — including sub-zero temperatures, hail and storms.

Manufacturers also subject panels to rigorous durability testing, and in many cases, extreme cold is less harmful than prolonged heat exposure, but at East Yorkshire Solar, our MCS certification means you can be assured of lasting quality throughout the year.

MCS certification is a UK-based quality assurance scheme that ensures solar panels and other renewable energy systems meet specific standards. According to the UK Government’s official website, “The Microgeneration Certification Scheme is a mark of quality and demonstrates compliance to industry standards that companies strive to meet. It highlights to consumers that companies can always install or manufacture to the highest quality.

Real Benefits of Winter Solar Power in the UK

While total energy output is lower in winter than in summer, solar power still plays a valuable role in reducing your electricity bills and carbon footprint.

Here’s why it’s still worth it:

Lower winter electricity costs: Any power generated during winter reduces reliance on grid energy when rates are higher.
Battery storage solutions: Store surplus energy for use after dark, when demand (and prices) typically rise.
Smart Export Guarantee (SEG): Earn money back by exporting unused solar electricity to the grid.
Energy independence: Reduce vulnerability to energy price hikes and supply disruptions.

Tips for Maximising Solar Output in Winter

Look for High-Efficiency Panels
– Monocrystalline and bifacial panels often perform better in low-light conditions, and whilst they may cost more upfront, you’ll benefit from higher overall energy generation in the long run.
Invest in Battery Storage
– With a storage system, you can save surplus electricity produced during sunnier periods with more direct sunlight and tap into it later.
Regular Maintenance and Monitoring
– Keep an eye on panel performance using real-time monitoring apps. If you notice a dip in output, investigate potential causes like dirt buildup or shading, or schedule regular inspections to ensure your system remains in peak condition.
Combine Solar with Energy-Efficient Practices
– Simple measures like insulating your loft, using LED bulbs and optimising thermostat settings can help to reduce your overall consumption.

Planning Ahead: Why Winter is a Great Time to Install Solar Panel

Winter is actually an ideal time to start your solar journey. Installation teams tend to be less busy, and you’ll be ready to take full advantage of spring and summer generation.

With rising energy costs and increasing demand for clean energy in 2025, solar panels remain one of the smartest home improvements you can make — all year round.

Choose East Yorkshire Solar for Reliable Results

Despite rarely seeing heavy snowfall in the region, we specialise in designing and installing high-quality solar systems across all seasons. When you choose East Yorkshire Solar, this is what you’ll receive:

Local Expertise
– As your trusted local solar panel installers, we work alongside you to understand your needs to create a tailored plan just for you.
– We’ll also recommend the perfect panel type and setup, ensuring your system remains efficient, regardless of snow or cold temperatures.
Quality Assurance
– From top-tier equipment to certified installation practices, we prioritise durability and performance with all our solar panels and EV chargers we install.
– We are a Which? Trusted Trader, guaranteeing a high level of workmanship. All our panels are backed by a 25-year manufacturer’s warranty and a two-year guarantee on our workmanship.
Custom Solutions for Every Property
– Every home or business has different energy needs, roof angles and shading considerations. At East Yorkshire Solar, we craft bespoke designs for maximum yield throughout the year, whether we are installing domestic or commercial solar panels.
End-to-End Support
– Beyond installation, we also offer comprehensive aftercare services, including solar panel maintenance which includes solar panel cleaning, pest protection and an infrared imagery service, where we use advanced infrared technology to create a thermal map to find hidden issues in your solar panels as they arise.

Final Thoughts: Solar Panels Work in Winter — and They Work Well

Don’t let the cold weather fool you. With modern technology and smart system design, solar panels can thrive even in the depths of a British winter.

At East Yorkshire Solar, we specialise in tailored solar panel installations that deliver year-round performance — even in cold, cloudy or snowy conditions. Whether you’re looking to cut your energy bills, reduce your carbon footprint, or become more energy independent, we’re here to help.

Further Support

We are here to help, so please do not hesitate to contact our team of solar panel experts today for further guidance and advice. 

Email: info@eastyorkshiresolar.co.uk
Telephone: 01482 230 422