As most people know solar Panels use Photovoltaic (PV) cells to convert sunlight into electricity. But did you know that according to The Solar Foundation “From January to June 2020, solar energy avoided more than 96 million metric tons of CO2 emissions.” Once solar panels are in place, they become the cleanest way for energy to be generated. As long as the sun is shining, we will have access to its energy through solar panels.

One way that solar power directly benefits the environment is through conservation of habitat. Because solar power does not rely on the drilling of oil or mining of coal. Ecosystems can stay balanced and undisturbed. Solar panels are also often placed on rooftops, or solar farms which stand up high above the land. With no need for invasive drilling or mining.

Traditional electricity production methods also pollute the environment in several ways. Burning of fossil fuels can contribute to air pollution which can contribute to the greenhouse effect, acid rain, and even climate change. Nuclear power has the possibility of contaminating our waters, poison our lands. And even leave us with radioactive waste to manage for years to come. Additionally, a nuclear disaster can decimate an environment for miles and miles contributing to the loss of life and more.

According to Evergy.gov “Compared with fossil fuel generators, PV produces far lower lifecycle levels of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and harmful pollutants including fine particular matter (PM2.5), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and nitrogen oxides (NOx).”

With the growing popularity of Electric Vehicles (EVs) we begin to see an amplification to these benefits. As we are not only reducing the emissions created in the production of energy. We are now reducing the emissions that thousands of internal combustion engines are putting out into the air every year. Charging your EV with electricity produced from your home solar panels or a local solar farm means charging your clean power vehicle with cleanly produced energy! This also benefits the consumer especially during times of volatile gas and oil prices and availably.

To sum it all up, solar energy production has many benefits to the Environment around us, from reducing pollutants to saving habitats, and even saving you money in the process. If you are interested in reducing our dependance on fossil fuels and want to learn more about how solar could work with your home, click 

 to speak with a certified solar technician. You can also click 

 to check out our new SOLAR CALCULATOR to learn even more about how much sun you get on your rooftop and how much you could benefit from switching to solar power!

Learn about the different environmental advantages of using solar power. 

Environmental Benefits From Going Solar

More and more people are giving solar power a big thumbs up, especially the environmentally conscious types who think solar power is the 

. All this while saving big bucks on their electricity bills. But many are often found pondering over questions like do solar panels work in cloudy weather or are they any good during the rainy season?

If you've had moments like these where you've glanced up at the cloudy sky and thought, "Well, there goes my solar power for the day”, this guide will dispel any myths and answer all your questions. Alongside that, we will also talk about common issues related to solar panels working in these conditions.

We promise you a clearer understanding of the factors that impact the performance of solar panels before you finish that cup of joe. You will also learn about the ways to optimize your solar panels’ performance on cloudy and rainy days and at night.

But before we begin discussing the effects of weather on solar panel efficiency, it's important to understand how they work. Let’s take a look.

How Do Solar Panels Work? A Detailed Look Into Solar Energy Generation

Despite the ever-increasing popularity of this renewable energy source, most people don’t know exactly how solar panels work. Let’s find out.

For starters, this is what the main components of a typical solar panel comprise of:

 - made up of solar cells that convert sunlight into electricity

 - sandwiches the solar cells and protects them from the elements

 - converts the direct current (DC) produced by the solar panels into alternating current (AC) that's usable

 - secures the solar panels to your roof or the ground

 - allows you to turn off the DC power supply to your solar panel system

 - will enable you to turn off the AC power supply to your home or business

 - measures the electricity your solar system produces and the electricity you consume

 - distributes the electricity produced by your solar panel system to your home or business

 - store excess electricity produced by your solar panel system for use when the sun isn't shining

But before anything else, it is important to know how the actual discovery of the photovoltaic effect shaped the future of solar panels that we know today.

Understanding The Photovoltaic Effect On Solar Panels

The generation of electric current and voltage by solar cells, when exposed to sunlight, is commonly labeled as the photovoltaic effect

. Let's all raise a toast to French physicist 

. He found that certain materials, like silicon, would produce an electric current when exposed to light.

