See the Truth for your self.
I’ve been blogging about solar power for nearly a year both here and at www.solarpowerpanels.ws (actually more than 12 months, if you count Peachy Green, too).
Along the way, I’ve learned quite a bit about generating clean, green energy from the sun – whether through solar panels, or other technology. In addition to my extensive research, I’ve noticed through blog comments and questions that there are a number of misconceptions about solar energy. That being said, there are some disadvantages of solar energy, which are covered in another blog post.
Top 5 Myths About Solar Power
Weighing the pros and cons, here are the top 5 myths about solar power! Ready? As we review the myths, we’ll also go over solar power facts so that all relevant information is available:
1. Solar power is too expensive. Actually, the price tag for solar panels has been cut in 1/2 recently, and both federal and state tax credits and other incentives help you save up to 80% of the retail cost. Factor in both the improvement in home value ($20 for every $1 saved annually in electricity costs) and the benefit of treading a bit more lightly on the environment, and you’ll recoup your investment a lot more quickly. Oh, and don’t forget how much lower your utility bills will be!
For a handy way to determine the cost of solar panels, use one of several solar calculators.
2. Solar power will not work where I live. You must be subscribing to the point of view that it has to be sunny for solar to be effective. Nope. All you need is UV light (admittedly, the efficient is greater when you have clear, sunny skies). In fact, Germany is the leader with respect to solar energy. We all know that the country is not a sunshine-laden country. Traditionally rainy locations, such as Seattle, Washington and London have done a great job incorporating solar power, as well.
Considering solar power? You are in the right place
I am willing to bet that you can rely on solar power where you live too!
3. Solar power is inefficient. Again, the industry has made great strides in this regard in recent years. It is important to consider that there are two main ways that you can use solar power: on your own home, with solar panels or solar roof tiles, or through a utility-scale solar plant. With the former, you pocket all the profits from going green – that is, a lower utility bill, and improved home value. With the latter, however, you can enjoy a smaller carbon footprint and the assurance of electricity prices not rising as supplies dry up… the sun will not stop shining anytime soon.
Two types of utility solar plants have been developed: solar fields and concentrated solar power. We are fast approaching grid-parity – that is, the point at which solar power does not cost any more than coal or other fossil-fuel based power. In the meantime, government incentives and the interest of people like you will keep the industry moving forward.
4. Solar power is ugly. Many are concerned about a blight on their rooftop with large solar panels. Of course, others see the panels as a badge of honor: as in, “look what I am doing to save the environment.” Regardless, if you don’t see the beauty in solar panels, you can still convert to solar energy at home with solar roof tiles or solar shingles. New technology allows solar power installations to blend in seamlessly with your roof. Then, its up to you to brag about going solar.
5. Solar power isn’t better for the environment. Much ado is made about – IMHO – nothing. People that traditionally support coal or oil claim that silicon used for solar panels is dangerous. But the reality is that solar power is considerably less polluting than its counterparts. According to an article in ScienceDaily:
“In a finding that could help ease concerns about the potential environmental impact of manufacturing solar cells, scientists report that the manufacture of solar cells produces far fewer air pollutants than conventional fossil fuel technologies. Their report is the first comprehensive study on the pollutants produced during the manufacture of solar cells.”
Of course, the short-term thinking of opponents to solar power do not consider the long-term implications of continuing to rely on limited fossil-fuels, as opposed to renewable energy that will be there for as long as we are – including solar power.
The bottom line here is a suggestion to do thorough research. Sure, there are some disadvantages to solar energy, but I believe that the benefits outweigh the downsides. There are definitely myths circulating about solar power. Sift through all the information you can find, then make a measured decision.
As always, if you have questions, we welcome them and are happy to answer promptly.
Tags: cost solar panels, myths about solar power, solar calculator, solar power facts
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