Tetradis : Concepteur et distributeur de solutions réseaux Très Haut Débit

Solar energy, a clean and renewable resource, is attracting increasing interest as an alternative to traditional energy sources. However, many people wonder whether solar panels are really effective when temperatures drop, particularly during harsh winters or under frequently overcast skies. The answer is clear: yes, solar panels can actually work more efficiently in cold weather, paving the way for the continued use of solar energy in a variety of climatic conditions.

The advantage of cold temperatures

Contrary to popular belief, photovoltaic panels do not depend on heat to produce electricity. In fact, they are even more efficient at lower temperatures. As the temperature rises, the performance of solar panels can decrease due to a reduction in conversion efficiency. This means that in hot weather, solar panels can actually generate less energy than in cold weather. The efficiency of solar panels depends largely on the ability of photovoltaic cells to convert sunlight into electricity.

At high temperatures, the performance of solar cells can decrease. This is due to a phenomenon known as the "recombination effect". As the temperature rises, electrons tend to move more restlessly, which can increase energy losses when converting light into electricity. This reduction in conversion efficiency can lead to less energy being produced in hot weather, contrary to what you might intuitively think. In addition, excessive heat can lead to faster degradation of solar cells, which reinforces the advantage of cool temperatures.

Spotlight on cloudy days and long winters

Even in regions with long winters, frequent cloud cover or in the mountains, solar panels can continue to generate electricity. Although production may be slightly reduced compared with sunny days, solar panels are designed to capture "diffuse light", which is light scattered by clouds, the atmosphere and other surfaces. Even when masked by clouds, some of this diffuse light still reaches the solar panels, enabling them to continue generating electricity. This ability to operate in low-light conditions makes it a viable solution for a variety of environments.

Optimising the use of solar energy in winter

The angle at which the solar panels are tilted in relation to the position of the sun is crucial to maximising exposure to the sun's rays. In winter, when the sun is lower in the sky, adjusting the angle of the panels can help capture sunlight more effectively. This means that the panels should be oriented more vertically to align their surfaces with the sun's rays. Adjustable mounting brackets are commonly used to allow for these seasonal adjustments, ensuring optimum performance all year round, as is the case with our Plug & Start solar kit.

In winter, snow and ice can hamper solar production by blocking light. Keep an eye on your panels regularly and carefully remove any accumulated snow to maintain their efficiency. Use gentle tools to preserve the panels while maximising their winter performance.


Solar panels are an efficient and sustainable energy solution, even in cold or cloudy conditions. Their increased efficiency at lower temperatures and ability to operate in reduced light make them suitable for a variety of environments. Whether you live in a region with harsh winters or face frequent cloud cover, solar energy remains a beneficial option for meeting your energy needs all year round. So there's no longer any reason not to consume in a more sustainable way!