Yes, it can – solar power only requires some level of daylight in order to harness the sun’s energy. That said, the rate at which solar panels generate electricity does vary depending on the amount of direct sunlight and the quality, size, number and location of panels in use.
Solar power is generated in two main ways: Solar photovoltaic (PV) uses electronic devices, also called solar cells, to convert sunlight directly into electricity. It is one of the fastest-growing renewable energy technologies and is playing an increasingly important role in the global energy transformation.
Although direct solar energy provides only a small fraction of the global energy supply today, it has the largest technical potential of all energy sources. With technical improvements and cost reductions, it could see dramatically expanded use in the decades to come.
Solar energy can be converted directly into electricity in a device called a photovoltaic (PV) cell. Alternatively, solar thermal energy is used in a concentrating solar power (CSP) plant to produce high-temperature heat, which is then converted to electricity via a heat engine and generator.
A solar PV system on the south coast of England for example will generate more electricity annual than one of a similar size, orientation and inclination in the north of Scotland. A solar PV system on the south coast of England for example will generate more electricity annually.
Direct solar energy technologies are part of the broader energy framework, specifically contributing to: low-capacity energy demand; district heating and other thermal loads; PV generation characteristics and the smoothing effect; and CSP generation characteristics and grid stabilization.