Yes, solar panels work on cloudy days; in fact, this raises the question of how does a solar panel work on a cloudy day. They produce electricity, although at a reduced efficiency. This article explains how solar panels generate power under such conditions and provides tips to maximise their performance when considering solar panel installation.
Despite the reduction in efficiency, solar panels can still contribute to reducing household energy bills, even on the cloudiest of days. Solar panels can produce up to 67% less electricity on heavily overcast days compared to sunny conditions.
Additionally, fog typically burns off throughout day (typically in the morning), so by mid-afternoon, if sun returns, solar panel efficiency should return to normal levels. A cloudy day, a cloudy location, or rainy weather shouldn't darken anyone's view toward considering switching to solar power for both energy savings and sustainability.
Even under very cloudy conditions, solar panels can still output about half as much energy as they do on sunny days. While efficiency drops, solar panels continue to provide a substantial amount of energy, contributing to overall energy needs. The Edge-of-Cloud Effect is an interesting phenomenon that can actually benefit solar panel output.
Here's how they function during periods of cloudy weather and at night. Solar panels will still generate electricity during cloudy weather, rain or any other period of indirect sunlight, just not as efficiently. Solar panels are most efficient in direct sunlight and will generate less electricity during cloudy conditions.
High efficiency panels make more energy than conventional panels on a cloudy day, making them an excellent fit for cloudy climates or if trees partially shade your roof during certain times of day. But don’t forget about the cells themselves.