One of the most common questions we hear at Thermohome Solar is: "Do solar panels actually work in the UK? It's always cloudy here!"
It's a fair question—and one that deserves a proper answer. The short version? Yes, solar panels work brilliantly in the UK, even on those grey, overcast days we know so well.
How Solar Panels Actually Work
Here's where the myth falls apart. Solar panels don't need blazing sunshine to generate electricity. They need daylight—and the UK gets plenty of that, even when the sun isn't visible.
Modern photovoltaic (PV) panels are designed to capture a broad spectrum of light. While direct sunlight produces the most power, diffused light on cloudy days still generates a significant amount of electricity. In fact, Germany—which has similar weather to the UK—is one of the world's leading solar energy producers.
What the Numbers Say
A typical UK household with a 4kW solar system can expect to generate around 3,400 to 4,200 kWh per year. That's enough to cover 50-70% of an average home's electricity needs.
Here's how generation breaks down across the seasons:
- Summer months: Peak generation, often producing more than you can use
- Spring and Autumn: Strong generation, especially on clear days
- Winter months: Lower but still meaningful generation
The key is that solar works year-round. You're not installing panels for summer alone—you're investing in a system that contributes to your energy independence every single day.
Making the Most of Every Ray
At Thermohome Solar, we don't just install panels—we design systems that maximise output for your specific property. This includes:
- Optimal panel placement based on your roof orientation
- High-efficiency monocrystalline panels that perform better in low light
- Battery storage options to store excess energy for evening use
Want to see how much you could generate? Get a free quote and we'll provide a personalised estimate based on your property.
The Bottom Line
Don't let British weather put you off going solar. The technology has evolved significantly, and today's panels are more efficient than ever at capturing available light.
With electricity prices continuing to rise, there's never been a better time to take control of your energy bills. Our team has helped hundreds of homeowners across Wiltshire and the South West make the switch—rain or shine.
Ready to learn more? Contact us for a no-obligation chat about your options.