Myths and truths about the “right season” to switch to solar.

Summer is officially over and we’re stepping into cooler fall days. As the temperatures are going down, the upcoming months are typically when we see our lowest electricity bills of the year. In this matter, autumn can traditionally be overlooked as a time to go solar as pricey electricity bills are not top of mind. In fact, it’s a common myth that those with solar panels only reap money savings on their electric bills during the warmer months. While spring and summer yield longer, sun-filled days that are conducive for energy generation, the truth is that solar power is not seasonal.

One frequent misconception surrounding solar energy is that panels don’t work during cooler temperatures. However, that’s far from the truth, as you can generate significant electricity in any season - even during the winter! Solar panels generate energy from the sun’s light—not its heat. And while fall and winter do feature shorter days, solar energy systems actually perform better in chillier environments. In fact, research shows that panels begin losing their efficiency around 77 °F. Meaning, colder temperatures increase the energy production efficiency of solar panels.

On top of that, one of the major perks of installing a solar energy system is the ability to take advantage of net metering. This allows you to bank the excess solar power your home generates and earn a credit with your utility company to lower your electric bills. During the cool fall months when you’re producing less energy (say, due to a lack of air conditioning needs), this means you could potentially generate more electricity than you use. In that case, you can save the excess energy you’re storing up. Then, you can apply it as a credit to offset the charges during high-usage months (for example, during the sweltering days of summer) when we often see our highest electricity bills.

While summer is typically the most expensive season in terms of electric bills, don’t forget about the additional power used during the winter. For example, due to the increased electricity to light up your home as days become shorter and the need for additional power for your seasonal holiday decorations. Solar panels can help decrease these sneaky spikes in wintertime electricity bills.

It’s important to remember that while you may not see the same savings from your solar energy system reflected on your electricity bill from month-to-month, that is normal. The ultimate goal of going solar is to offset your energy usage throughout the year. By utilizing strategies such as net metering, you can take the excess energy you may generate during a longer, sunnier day of summer and apply it to perhaps a shorter, cloudier day in the winter.

That being said, now is actually the perfect season to install a solar energy system! Sunlight Solar is one of the leading solar power contractors in Florida. We design, engineer, permit, install, and service any residential or commercial solar system. Start today your solar energy journey with us!