So let's begin with the existence of photons, shall we? Photons happen to be tiny particles the light is made up of. So when a photon hits a solar cell, power games begin. Photon being more powerful, 

 from one of the atoms in the cell. This electron is then free to move around, and when captured by a wire, it 

How Energy Is Produced Through Solar Panels?

So how exactly does a solar panel system produce electricity? It all starts with the sun, solar panels, and the tiny particles aka the photons in the sun’s rays. 

The light from the sun hits the solar panel, the cells in the panel absorb some of the photons in the light

 that flows through the wires in the panel. This current is then sent to an inverter, which 

 which is the type of electricity that we use in our homes.

Now that we know how solar panels produce electricity, let’s discuss their performance during cloudy days.

How Do Cloudy Days Impact The Performance Of Solar Panels?

Let's explore the impact of cloudy days on solar panel performance and how to maximize your solar system power output.

Cloudy with a chance of “solar panel malfunctioning”? Yes, maybe, definitely! When it comes to solar panel performance, it is true that 

clouds become a major factor that affects its efficiency

. This is because solar panels require sunlight to produce energy. The more sunlight that reaches the panels, the more energy they produce.

Clouds can impact solar panels in a few ways. To start, they decrease the amount of direct sunlight that hits the solar panels directly, which in turn 

reduces the amount of energy the panels generate.

Second, clouds can cause diffused light. It is the light that’s been scattered in different directions by the clouds. 

This type of light is less efficient for solar panels to use, as it has a lower energy level than direct sunlight.

 So even when you still argue about the presence of sunlight on a cloudy day, the solar panels may not agree with you and won’t work as happily as they would on a bright sunny day.

The extent to which clouds affect solar panel performance depends on a few different factors.

thicker clouds will block more sunlight than thin clouds.

 As the strength of the sun's rays weakens, it becomes obvious that solar panels will produce less energy. The strength of photons in light matters.

angle of the panels can also affect how much energy they produce

, as panels that are tilted towards the sun will receive more direct sunlight than those that are not.

While clouds can reduce solar panel performance, they don't completely eliminate it. Solar panels can still work on cloudy days and the amount of energy they produce will depend on the factors mentioned above.

Then some solar panels are made to do their job efficiently even in low light circumstances. So producing sufficient energy even when it's cloudy or raining is not a big deal for such systems.

How Much Energy Is Produced On Cloudy Days?

Precisely speaking, the production of the energy is dependent on the cloud thickness and the type of solar panel you have. 

While a thin layer of clouds reduces solar panel performance by 10-25%, a heavy layer of clouds can reduce it by up to 80%.

Innovative Solutions For Maximizing Solar Energy Production On Cloudy Days

Innovative solutions are available to maximize solar energy production even on cloudy days. Time to delve deeper into it.

I. Invest In High-Efficiency Solar Panels

. These types of panels are specifically designed to 

produce more energy even in low light conditions

 than their conventional counterparts. This means that even on cloudy days, they can still generate a significant amount of excess power. If you are open to long-term good investment, we suggest getting high-efficiency solar panels.

 know the struggle of finding high-efficiency solar panels and that's why we're here to help – 

we make finding the best high-efficiency solar panels a breeze

high-efficiency panels that generate up to 30% more energy than their average counterparts.

Now if you are thinking about the damage it will cause to your wallet, that's where our online solar report will come in handy. In just 

 that suggests the size of the solar unit you need as well as a cost-benefit analysis. But here's the best part - 

our report only includes the highest-quality, most efficient solar panels

Another solution is to install a solar tracking system. A solar tracking system 

follows the movement of the sun and adjusts the angle of the solar panels

 to maximize the amount of sunlight they receive.

This would help solar panels still generate ample amounts of energy however cloudy it may be. 

Solar tracking systems can be particularly useful in areas where clouds are common

, as they help to maximize energy production throughout the day.

A battery backup system can also be a useful solution for maximizing solar energy production on cloudy days. These systems 

store excess power generated by your solar system

 during sunny periods which can be used on cloudy days. This ensures that your home continues to receive power even when the sun is not shining.

