10 Solar Myths for the Deep South
12 October 2015
Don’t let these solar myths darken your days
- Too Cloudy: Solar panels do not work in cold, cloudy places/states. UV light is all that’s needed and even the cloudiest of places have excelled. Germany, who ranks low in sunny days, is the solar energy capital of the world. In fact, when the solar panels are cold, they are able to better conduct electricity.
- Not Enough Sunshine Hours – Southland has more solar energy hours than Germany
- High Maintenance – Solar panels require constant maintenance. The panels rarely require maintenance or cleaning, plus the average warranty lasts 25 years!
- Harsh Climate – The solar panels cannot withstand harsh climates. The panels we use can withstand harsh conditions
- North Roof – I cannot use solar energy because I don’t have Northern roof exposure. North/West roof exposure is also effective for photovoltaic systems. Another option is a ground-mounted system in which case all you need is a relatively flat, unshaded area.
- Panels Inefficient – According to the U.S. Department of Energy, solar panel efficiency has more than quadrupled since the 1970’s.
- Selling My Home – I won’t live in the home long enough to make my investment back. Actually, a solar system increases the value of the home.
- Power company rates – I won’t get my payback as the power companies don’t pay good rates now, even with rates being low, it’s still a good return, the secret is ensuring you use the free solar when its produced, for example, it’s best to set up appliance’s to work during the sunshine hours to make the most of your solar system.
- I Won’t Get My Return – If you calculate the correct size system and how the occupants will use the system, there is a guaranteed return on investment
- I’m Too Old – Retirement is the best time to look at reducing overheads, retired customers a more likely to use the system more efficiently and get the best return, like vacuuming, baking and using everyday appliances during the day when the sun is shining and producing solar.
