A growing number of homeowners are choosing to install solar panels. However, many are still reluctant to convert to solar energy. While some homeowners simply can’t afford to invest in solar panels, others are put off by negative assumptions and rumours. Many of these assumptions and rumours are myths. Just what are some of these common myths? This post debunks a few of them.
Myth #1: Solar panels don’t generate power when its cloudy
Some people assume that you need a clear sky to generate solar power. Cloudless days are few and far between in the UK and so if this were the case, solar panels would be pretty useless. However, solar panels can still generate electricity through clouds. In fact, even on gloomy overcast days, they will still generate some power. The only time they do not generate power is between sunset and sunrise when there is no sunlight to convert into electricity. However, solar power harvested during the day can be stored on a battery to use at night – making it possible to run a home off solar power 24/7. This leads to the next common myth…
Myth #2: Excess energy ends up going back to the grid
Where does all the solar electricity you don’t use go? Does it go back to the grid? In some cases, it can. However, when you invest in a home solar PV and battery storage, any excess power you generate is stored on a battery. A good battery can hold a lot of power – which can help get you through the winter months. If you’re not using that power on your battery, it will automatically go back to the grid. However, new incentive schemes are now allowing homeowners to sell back their excess electricity – so you can make some money out of what you don’t use.
Myth #3: Solar panels require a lot of maintenance
Contrary to what many people think, you don’t have to constantly clean solar panels for them to work. It’s recommended that you clean them annually, but this is something a solar panel installation company can do for you (sometimes as part of any instalment scheme or warranty that you have in place). As for solar panel repairs, solar panels are pretty robust and will rarely ever need to be fixed. They have a much longer lifespan than boilers – in fact, some of the first solar panels installed on homes 20 years ago are still going strong.
Myth #4: Getting planning permission for solar panels is difficult
While you may need to apply for planning permission when installing solar panels on a protected building, they are generally counted as a ‘permitted development’ on most homes. This means that you don’t need to file any applications with your local planning committee. A solar panel installation company will usually be able to notify you of any exceptions to this rule.
Myth #5: Solar energy isn’t worth the cost
Solar panels can vary in cost across the country. And their efficiency can vary depending on the location of your home. However, generally speaking, you will make your money back on them in years to come by saving money on energy bills. The exception may be if you live somewhere very shady or the very north of Scotland where sunlight hours are greatly reduced in winter.
Myth #6: Resale value is negatively affected by solar panels
One big myth is that solar panels negatively affect a property’s value. However, the opposite is actually true: solar panels often add a lot of value to a home -so much so that if you don’t stay in your home long enough to make your money back through energy savings, you’re certain to make your money back when you sell your home. The amount of value added is typically between 4% and 14% depending on how many solar panels you install and where you live.
Myth #7: Solar panel manufacture is bad for the environment
Solar panels are made from synthetic materials. But these materials are recyclable. Few solar panels have been recycled so far due to the fact that solar panels are still a fairly new concept and quite long-lasting. However, it is expected that when more solar panels do start coming to the end of their life, there will be an efficient recycling industry in place that will prevent these panels becoming landfill waste.
Conclusion
Solar panels are worth the investment. Not only will they save you money and reduce your carbon footprint, but you can be certain that they will work efficiently for a long time. So why not make this the year that you convert to solar energy?