Then we have the issue of power outages. This is where 

battery backup systems can particularly come in handy as they provide a reliable source of backup power.

IV. Invest In Micro-Inverters Or Power Optimizers

Another innovative solution for maximizing solar energy production on cloudy days is to invest in micro-inverters or power optimizers. Micro-inverters are attached to each panel to convert its power. 

So even if one panel is shaded, the others will continue to produce solar energy at an optimal level.

Power optimizers are installed between solar panels and the inverter. They perform functions such as 

maximum power point tracking and voltage regulations

mitigates the effects of shading or uneven panel performance

Optimizing the performance of each panel, micro-inverters and power optimizers can help to maximize energy production even on cloudy days.

Now that we know how clouds affect solar panel output, let’s see what rain does to them.

How Do Rainy Days Impact The Performance Of Solar Panels?

One of the most common concerns that people have is how rainy weather affects solar panels. Let's take a closer look.

Rain has a significant impact on the performance of solar panels but it’s not all bad news. 

In fact, rain can actually help to clean solar panels

, washing away dirt, dust, and debris that may have accumulated over time which 

intensity of the rain and the thickness of the cloud cover significantly reduce the power

 that solar panels produce. Heavy rain can block out sunlight and reduce the amount of solar radiation that reaches the panels.

angle and orientation of the solar panels also impact their efficiency

 on rainy days. If the panels are positioned at an angle that allows rainwater to collect on them, it will build up dirt and debris. On the other hand, 

if the panels are angled to run off rainwater easily, they are less likely to experience an obstruction,

 and their efficiency will be less affected by rainy weather.

How Much Energy Is Produced On Rainy Days?

On rainy days, solar panels produce even less energy than on cloudy days. Yes, you heard that right and this is because the 

rain clouds are typically thicker and more opaque than regular clouds

, blocking out even more sunlight and reducing the amount of solar radiation that reaches the panels.

On a rainy day, solar panels may only produce around 5-10% of their maximum energy output.

Innovative Solutions For Maximizing Solar Energy Production On Rainy Days

Innovative solutions help to optimize energy production even on the rainiest of days. Here are some of the most promising ones:

Hybrid solar panels are a relatively new technology that has been designed to generate energy from both sunlight and raindrops. These specialized panels have 

 on them that repels water while sliding it off the surface of the panel.

As the rainwater slides off the panel, it generates a small amount of electrical energy which is then collected and stored in a battery.

 Even though the amount of energy produced from rainwater is relatively small, it can still make some major difference on rainy days, quite literally.

 are another innovative solution that can help to maximize solar energy production, even on rainy days. These panels are 

designed to capture sunlight from both the front and back of the panel

, allowing them to generate electricity from both direct and reflected sunlight. They 

produce energy even when the sun is not shining directly

have a layer of transparent glass on the back

 which captures light that passes through the front of the panel. This allows them to 

, such as light that is reflected off of the ground or other nearby surfaces.

Learn how solar panels generate electricity under different weather conditions.

Do Solar Panels Work On Cloudy, Rainy Days, & At Night?

Solar energy is one of the most efficient and eco-friendly forms of renewable energy. In Arizona, solar panels can produce more electricity per square foot than in any other state.

Photovoltaic (PV) panels - also referred to simply as solar panels - work well in Arizona because of the state's large amount of sunlight and lack of cloud cover. The state's elevation and latitude also allow more direct sunlight exposure throughout the year.

How Many Arizona Residents Use Solar Panels?

It's difficult to determine the number of Arizona residents who use or own solar panels as most numbers combine residential and commercial solar installations. However, there are estimated to be 191,000 solar installations in the Grand Canyon State. And the vast majority are residential installs.

The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) reported Arizona ranked 5th in the nation for installed solar photovoltaic capacity in 2016.

These numbers suggest that many Arizona residents are using solar panels. Solar adoption in the state is likely to keep growing in the coming years as solar technology becomes more affordable and accessible.

Why is Arizona One of the Top States for Solar Usage?

There are a few reasons why Arizona is one of the top states for solar usage. The state offers:

Lots of sun, which makes it ideal for solar power.

Ample open space, making solar panel installation practical and easy.

