Even when the sun is partially blocked, or reflected by clouds, solar photovoltaic cells still produce energy. There are some things you should consider when determining the energy that your panels can generate on cloudy days.
Don’t Solar Panels Require Direct Sunlight to Generate Electricity?
Sunny weather is more likely to indicate fewer clouds in the sky and therefore less obstruction between the sun’s rays and your panels. The reflective properties of clouds can magnify the sun’s rays, but they also affect sunlight. This can sometimes improve the performance of solar panels.
Cloudy Weather vs. Electricity Charge
Compared to bright, sunny weather, solar panels produce more energy independence than having to pay high electricity bills to power their homes. It’s not difficult to see solar system owners making a profit on their investments regardless of the weather.
The following are the five most cloudy cities in the U.S. as of 2023:
- Juneau
- Anchorage
- Astoria
- Seattle
- Portland
Which Solar Panels Work Best on Cloudy Days
Monocrystalline solar panels are generally considered to work best on cloudy days, as they are made from high-quality silicon cells that are more efficient at converting sunlight into electricity. While solar panels can still produce electricity on cloudy days, the level of energy output will vary depending on a number of factors such as the amount of cloud cover and the quality of the panels. However, it’s worth noting that any type of solar panel can still generate electricity on cloudy days, just perhaps not as efficiently as on sunny days.
This post was written by Daniel Massaad, owner and expert solar technician at Energy Solutions Direct! ESD is the top choice for solar companies in Dayton Ohio! Our licensed and certified contractors are masters of their craft; with years of experience servicing the great Tampa Bay area and beyond, the choice is simple. ESD excels at offering you the best in solar value!
