Are There Peak Times Of The Day When Solar Energy Works Best?

Solar energy is one of the most sustainable and eco-friendly sources of energy in the world. It is a renewable energy source that can be harnessed by homeowners, businesses and industries. The sun is the primary source of energy that fuels solar panels and it is an inexhaustible source of energy. But the question remains, are there peak times of the day when solar energy works best? To answer this question, it is important to understand how solar panels work. 

Solar panels are made up of photovoltaic cells that convert the energy from the sun into electricity. The energy from the sun is in the form of photons and the photovoltaic cells in the solar panels absorb the photons and convert them into electrons. The electrons are then captured and stored as energy, which can be used to power homes and businesses.

One of the most significant factors that affects the efficiency of solar panels is the angle of the sun. The sun is at its highest point in the sky around noon and the angle of the sun is at its lowest point in the morning and evening. This means that the solar panels are not at their most efficient during these times of the day.

However, the peak times of the day when solar energy works best vary depending on the location of the solar panels. 

In the northern hemisphere, the best times for solar energy are from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. during the summer months. During the winter months, the best times for solar energy are from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. This is because the sun is lower in the sky during the winter months, and it is at its highest point in the sky during the summer months.

In the southern hemisphere, the best times for solar energy are from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. during the summer months. During the winter months, the best times for solar energy are from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

Another factor that affects the efficiency of solar panels is the weather. When the weather is cloudy or overcast, the solar panels are not as efficient as they are on sunny days. This is because the clouds block the sun and reduce the amount of energy that reaches the solar panels. In these conditions, the solar panels are only able to produce a fraction of their maximum potential.

One more factor that affects the efficiency of solar panels is the position of the solar panels. Solar panels that are positioned to the south will be more efficient than panels positioned to the east or west. This is because the sun rises in the east and sets in the west, which means that solar panels positioned to the south will receive more direct sunlight throughout the day.

Finally, the type of solar panels that are used also affects the efficiency of the solar panels. Monocrystalline solar panels are more efficient than polycrystalline solar panels, which are more efficient than thin-film solar panels. This is because monocrystalline solar panels are made from high-quality silicon, which is more efficient at converting sunlight into energy than the other types of solar panels.

Whether you’re looking to invest in solar panels or you’re interested in getting the most out of your existing system, it’s important to understand and get to know what is the best time to use solar power. If you need further assistance working out what is the best time to use solar power for your property, or you have any other solar related enquiries, feel free to get in contact with the Aztek Solar team!

Thanks for reading!

Brian McKay
aka The Solar Guy 😎