It makes sense to consider all your options when thinking about solar panels, and there is much information freely available to ensure you’re fully informed of the pros and cons. However, there are also many misconceptions out there, so it’s very easy to get confused about this type of ‘green’ energy.

Solar energy doesn’t work in cooler, cloudier climates

This is probably the biggest misconception when it comes to this kind of energy. To understand why, it’s important to understand how solar panels work. Many people wrongly believe that the energy is obtained from the heat of the sun when actually it’s the sun light that produces the energy. Because of this, even though some climates are not as warm as California or Devon, they still get the light from the sun. In fact, sunlight is even collected on cloudy days, even though it’s not as strong.

Solar energy is unreliable

Many people worry that at night, when there is no sunlight at all, their system won’t generate any power, and they, therefore, will be without overnight power. This is a common myth but the system doesn’t work that way. During the day, most homes will generate more power than they use. This excess power is stored in a local grid to which your property remains attached. When your system is not producing enough power to supply your property, such as at night, there will be no interruption to your supply, as it will remain connected to the grid. In fact, the switchover at these times is so subtle it’s not even noticeable.

Solar power is ugly and will reduce the value of my property

Another common concern, even though it’s incorrect, is that the panels used for solar energy are aesthetically not pleasing and, as such, will reduce the value of personal property. However, with modern technology and design, most panels actually blend in well with current residential roofing. Furthermore, research has shown that resale values are actually increased for houses with solar energy.

Solar energy is costly

The initial cost associated with installing solar panels is the highest. After that, utility bills are dramatically reduced, and there is a very strong return on investment (ROI) and a typical residential solar system will have paid for itself within five years. As well as this, many cities offer local rebates, while there are other rebates offered at state and government levels, along with other incentives to make solar power even more accessible.

Solar power technology will improve and get less expensive so it would be better to wait

It’s very unlikely that new technology will come out over the next decade or so and, while normal fossil fuel is being burned to make standard electricity, there is no indication that solar systems will be any cheaper to install or use. Consequently, it makes no sense to wait the many years this is going to take, as your investment will have fully paid for itself long before any new technology emerges.

For more information on renewable energy including solar panels, please visit Intelligent Energy Solutions who provide a range of green energy products such as heat pumps and sma inverters.

Author's Bio: 

Martin is an expert in the energy field and has a strong interest in the future of renewable energy. He feels that it may benefit the world in many ways if there was enough investment.