Solar panels work when it’s cloudy ?

Understanding Solar Panel Performance and Maintenance

Here’s what we’ve found at New England Solar and Green Inc., Williamstown, MA.

 

Based in Williamstown, MA, we’ve supported many homeowners in switching to solar power and benefiting from significant reductions in their monthly energy costs. We often get asked: “How much will I save on my electricity bill with solar?”

That figure varies based on a few main things: your home’s energy consumption, the system’s size, and the amount of sunshine in your area. But generally, solar can lower your electricity bill by 50% to 90%, or even eliminate it in certain scenarios. Let’s explore how that works and what to anticipate.

Do Solar Panels Work When It’s Cloudy in Williamstown?

Yes—solar panels do work on cloudy days. While their efficiency may decrease when the sun isn’t shining directly, solar technology is designed to capture diffused sunlight. This means even under an overcast sky, your system continues to generate electricity.

Performance on Cloudy Days

When it’s overcast, solar panel output usually decreases by 10% to 25%, depending on the cloud cover and how dense they are. Despite this, the panels still work and keep supplying energy for your house.

In an area such as Williamstown, where clouds are often present, solar setups are planned and scaled to manage these changes. Because of net metering, any extra electricity made on sunny days can balance out consumption during cloudier times, helping to stabilize your overall energy output.

Energy Storage and Grid Connection

1. Battery Storage

In an area such as Williamstown, where clouds are often present, solar setups are planned and scaled to manage these changes. Because of net metering, any extra electricity made on sunny days can balance out consumption during cloudier times, helping to stabilize your overall energy output.

2. Grid Connectivity

In areas like Williamstown, solar homes typically remain connected to the local power grid. This means:

• You can draw power from the grid when solar production is low.

• You can send excess energy back to the grid through net metering, earning credits that reduce your utility bill.

This seamless integration ensures you’ll have consistent access to electricity regardless of weather conditions.

How to Tell If Your Solar Panels Are Working

Keeping an eye on your system’s performance is crucial for sustained success. Here’s how to make sure everything is functioning correctly:

1. Check the Monitoring System

Many solar setups feature a digital monitoring system or a mobile app. These resources present live information about power creation, consumption, and the system’s overall performance. A sharp drop in output (beyond usual seasonal variations) might signal an issue.

2. Perform Visual Inspections

Look for:

• Accumulated debris (leaves, dirt, snow)

• Bird droppings

• Cracks or visible damage to panels or mounting

Keeping panels clean and unobstructed ensures they absorb as much sunlight as possible.

3. Compare Utility Bills

A noticeable decrease in your electricity bill suggests your solar panels are functioning correctly. Conversely, if your bills unexpectedly start to rise, this could point to a problem with their output or effectiveness.

4. Schedule Professional Inspections

At New England Solar and Green Inc., we provide thorough system inspections to identify problems and guarantee optimal performance throughout the year.

How to Clean Solar Panels Safely and Effectively

Regular cleaning is important, especially if you live in an area prone to dust, pollen, or bird activity. Here’s how to do it properly:

 

Best Practices for Cleaning

• Time it right: Clean during the early morning or late evening when panels are cool. Cleaning in the heat can cause water to evaporate too quickly and leave streaks.

• Use soft tools: A soft-bristle brush or sponge, along with a rubber squeegee, works well. Avoid anything abrasive that could scratch the panel surface.

• Use gentle cleaning solutions: A mix of mild dish soap and warm water is typically all you need. Rinse with distilled water if possible to avoid mineral deposits.

• Stay safe: For roof-mounted panels, safety is critical. If your panels are difficult to access, call a professional. Our team at New England Solar and Green Inc. offers safe, thorough cleaning services.

How Many Kilowatts Are in a Megawatt?

• Understanding basic energy measurements helps make sense of your solar system’s capacity and output.

  • 1 Megawatt (MW) = 1,000 Kilowatts (kW)

  This conversion is essential when comparing commercial and residential systems. For example, a typical residential solar system might be around 5 to 10 kW, whereas commercial systems can reach hundreds of kW or multiple MW.

  Knowing this helps you evaluate quotes, monitor energy output, and understand how your system scales in relation to your energy needs.

Why Choose New England Solar and Green Inc.?

• With years of experience serving Williamstown and surrounding areas, we offer:

  • Customized solar design tailored to New England’s climate

  • Battery and net metering solutions for energy independence

  • Routine system maintenance and performance monitoring

  • Clear communication and honest, expert advice.

  Whether you’re dealing with cloudy weather, learning how to clean your panels, or just want to ensure your system is working correctly, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
  Contact New England Solar and Green Inc. today for a free consultation and discover how clean energy can power your home—rain or shine.