Are you thinking about investing in solar energy? If you are, it might be a good idea.

Besides the satisfaction you’ll get from knowing that you’re helping the environment, investing in solar also lets you be a part of one of the fastest-growing markets in the United States. Each year, the solar industry grows by around 42%. 

But depending on where you live, solar might not seem like something you can take advantage of. After all, clouds, rain, and snow can often make the sun seem like a distant memory. Many people ask themselves: do solar panels need direct sunlight?

Today we’re going to answer that question and many more. 

Read on to learn more.

Do Solar Panels Need Direct Sunlight?

Contrary to what you might think, solar panels do not need bright and direct sunlight to operate. That said, if you want the most bang for your buck, more sunlight is best. 

Solar panels generate the most electricity when the sun is at its peak in the middle of the day. Energy is still created when the sun isn’t high in the sky, but not as much as what gets produced when the sun is beating down. 

If you live in a place that doesn’t always have bright sunlight, don’t worry—odds are you can still benefit from solar energy! 

Factors That Reduce Solar Panel Efficacy 

So what are some of the factors that lessen the efficacy of solar panel energy production? Anything that prevents the sun from pouring its rays down onto the energy cells.

Most of the time, this includes:

• Clouds
• Rain
• Sleet
• Hail
• Snow

During these conditions, solar panels will often produce only around half of the energy they would during direct sunlight periods. 

Interestingly, colder weather leads to more electron activity. Because of that, even though the sun may not be as bright or consistent, many people find that their solar panels generate more electricity during the winter months. 

If you want to better understand how solar panels work, check out this site to read about solar panel installations. 

Batteries Make All the Difference 

The secret to solar panel success is in the battery. Buying solar panels that come with solid battery storage solutions ensures that your solar panels can continue operating during the night and periods of cloud cover and precipitation. 

Powerful batteries with large storage capacities allow your solar panels to generate as much electricity as possible during periods of direct sunlight, then use that during periods of limited sunlight. What you end up with is consistent electricity around the clock! 

Making the Most of Daylight Solar Panels 

There’s a lot of misconceptions surrounding green energy, and particularly solar energy. 

So do solar panels need direct sunlight? No! Although they work the best with consistent sunlight, they can still help power your home on a rainy or cloudy day as well. 

Looking for more solar panel facts? If so, make sure to check out the rest of our site for more great content!