What is the Outlook for Winter Storms?

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) released its annual winter forecast in October 2024. It predicts a La Nina Climate Pattern, characterized by cooler-than-normal ocean temperatures in the Pacific. This pattern typically leads to drier and warmer conditions in the south and cooler, wetter weather in the north. It also makes weather more variable, increasing the risk of storms.

While the south and east coasts will experience warmer-than-average temperatures, the Pacific Northwest will see cooler conditions, putting this country's region at risk for a storm. Wetter weather will also affect the areas in the Great Lakes region.

In other regions, the dry climates will lead to drought.

Although warmer winter temperatures may reduce the risk of winter storms, they may pose a new threat. Flooding will occur in warmer areas. Stagnant temperatures may also harm crops and increase the presence of mosquitoes throughout the year.

Winter Weather Means Power Outages

Depending on your location, winter could bring heavy snow, flooding, and other storm weather. All of these events can lead to a power outage.

Power outages might seem inconvenient, but they can be more serious than you imagine. Possible impacts include:

• Food spoilage: When the electricity goes out, refrigerators can't run. It also causes food spoilage and a lack of healthy, fresh food access.

  
  

• Lack of Medical Access: Many people use electricity to stay healthy. They require refrigerated medications and electric-based medical equipment. If a power outage occurs, their medication could go bad, and their medical equipment could be unavailable. Worse yet, they may be unable to alert their provider if an emergency occurs.

  
  

• Bad for Business: Today's businesses rely on electronics and walk-in customers. When the power goes down, they are unable to function. Local economies and individuals can lose millions of dollars. 98% of organizations say one hour of downtime can cost over $150,000.

How Solar Keeps You Going During a Winter Storm

The grid may go down during a winter storm, but the sun still shines. Solar businesses and residences can still access power, even in cloudy conditions. It can be the difference between losing money and even risking your life.

And solar does more than power homes and businesses. It also powers emergency shelters. Local governments often partner with hospitals and emergency workers to set up shelters, ensuring the population is cared for during winter storms.

The power enables them to keep medications cold, work electrical medical equipment, and keep individuals warm and safe.

What are the Limitations of Solar Power in a Winter Storm?

Although solar power can provide power in a winter storm, there are limitations to consider. For example, solar panels do not function at night because there is no sunlight. Overcast conditions also reduce efficiency. 

However, there are things you can do to maximize the power you have available. Here are some ideas:

Battery Storage

Battery storage is essential during a winter storm. It stores energy for use when the sun is not shining.

Recharging your battery during daylight hours will help you get the most out of power generation. You should also purchase a reliable, high-capacity battery that can provide ongoing power. Use 1 to 14 kWh batteries for optimal efficiency. 

Consider Critical Loads

Your solar panels will provide limited power. You must consider which appliances you want to run based on necessity and load use. Essential appliances typically include:

• Your Refrigerator: Your refrigerator will prevent food and medicine from spoiling.

• Key Lights: It's essential to keep lights on in the home, but choose your lights wisely for optimal energy conservation.

• WIFI Router: A WIFI router will ensure you can communicate with others in an emergency. It also may help companies continue to make money.

• Medical Devices: Powering medical devices can be the difference between life and death.

• You should also avoid using electronics and appliances that consume substantial energy. They include:

  • Oven

  • Washing machines

  • HVAC systems

• If you must use these appliances, use them sparingly—set HVAC systems to low heat. You can also save energy by washing clothing in cold water.

• Maximize the power you have by:

• Unplugging nonessential items: Appliances draw power when they are plugged in. Unplug them when they are not in use.

• Use energy-efficient bulbs: Energy-efficient bulbs will use less power.

• Consolidate refrigerated items: if you have multiple refrigerators in your home, consider consolidating them into one refrigerator so you don't have to keep them running.

Purchase Efficient Solar Panels

Efficient solar panels will capture more energy to power your home through a winter storm. Panels are generally one of three varieties as follows:

• Monocrystalline: Monocrystalline panels are made from a single silicon crystal that can produce energy from small amounts of sunlight. They are the most efficient panel type but also the most expensive. These panels may be more than most homes require. However, if you live in an area with frequent winter storms, you may consult your installer to determine if they suit your needs.

• Polycrystalline: Polycrystalline panels are made from silicon panels. They are cheaper to produce but less efficient than their monocrystalline counterparts. These panels are ideal for residential applications.

• Thin film: Thin film panels are made from a thin layer of PV materials. They are versatile but have a short lifespan. They may not hold up well in snowy environments.

Setting Up Panels to Capture Optimal Sunlight

If you live in an area prone to winter storms, you don't experience much sunlight. However, you can work with your provider to ensure your panels are installed to make the most of what’s available. Here are some helpful tips.

Orientation and Angle

The orientation is the direction your panels face- north, south, east, or west. The angle- well, most of us know what an angle is.

Households in the northern hemisphere should orient their panels south for optimal sunlight. Southern hemisphere residents should orient their panels north. However, there is also something to be said about west-facing installations. West-facing panels have been shown to reduce a home's reliance on the grid.

The angle should change depending on the season. In winter, the sun is lower to the ground, so angles should be closer to vertical. In summer, the opposite is true.

Consider installing tracking technology in your panels so they follow the sun. This feature eliminates the need to adjust your panels each season and ensures you can optimize sunlight whenever available.

Shading Concerns

Trees and other obstructions can interfere with your panels' ability to absorb sunlight. Consider cutting down trees that block the path of the sun. If your roof is completely obstructed, consider ground installation.

Maintain Panels

Clean panels regularly to remove dust and debris that could limit absorption.

Can Snow Damage Solar Panels?

If you live in a snowy climate, you may be concerned that the weight of the snow may damage the panels. This concern is valid. Here's what you can expect in a snowfall.

Light Snow

Light snow will not damage a panel much; a thin layer won't interfere with absorption. Additionally, the snow will slide off the panel quickly due to the angle or melt with the heat, restoring it to full efficiency.

Heavy Snow

Heavy snow is more of an issue because it blocks sunlight. However, like lighter snow, it will eventually slide off or melt. If melting is not happening quickly enough, you can accelerate the process with a snow rake or broom. You can also install heaters or apply an anti-stick spray to ensure snow doesn't stay around long.

You may be concerned that the weight of the snow will damage your panels, but most panels can withstand heavy weight. If you live in a stormy climate, check the pressure rating on your panels to ensure they can endure heavy snowfall.

Ice

Ice can be a problem if snow melts and refreezes, but in most instances, it will melt or slide off. Since snow is clear, it should not impact absorption.

Can Snow Be Good for Solar Panels?

Winter storms may be a threat, but cold weather could benefit solar production. Here are some advantages to consider.

• Snow Reflects Light: Snow's reflective properties attract light to your roof, increasing your panels' absorption rates.

• Snow Cleans Your Panels: Snow is wet and cleans off dirt and dust accumulation, making panels more absorbent.

• Cold is Good for Panels: Solar panel efficiency reduces at around 77 degrees Fahrenheit. However, cold does not have the same impact. Your panels will remain efficient in sub-zero temperatures. Therefore, a cold sunny day offers the perfect conditions for power generation.

Solar America Can Help You Reach Your Solar Goals

Solar saves the environment, reduces energy bills, and can provide power in winter storms and other emergencies. Is there any reason not to go solar? If you are ready to get started, Solar America can help.  

Solar America will help you find the best providers in your area. Enter your contact information into our database, and our system will generate a list of qualified providers. Choose the one that's right for you. The competitive format ensures the lowest prices.

Contact us to find the best installer for your solar needs.