Maybe you’ve been studying solar energy for a while, and are nearly ready to take the plunge. Or maybe you don’t know much about the benefits of solar energy, but like many, you’ve heard a rumor or two about the technology and have your doubts.
Well we’re here to bust those myths, to help you break through the noise and make an informed, educated decision on the next eco-friendly project for your home or business: solar energy.
Here are three of the most common objections we hear around solar energy, and whether they are a sure fact or a phony fiction.
1) Solar panels don’t work in cloudy or overcast climates
The truth is, solar panels can work in rain or shine.
Have you ever been at the beach on a cloudy day, thought to yourself, ‘I don’t need sunblock today,’ and then ended up with a stinging sunburn? That’s because the sun is so powerful, it’s UV rays and light can still break through the clouds—meaning, they can still provide energy to your solar system.
While solar panels aren’t as effective on overcast days, they still operate. Even with some of the dreariest weather in the world, places like Germany and the UK are paving the way in solar energy innovation because they receive just as much average sunlight over a year span as cities closer to the equator. So, this myth is officially debunked!
2) Solar panels are too expensive
It’s true, a lump sum investment into solar energy can seem costly but rarely do solar customers pay cash, they typically finance their home solar systems with competitive interest rates. That being said, the total price will vary depending on your energy consumption, the size and angles of your roof, where you are located and other factors. And even with monthly financed payments in place, you may ask yourself if the investment is worth it.
Well, it is. Here’s why.
Until December 31, 2019, the U.S. federal government offers a 30 percent tax credit for installing a residential or commercial solar system. On top of this credit, you can curb up to 100 percent of your electricity bill every month for an average of 25-30 years—with those savings, your system will pay for itself in under a decade!
Finally, a solar energy system can increase the value of your home anywhere from $15-30K.
The myth that solar is not affordable is officially debunked!
3) Solar panels require constant maintenance
Being a homeowner is sometimes tiring as it is, so we understand why you would want to avoid high-end systems with costly maintenance. But fortunately for you, solar arrays are built to require minimal maintenance and are durable enough to withstand harsh weather.
In 2013, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory studied more than 50,000 solar arrays which were subject to various types of harsh weather. Only 0.1 percent of the PV systems experienced damage due to harsh weather—including rain, snow, harsh winds and hail.
And as for cleaning? Once a year using a ladder, rubber squeegee and a garden hose will do the trick; or, you can always hire a company to get the job done quickly. And with that, this myth is officially debunked!
Did we cover all of the solar FAQs you’re concerned about? If not, contact our experts and we’ll walk you through any other questions you may have about going green with solar energy. Our team is ready to answer all your questions and schedule you with a free in-home solar consultation with one of our solar consultants