Numerous incentives for solar energy, which makes it more affordable.

Several states use more solar panels than Arizona, including California, Nevada, and New Mexico. However, with over 2,000 MW of installed capacity, the state is still a top contender regarding overall solar usage.

Solar power is a highly eco-friendly source of energy. It doesn't produce any air pollution or greenhouse gases and uses no water. Since they use the sun's energy to generate electricity for your home, solar panels are a terrific way to scale back your carbon footprint and save money on your electric bill.

They're also a renewable energy source and have a minimal environmental impact. And with proper maintenance, solar panels offer exceptional durability and can last for many years.

What Are the Health and Environmental Benefits of Using Solar Energy?

As our world progresses, we constantly look for new ways to become more sustainable. Solar energy is one of the quickest growing and most promising renewable energy sources. Not only is solar energy eco-friendly, but it also has several health benefits.

Solar energy can heat homes and water, power cars, and generate electricity. And because it is a renewable resource, solar energy can help us reduce our dependence on fossil fuels.

 Solar panels have proven effective at reducing air pollution. They produce no emissions when generating electricity and can help offset other sources of air pollution. They may also help improve air quality by reducing power generation emissions.

 With the rising energy costs and the threat of climate change, more homeowners are turning to solar panels to save money and help the environment. Solar panels are a great way to reduce your carbon footprint.

 A new study by the University of California, Berkeley found that solar panel installation can help to reduce resource stress. The findings indicate that solar panel installation led to a reduction in resource consumption in the areas of water and energy.

Solar power is a renewable resource that doesn't emit greenhouse gases, making it a cleaner energy source than fossil fuels. Solar power can help to reduce air pollution and is an integral part of the transition to a clean energy future.

Are There Any Harmful Effects of Installing Solar Panels?

Solar panels have become increasingly popular as they offer a renewable energy source that can save residents hundreds to thousands of dollars each year on those energy bills. However, some are concerned about the potentially harmful effects of solar panels.

First, solar panels can be a fire hazard if not installed correctly. Second, solar panels can cause electrical shocks or overheat if not installed correctly. Another potential issue is that panels can produce electromagnetic fields that harm humans. Finally, if not correctly used, solar panels can lead to higher energy bills.

However, you can mitigate these risks by installing solar panels safely and efficiently. This is why you want a reputable technician to perform your installation. Download your 

 today to ensure you find the right crew to install your panels.

If you're considering installing solar panels on your home but are worried that the trees on your property will get in the way, never fear! You can install solar panels even if your property has trees.

There are a few ways to approach it. With some creativity and planning, you can have the solar panel setup of your dreams - and help save the planet too!

There’s a common misconception that your entire property must be clear and sunny to install solar panels. However, as long as you have enough space on your roof, you can usually install solar panels.

Of course, it never hurts to confirm your roof receives sufficient sun exposure. And you can do that by getting your 

Can I Charge My Tesla or Other EV with Solar Panels?

The average person spends about $1,400 per year on gas for their car. If you have an electric vehicle (EV), you're saving money on gas, but your EV still needs to be charged.

The good news is, you can charge your Tesla or EV via your solar panels, which is more environmentally friendly than charging it on the grid.

Many people don't realize they can charge their EV with solar panels, but it is an excellent option for those who want to be more environmentally conscious.

Can You Save Money With Solar in Arizona While Being Environmentally Responsible?

Solar energy is becoming increasingly popular for those who’d like to save money while being more environmentally responsible. It is possible to save money with solar in Arizona while also being ecologically responsible and helping the planet. Here's how:

1. Solar energy is renewable, so you're not contributing to greenhouse gas emissions.

2. You'll be able to offset your electricity bill by generating your power.

3. Your utility company will give you credit on your bill for any excess energy you generate.

4. You can use a backup battery to continue generating power during power outages.

How Do I Talk With My Family About Using Solar Panels to Help the Environment?

We all know solar panels are great for saving money on energy bills and help the environment. But did you know they can also be the perfect way to start a conversation with your loved ones about the benefits of renewable energy?

Here are a few tips on how to talk to your family about solar panels:

 Learn the key facts about solar panels – how much they cost, how much money you can save, etc.

