Do Solar Panels Need Direct Sunlight to Generate Electricity?
Solar power is becoming increasingly important in the UK and beyond. As solar panels become more mainstream, we understand that the concept also comes with many questions. One of the most common queries is: Do solar panels need direct sunlight to generate electricity?
In this blog post, we'll cover:
- Do solar panels need direct sunlight to generate electricity?
- The optimum positioning for solar panels
- Cloud coverage and shade
- The optimum climate for energy conversion
- Why TOPCon technology is leading the way in low-light energy production
- Wholesale solar solutions from DECO Group for solar installers
Do Solar Panels Need Direct Sunlight to Generate Electricity?
In simple terms, solar panels capture the sun's light and convert it into electricity for use in your home or business. Based on this explanation, you might presume that solar panels only work when they're directly in the sun. However, that's not the case. Solar panels can still generate electricity on cloudy days, as any visible light can stimulate them.
The technology inside solar panels that transforms light into electricity relies on photons, and any visible light contains photons. Therefore, solar panels will work even on overcast or cloudy days. That said, solar panels do perform best on sunny days because more photons are available, increasing the electricity produced.
So, to answer the question—no, solar panels don't need direct sunlight to generate electricity. If it's light enough for you to see the solar panel, it's light enough for the solar panel to generate electricity.
The Optimum Positioning for Solar Panels
When it comes to maximising the amount of electricity your solar panels produce, positioning is a crucial factor to consider. Generally speaking, since the UK is in the northern hemisphere, the best positioning for solar panels is facing south. Panels that face south will receive sunlight for the maximum possible time, giving them the best opportunity to soak up the sun's rays and convert them into energy.
If your property doesn't have a south-facing roof, not all is lost. Solar panels can still be a viable option for you. The second-best option is west-facing, followed by east-facing. In the UK, north-facing panels are the least effective as they'll receive the least amount of sunlight throughout the day.
If south-facing panels aren't an option, you might choose to install panels on both east and west-facing roofs. Of course, our knowledgeable team is on hand to advise you, so don't hesitate to get in touch.
Cloud Coverage and Shade
Even though clouds can block the sun's brightest rays, a significant amount of solar radiation can still penetrate the cloud cover.
As mentioned earlier, solar panels work by turning daylight into energy, not just direct sunlight. So, while on the cloudiest days your solar panels may not generate as much energy as they do in full sun, they will still be working. To summarise, your solar panels won't be operating at optimum efficiency when there is cloud coverage and shade, but they will still be generating electricity.
The Optimum Climate for Energy Conversion
This leads us nicely to our next point: determining the optimum climate for energy conversion. Contrary to popular belief, the amount of sunlight isn't the only factor in energy conversion. Solar panels can process around 15-24% of solar energy into usable electricity, with factors such as weather conditions and placement playing a part.
While solar panels will still function without direct sunlight or on a cloudy day, they are most efficient in full, direct sunlight. Of course, living in the UK, daily sunshine is not a given, but that doesn't mean we need to rule out solar panels!
TOPCon Technology: Leading the Way in Low-Light Energy Production
Now, here's where technology steps in to bridge the gap. TOPCon (Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact) solar cells are currently the most viable option for low-light energy production. These advanced solar cells offer higher efficiency and better performance in low-light conditions compared to traditional solar panels like PERC technology. So even on those typical British cloudy days, TOPCon panels ensure you're still generating substantial amounts of electricity.
Wholesale Solar Solutions from DECO Group for Solar Installers
If you're a solar installer looking to provide your customers with top-of-the-line solar solutions, look no further than DECO Group. We specialise in supplying wholesale solar panels—including the latest TOPCon technology—solar panel batteries, inverters, and mounting equipment.
At DECO Group, we understand the challenges installers face in meeting the diverse needs of clients. That's why we offer a comprehensive range of products that perform efficiently even in less-than-ideal conditions. Our wholesale offerings ensure you have access to the best equipment at competitive prices, helping you deliver exceptional value to your customers.
Whether you need high-efficiency solar panels that work wonders in low-light conditions or reliable inverters and batteries, DECO Group has got you covered. We don't install solar panels—we empower installers like you with the tools and equipment you need to succeed in the growing solar market.
Get in touch with us today to find out how we can support your business and help you stay ahead of the curve in the rapidly evolving solar industry.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while solar panels function best when they are directly exposed to sunlight, direct sunlight is not necessary to generate electricity. Solar panels can produce energy when they are shaded, on cloudy days, and even when it's raining or snowing lightly. Thanks to advancements like TOPCon technology, solar panels are more efficient than ever in low-light conditions.
If you're a solar installer keen to offer the best solutions to your customers, DECO Group is here to support you with our range of wholesale solar products.
FAQs
Q: Can solar panels generate electricity in shady conditions?
A: Yes—shaded solar panels can generate electricity. However, they won't produce as much power as they would in direct sunlight. If your clients have a lot of trees or other buildings shading their home, you may need to install a larger solar panel system to get the same amount of electricity.
Q: How do clouds affect solar panels?
A: Clouds can reduce the efficiency of solar panels, but they don't stop them from generating electricity. Thin, high-altitude clouds let most of the solar radiation reach the panels, and certain cloudy conditions can even be ideal due to a phenomenon known as "cloud lensing," where ice crystals magnify the sunlight.
Q: Do solar panels work on rainy days?
A: Absolutely. While the power output is reduced depending on cloud cover, solar panels still generate electricity when it's raining. Plus, rain helps to clean the panels, improving their efficiency once the storm passes.
For more information on how indirect light affects the performance of solar panels or to discuss the best options for your customers, contact DECO Group—your trusted partner in wholesale solar solutions.