Do Solar Panels Work in the Winter in Ohio?

Yes — solar panels absolutely work in the winter, even here in Columbus, Ohio.

We get this question often from homeowners considering a residential solar panel installation. Winters can be cloudy, cold, and snowy — so it’s a fair concern. But here’s the honest truth:

Solar panels still generate electricity in cold weather and cloudy conditions.

How Solar Works in Winter

Here’s what you need to know:

• Cold temperatures can actually improve efficiency. Solar panels work more efficiently in cold air than in extreme heat. That’s a win for winter.

• They still work on cloudy days. Solar panels don’t need direct sunlight — they capture diffuse light too. You won’t get peak performance every day, but you’ll still produce energy.

• Snow usually slides off fast. Panels are tilted, and they generate some heat when the sun hits them. That causes snow to melt and slide off quickly — especially on quality mounts designed for Ohio’s climate.

• Shorter days = less production, but not zero. Yes, the sun is lower and days are shorter, so output is reduced. But your system will still produce. And with net metering or batteries, you can use stored or credited energy from sunnier months.

We Design for Ohio Winters

At BC Solar, we take our local climate seriously. Every system we install is designed with winter performance in mind:

• Proper tilt angles for snow shedding

• Battery backup options for overnight or outage use

• Accurate sizing to account for seasonal production shifts

• High-efficiency panels that capture light even in lower irradiance

Our goal is to maximize your energy independence — all year long.

FAQ

Do solar panels produce electricity when it’s snowing?
Not while snow is actively covering them, but light snowfall usually melts or slides off quickly. Once exposed, panels start producing again immediately.

Do I need to clear snow off my panels?
Usually not. It’s safer to let them clear naturally. Our mounting systems and panel angles are designed to help with this. If you do decide to clear them, use soft, non-abrasive tools.

How much energy can I expect in December or January?
Production is lower in winter, but many systems still generate 20–40% of summer output, depending on the site. We factor this into your system size and storage planning.

Can solar panels power my home during a winter power outage?
Yes — if you have a battery backup system. Our Sol-Ark inverters and battery setups keep essentials (like your furnace fan, fridge, or sump pump) running even when the grid is down.

Looking for honest answers about solar for your Ohio home?

Give us a call at (614) 442-9700 or contact us online to schedule a free site evaluation. We're here to help you plan the right system — for every season.