4 Myths About Solar Energy

You’ve likely heard much about solar energy lately, especially if you’re interested in environmental, energy, technology, or political news. You’ve probably seen solar panels as you go about your daily lives. Maybe you even get some of your energy from the sun.

Solar energy use has increased for residential customers, businesses, and utilities. The U.S. solar energy industry has grown exponentially.

With all the attention given to solar energy, there are a few common misconceptions about it. Here are some of the most common solar energy myths and their truths.

1: Solar Systems Can’t Be Used at Night

Indeed, solar panels won’t generate energy at night because they need sunlight. You won’t be at a loss for electricity when the sun goes down, though. Solar can still provide power at night in a couple of ways.

Various methods can store unutilized solar energy made during that day, so it can be used at night when new power isn’t generated. These methods include lithium-ion batteries, compressed air, flywheels, and other technologies. Researchers are currently working to improve energy storage as well.

The other way a solar system can provide you with energy at night is a less direct method. Solar energy producers can often sell excess power back to the grid. The energy they sell is then used to offset the cost of the energy they use at night.

2: Solar Systems Don’t Work if It’s Cloudy

Although solar systems are less effective if the sun is obstructed, they still can convert some power. On a typical cloudy day, a solar system often produces around 10 to 25 percent of its usual capacity.

Tall trees or buildings can also cause problems by blocking sunlight. You should consult a professional before installing a solar system if you’re worried about obstruction. They’ll be able to help you position your panels so they get the optimal amount of sunlight and may suggest trimming trees that might get in the way.

3: Solar Systems Don’t Work in Cold Climates

Solar systems use sunlight to create power, not heat, so hotter climates are not necessarily better for solar energy generation. High temperatures can cause solar panels to perform less efficiently. Conductivity improves in colder weather, allowing electricity to flow more easily.

Although some areas may be better than others for solar energy, it’s the places that get more sun — not more heat — that are ideal for installing solar panels.

4: Solar Systems Are Too Expensive

As technology advances, solar systems are becoming cheaper to produce. As more solar companies enter the market, competition is also driving costs down. In 2016, year-over-year pricing for residential solar systems fell by 17 percent. For utility-scale solar, the price dropped by 20 percent year over year.

Both government agencies and utilities run programs that can help lower the cost of solar installations. Check with your utility or local government to see what incentive programs, grants or other financial assistance opportunities are available in your area.

Although installing a solar system still requires a major upfront investment, the price is falling and there is lots of financing help available. Plus, your solar system may pay for itself over time.

The future of solar

One thing’s for sure: Solar is definitely on the rise. No recounting these common solar energy myths will change that. A growing number of residents, businesses, communities, and utilities are taking advantage of solar energy’s benefits.

Of course, it’s not a perfect technology, and it won’t be able to provide 100 percent of our energy needs any time soon. It’s nothing to be scoffed at, though. Solar can be a significant part of the path toward a secure and clean energy future if used well.

Solar energy must be well understood by policymakers, utilities, and energy customers. Things will undoubtedly change as technology advances, but for now, we should aim to learn as much as we can about solar energy to use this technology to its fullest potential.