Despite the growing popularity in Yorkshire and the rest of the United Kingdom, misconceptions about solar panels persist. In this latest article by Solar Save Ltd, we debunk 10 myths, that we often see doing the rounds on social media, with 10 solar energy facts. Misinformation is rife, especially in the online world – unfortunately, in many cases, it can hinder progress towards a green transition and prevent people making a decision for their home which can save them money. Take a look below, if you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Myth 1: Solar Panels Don’t Work on Cloudy Days
Fact: A common misconception suggests that solar panels are ineffective under the overcast skies frequently seen across the UK. However, modern solar technology is far more capable than some realise. Solar panels can harness indirect sunlight, converting diffused light into usable energy. Although their efficiency peaks on sunny days, they continue to generate electricity even when the sky is grey. In fact, Germany, a country known for its similar cloudy conditions, leads Europe in solar energy production, demonstrating that sunlight availability is hardly a barrier to solar adoption. It’s much similar to plants in the UK, they are able to grow even if the sun doesn’t seem to be shining!
Myth 2: Solar Energy is Too Expensive
Fact: The initial cost of solar panel installation is often cited as a prohibitive factor. While you may need to invest initially, with higher amounts for larger systems, the narrative around solar energy’s affordability is rapidly changing. Advances in technology and manufacturing have led to a consistent decrease in prices. When coupled with government incentives such as the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) in the UK, which compensates solar energy producers for surplus power fed back into the grid, solar energy becomes an attractive long-term investment. The perspective shifts further when considering the ongoing savings on energy bills, making solar panels a financially savvy choice for the environmentally conscious homeowner.
In addition to this, many solar installation companies offer financial plans to pay for you solar system monthly. Solar Save Ltd is one such company. With our payment plan you can pay for your installation from as little as £5 a day. This also means you don’t have to pay an upfront cost to have a working solar panel system installed on your home.
Myth 3: Solar Panels Require High Maintenance
Fact: The durability and low maintenance requirements of solar panels are often underappreciated. Designed to endure the elements, from the pouring rain to the occasional snowfall characteristic of the British climate, solar panels are remarkably resilient. Their upkeep is surprisingly minimal, primarily involving periodic cleaning to remove any accumulated debris or bird droppings and ensure maximum efficiency. Professional inspections, although recommended, are infrequent, focusing on ensuring the system’s optimal performance rather than addressing regular wear and tear.
Myth 4: Installing Solar Panels Reduces Property Values
Fact: Contrary to the belief that solar panels detract from a property’s aesthetic and, by extension, its value, evidence suggests the opposite. Solar installations are increasingly viewed as premium upgrades, akin to renovated kitchens or landscaped gardens. They signify a home’s commitment to sustainability and promise future savings on energy costs, attributes that resonate with a growing segment of eco-conscious buyers. Real estate markets worldwide are beginning to reflect this trend, with homes boasting solar energy systems often commanding higher prices and attracting more interest than their non-solar counterparts.
Myth 5: Solar Panels Take Forever to Pay Off
Fact: The notion that solar panels are a slow-return investment is outdated. As the cost of solar technology decreases and energy prices rise, the financial equation favours solar energy more than ever. The average payback period has significantly shortened, with many homeowners seeing returns on their investment within 10 years. Considering the 25 to 30-year lifespan of most solar panels, the potential for long-term savings is substantial. Moreover, the sense of contribution to a sustainable future and independence from fluctuating energy prices provides additional, less tangible, rewards.
Myth 6: Solar Panels Will Damage Your Roof
Fact: The fear of roof damage from solar panel installations is largely unfounded. Professional installers assess the integrity of a roof before proceeding, ensuring it can support the weight and structure of the panels. In many cases, solar panels can actually protect the sections of the roof they cover, shielding them from weather-related wear and tear. In the rare event of installation issues, reputable companies offer warranties and remedies, mitigating any potential for damage.
Myth 7: Solar Energy Can’t Power Your Home at Night
Fact: While it’s true that solar panels only generate electricity during daylight hours, this doesn’t mean that solar-powered homes are left in the dark come evening. Solar battery storage systems can store excess energy produced during the day for use at night, ensuring a continuous power supply. Additionally, grid-tied solar systems allow homeowners to draw from the national grid when solar production is insufficient, ensuring reliability around the clock.
Myth 8: Solar Panels are Only for Sunny Locations
Fact: Solar panels are designed to harness sunlight, not necessarily direct sunlight, meaning they can produce electricity even on overcast days. Technologies in solar panels have advanced to the point where they can efficiently capture diffused sunlight. Countries with varying weather patterns, including those with significant cloud cover and shorter daylight hours in winter, successfully generate substantial solar power. The key lies in the correct type of solar panel and installation that maximizes exposure to available sunlight.
Myth 9: Solar Panel Production is More Environmentally Damaging Than Their Green Benefits
Fact: There’s a common concern that the environmental impact of manufacturing solar panels outweighs their benefits. While it’s true that producing solar panels, like any manufacturing process, requires energy and resources, the overall lifecycle impact of solar panels is strongly positive. Studies have shown that solar panels offset the carbon dioxide emissions from their production within the first few years of operation, depending on the location and efficiency of the panels.
Over their typical 25 to 30-year lifespan, solar panels generate far more clean energy than the fossil fuel energy consumed in their manufacturing process. Furthermore, the solar industry is continually advancing towards more sustainable production methods, including recycling old panels and using less toxic materials. This ongoing improvement ensures that solar energy remains a net positive for the environment, significantly reducing our carbon footprint over time.
Myth 10: Solar Energy Storage is Too Expensive and Inefficient
Fact: The cost of solar energy storage systems, like batteries, has been a concern for potential solar system adopters. However, just as the cost of solar panels has decreased over time, so has the cost of solar batteries, thanks to advancements in technology and increased production. Modern solar batteries are more efficient, with higher capacities and longer lifespans, making solar power more viable as a primary energy source for homes and businesses. Energy storage solutions not only provide power during the night but also enhance independence from the grid, offering stability against power outages and electricity price fluctuations.
10 Solar Energy Facts: Conclusion
The path to a sustainable energy future is illuminated by the sun’s abundant power, yet clouded by myths and misconceptions. By separating fact from fiction, we empower ourselves to make decisions that benefit not only our households but also our planet. Solar energy, with its myriad of economic and environmental benefits, is a viable and attractive option for the UK, irrespective of its famously variable weather.
As we continue to strive towards a greener, more sustainable future, the role of solar energy becomes increasingly central. It’s a commitment to renewable power, a step towards energy independence, and a testament to our ability to innovate and adapt. For those considering solar panels, the message is clear: the benefits far outweigh the myths. With each installation, we move closer to a future powered not by finite resources, but by the infinite energy of the sun.
Embrace the facts about solar energy and consider how it can illuminate your path to sustainability. If you’re interested in exploring solar options for your home, stay informed, and seek advice from reputable solar energy providers. The future is bright, and it’s powered by the sun.
