As the solar industry becomes more accessible around the world, many misconceptions are following it. Here are 14 commonly asked questions and answers about solar power.
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MYTH 1 – Solar power systems are not available everywhere
Solar power systems can function anywhere the sun shines.
MYTH 2 – Solar panels can cause roof damage.
Many solar power systems actually help protect and presrve roofs. They help slow down the deterioration process and leaking.
MYTH 3 – Solar power systems only work in warm weather.
Solar panels do not produce electricity from the heat of the sunlight. they photons found in daylight are what the solar panels need. Temperature does not determine how much electricity a panel produces.
MYTH 4 – Batteries cannot store extra energy.
Most solar power systems are connected to a grid using a net metering system. The recent invention allows it to store extra energy within the solar energy system rather than send it back to the grid.
MYTH 5 – Solar systems are too expensive
Costs vary by type of solar panel system and state. In many states you may qualify for tax credits, reducing the cost by several thousand dollars.
MYTH 6 – Solar power systems require high levels of maintenance.
Solar power systems require little to no maintenance throughout their many years of operation. They are built to withstand extreme weather conditions.
MYTH 7 – It’s better to wait until prices drop to invest in a solar power system.
The price of installing solar panels has decreased significantly in the past fifty years. However, it is not expected to drop much lower.
MYTH 8 – Solar panels work even when the power goes out.
When the house loses power, so does the solar panel. Some solar energy systems can operate on a backup battery or generator.
MYTH 9 – Solar power systems prices are fixed and do not depend on the house’s size.
The price of a solar power system depends on the house’s size and where the house is
located.
MYTH 10 – Large-scale Solar Energy isn’t feasible.
The sun produces enough energy every hour and a half to meet the entire planet’s energy needs for one year.
MYTH 11 – Solar panels increase house property taxes.
Solar panels can raise property value, but most states have laws in place to prevent them from raising property taxes.
MYTH 12 – Solar power system production is not environmentally friendly
A solar power system reduces a large amount of carbon dioxide more efficiently than traditional energy methods.
MYTH 13 – You a need to own a house to install a solar power system.
The US Department of Solar Energy created community solar program entities who live close together to split the cost and share a solar power system.
MYTH 14 – A depleted solar power system is not recyclable, harming the environment.
The sun produces enough energy every hour and a half to meet the entire planet’s energy needs for one year.
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