10 Myths and Facts About Solar Panels
With the inception of the latest solar technology, many myths and facts have emerged. I believe it’s human nature that makes us more concerned and attentive when it comes to making an investment. Personally, I thought that opting for a solar panel installation would reduce my bills by at least 50%. However, it was a myth. In this blog, we will discuss some well-known myths and their facts in-depth.
Based on my personal experience, I would suggest doing your homework on all the available solar choices out there, such as inverters, solar panels and their types, and battery storage. Even if someone suggests an appealing solar panel installation package, it’s still important to do your own research.
Chapter Breakdown
Myths and Facts
Below are the 10 Myths and Facts About Solar Panels that I observed:
Solar Cannot Function in Cloudy Weather
This was true (fact) with earlier solar panel technologies, but with advancements in solar technologies, such as monocrystalline solar panels, it has become a myth. Now, there are solar panels that work in both cloudy and sunny weather, and we even have temperature-specific operating panels.
Solar Does Not Work in Extreme Hot or Cold Temperatures
Solar panels that you buy display a Normal Operating Cell Temperature (NOCT). Solar scientists and engineers are working hard to develop panels that function effectively at extremely high, low, and mid temperatures. In recent times, temperature-specific solar panels are available due to advancements in solar technology, capable of operating in both cold and hot temperatures.
Going Solar Costs a Fortune
No doubt, one has to pay a significant cost to avail even a 5KW solar panel. However, considering the global environmental crisis, many governments and private sector investors are providing consumers with rebates or offering easy installment plans and incentives (e.g. SolarVictoria is allowing public to avail solar installations). However, in underdeveloped countries, you may indeed need to spend money and carefully maintain your solar system. Nevertheless, it is a one-time investment.
Solar Energy Systems Do Not Last Long
That’s a myth. According to industry experts and solar panel manufacturers, these panels are available in the market with a lifetime of 30-35 years. However, some of them can maintain their functionality beyond this lifespan and continue to work effectively for even longer. Wow! That’s very impressive.
Solar Panels Generate More Electricity
It’s partially true! Once those solar panels are up and running on your roof, get ready for some serious savings on your electricity bills. However, it highly depends on your solar panels and environmental factors. This point varies from person to person. For example, in my case, I had a complex roof structure and a limited budget. So, I installed a 3.2KW system, but it didn’t yield the expected current due to some factors (e.g., plate angle, wiring resistance, polycrystalline panels). I doubt, if I upgrade my plates to monocrystalline, it could yield more electricity.
Rooftop Solar Systems Make Your Home Unattractive
Most of us are very sensitive about how our home’s elevation looks. For example, you wouldn’t like solar panels protruding from the top of your roof. Yes, that makes sense. However, these days, solar manufacturers are producing portable, customized solar panels. Take a look at the thin-film solar panel; it can be molded to cover your roof like a glove. Moreover, there are solar panels with different structures (e.g., square). So, no matter how complex your roof is, a good solar installation company will cover it in the best way possible.
Solar Panel Require Constant Maintenance
Just like you take care of your car (maintaining its engine oil or air filters) to avoid any breakdowns, you also need to take care of your solar panels. Below are some points to emphasize:
- Wash your solar panels at least once a week, depending on your region’s dustiness
- Take care of your batteries by checking their water levels regularly
- Never ignore bird mesh
- Clean your inverter’s air filters regularly
Solar Panels are Made of Toxic Materials
Yes, but not in all cases. Some solar companies use toxic materials, but only under certain circumstances. In thin-film solar panels, materials like Cadmium Telluride (CdTe) panels contain cadmium, a carcinogen. On the other hand, Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (CIGS) panels use elements like indium and selenium. These materials can be harmful in high doses.
An important point to note is that even though these panels contain these materials, the quantity of these materials in the panels is very low or minimal in the overall composition. Another important consideration is the recycling and proper disposal of these solar panels at the end of their lifespan.
Small Solar Installations Cannot Have any Environmental Impact
No, solar panels have a positive impact on the environment due to:
- Reduction in greenhouse gases
- Increment in renewable energy production
- Better air quality
- Water conservation
- Reduced the grid demand
- Save the Fossil and reduce the usage of fossil fuels
Solar Energy is Not Reliable
Let’s try to relate it with following two situations:
- 24/7 production electricity
So, about solar panels working all day and night? Well, they’re champs during the day but take a rest at night since they need sunlight to do their thing. So, let’s not be too tough on them – expecting them to work 24/7 is a bit much, right? - Check the Failure rate
When it comes to failure rates, solar panels have got it covered. They’re like the superheroes of reliability, with a failure rate as low as 0.05%! So yeah, you can count on them to keep the power flowing without any hiccups.
Bottom Line: Myths and Facts about Solar Panels
Despite some misconceptions, solar energy offers significant benefits, including cost savings, environmental preservation, and reliability. With advancements in technology and continued efforts towards sustainability, solar power remains a promising solution for a cleaner and brighter future.
