14 Myths About Solar Panels in Your Yard That Are Completely Wrong
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For years, solar panels have been making waves, but they have a cloud of misconceptions still hanging over them. Many homeowners are getting on the clean energy bandwagon, but some are holding back due to things they’ve heard that aren’t true. These myths could be your neighbor’s half baked opinion or outdated blog post but they can dissuade people from looking into the benefits of solar energy.
If you’ve ever had questions about solar panels in your yard, like whether the panels will make your home a science experiment or ruin your lawn or rack up hidden costs, you’re not alone. Let’s bust the most common myths and set the record straight.
Don’t Work in Cloudy Weather
Most people think solar panels are only useful when the sun is blazing. Modern panels are made so they can capture the sunlight even on overcast days. For example, Germany produces the most solar power, despite the fact that the country is not lacking in cloudy days. You don’t need direct sunlight for panels — they work by absorbing diffused light, so you’ll still generate energy on cloudy spells.
They Need Constant Maintenance
Solar panels don’t require daily cleaning or repairs, as some people may imagine; they’re very low maintenance. They are built to last, they are built to withstand the elements—rain often keeps them clean and they are designed by their manufacturers to last 25 years or more with minimal upkeep. For the most part, these systems just require an occasional checkup.
Solar Panels Are Ugly
This one is one of those subjective myths. Solar panels have come a long way in design, but while aesthetics differ from person to person, they’re a good investment. Modern panels are sleek and ground mounted systems can be placed in less visible areas of your yard. Plus it’s a small price to pay for the environmental and monetary benefits.
They Damage Your Yard
It’s also a misconception that your yard is going to turn into a wasteland with solar panels. Care is taken when installing ground mounted systems to not damage the surrounding landscape. They can also be placed strategically where they don’t interfere with your lawn or garden. In some cases the shade they provide can even help plants.
Solar Panels Don’t Last Long
Quite the contrary, solar panels are not short lived. Warranties on most systems are 20–25 years, and even after that, they still work, just at reduced efficiency. Because of this longevity, they are a good investment, considering how much energy they produce over their lifespan.
They Don’t Work in Cold Climates
Another myth is that solar panels need heat to work. In fact, they do better in cooler temps. The colder the climate, the better it is for solar energy production, because heat can decrease efficiency. So long as the panels see the sun, they will produce power no matter the temperature.
You Can’t Sell Excess Energy Back to the Grid
Quite a number of utility companies provide net metering programs, which enable homeowners to sell excess energy to the grid in return of credits. That means that on sunny days, when your panels generate more energy than you use, you’re essentially ‘saving’ that power for later use or paying less on future bills.
Solar Panels Are Not Environmentally Friendly
It’s true that making panels is an energy and resource intensive process, but it’s a lot less destructive to the environment than fossil fuels. In the course of their lifetime, panels create way more energy than it takes to make them. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, when it comes to solar panels, they pay back the energy they cost to make in just a few years.
Open Yards Are the Only Place They Work
It takes more than acres of open space to use solar panels. If your roof isn’t right for installation, ground mounted systems can be customized to fit into smaller yards. Creative placement means you can still power it but without taking up too much space.
Solar Panels Are Not Recyclable
There is some truth to this myth: recycling programs for solar panels are still in the works. However there are many recyclable parts such as glass and metal. While the future of sustainable disposal options may look bright, several companies and initiatives are attempting to make solar recycling more accessible.
Solar Panels Will Decrease Property Value
This is as far from the truth as it can get. In fact, a 2019 study from Zillow found that homes with solar panels sold 4.1 percent more on average than homes without. The energy savings and eco friendly benefits attract buyers and makes solar a smart long term investment for your property.
They Create Glare And Cause Heat Damage
Today’s solar panels are built to absorb light, not reflect it. They usually have anti reflective coatings to reduce glare. They don’t produce enough heat to harm your yard or surroundings either. In fact, they can offset energy demands and help reduce the urban heat island effect.
Solar Panels Are Too Expensive
One of the most persistent myths is that solar panels cost an arm and a leg. Certainly, they involve an initial investment, but with federal tax credits and state incentives, the costs have fallen dramatically. The cost of installing solar has fallen by more than 80 percent since 2010, according to the World Economic Forum in 2021. Plus, panels can save you money on electricity bills and, once installed, can sometimes pay for themselves in a few years.
Solar Panels Aren’t Reliable
Others are concerned that solar energy won’t be able to provide all they need, especially when their demand is at its highest. But with advancements in battery storage, you can actually store energy to power later. Pairing panels with batteries means you have peace of mind and energy independence.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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