Unlock Winter Solar Power: How to Get the Most from Your Panels in Cold, Dark Conditions

Solar power doesn’t stop working when the temperature drops, in fact, solar panels often perform more efficiently in cool weather. The challenge is that winter brings shorter days, a lower sun angle, and more frequent cloud cover. Whether you’re camping off-grid, travelling in a van, or simply charging your portable power station in the garden, the key is learning how to optimise your panels for the conditions.

With a few simple adjustments and regular care, you can dramatically increase your winter solar output. Here’s how to get the best from your panels when the days are short and the sun is shy.

Understand the Winter Sun

In summer, the sun climbs high into the sky, providing strong, direct light for most of the day. In winter, it sits much lower on the horizon, and daylight hours are reduced, meaning your panels receive weaker, less consistent sunlight.

To make up for this, your panels should be tilted more steeply so they face the sun more directly. As a general rule, angle your solar panels to match your latitude plus around 15 degrees. In much of the UK, that means somewhere between 60° and 70° will be ideal. A steeper angle also has a bonus effect - it helps snow, frost, and rain slide off more easily, keeping your panels cleaner and more efficient.

Position Your Solar Panels for Maximum Exposure

The direction your panels face makes a huge difference to how much energy they produce. In the UK, the best direction for fixed or stationary panels is due south, as this gives the longest and most consistent exposure throughout the day.

If you’re setting up in your garden, at basecamp, or on your vehicle roof, make sure your panels are angled and positioned to face true south, not magnetic south, which is slightly off depending on your location. You can find the correct alignment using a compass app or a basic map.

However, if you’re camping or staying in one place for only a day or two, you can go one step further. Portable panels can be moved to follow the sun’s path as it travels across the sky. Start your day with them facing southeast to catch the morning rays, then adjust to south at midday, and southwest in the late afternoon. This simple adjustment can increase your energy yield by 20–30%, especially on clear days when every bit of sunlight counts.

If you don’t want to move your panels throughout the day, set them up facing south with a good tilt and leave them. That will still give the best all-round exposure without the need for constant repositioning.

Keep Solar Panels Clean and Clear

In winter, solar panels are far more likely to collect dirt, debris, and moisture. Wet leaves, frost, and even a thin layer of dust can significantly reduce efficiency. A small patch of grime may seem harmless, but it can block enough light to lower output across the entire panel.

Wipe your panels down regularly with a soft cloth or sponge and lukewarm water. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as they can damage the protective coating. If snow or frost builds up overnight, clear it gently before the first sunlight hits, those early morning hours are often the most productive.

For portable setups, consider carrying a small microfibre cloth or soft brush with your gear. Keeping your panels clean is one of the easiest ways to boost performance and can make a surprising difference during low-light months.

Stay Out of the Shade

Shade is the enemy of solar efficiency, and in winter, shadows stretch much further than you might expect. A tree, pole, or tent that’s harmless in summer might cast a long shadow across your panels in December.

Before setting up, take a moment to look around and visualise where the sun will travel. Pick a spot with a clear, unobstructed view of the sky from morning until evening. Even a small shadow can reduce output dramatically, so it’s worth the effort to find the best spot.

If you’re camping, it may mean setting up a little further from trees or moving your panels away from your tent. For home use, avoid placing panels near walls, fences, or overhanging branches that block the low winter sun.

Use Extension Cables to Maximise Sunlight

It’s tempting to keep your solar panels close to your power station for convenience, but doing so often limits where you can position them. Using a solar extension cable lets you place your panels in full sunlight while keeping your battery, power station, or devices protected from the elements.

A 3–5 metre cable is often enough for most setups, but you can go longer if needed. Just make sure you’re using a quality, appropriately rated cable to avoid voltage drop, which can reduce charging efficiency.

This approach is especially handy for vanlifers and tent campers who need to keep electronics dry or out of sight. It gives you the freedom to chase the best light while your power station stays safe and secure.

Work With the Daylight You Have

In winter, you’re dealing with fewer hours of usable light, so it helps to plan your energy use accordingly. Try to charge your devices and batteries during peak sunlight hours, roughly between 10am and 2pm - when the sun is at its strongest.

If you’re using a portable power station like the EcoFlow River 3, keep it warm when not in use. Cold batteries lose efficiency and may charge more slowly, so store them inside a tent, bag, or insulated box rather than leaving them exposed to the cold.

You can also reduce strain on your solar system by conserving energy. Turn off unused lights, unplug idle devices, and prioritise charging essentials first.

Consider Multiple Panels or a Higher Capacity Setup

If you rely heavily on solar power through the winter, using multiple panels can help make up for reduced sunlight hours. Many portable power stations allow for parallel connections, letting you double your input and halve your charging time.

Even if you don’t have extra panels, you can optimise your system by using a higher-wattage model or improving your panel’s tilt and position. Small gains add up quickly, especially when every hour of light matters.

Monitor and Adjust

Most modern solar setups include built-in displays or companion apps that show how much power your panels are generating. Take advantage of these tools. Tracking your output lets you see exactly how different positions, angles, or cleaning routines affect performance.

By paying attention to these details, you’ll start to understand your system and how it behaves in different weather conditions and what changes yield the biggest benefits. Over time, you’ll be able to fine-tune your setup instinctively, ensuring you’re always getting the most from your solar power.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re powering your camp, charging your power station in the garden, or running an off-grid van setup, a well-optimised solar system keeps you ready for adventure - whatever the weather.

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