Be prepared to discuss the environmental advantages of solar panels – how they help reduce pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

 Stress that solar panels are a long-term investment that will not only pay off in the long run financially but can also help the environment, as well.

Use Solar Panels to Fight Climate Change While Saving Money!

Installing solar panels is a great way to help save the environment and your wallet. With the increase in technology, solar panels have become more efficient and less expensive, making them more accessible to the public.

We must take action to reduce our carbon footprint and slow climate change. Solar panels are one small way that we can make a big difference.

To learn more about how to fight climate change while saving money, download your 

Learn about why Arizona is one of the top states for solar usage. 

Renewable Energy - Why Solar Power Shines in Arizona

Solar panels are an excellent investment in Arizona. The state is known for its sunny days, which means if you go solar your panels can produce ample power.

The Solar Energy Industries Association ranks Arizona 17th in the nation for installed solar capacity with 1,240 megawatts. Arizona also ranks highly in installed solar capacity per capita. The state ranked 3rd in 2015 and 2nd in 2016 behind California.


Solar panels can save you a lot of money on your electric bill. So, if you're considering installing solar panels, Arizona is a great state.

What Factors Impact the Cost of Solar Panels in Arizona?


Solar panel costs in Arizona depend on the amount of sun that Arizona receives. The panel's wattage, brand, and material construction can also influence the pricing.

Solar installers must first determine the number of kilowatts (kWh) you currently use to know how many kWh you need to replace with the solar panels. They will also take into account:

The amount of shade your property receives.


Once they establish these details, they know roughly how many panels you'll need to fulfill your energy consumption needs. However, since Arizona receives so much sunlight, your cost to install solar panels should be relatively low compared to other states.

What Incentives Are Available for Homeowners Who Install Solar Panels in Arizona?

Arizona offers several incentives for going solar. The state provides a tax credit of up to $1,000 for installing solar panels and a property tax exemption for the value of your panels. A few utility companies in the state also offer rebates for installing solar panels.

For example, one of the most common rebates electric companies in Arizona offer is the Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC). The SREC is a performance-based incentive that homeowners can earn for each kilowatt-hour (kWh) of solar energy their panels generate.


Other rebates include a percentage of solar installation costs and may be available for purchasing solar equipment, such as batteries or inverters. For a quick and easy way to learn the local incentives that may be available to you - unlock your complimentary, 

Net-metering is a billing arrangement where you can get credit for the electricity your solar panels produce.


If your system creates more power than you use, the excess gets credited to your account at the end of the month. The Grand Canyon state does not require net-metering because Arizona's utility regulations do not require it.


However, Arizona does participate in a similar arrangement called net billing. Under net billing, customers with active solar panels receive bills for their "net" energy consumption.


So, if you install solar panels, as a homeowner in Arizona, your electric provider would only bill you the difference between the electricity you produce and what you consume.

What's the Payback Period for Solar in Arizona?


There's no one-size-fits-all answer when determining what type of payback Arizona homeowners could expect after installing solar. Your payback period can vary depending on multiple factors.


For instance, the following factors can all impact solar payback:

The size and efficiency of your solar panel system.

However, in general, Arizona homeowners can expect a payback period of between 5 and 10 years.

What Are My Options When It Comes to Financing Solar Panels?

A few solar financing options are available to Arizona homeowners interested in solar panels. One option is to lease the panels from a solar company. This option usually has low or no upfront costs, but you will have to pay a monthly fee for the lease.


Another avenue is to borrow money to finance the purchase of the panels. This option will have higher upfront costs, but you will own the panels and may be eligible for state and federal tax credits.


You can also purchase the panels outright - with cash. This option comes with the highest upfront costs but involves no loans, which means you own your system outright.

Electricity Bill Savings on Solar Panels in Arizona

The average household in Arizona can save anywhere from 20% to over 70% on their electric bill by going solar. Solar panels can help offset these high bills by generating electricity from the sun's rays. And, since solar panels typically last 20 to 25 years, these savings will continue for many years.


Learn about the cost of solar panels in Arizona. 

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