One of the biggest misconceptions people have about solar panels is that they don't work on cloudy days.
Well, a popular YouTube channel put that to the test. Experts from The Solar Lab (@TheSolarLab) set up two 200-watt solar panels outside on a winter day with heavy cloud cover.
"This is a really realistic situation," they said. "It's a thick layer of depression in the sky. It's not even a cloud, the atmosphere is just gray."
The experts checked the input coming from the panels every 10 minutes or so and saw surprisingly consistent results of about 47 watts each time. They said it was more than expected in that type of weather and about 40% of what can be achieved at a similar angle in sunny conditions.
"These are pretty good results," they said. "Yes, solar panels do work on cloudy days."
Of course, that gives an answer to just one solar question. To answer all of your questions, and to find ways to save thousands of dollars when going solar, check out The Cool Down's Solar Explorer.
Smart upgrades that slash monthly energy bills
You may already know that solar is one of the cheapest energy forms available. Now, you know that solar panels can still work even under heavy cloud cover. But just how much money can you save by going solar?
• Going solar can slash your bills, protect you from utility rate hikes, and keep your home powered—even during blackouts.
• TCD's Solar Explorer can save you up to $10,000 by comparing competitive installation bids from vetted partners.
• Not ready to spend upfront? Palmetto's $0-down LightReach program can lower your utility rate by up to 20%.
Save $10,000 on solar panels — or get them on your roof without paying for purchase or installation Whatever your solar budget, Palmetto can help you save. If you want to buy your own panels, Palmetto's concierge advisors can help you save up to $10,000 on installation through a network of preferred installers. And if you'd rather get solar savings without upfront costs, Palmetto's revolutionary LightReach subscription program can deliver. LightReach lets you lease solar panels with no money down, making it painless to lock in long-term savings. Palmetto covers a 25-year warranty for the panels, which means you'll get reliable performance without unforeseen costs. To get started, just answer a few basic questions about your home and connect with Palmetto's experts to find the option that's right for you. |
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If you don't have solar panels on your home, which of these factors is the biggest barrier to installing them? Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. |
Upfront costs 💰 EnergySage, a TCD partner found within the Solar Explorer, offers sage advice from solar experts. It can also help you find available incentives in your area and compare bids from local, vetted installers, potentially saving you thousands of dollars.
Solar panels can further reduce your energy costs when paired with electric appliances, such as an energy-efficient heat pump. TCD's HVAC Explorer is the perfect place to find answers your heating and cooling questions, and it can help you find the right HVAC system for your home and budget.
To really ramp up the savings, check out the free Palmetto Home app, which unlocks up to $5,000 in rewards for energy-efficient home upgrades by taking simple, everyday actions.
Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips to save more, waste less, and make smarter choices — and earn up to $5,000 toward clean upgrades in TCD's exclusive Rewards Club.
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