Do Solar Panels Work in the Snow?
When considering solar energy, many homeowners assume solar panels are less effective—or even useless—in snowy climates. However, that's far from the truth. At SunSent Solar, we’re here to bust the myth and show you why solar energy remains a worthwhile investment, even in winter.
Solar Panels and Winter Efficiency
Contrary to popular belief, solar panels perform exceptionally well in cold weather. In fact, photovoltaic (PV) panels are more efficient in cooler temperatures because heat can reduce their performance. While shorter days in winter mean less sunlight, the cooler climate allows panels to convert sunlight to electricity at peak efficiency.
The only real obstacle? Snow directly covering your panels. But even this isn’t a significant problem. Solar panels are typically installed at an angle, allowing snow to slide off naturally. Plus, their dark surface absorbs heat, helping snow melt quickly when exposed to even minimal sunlight.
Snow on Solar Panels: What You Need to Know
If snow covers your panels, they can’t generate electricity. However, the following factors minimize this issue:
- Tilted Installation: Panels are mounted at an angle, encouraging snow to slide off.
- Heat Retention: Solar panels are slightly warmer than the surrounding air, promoting faster snowmelt.
- Self-Cleaning Effect: As snow melts, it often takes dirt and debris with it, leaving panels cleaner.
For areas with heavy snowfall, you can add snow guards to your system to prevent large amounts of snow from falling all at once. Snow guards hold snow in place, letting it melt gradually and preventing damage or hazards below.
Installing Solar Panels in Winter
Worried about installation timing? Solar panels can still be installed in the winter. While icy conditions might occasionally delay work, many installers, including SunSent Solar, can handle winter installations, ensuring your panels are ready to capture the sun’s energy as soon as possible.
Why Snowy States Still Love Solar
Some of the snowiest states, like Massachusetts, New York, and New Jersey, are also leaders in solar installations. Why? These states offer excellent incentives and policies for renewable energy, proving that even snowy regions benefit from solar power. Here in the Midwest, Missouri and Illinois also have excellent solar incentives that make going solar a smart choice:
- Missouri Solar Incentives: Missouri residents can take advantage of property tax exemptions for solar energy systems, meaning your solar panels won’t increase the assessed value of your home for tax purposes. Additionally, many utility companies, including Ameren Missouri, offer rebates to offset the upfront costs of installing solar panels.
- Illinois Solar Incentives: Illinois offers one of the most comprehensive solar programs in the Midwest through the Illinois Shines program (also known as the Adjustable Block Program). This initiative provides renewable energy credits (RECs) for every megawatt-hour of solar electricity your system produces, helping you save even more. Illinois also has net metering laws, allowing homeowners to sell excess energy their solar panels generate back to the grid, further reducing energy bills.
Combined with the 30% federal solar tax credit available to all U.S. residents, these state-specific benefits make Missouri and Illinois ideal for adopting solar energy—even in regions that experience snowy winters. At SunSent Solar, we’ll help you navigate these incentives to maximize your savings and ensure you’re getting the most out of your solar investment. Whether you’re in the snow or the sun, we’ll make sure your system works year-round.
Concerned About Roof Leaks from Snow?
If you're dealing with snow accumulation on your roof and worried about potential leaks, check out our latest blog post about the most common roof leaks and how to deal with them.
Solar energy works year-round, and with SunSent Solar, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your panels are designed for all weather conditions. Reach out today to learn how you can harness the sun’s power, no matter the season.








