Solar panels are becoming more commonplace in homes throughout America. These opportunities for clean, alternative energy have a lot to offer, but like with any rising technology, there’s a fair share of misinformation about them. Allow us to debunk some of the most common myths about solar panels so you can make an informed decision.
Myth #1: Solar Panels Are a New Fad
Despite what some people think, solar power isn’t a radical, new, untested idea that popped up overnight. In truth, scientists have worked to harness the energy of the sun since the 1800s. Commercial sales of solar panels started in 1955, and over the past 70 years, the technology has grown and improved to be more accessible than ever.
Myth #2: Solar Panels Don’t Work When It’s Not Sunny
While there is some truth that your panels may not receive as much energy when cut off from direct sunlight, darker days do not entirely hinder proper systems. Your panels still collect energy through clouds or rain, and most solar power batteries hold more than enough energy to keep things running through the nighttime hours.
Myth #3: Solar Panels Are Too Expensive
As technology becomes more accessible, many companies offer affordable systems for the average household. Many homes have the option to start with a smaller system—which allows homeowners to save money on utility bills in the long run—and eventually gain the opportunity to make any desired upgrades in the future.
Myth #4: Solar Panels Take Too Much Space
Another common myth about solar panels is that people believe the panels take up more space than may be available, making them a poor choice for smaller homes. With technological advancements, many solar panel systems only take up about 30 percent of the roof area of the average home. Like most technology, solar panel systems are becoming smaller and more efficient over time, making them a reasonable option for most homes.
