Do solar panels work in Bangalore's monsoon and winter? Seasonal performance explained (2025)
TL;DR: Solar panels still produce electricity in monsoon and winter, though output drops on cloudy days. In Bangalore we size systems to account for seasonal variation so you still get meaningful production year-round.
Quick answer
Yes, solar panels work in all seasons in Bangalore - but production varies with weather:
- ☀️Summer (March-May): Peak production - clear skies and strong sunlight mean maximum energy generation. Systems produce 90-110% of rated capacity.
- 🌧️Monsoon (June-September): Production drops to 40-70% of sunny-day output due to cloud cover and rain. But panels still work - just at reduced efficiency.
- 🍂Post-monsoon/Winter (October-February): Good production resumes - cooler temperatures actually help panel efficiency. Output typically 80-95% of rated capacity.
💡 Key point: Annual production is what matters - not daily peaks. We design systems for yearly energy targets, factoring in seasonal ups and downs.
How weather affects solar production (simple explanation)
Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity. The amount of electricity depends on:
☀️Sunlight intensity
Direct sunlight = maximum power. Cloudy/overcast = reduced power (but not zero). Panels still produce electricity from diffused light on cloudy days - just 10-25% compared to sunny days.
🌡️Temperature
Cooler panels = higher efficiency. Summer heat actually reduces efficiency slightly (panels work better in cool, sunny winter days). Bangalore's moderate climate is ideal for year-round solar.
🧹Cleanliness
Dust, bird droppings, and pollution block sunlight. Monsoon rains naturally clean panels, often improving performance after the rain stops. Regular cleaning maintains optimal output.
📐Sun angle & daylight hours
Day length varies slightly by season in Bangalore (10-13 hours). Panel tilt and orientation are optimized for local latitude (~13°N) to capture maximum sunlight year-round.
Bottom line: Bangalore's climate is generally favorable for solar - moderate temperatures, good sunshine most of the year, and natural rain-based cleaning during monsoon.
Bangalore seasonal expectations - example monthly production
Here's what a typical 5 kW rooftop system might produce month-by-month in Bangalore (approximate values - your actual production depends on roof orientation, shading, and weather):
| Month | Season/Weather | Peak Sun Hours/day (avg) | Estimated Monthly Production (5 kW system) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | Winter - Clear, cool | 5.0-5.5 | 550-600 kWh |
| February | Winter - Clear, pleasant | 5.5-6.0 | 550-600 kWh |
| March | Summer - Hot, sunny | 5.5-6.0 | 600-650 kWh |
| April | Summer - Peak heat | 5.5-6.0 | 600-650 kWh |
| May | Pre-monsoon - Hot | 5.0-5.5 | 550-600 kWh |
| June | Monsoon - Rainy | 3.5-4.0 | 400-450 kWh ⬇️ |
| July | Monsoon - Heavy rain | 3.0-3.5 | 350-400 kWh ⬇️ |
| August | Monsoon - Cloudy | 3.5-4.0 | 400-450 kWh ⬇️ |
| September | Late monsoon | 4.0-4.5 | 450-500 kWh ⬇️ |
| October | Post-monsoon - Pleasant | 4.5-5.0 | 500-550 kWh |
| November | Pleasant, clear | 5.0-5.5 | 550-600 kWh |
| December | Winter - Cool, clear | 5.0-5.5 | 550-600 kWh |
| Annual Total (Estimated) | ~6,400-6,800 kWh/year | ||
Note: Monsoon months (June-Sept) highlighted in yellow show reduced production (~30-40% drop). But the system makes up for it during the other 8 months of strong sunshine. Annual totals still meet energy goals.
Monsoon tips: cleaning, tilt, roof runoff and maintenance
🧹Let rain do the cleaning
Monsoon rains naturally wash away dust, dirt, and pollution that accumulates during dry months. This "free cleaning" often improves panel performance once sunny days return. Avoid climbing on wet roofs during rain.
📐Proper tilt for Bangalore
Panels are installed at an optimal tilt angle (typically 10-15° for Bangalore's latitude) that helps water run off naturally, preventing water pooling. This angle also maximizes annual energy capture across all seasons.
💧Check drainage & gutters
Ensure roof gutters and drainage aren't blocked by leaves or debris. Good water runoff prevents water logging near panel mounting structures. Installers design drainage paths during installation.
🔍Post-monsoon inspection
After monsoon ends (October), schedule a quick inspection. Check for any stubborn stains, bird droppings, or debris the rain didn't wash away. A simple water rinse (no harsh chemicals) restores full efficiency.
⚡Monitor performance
Most modern systems have monitoring apps that show daily/monthly production. Check your app during monsoon - lower numbers are normal. If production drops unexpectedly outside monsoon, contact your installer.
🛡️ Safety first: Never climb on wet roofs. Professional cleaning services are available - most Arkahub customers get free maintenance until ROI payback period.
Should you delay installation because of monsoon? (practical advice)
Short answer: No - don't delay.
Here's why installing before or during monsoon still makes sense:
You still save money during monsoon
Even at 40-50% of peak production, panels offset your daytime electricity consumption. Every unit generated is a unit you don't pay BESCOM for. Waiting means you lose those savings.
Installation timeline is ~4 weeks
From quote to commissioning takes about a month (approvals, installation, BESCOM inspection). If you wait until "after monsoon," you lose 4 more months of potential savings while processing happens.
Peak production season follows
October-May is the best production period in Bangalore. Installing during monsoon means your system is ready to capture those peak months. That's 8 months of high production ahead.
ROI clock starts immediately
Solar pays for itself over 6-9 years. Every month you delay pushes back your payback date. Starting now means you reach free electricity sooner - even accounting for monsoon dips.
Subsidy & net-metering benefits
Government subsidies and net-metering credits apply year-round. The sooner you're commissioned, the sooner you start receiving these benefits. Policy windows may also close - don't miss out.
✅ Recommendation: Install when you're ready - don't wait for "perfect weather." Solar is a 25+ year investment. One low monsoon season is a tiny blip in your long-term savings.
Real-world example:
A typical Arkahub customer with a 5 kW system in Bangalore:
- •Installed in June 2024 (during monsoon)
- •Produced ~1,600 kWh during monsoon months (June-Sept) - saving ₹9,600 on electricity
- •Then produced ~4,800 kWh in peak season (Oct-Jan) - additional ₹28,800 savings
- •Total savings in first 8 months: ₹38,400 - even with monsoon dip
Had they waited until "after monsoon" (Oct), they would have lost 4 months of processing time + those monsoon savings. Net loss: ~₹15,000+ in foregone savings and delayed ROI.
Get started on your Solar journey today.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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