With news of the climate crisis dominating global news, more of us are looking towards renewable energy sources in a bid to do our bit for the environment.
As with any newer technology, a lot of scepticism has surrounded solar energy and we have seen countless myths being presented as fact throughout the years. However, as solar energy has the potential to contribute significantly to decarbonised societies we think it’s time to debunk those myths with fact-checked information about solar panels.
Solar Myth 1: Solar Energy is Not an Economically Viable Power Source
There are a number of factors that will impact the overall cost of installing a solar panel system on your property, including where you live, the quality of the panels you choose, and the installation team you trust to do the work.
The cost of solar panel systems has fallen by around 30% globally and even after the cost of living crisis and inflation pressures, the median price per kW for a solar panel system with a 0-4kW output fell significantly from £2,222 in January 2024 to £2,030 in March 2024.
According to the Energy Saving Trust, it costs around £7,000 to install a solar panel system in the UK. As solar panel systems have a lifespan of 25 years, solar energy is actually a very cost-effective source of power.
Solar Myth 2: Solar Panels Don’t Work When It’s Cloudy
While solar panels produce the most energy on bright days with plenty of direct sunlight, they also still convert light into electricity on dull, overcast days. Solar panels work by absorbing energy from daylight on the spectrum that we can see, so when we can see that it’s light outside, so can solar panels.
Solar Myth 3: Solar Panels Don’t Work in Winter
Solar panels typically generate less electricity during the winter months, as the days are shorter and the sun sits lower in the sky. But it’s not all bad because solar panels actually work most efficiently during cooler temperatures, so although your system will certainly generate less electricity, you will still see some output even in the depths of winter.
Solar Myth 3: Solar Panels Are High Maintenance
Solar panels are designed and manufactured to withstand an array of weather conditions, including rain, hail and wind. There is relatively little maintenance associated with solar panels, however they need to be cleaned twice per year in order to remove any dirt, dust, pollen and debris.
You don’t need to be too concerned about snow either, as a light-to-medium covering of snow should slide straight off panels that have been mounted at the correct angle. Plus, as with heavy rain, snow can also help to clean your panels for free!
Solar Myth 4: Excess Solar Energy Goes to Waste
If you aren’t at home during the day, you may not get the most benefits from your solar panel system. However, this is an issue that can be easily mitigated by installing an integrated battery that will store electricity until you’re ready to use it.
Additionally, every business and homeowner in the UK with solar panels can actually sell any excess energy back to the National Grid under the Smart Export Guarantee SEG scheme. So, not only will no solar energy go to waste, it's also possible to earn money in the process.
Solar Myth 5: It’s Harder To Sell Properties With Solar Panels
Money Saving Expert cites research that found solar panels increase the value of a property by up to 14%, however Yopa suggests that some properties may increase in value by 4%.
So, while there is some disagreement amongst estate agents and property professionals regarding how much your home’s value may increase by installing a solar panel system, it is widely accepted that solar panels definitely don’t negatively affect the length of time your property will remain on the market or the sale price you will secure.
Solar Myth 6: Solar Panels Will Damage Your Roof
Rather than being attached directly to the roof your solar panels will instead be mounted on top, which means that they will actually help to preserve and protect the part of the roof they are installed on. Just remember that it's important to work with a trusted solar panel installer, such as Green Flare, as they are equipped with the skills and knowledge to ensure that your panels are installed safely and at the right angle for optimal energy generation.
10 Facts About Solar Panels
To finish, let’s run through 10 facts about solar energy and bust some long-standing myths once and for all.
Solar panels need daylight, not sunlight to generate electricity.
Solar panels can charge electric vehicles.
Solar panels work optimally in cooler temperatures, however, they can withstand extreme temperatures with some models continuing to work in 85-degree heat.
Solar panel manufacturers are creating models in different colours, including terracotta which is designed to blend in seamlessly with red clay tile rooftops.
Solar panels are available in a range of different sizes and specifications to suit all properties and budgets.
Solar panels have a 25-year lifespan, with many models continuing to function optimally beyond this timeframe.
Solar panels can be recycled.
A typical solar panel system in the UK costs £7,000.
Under the SEG, you can sell excess electricity back to the National Grid in England, Scotland and Wales.
Experienced installers can complete a solar panel installation within a day or two.
Looking to invest in a greener future? Get in touch with a member of our team to find out how solar panels can transform your home or business.
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