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Yes—solar in the winter absolutely works (and it might be the coolest time to go solar).
Not only is it prime time for hefty utility bills (especially in long stretches of overcast, snowy days) but we’re also seeing more extreme weather patterns. Solar is not only the cheapest form of energy, but by choosing to power your home with clean, renewable energy, you can break away from the utility and the unpredictable rate hikes.
Let’s uncover some truths about how solar power works during New York winters and the little known perks for homeowners who make the switch during these cold winter months!
First, let's bust some winter solar myths!
If you’re a homeowner in Rochester or Central New York, you know winters are serious business—so is solar power! Despite common myths, solar panels perform efficiently in cold weather, and winter is actually a great time to go solar. Here’s why:
🌞 Myth 1: Solar Panels Don’t Work in Winter
Reality check: Solar panels love the cold. contrary to popular belief, solar panels operate more efficiently in cooler temperatures. Even on cloudy days, panels generate power from ambient light. And, with net metering, summer energy credits offset slower solar production in the winter months.
❄️ Myth 2: Solar Panels Can’t Handle Western and Central New York Winters
Solar panels are built tough to handle snow, hail, and ice. Don’t believe us? Read our blog on solar panel durability.
Plus, our windy winters combined with the natural tilt of your roof, help to keep light-to-moderate accumulation from sticking to your panels. Though, of course, there are some exceptions! And for those situations, you can always call on our local in-house customer care team for some backup support!
🛠️ Myth 3: Winter Isn’t a Good Time to Install Solar
Think again—GreenSpark installs solar year-round (yes, even with snow on the ground). Winter installations often mean shorter wait times, so your system is ready for the prime spring sunshine. Here’s some more perks you might not have thought about!
Winter Solar Perks You Didn’t Know About:
If you’re considering solar and wondering if you should wait for sunnier, blue skies – don’t! While going solar in the winter may seem like a crazy idea, it is actually the best time to switch.
Here’s why going solar in the winter actually benefits you:
Maximize Summer Savings: By signing a contract in the earliest months of the year, your system will be installed and switched on just in time for the spring and summer months when there is the highest amount of energy-producing sunlight.
Shorter Install Timelines: Winter installations = faster scheduling. Once that sunshine hits, everyone starts thinking about solar. It’s like clockwork. With higher demand, comes longer wait times, so get in there early!
$0 Down Financing: GreenSpark offers incredible solar-specific financing. Not only can you secure competitive rates, but we also offer no payments for six months. For winter solar installations, this means you won’t pay a thing on your solar loan until after you’re already in peak summer production, and maximizing your monthly energy savings.
🛡️ Winter Solar Add-Ons for Extra Protection:
GreenSpark is local, so we’re no strangers to New York winters. We help you protect your investment and keep your home powered through winter storm season with our winter solar add-ons.
Snow Guards: Prevent snow slides from your roof, protecting people, objects, and landscaping.
Battery Storage: Stay powered during outages—perfect for keeping essentials or life-saving equipment running.
Local Maintenance and Support: Our Rochester-based team offers removal and reinstall services if your roof incurs winter storm damage.
Going solar in the winter allows you to get ahead and start racking up those energy credits at the start of the sunniest months of the year while not paying a single penny! As a Certified B Corp, NYSERDA Gold Quality Installer, and one of the fastest growing companies in Rochester, GreenSpark can help jump-start your solar journey!
🎯 Is Solar Right for Your Home? Find Out Now!
Take our quick Solar Quiz and see how solar can work for you.
