Top Solar Energy Myths Dispelled
Filed under: Solar Installation
Like many people, you may be intrigued by the idea of solar energy. But you may also believe solar panels won’t work for you, for a variety of reasons. Often we find that there is a lot of misinformation floating around out there, so check out these solar myths – and discover the truth for yourself.
My climate is too cloudy. Solar panels don’t need constant, direct sunlight. UV light is actually all they need. It’s interesting to note that Germany produces the most solar energy in the world, and they don’t really enjoy a lot of especially sunny weather in Germany!
My climate is too cold. The warmth of your climate has little to do with how well solar panels work. In fact, they actually conduct electricity a little better when they’re cold!
Solar won’t work for me because I don’t have a South-facing roof. East- or West-facing solar panels also work very well. Another option is to forget your roof altogether, and use a ground-mounted system.
Solar energy is too unreliable. If your solar system is tied to the grid, then yes it will go down when the power goes out around you (but you wouldn’t have had power anyway). On the other hand, you can install your system with battery back-up, in which case your system will still work when the grid goes down.
Solar panels are difficult to maintain. Solar panels rarely require any kind of maintenance whatsoever, and you don’t have to clean them. And with the average warranty lasting 25 years, you can be assured of their quality for a few decades.
Solar systems are ugly and will detract from the curb appeal of my home. Like anything else, the more we see solar panels, the more we will get used to them. But they have come a long way in terms of appearance over the years. Nowadays they’re much less noticeable and far more attractive than in the past.
Solar panels are too expensive for me. You can actually earn a federal tax credit of 30 percent on the cost of installing your solar panels, and 48 states also offer their own tax-based incentives for even more savings.
Solar panels are a bad investment in my home. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, your home’s value rises by about $20,000 for every $1,000 you can shave off the annual electric bill.
Get all of your questions about solar energy and solar panel installation from Scott and Mary Carlson at New Day Solar. (855) 444- 6329
