Do solar panels work in Scotland's weather?
It's the first question most people in Edinburgh and the Lothians ask. The short answer is yes. Here's why, and what to keep in mind.
Daylight, not heat
Solar panels turn light into electricity. They don't need hot weather. In fact, panels lose a little efficiency when they get very hot, so cool, bright days suit them well.
Cloud reduces output but doesn't stop it
On overcast days panels still generate, just less. Over a year, the long summer days in Scotland make up a large share of the output.
Summer vs winter
Output is much higher from spring to early autumn than in December and January. A good design is based on your whole year and on when you use electricity.
What matters more than the weather
Roof direction and pitch: south-facing is best, but east/west roofs can work well, especially for morning and evening use.
Shading: trees, chimneys and nearby buildings.
Your usage: using more electricity in daylight, or adding a battery, helps you use more of what you generate.
VAT
Solar panels installed on homes are 0% VAT until 31 March 2027.
Next step
Book a solar survey. We'll look at your roof and usage and give you a fixed written quote.
FAQs
Do solar panels work on cloudy days?
Yes, at a lower output.
Is an east/west roof any good?
It can be, particularly if you use electricity in the morning and evening.
What VAT applies to home solar?
0% until 31 March 2027.
Pentland Renewables surveys the property, sends a written quote, and arranges the work.
Send the form with your postcode and what you want priced. We survey your home, then send the written quote. You decide after you have read it.