When winter arrives, snow poses challenges for solar installations, especially on flat roofs. Snow not only impacts energy production but can also lead to roof membrane and insulation damage due to pressure from mounting systems. For those concerned about maximizing energy production during snowy months or preventing structural issues, vertical solar panels offer a better solution.
Solar Energy Yield with Vertical Solar Panels in Snow
Snow accumulation can significantly affect energy production of solar panels during winter. While solar panels on flat roofs are very easily fully covered with snow, vertical solar panels perform differently.
Snow coverage levels on solar panels
Low Snow Cover (1-10 cm)
Vertical panels benefit from increased albedo (sunlight reflected off the snow) for higher energy yield. Conventional panels will normally not produce anything even with a very low snow coverage of just a few cm.
Partial Snow Cover (10-30 cm)
Vertical panels continue to capture sunlight while they stick out of the snow. The part covered by snow will not produce anything, but the way the solar panels from Over Easy Solar is designed, partial snow cover will not greatly affect how the uncovered part of the solar panel produces.
Vertical panels with partial snow cover
Full Snow Cover (>25 cm)
Vertical solar panels that are completely covered by snow will not produce any electricity, same as for conventional tilted solar panels.
In a recent case study from Oslo, the Over Easy Solar VPV system outperformed a conventional system during snowy months. Specific yield from the vertical panels remained consistent through early spring, even after fresh snowfall.
No Snow Trapping Effect
A question that we had when starting our venture, was if vertical solar panels would increase the accumulation of snow on the rooftops. One could think that the snow would settle more between panels and therefore the snow cover would be thicker than on an uncovered flat roof. We did not observe this, even after many winters in many different locations that have been closely monitored with cameras and visual inspections.
Faster Melting Due to Air Flows and Solar Thawing
In our experience, vertical solar panels acts as passive snow removal through two mechanisms:
Air Circulation: The panel orientation promotes mixing of layers of air. A smooth snowy surface will melt slowly because the air at the surface is always at the melting point even when the temperature is higher, while vertical panels sticking out of the snow mixes the warmer air down to the snow surface, accelerating the melting process.
Radiant Heat Absorption: Vertical panels capture heat when the sun is shining, speeding up the thawing of adjacent snow.
This efficient snow clearing ensures minimal downtime for energy production during winter.
Reducing Damage to Roof Membranes and Insulation Due to Solar Panels and Snow
Flat roofs face risks from the point loads of traditional solar mounting systems. Rails and brackets can exert pressure on the roof membrane and insulation, particularly under heavy snow loads. These stresses can lead to punctures, compression, and long-term damage.
Vertical solar panels, such as those by Over Easy Solar, do not concentrate roof loads. The snow will accumulate directly on the roof, evenly distributing the pressure. This minimizes the risk of structural damage, making them ideal for flat roofs with sensitive membranes or soft insulation.
Conclusion: Vertical Solar Panels are Best for Snowy Climates
For customers prioritizing energy production in winter or those who care about roof quality, vertical solar panels provide a superior alternative to conventional ballasted flat roof systems. By leveraging their unique design, Over Easy Solar’s VPV units deliver consistent energy yields, passive snow clearing, and enhanced roof protection.
Are you interested in learning more about how vertical solar panels can enhance your energy production while protecting your building? Contact us today to explore the possibilities.
