Panel Upgrade Experts

Solar Energy In Summer Vs Winter In Calgary

Solar Energy In Summer Vs Winter In Calgary

Solar energy in summer vs winter in Calgary is an ongoing debate among residents considering renewable energy solutions. 

Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity and offer a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional energy sources. 

However, the efficiency of these panels in Calgary’s distinct seasons raises questions. 

Concerns about winter efficiency, particularly regarding snow cover, are common. Many wonder if solar panels work effectively in winter and if their energy production drops during the colder months. 

Despite common misconceptions, Calgary’s climate, boasting over 325 sunny days annually, makes it ideal for solar power. 

And even in snowy conditions, solar panels can generate electricity from diffused sunlight, and snow can enhance performance by reflecting light once it melts. 

In this blog, we will delve into the realities of solar energy in summer vs winter in Calgary, highlighting why solar remains a valuable resource throughout the year.

What Is Solar Energy For?

Solar energy can be used for many things, and solar panels are one way to harness it. Solar panels, or photovoltaic panels, convert sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity. 

This electricity can be stored in batteries or connected to the grid through your home’s breaker panel. The energy generated powers home appliances, and on grid-connected systems, the excess is sold to the local electric grid.

Common Uses of Solar Panels In Canda: Charging EV batteries, Alternative Electric Power, Powering Remote Facilities

Common uses of solar panels in Canada include:

  • Charging electric car batteries.
  • Providing electricity for homes.
  • Powering remote sites like mines, oil rigs, and campsites.

How Seasons Affect Solar Energy Production

How Seasons Affect Solar Energy Prduction?

Seasonal changes impact solar energy production from solar panels. In the context of solar energy in summer vs winter in Calgary, the longer days and higher sun position during summer lead to increased energy generation. 

In winter, shorter days and a lower sun angle reduce production. Winter weather conditions like cloud cover, rain, or snow can further diminish the amount of sunlight reaching the panels. 

However, solar panels perform optimally in cooler temperatures, often reaching peak efficiency between 45°F and 75°F. 

Despite these seasonal variations, the effectiveness of solar energy in summer vs winter in Calgary remains significant, with each season presenting unique advantages and challenges. 

Let’s explore how the summer and winter seasons impact energy production on solar panels.

Solar Energy Production In Summer

Solar Energy Production In Summer

In Calgary, solar panels perform exceptionally well during the summer. 

The longer days mean panels are exposed to sunlight for extended periods, leading to increased electricity production. 

For example, in July, Calgary enjoys about 10 hours of sunshine per day, compared to just 2 to 3 hours in December. 

The longest day of the year lasts 16 hours and 20 minutes, providing ample sunlight for maximum energy generation.

The sun’s higher position in the sky during summer also offers more direct sunlight, enhancing the panels’ efficiency. 

While solar panels don’t need direct sunlight to function, they operate more efficiently when they receive it. 

Summer days are typically clearer with fewer clouds, giving the panels better access to sunlight. 

Although solar panels can still generate electricity on cloudy days, they produce more energy on clear, sunny days.

However, extreme heat can slightly reduce the efficiency of solar panels more than cooler temperatures. 

On extremely hot days, they might produce about 10 to 25% less energy. For instance, if the roof temperature rises significantly on a hot day, the panels’ efficiency can drop. 

For example, a panel with a 17% efficiency rating might see a small decrease as temperatures climb.

Solar Energy Production In Winter

Solar Energy Production In Winter

Although solar arrays produce more electricity during summer, they often work better in cooler winter temperatures. 

In winter, the efficiency of solar panels remains relatively high compared to summer due to extreme heat. 

The cold weather also helps preserve your system’s lifespan by allowing a more even flow of electricity without the risk of overheating. 

While there is a chance of 3% energy production loss during the winter, the albedo effect of the snow frequently offsets this loss with an increase of between 1-5%. 

The longest sunny days in Calgary account for the majority of the annual solar energy generation, making the drop in winter production insignificant. 

And despite snow coverage, solar panels can quickly melt light snowfall. The dark solar cells absorb sunlight and heat up, melting snow faster than typical roof surfaces.

Solar Energy In Summer Vs Winter: Verdict

Solar Energy In Summer vs Winter: Verdict

Calgary benefits from long daylight hours in summer, with up to 10-16 hours maximizing electricity generation. 

The higher sun elevation and the clearer skies provide more direct sunlight and better solar performance. 

Although extreme heat can slightly reduce efficiency, the benefits of prolonged sunlight outweigh these drawbacks. 

Winter, on the other hand, offers cooler temperatures that boost efficiency and solar panel lifespan. Snow’s albedo effect reflects sunlight onto panels, boosting energy production despite shorter days.

Overall, superior conditions in the summer make it the best season for solar energy production in Calgary.

Other Factors Affecting Solar Energy Production

Other Factors Affecting Solar Energy Production: Time, Location, Panel Orientation, Landscape

Many factors affect solar energy production, often depending on the season. Here are the key factors:

1. Time

During winter, the sun rises later and sets earlier, reducing the hours of sunlight available for solar energy production. This shift can increase energy costs as your system switches to public utility energy sooner.

2. Location

The amount of daylight your panels receive changes with the seasons. In winter and fall, shorter days mean less energy production. Longer nights in winter reduce the time available for panels to produce energy, increasing reliance on public utility energy.

3. Weather Conditions

Winter often brings more cloudy and rainy days, which reduces the amount of sunlight reaching the panels and limits energy production. Clear, sunny days maximize solar output, while cloudy days increase reliance on the public grid.

4. Orientation

The placement and tilt of solar panels are crucial. Panels should face the correct direction to maximize exposure to sunlight. Solar tracking systems that follow the sun can significantly boost energy production, but even fixed systems benefit from optimal orientation.

5. Landscape

Geographic features like mountains can cause earlier shading, reducing sunlight exposure. Areas in valleys or along coastlines may receive more consistent sunlight than mountainous regions.

Dealing With Seasonal Challenges? Call Panel Upgrade Experts Today!

In terms of solar energy in summer vs winter in Calgary, understand your solar panel system’s performance and how it affects your energy bills throughout the year. 

Summer offers more sunlight, higher production, and bigger savings, while winter provides efficiency and lifespan benefits. 

Considering solar panels for your home or business? Contact Panel Upgrade Experts. 

Optimizing solar production for both winter and summer in Calgary is our specialty. We offer full site assessments and ideal panel setup recommendations.

Call us today to learn how seasons impact solar panels and start saving on energy.

FAQs

Is Calgary good for solar panels?

Calgary, one of Canada’s sunniest cities, enjoys 333 sunny days and 2,396 sunlight hours annually, making it ideal for solar energy generation.

How do solar panels work?

Solar panels, typically made from silicon in a metal frame with a glass casing, release electrons and generate an electric charge when exposed to sunlight photons.

What season is best for solar installation?

Spring is the best time to install solar panels due to moderate temperatures for contractors and good sunlight exposure, preparing your system for peak summer efficiency.

Do solar panels perform better in hot or cold weather in Canada?

Solar panels perform better in cold weather in Canada. While snow can slightly reduce output, winter efficiency remains high. In contrast, extreme heat can lower power output, and panels may stop working if temperatures rise above 85°C.

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