7 Solar Energy Myths – Busted!

Despite the growing number of households and commercial building which install solar panels around the world, there are still some myths about using solar energy. Let’s see some of the most popular ones and refute them with facts.

1. Myth: Solar panels will be improved – it’s better to wait

Fact: Even though many companies are trying to improve solar panels, we are actually using the same technology since the 60s. The theoretical improved efficiency is very small in comparison to the current technology and its advantages. In other words, you’re wasting money while waiting for a minor improvement.

2. Myth: Solar panels are quite loud

Fact: Even though solar panels are large, they won’t bother you with loud noises. There are no moving parts, so they are completely silent. It’s possible that the inverter will make a humming noise from time to time but you will have troubles hearing it even if you’re close to it. At night, when there’s no solar energy that needs to be converted, there won’t even be humming.

3. Myth: Maintenance of solar panels is demanding

Fact: Home solar panels usually come with a warranty, and some of them even include annual inspections. Even if the inspection isn’t included, cleaning the panels is very simple. Simply give the panels a gentle scrub to remove dust and debris. Just water and a sponge will be enough, and doing it only twice a year is perfectly fine. Otherwise, the debris could decrease the efficiency of panels up to 25%.

4. Myth: Solar panels are an expensive investment

Fact: Solar panels are much cheaper now than 10 years ago and their price is expected to have fallen even more by 2022. And let’s not forget the benefits which definitely outweigh its cost, no matter how much the cost is – you can save up to $200 every month on electricity bills. Furthermore, a home equipped with solar panels can boost in value up to $15,000 in case you choose to sell it.

Another benefit that saves you money is the fact that many governments and states are making solar panels affordable to households.

For example, the Australian company KDEC Electrical & Solar draw people’s attention to the fact that the Victorian State Government provides a rebate for a solar PV system if they meet the requirements.

Similarly, every state in the US has a type of incentive for those who want to install solar panels so all what locals need to do is to inform on the incentive in their state.

5. Myth: Solar panels are useless in snowy or cloudy conditions

Fact: While it’s true that cloudy and snowy conditions can reduce the efficiency of solar panels, they are still able to work even then.

In snowy climates, the panels are installed at a specific angle which will help the snow slide off when it piles up. Similarly, the right angle will enable the rain to clean the panels. Just look at Germany – it doesn’t have a lot of sunny days but it has one of the most developed solar initiatives in the world.

6. Myth: Solar panels may damage the roof

Fact: Professionals will install the solar panels, no matter how complicated the roof pitch and angle are. They definitely won’t damage the roof while installing them.

What’s even better, solar panels may even extend the life of your roof by protecting it from weather conditions. They are installed slightly above the roof, so they will act as an additional layer of shingles.

7. Myth: Solar panels are not aesthetically pleasing

Fact: Previous versions of solar panels were bulky, but the modern versions are very attractive. They are upgraded by non-reflective solar roofing and come in black and elegant designs. They are easily integrated with any type of roof, so you don’t have to worry they will disturb the attractive exterior of your home.

Final comment

Solar panels are being increasingly installed all over the world. They are not reserved only for the rich and for big companies. They have become a part of regular households and they are the next step in living green. Being environmentally friendly while simultaneously saving money – that’s what solar panels are all about.