Like any new technology, there are benefits and drawbacks associated with using solar panels to generate electricity. Fortunately, the benefits of solar energy far outweigh any possible setbacks, but there are still plenty of skeptics out there who believe solar energy isn’t viable. As a result, plenty of myths and half-truths about renewable solar power have emerged on the internet and throughout other public forums. If you are considering switching to solar energy, it is important to have all the facts so you can make an informed decision about your future energy consumption. To help you, we have put together a brief list of the biggest myths associated with solar panels.

1. Solar Panels Won’t Work in Cold Climates 

Although Vancouver is known for its moderate climate and temperatures that are warmer than most other cities in Canada, there are still plenty of people under the impression that it is too cold here for solar panels to be effective. This is a definite fabrication since solar panels are specifically constructed to stand up to extreme hot and cold temperatures so they can continue to harness solar energy at a steady rate. Even if there isn’t direct sunlight shining on your panels, they will still harness energy at a steady rate. Direct sunlight is always preferable when it comes to generating power, but your solar panels will still work even if there are cold temperatures and cloud cover.

2. Solar Panel Production Isn’t Eco-Friendly

Many solar energy detractors have continued to spread the false notion that solar panel production produces emissions that are as harmful as coal or natural gas emissions. Not only is this a complete fabrication without any factual basis, but the statistics actually show the complete opposite to be true. While solar panel production does require some pollution to mine, clean, and manufacture the materials, these emissions are far less intense than those produced from fossil fuels. Also, once a solar panel is produced and connected to the grid, it pays back any energy used in its production within two to three years, which is 40% faster payback than a traditional coal plant.

3. Solar Panel Maintenance Will Damage my Roof

If you are thinking about installing a solar panel system on your roof, don’t let this myth deter you in any way. Not only are solar panels lightweight and extremely durable, but they can also actually preserve your roof rather than cause damage to it. This is because they absorb the damaging UV rays from the sun, which cause your roof’s integrity to break down over time. Since they are built to last up to 30 years, they will likely never require any maintenance after their initial installation, hence no roof damage to worry about.

4. Solar Panel Inverters Cause Noise

Once a solar panel absorbs the sun’s energy, it will transfer that power to an electrical inverter which makes that energy compatible with the electrical grid. There is a myth out there that this process causes a lot of noise, but that is simply untrue. While inverters do have a distinctive humming noise when they are on and working, this sound isn’t loud enough to cause any disturbance. Once the sun goes down at night and the panels aren’t transferring any more energy to the inverter, the sound is non-existent, so you don’t have to worry about having your sleep disturbed by any humming machinery or moving parts.

5. Solar Panels are too Expensive

Like any major addition to a home, there will be a significant upfront cost to have solar panels installed on your property. Fortunately, this initial cost will be quickly offset by the significant savings on energy bills and the available rebates and government incentives tied to renewable energy. Thanks to these subsidies and continued incentives, homeowners can quickly see savings rather than additional expenses tied to their solar panel system in Vancouver, BC.

If you are interested in learning more about the numerous benefits associated with solar energy production, be sure to contact the experts at 604-Go-Solar today.