Busting Solar Myths: The Facts Behind Solar Energy
Solar energy is becoming an increasingly popular choice for businesses and organisations looking to reduce energy costs, improve energy efficiency and take steps towards a more sustainable future. However, despite its growing popularity, there are still plenty of misconceptions surrounding solar PV.
From concerns about cloudy weather to questions about maintenance and performance, it can be difficult to separate fact from fiction.
Here at Boston Renewables, we’re busting some of the most common solar energy myths and looking at the reality behind them.
Myth 1: Solar panels only work when it’s sunny
The reality: Solar panels don’t need direct sunshine to generate electricity.
Solar PV panels use daylight to produce electricity, meaning they can still generate power on cloudy or overcast days. While the amount of electricity generated will vary depending on the available daylight, solar panels can continue working throughout the year, including during the UK’s often unpredictable weather.
It is a fact that over recent years, solar panel manufacturers have concentrated R&D resources into making solar panels more efficient in generating electricity in diffused, low-light conditions.
Myth 2: Solar panels don’t work in the UK
The reality: The UK is well suited to solar energy.
Although the UK may not be known for year-round sunshine, solar panels generate electricity from daylight rather than relying solely on bright sunshine.
With the right system design and positioning, businesses across the UK can make effective use of solar PV and generate renewable electricity throughout the year.
Myth 3: Solar panels don’t work in winter
The reality: Solar PV systems can generate electricity all year round.
Whilst shorter daylight hours in winter do affect the amount of energy generated, solar panels continue to produce electricity whenever there is sufficient daylight. This means solar PV remains a useful source of renewable energy throughout all seasons.
Myth 4: Solar panels require a lot of maintenance
The reality: Solar PV systems generally require relatively little maintenance.
Regular inspections, monitoring and professional checks can help identify potential issues and ensure the system continues to operate efficiently. With appropriate care and annual maintenance, solar PV can provide a reliable source of renewable electricity for in excess of 30 years.
Myth 5: Solar panels are only suitable for homes
The reality: Solar PV can be a valuable solution for businesses too.
Commercial and industrial buildings often have large roof spaces or areas of land that can be suitable for solar installations. Businesses with significant electricity demand can use solar generation to produce renewable energy on-site and make better use of their available space.
From warehouses and agricultural buildings to offices and commercial facilities, solar PV can be designed around a wide range of business requirements.
Myth 6: Solar panels don’t last very long
The reality: Solar panels are designed to operate for decades.
Quality solar panels are built to provide long-term electricity generation, making solar PV a long-term investment for businesses and property owners.
With the right system design, installation and ongoing monitoring, solar can continue supporting your energy requirements for more than 30 years.
Myth 7: Solar energy means you can completely stop using the grid
The reality: Solar PV can reduce reliance on grid electricity, but it doesn’t necessarily mean disconnecting from the grid.
The amount of electricity generated by a solar system depends on factors such as daylight, system size and energy consumption. Businesses can use the electricity generated by their solar array whilst seamlessly continuing to use grid electricity when additional power is required.
Myth 8: Solar is only about being environmentally friendly
The reality: Solar can offer both environmental and financial benefits.
Generating electricity from solar PV can help businesses reduce their reliance on conventional grid-supplied electricity, potentially reducing energy overheads while also providing measurable carbon savings.
For organisations looking at their long-term energy strategy, solar PV can form part of a wider approach to managing energy consumption, reducing costs and working towards sustainability goals.
The reality: Solar could be a smart investment for your business
Solar PV has come a long way, and many of the common concerns surrounding solar are based on outdated or inaccurate information.
At Boston Renewables, we work with businesses to develop solar PV solutions designed around their energy needs. From initial assessment and system design, through to grid connection approval, planning where required, installation and ongoing support, our team can help you explore whether a solar PV array is right for your business.
Want to find out what solar could do for your business? Get in touch with Boston Renewables today.