Solar Panel Output in Colorado (CO)
Colorado combines high altitude with 300+ days of sunshine, making it one of the best solar states. Thin atmosphere means more intense sunlight, and cool temperatures keep panels efficient. Snow reflection (albedo) can boost winter production.
Peak Sun Hours (Annual)
5.5
Summer Peak Hours
6.5
Winter Peak Hours
4.5
Optimal Tilt Angle
39°
Daily Solar Output in Colorado
Expected daily production from common panel sizes in Colorado conditions.
| Panel Size | Summer (Wh/day) | Winter (Wh/day) | Annual Avg (Wh/day) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100W Panel | 650 | 450 | 530 |
| 200W Panel | 1300 | 900 | 1060 |
| 400W Panel | 2600 | 1800 | 2120 |
* Based on 5.5 average peak sun hours and 85% system efficiency.
Seasonal Peak Sun Hours
Spring
5.5 hrs
Summer
6.5 hrs
Fall
5.5 hrs
Winter
4.5 hrs
Solar Production by City in Colorado
| City | Peak Sun Hours | 100W Daily Output | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Denver | 5.5 hrs | 468Wh | 300+ sunny days, excellent solar |
| Colorado Springs | 5.6 hrs | 476Wh | High altitude, great production |
| Boulder | 5.4 hrs | 459Wh | Similar to Denver |
| Grand Junction | 5.8 hrs | 493Wh | Western slope, drier climate |
| Durango | 5.5 hrs | 468Wh | Good solar, mountain climate |
Colorado Climate Considerations
- •High altitude increases solar intensity by 2-3% per 1000ft
- •Cool temperatures improve panel efficiency
- •Snow reflection can boost production 5-10%
- •Panels must handle snow loads
- ✓Mountain cabins
- ✓Off-grid homesteads
- ✓Year-round systems
- ✓High-efficiency setups
- !Snow load/clearing
- !Winter sun angles
- !Remote installation access
Solar Tips for Colorado
- •High altitude means more intense sun - panels produce above their rating on clear days
- •Install panels at steeper angles (45°+) to shed snow
- •Snow on ground reflects light and can boost production (albedo effect)
- •Cold temperatures help panels run efficiently
- •Consider microinverters for systems with potential snow shading
Frequently Asked Questions: Solar in Colorado
How much solar power can I generate in Colorado?
Colorado averages 5.5 peak sun hours with high intensity due to altitude. A 100W panel can produce 530-580Wh daily on average, often exceeding ratings on clear days.
Does altitude affect solar panel output?
Yes, positively. Higher altitude means less atmosphere filtering sunlight. At 5,000+ feet, panels can produce 5-10% more than sea-level ratings.
How do solar panels handle Colorado snow?
Install at 40-45° or steeper so snow slides off. Dark panels warm quickly and shed snow within 1-2 days. Steeper angles also help winter sun angles.