Solar energy is becoming more popular every year, and many homeowners are considering making the switch to solar panels. If you’re among these homeowners but don’t live in a particularly sunny region, you might feel hesitant about the investment. The good news is that the panels don’t require constant direct sunlight to function, but they do need it to a degree. Here, we explore how much sun solar panels actually need to work so you can decide if they’re a good investment for your home.
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The Basics of Solar Panel Technology
Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity. They’re made up of photovoltaic (PV) cells. The science behind PV cells is somewhat complex, but it comes down to capturing sunlight and transforming it into energy you can use to power your home. Once sunlight hits these cells, they create an electric field that generates a current. That current is then sent to an inverter, which converts it into usable electricity.
Even though sunlight is the key ingredient, solar panels are surprisingly efficient in different weather conditions. Today’s panels can generate power even on cloudy days, though their efficiency may decrease. The amount of energy produced largely depends on the efficiency of the solar panel, the angle and placement of the panels, and the amount of sunlight your location receives throughout the year.
Do Solar Panels Require Direct Sun?
Contrary to popular belief, solar panels don’t need direct sunlight to produce electricity. While they operate most efficiently in full, direct sun, they can still work in partial sunlight or even on overcast days. Panels utilize various wavelengths of light, including those that penetrate clouds, to continue generating power.
However, indirect sunlight will naturally produce less electricity than direct sunlight. This means homes in areas with frequent cloudy weather, such as the Pacific Northwest, might generate lower energy outputs than homes in sun-soaked locations like Arizona or Nevada. The good news is that even in less sunny regions, solar panels can still be a viable option, depending on your energy needs and the size of your solar system.
How Little Sun Is Too Little?
Solar panels can handle a surprising range of conditions, but there are limits. If your home receives very minimal sunlight, it might be smart to avoid solar power or at least not rely on it. Some examples of prohibitive conditions could be heavy tree canopy coverage, being in a valley with significant shading, or living in far northern regions with shorter daylight hours.
Solar companies typically measure a location’s solar potential based on the average hours of direct sunlight it gets per day. Generally, a site with at least four to five hours of direct sunlight daily is considered sufficient for solar energy to be worthwhile. If your area averages fewer hours, your panels may not produce enough energy to cover your electricity needs, especially during seasons with lots of overcast and/or short days.
How To Decide if Your Area Is Fit for Solar Panels
The average cost of installing solar panels makes them quite the investment, so you want to make sure your home’s solar potential is accommodating. Start by checking your local climate and sunlight hours. Use tools like Google’s Project Sunroof or other solar calculators to get an estimate of how much energy your roof could generate annually. Additionally, ensure your roof is free of obstructions like trees or buildings that might cast too much shade.
It’s also wise to consult with a professional solar installer. They can assess your property and provide insights into which solar panel system would work best for you. If you’re in a region with less abundant sunshine but still want to go solar, consider pairing your system with a solar battery. This device stores energy during peak sunlight hours and lets you use it when sunlight is scarce.
Ultimately, your home’s area probably offers enough sun for your solar panels to work. Just make sure the investment will be worth the cost and that you can afford a battery system if necessary.
