1. Solar panels don’t work when it’s cloudy – Solar panels will very rarely stop generating during cloudy weather and the reason is quite simple – clouds don’t completely block sunlight. The amount of solar energy generated during cloudy weather is reduced due to solar radiation being absorbed or reflected by the clouds. How much radiation passes through the clouds depends on the type of cloud and its density or thickness. Surprisingly, some high level thin cloud layers can scatter the sunlight which results in a slight increase in generation, especially during early morning and late afternoon.
  2. Solar panels will cause damage to your roofs – Solar panels actually benefit the portion of the roof they cover by protecting and preserving it. The sun’s UV is what damages and ages a roof and with solar panels on the roof the UV cannot get to the shingles to age them. In the unlikely event that the roof the panels are sitting on is damaged and needs to be repaired, the panel can be easily removed and put back on in the same location with all the same equipment.
  3. Solar will lower the value of your home – Buying a solar energy system will likely increase your home’s value. A recent study found that solar panels are viewed as upgrades, just like a renovated kitchen or a finished basement, and home buyers across the country have been willing to pay a premium of about $15,000 for a home with an average-sized solar array.
  4. Installing solar is complicated and requires a lot of maintenance – Actually, solar panel installation is relatively straightforward as long as you are using a reliable manufacturer. Ideally, if your system is connected to your utility grid, which is common among electricity systems, then it makes solar panels easier to maintain as batteries are not required. The solar panels may sometimes need to be cleaned with water to remove any accumulated dust or debris if we have gone months without rain, but otherwise they are a carefree installation. Plus, solar panels are constructed in a way that allows them to withstand harsh weather, including hail, sleet, etc.
  5. Leasing a solar system is a better way to get clean renewable energy – It’s not! A leased solar system requires a monthly payment to the leasing company for 20 years where as a purchased system is paid off in 10 years. A leased system reduces the value of your house as you don’t own the items on the roof and that makes a sale of the house more difficult. Owning a system whether you pay cash up front for financing it with a bank will always be a more cost effective way to have clean renewable energy for your home or business.