When you think about solar energy, bright, sunny days likely come to mind. However, before investing in a solar energy system, many people wonder whether solar panels can still generate electricity when the sky is overcast. The short answer is yes. Solar panels can – and do – work on cloudy days! Let’s take a closer look at how solar panels work and what you can expect from your new solar energy system when the weather isn’t cooperating.

How Do Solar Panels Generate Energy?

To understand how solar panels perform on cloudy days, it’s important to know the basics of how they work. Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity through a process known as the photovoltaic effect. This process relies on sunlight, but it’s not triggered by direct sunlight. Solar panels can also use diffuse sunlight (that’s the light scattered by clouds).

When it’s cloudy outside, the intensity of the sunlight that reaches the earth decreases – but it

doesn’t completely disappear. In fact, your solar panel system will still generate a significant amount of energy even when it’s an overcast day. While you may not achieve the same output as on a sunnier day, your solar energy production can still be effective for your needs.

How Much Energy Can You Expect From Your Solar Panels ?

Studies show that solar panels produce between 30% to 50% of their highest output on cloudy days, depending on how thick the cloud cover. For example, if your solar panels generate 300 watts in full sunlight, they’ll produce 90 to 150 watts on a cloudy day. So even when skies are gray, your solar systems is still powering your home.

Today’s solar panel systems are more efficient than they’ve ever been. Technology advances allow panels to produce energy even better in cloudy conditions. Some panels even use bifacial technology, which means they can capture sunlight from both sides, bolstering their energy-generation abilities when it’s overcast.

Plus, inverters – the devices that convert the DC (direct current) electricity generated by your solar panels into AC (alternating current) electricity for your residence or business – become smarter every year. Newer inverters can maximize your solar system’s performance in all types of weather, so that your panels operate efficiently, regardless of how cloudy it is.

Do You Need to Plan for Cloudy Days?

Yes, your solar panels will still generate power when it’s cloudy, but they perform best in sunny conditions. That’s why it’s a smart idea to review your typical weather conditions to plan the best solar setup for your home or business with your solar panel provider. For example, if your area gets a lot of cloud cover, you might pair your solar system with battery storage. That setup lets you store excess energy that your panels produce on sunnier days, giving you a dependable power source when it’s cloudy or at night.

Solar panels are a reliable source of renewable energy on both sunny and cloudy days. When it’s overcast, your panels can still grab enough sunlight to generate a good amount of electricity to keep your home or business powered up. Plus, with all the advancements in solar technology, solar systems will continue to become even more reliable, regardless of the weather.

If you’re considering making the switch to solar, don’t let cloudy days scare you away! With a well-designed solar system, you can enjoy the benefits of clean energy while reducing your carbon footprint, rain or shine.

Contact MC3 Solar For Your Solar Energy Needs

Located in Alexandria, VA, MC3 Solar is dedicated to helping residents and area businesses harness the power of clean energy. We specialize in:

• Residential Solar Design, Development, and Installation: We provide tailored solar systems that meet your home’s unique energy requirements.
• Commercial Solar Solutions: Look no further than our experienced team for comprehensive design and installation services for businesses, condos and apartment buildings.
• Solar Solutions For Farmers and Rural Landowners: We design and install ground-mounted systems and solar gardens to help agricultural businesses and landowners generate renewable energy and create new revenue streams.

Our all-in-one, turnkey solution makes the process seamless, handling everything from paperwork and permitting to installation. With top-quality solar panels and all necessary components, MC3 Solar is here to empower your home or business with sustainable energy. Contact us today for a free consultation.