Weather Changes Are Boosting Your Solar Production: Why Now is the Time to Go Solar in the Midwest
After a brutal summer of record-breaking heat, the cooler air is a welcome change for everyone. But for homeowners with solar panels, this seasonal shift is a powerful signal that their system is now operating at peak efficiency. This perfect blend of cool temperatures and abundant sunlight creates the ideal conditions for
energy production. This is a critical time to consider a
solar panel installation
with a trusted
solar installer in St. Louis
and the entire Midwest.
The Science of Cooler Weather and Peak Performance
It may seem backward, but solar panels are actually more efficient when the air temperature is cooler. This is due to a scientific principle called the temperature coefficient. All solar panels are tested and rated at a standard temperature of 25°C (77°F). For every degree Celsius that the panel's temperature rises above this benchmark, its energy output decreases slightly.
For example, a typical monocrystalline solar panel has a temperature coefficient of -0.37% per °C. This means that on a scorching 95°F day (which can push the panels' surface temperature to over 140°F), a panel’s output could be reduced by as much as 10-15%. Conversely, on a crisp fall day with an air temperature of 55°F, your panels will be performing at or above their rated efficiency. This is why a
solar panel installation
is a smart investment year-round, not just in the summer.
Solar Production Across the Midwest Seasons
A common question we hear at Sunsent Solar is, "Do solar panels work in the Midwest year-round?" The answer is a resounding yes. While each season has its own characteristics, a properly designed
sunsent solar
system is built to maximize production throughout the year.
- Summer: The highest-producing season in terms of total energy due to the long days. Despite the heat slightly decreasing efficiency, the sheer number of daylight hours ensures maximum output.
- Fall: A high-performing season. As temperatures cool and skies remain clear, panels regain peak efficiency, making up for the slightly shorter daylight hours. This is an ideal time for a
solar panel installation
to take full advantage of the sun. - Winter: This is often the most misunderstood season for solar. While daylight hours are at their shortest, the cold temperatures actually make panels more efficient. Furthermore, snow can be a surprising ally.

Busting the Myth: Solar in the Winter
The myth that solar panels don't work in the winter is simply untrue. In fact, cold, sunny days are some of the most productive. The panels' efficiency is boosted by the cool temperatures, and the sun is often more direct.
A new phenomenon we're seeing in the Midwest is the
albedo effect. When snow covers the ground, its white surface reflects sunlight, scattering it back onto your panels. This reflected light can increase production by a significant amount on clear, sunny days. Plus, modern
sunsent roofing
and
sunsent solar
panels are designed to be slick, so snow often slides right off, revealing the panels and allowing them to get back to work.
Your Home's Long-Term Power Play
The recent heat waves and price spikes across the country are a wake-up call. The grid is becoming more volatile and unpredictable. The cost of traditional energy from utilities like Ameren is subject to seasonal spikes, infrastructure upgrades, and political decisions that are entirely out of your control.
A
solar panel installation
from a trusted
solar installer in St. Louis
offers you something invaluable:
energy independence. By generating your own clean power, you are no longer at the mercy of rising electricity bills. Your energy costs become fixed and predictable for decades to come, giving you peace of mind and thousands of dollars in long-term savings.
Why Sunsent Solar is the Best Choice in the Midwest
Choosing a partner for your
solar panel installation
is a decision that impacts your home and finances for years. Here are the top reasons why Sunsent Solar is one of the the premier
solar companies near you
:
- Midwest Expertise: We are not an out-of-town company. We are a local
solar installer in St. Louis
who understands the unique weather, architecture, and utility challenges of both Missouri and Illinois. - Education-First Approach: We believe in empowering our customers with knowledge. We won't give you a high-pressure sales pitch. We'll simply provide you with all the information you need to make the best decision for your home.
- Comprehensive Service: Unlike other
solar companies near me
, we are alsosunsent roofing
experts. This means we can assess your roof's condition and perform any necessary repairs or replacements before a single panel is installed, ensuring your system has a perfect foundation for decades. - In-House Team: We use our own dedicated, in-house crews—never subcontractors. This guarantees the highest level of quality control and a seamless installation experience from start to finish.
A Crucial Deadline: The solar tax credit 2025
is Ending Soon
The federal
solar tax credit 2025
is the single biggest incentive for homeowners to go solar.
It allows you to claim a significant percentage of your system's cost as a tax credit, making solar more affordable than ever. However, this credit is scheduled to expire at the end of this year.
This is not just an opportunity; it is an absolute necessity if you want to protect your finances from a future of rapidly rising electricity bills. Don't let this once-in-a-lifetime chance to go solar at a discount pass you by. Our team is working hard to help every family who wants to go solar before the deadline, but our capacity is limited.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do solar companies near me
factor in the weather when designing a system?
A: A professional
solar installer in St. Louis
designs your system based on your home's unique energy needs and the local climate. We account for seasonal daylight hours, temperature fluctuations, and even snowfall to ensure your system performs optimally throughout the year.
Q: Can a sunsent solar
system protect my home from rising electricity rates?
A: Yes. By generating your own power, you are no longer a passive consumer of a utility's electricity. Your energy costs are fixed, and you are protected from future rate hikes and grid volatility.
Q: Why is it so important to get a professional sunsent roofing
assessment before a solar panel installation
?
A: A
solar panel installation
is a 25-30 year investment. Putting it on an old or damaged roof is a costly mistake. Our integrated approach ensures your roof is strong enough to support your new solar system for its entire lifespan, saving you from a future removal and reinstallation.
Are you ready to stop worrying about your utility bill and start generating your own clean, reliable energy?
Contact Sunsent Solar today at 636.757.3083 for a free consultation. The October 1st deadline to guarantee installation is fast approaching—call now before it's too late!









