As the chill of winter rolls into South Africa, your home’s energy needs inevitably shift. Heaters, longer hot showers, and shorter days all contribute to higher electricity demand, right when your solar PV system is producing less power.
If this is your first winter with solar, or even if you’re a seasoned pro, it’s a good time to check in with your system’s performance and make sure you’re getting the most from it.
Why Solar Panels Produce Less in Winter
It’s not your imagination: your panels are working harder to deliver the same output in winter. That’s because:
- The sun sits lower in the sky, delivering less direct light.
- Days are shorter, meaning fewer hours of solar generation.
- Cloudy weather and rain (especially in areas like Cape Town) further reduce output.
An example:
A typical 3.6kWp system in Durbanville can drop from around 688.9kWh in January to just 312.9kWh in June — a reduction of over 50%.
But there’s good news: there are easy, affordable ways to boost your system and power through winter. Here are 5 ways to maximise your solar PV in winter:
- Add more panels and batteries
If you’re seeing your battery drain earlier in the evening or struggling to meet your winter usage, consider expanding your system. With solar panel prices lower than ever, now’s a great time to increase capacity and store more energy for those longer nights.
- Leverage cooler temperatures
Believe it or not, solar panels prefer the cold. They operate more efficiently in cooler weather – especially in coastal areas. Solar panels generate electricity from light, not heat, so winter’s chill actually helps your system, as long as the sun is shining.
- Shift usage to daylight hours
Time your heavy power usage – washing machines, dishwashers, charging devices – for peak sun hours (typically between 10am and 3pm). Be strategic with heating: inverter aircons are far more efficient than older models and use less energy than most kettles!
- Optimise your geyser
Install a timer and a geyser blanket. Heat water during the day, when your solar is working hardest, and keep it warm with insulation. You’ll use less electricity at night and still enjoy hot showers.
- Adopt energy-smart habits
Simple tweaks can make a big difference:
- Use cold water washes when possible.
- Dry clothes in the sun instead of tumble dryers.
- Turn off non-essential appliances when not in use (chargers, TVs on standby, etc).
- Adjust your pool pump schedule – it can run less often in cooler months.
Let’s Keep Your System Performing at Its Peak
Seasonal shifts don’t have to mean power struggles. With smart adjustments – and a little help from the AWPower team, your solar PV system can continue to power your home or business efficiently, even in winter.
Want peace of mind year-round? Consider signing up for an AWPower Maintenance & Support Agreement, which includes system inspections, seasonal performance checks and adjustments, and expert guidance tailored to your setup.
Need help? Email us at info@awpower.co.za
FAQs
- Will my solar system still work in cloudy or rainy weather?
Yes, just with reduced output. Your system still generates power from ambient light, but less than on sunny days.
- Is it worth adding more panels just for winter?
Yes. A larger system can improve year-round efficiency and future-proof your setup for increased energy needs.
- What if I don’t have space for more panels?
Consider adding more battery storage or optimising usage patterns to better align with sunlight hours.
- Can I export excess summer energy to the grid?
Yes, if you’re on a feed-in tariff or net metering system. Ask us how to get connected.
- How do I know if my system needs a winter check-up?
If your battery drains quickly at night, or you’re relying heavily on grid power, it’s time for an assessment.