Myth: Solar Panels Only Work in Summer

If you’re a Victoria homeowner considering having solar panels installed, you need to feel confident that they will generate a reliable supply of electricity for your home all year round. Some householders are worried that their solar panels will only work in summer and may not be worth the investment.

Here we take a look at the facts about solar panels in Melbourne and surrounding areas, examining whether or not they will continue to work for you during the cooler winter months.

The Rising Popularity of Solar Panels in Australia

The amount of Australian homes having solar panels installed has risen hugely over the past decade. 20 per cent of homes in Australia now have solar panels – in 2007, this figure was just 0.2 per cent.
Renewable energy has become so popular and so effective that last year it provided over a quarter of Australia’s electricity. This would not be likely if solar panels only generated electricity during the summer months.

Can Solar Panels Work in Winter?

Solar panels are designed to generate electricity all year round, even during the coolest months of the year. This is because the vast majority of Australian solar systems are photovoltaic (PV), meaning that they work by converting light, not heat, into energy.

You might see a small fall in the amount of energy generated by your solar panels in winter, but this is nothing to do with the temperature – it is a result of there being fewer hours of peak sunlight during the winter months.

How to Improve the Efficiency of Your Solar Panels in Winter

There are steps you can take to make sure your solar panels continue to generate enough electricity for your home at all times of the year. One of the most important factors to take into account is the direction of your solar panels. In Melbourne, for example, north-facing solar panels will generate more electricity than if your solar panels face in any other direction.

All reputable solar installation companies should be aware of this and be able to install solar panels in the most advantageous way for your home. The team here at Solar Miner will be happy to provide you with a consultation if you get in touch.

You can also improve the efficiency of your solar panels by having them properly cleaned and maintained. This is something else we are happy to discuss with you.

Find Out More About Solar Panels in Melbourne

If you’re a homeowner in Melbourne or surrounding areas of Victoria, and you’re interested in having solar panels installed, please contact the specialist team here at Solar Miner. We are always happy to discuss your needs and provide you with a quote.