Five Myths about Solar Debunked

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Here are five of the most common myths about solar power. Each of them has been dissected so you can have the facts as you make your decisions about the energy you would like to use for your future.

1. Solar power is not affordable.

This is one of the biggest myths out there. In fact, the price of solar panels has been cut in half and solar companies are constantly offering deals for using their products. Home improvement value will also go up, and you can count on $20 for every $1 saved annually in electricity costs. This will be a lot of $ when you see how much you are saving on your electric bill each month!

2. Solar power will only work where it is sunny.

While many think that solar power and the sun go hand in hand, it does not, in fact, need to be sunny for solar power to work. Solar panels do not use the sun; they use UV rays, which are present in any daytime hours. Germany is the worldwide leader in the implementation of solar power, and it is often cold and rainy there. Other rainy locales, such as Seattle and London have done a great job of incorporating solar power.

3. Solar power does not really help the environment.

This argument usually comes from old-school fossil fuels giants such as Big Coal or Big Oil. Silicon is used in solar power and they will say this is dangerous. The reality is that solar power generates considerably less pollution than its energy counterparts. Anyone who is opposed to solar power because of environmental or financial reasons is not thinking about the future; they are only thinking short-term.

4. Solar power is bulky and ugly.

Many people are concerned about the aesthetics of their home, and giant solar panel on their roof does not sound appealing. However, solar panels have come a long way in recent years, and blend in quite nicely with a roof. There are many panels now that lay flush with the roof instead of being suspended like in years past. Users can place solar panels in their backyard, out of view of neighbors and HOAs. There are even solar shingles and solar roof tiles for even more invisible solar energy.

5. Solar power is not efficient.

There are two ways consumers can get solar power: one is through a large-scale solar utility plant, and the other is through personal usage at home. With personal usage, consumers cover all expenses but also get to pocket all the profits. You can enjoy a smaller carbon footprint and improve your home value, and also rest assured that your source of power will not dry up anytime soon.

Hopefully when implementing anything new for your home, you will do adequate research. Of course solar power has its drawbacks, but there are many benefits too. I am a firm believer in solar power, and I feel the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks.