Yes - solar panels work on cloudy days. They produce 10-70 % of their rated output depending on cloud thickness, because they use diffuse (scattered) light, not just direct sunbeams.
Modern panels reach 18-23% efficiency. That means they convert about one-fifth of sunlight into usable power. But efficiency is only part of the story. Real-world performance changes with temperature, shading, tilt angle, and even the quality of the inverter or battery.
Solar panels generally operate at about 70% to 80% of their peak efficiency in winter. Low temperatures improve panel performance by reducing electrical resistance, often increasing efficiency by roughly 5% for every 18°F (10°C) drop, as long as the panels receive unobstructed.
The optimal solar panel tilt angle equals your latitude, facing true south (Northern Hemisphere) or true north (Southern Hemisphere). At 40° latitude (New York), set panels to 40° tilt.
A thorough understanding of the orientation and tilt angles of the solar panel in relation to the sun radiation it receives is essential for optimizing the design of any PV system for best performance.
The 30-degree rule is flexible: While 30 degrees is often cited as optimal, any roof pitch between 15-45 degrees will deliver excellent solar performance, typically within 5-10% of peak efficiency. Don't let imperfect pitch discourage you from going solar.
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