The benefits of solar power don’t stop in the fall. If you live in the Northeast or other parts of the country where there are large significant temperature variations, solar panels may become more efficient at generating electricity when it gets colder. The reason for this is that as temperatures rise, electrical resistance in the panels rises. When resistance rises, power output is reduced. Solar systems don’t generate as much power in the fall and winter as they do in the spring and summer, but performance drops off less than you might think.
Tips to get the best performance from your solar system in the fall
Keep those panels clean. If leaves or other debris cover any part of a solar panel, the power output from that panel can be significantly reduced. If it snows, there are tools for removing snow if it doesn’t slide right off, in some cases it will. Solar panels stay slightly warmer than the rest of your roof. Snow may slide off your solar panels first before it slides off the rest of your roof.
Solar panels produce 65% of their annual power output in the spring and summer. They produce 35% of their annual output in the fall and winter. You should plan to manage your power usage wisely. It’s a good idea to run major appliances during the day while your system is producing electricity. Bonus: with all your chores done, you’ll be able to relax at night because that doesn’t use much power!
Home batteries can help
Your home probably doesn’t use as much electricity during the day when you are at work. Home batteries can store the power that your solar system generates during the day so you can use it in the evenings after you get home. Another nice thing about batteries is that they can supply power to your home during a blackout. They can provide the power you need during colder months in a blackout so you can keep your furnace running and your home warm.
Solar power works on cloudy days but power is reduced
If you live in the northeast, you know that if you don’t like the weather, just wait 5 minutes and it will change. Solar panels produce power even on cloudy days, but their output is reduced. Plan to manage your power usage wisely and make the most out of the power you get.
Fall is a great time to go solar
If you are thinking about going solar, fall is a great time to make it happen. Solar companies are less busy in the fall, so you’re likely to get your system installed faster. There are also shorter wait times for the inspections and permits you need to get your system switched on. Lastly, the Federal tax credit for solar has increased to 30% and will be locked in for the next 10 years.
You should contact a qualified tax expert and consult with them. Neither Freedom Forever’s family of independent authorized dealers nor Freedom Forever itself can give you tax advice. A qualified tax professional will understand your situation and be able to give you the most relevant advice.