The RV2 team have heard a lot of misconceptions regarding the subject of solar
Here are the top 10
1. The cost of solar panels is too high to justify the investment
Solar PV systems had a 10-15 year payback period before the energy crisis. As grid prices have risen, payback times have shortened to about 5-10 years. Payback is significantly shorter than the predicted 25+ year lifespan of the panels, meaning that across its lifespan, the system should save significantly more than the cost to install.
2. There is not enough sunlight in the UK for solar to be effective
The number of successful PV systems in the UK demonstrates that the technology works - cooler temperatures in Britain actually help improve the efficiency of solar panels.
3. Only south-facing roofs are suitable for solar panels
Solar panels in northern hemisphere countries such as the UK are oriented south to allow maximum exposure to sunlight throughout the day. Even so, any orientation from south to east or west will still produce power - through an array facing directly east or west will generate approximately 25% less energy than one facing due south. Some households may benefit from an east/west split array since most of the production occurs in the morning and evening.
4. When its cloudy, Solar panels are useless
The sun's output is reduced by clouds, but some light gets through when it's cloudy (otherwise we wouldn't be able to see). On a clear sunny day, a system might only generate 10% more energy than on an overcast day.
5. Electricity is only generated by solar panels during the summer
Spring and summer are the seasons in which solar panels in the UK can generate more electricity: around 70% of the electricity is generated in spring and summer, and 30% in autumn and winter.
6. Solar panels reduce your home’s value and it's harder to sell a house
No data suggests that solar panels reduce the value of your property; they may add value if you communicate their benefits to buyers. As a result of adding solar PV, your house will have a higher EPC rating, which is linked to a higher property value.
There is no evidence to suggest that this is the case. It is likely that solar panels will make your house sell faster as potential buyers become more environmentally conscious and aware of the value of energy efficiency.
It is recommended that you keep any documentation, which includes all the details about the system so that your buyer can review them.
7. There is a lot of maintenance involved with solar panels
Due to their lack of moving parts, solar panels are not subjected to the same mechanical stresses as most other generators. A few cleanings every few years if they look dirty and a replacement of the inverter about 15 years after installation are usually all they need.
8. Solar panel installation is disruptive and can cause damage to your home
Solar panels retrofitted onto your roof are mounted on a frame that is attached to the rafters, preventing the array from weighing down the roof surface. Actually, it can shield the roof from the weather and prolong its life by acting as a protective layer.
In most cases, our installers can install solar panels in 1-2 days. During the installation process, scaffolding may need to be put up around your property. The majority of installation work is done on the rooftop, with some wiring in the loft. We ensure that our team minimizes disruptions and leaves the site neat and tidy.
9. Planning permission is required for solar panels
As permitted developments, most solar panel installations do not require planning permission. There are a few exceptions, including flat roofs, ground mounts, and large commercial systems.
10. It takes more energy to make solar panels than they generate
PV systems generate energy equal to that used in their manufacture within 2.5 years, which is only a fraction of the time they last.
The RV2 team are here to discuss any questions that you have regarding your Solar Installation for your home or business and can be contacted on 0330 118 0089 or by the contact form below.