Busting myths around solar panels
Solar panels have quickly become the world’s most popular renewable technology, with more than one million UK homes already using them – and that number is only set to rise.
They are now the cheapest form of energy, helping households cut bills while reducing emissions and supporting the fight against climate change. Government grants and funding options have also made solar more accessible than ever.
Despite the benefits, several misconceptions still put people off. Let’s clear them up once and for all!
Myth 1: Solar panels only work when it’s sunny outside
Not true. While solar panels work best in direct sunlight, they still generate electricity on cloudier days.
That’s because they absorb the light that can penetrate through the clouds, not heat. Rain can even help wash away dirt and debris from your solar panels that might otherwise block sunlight.
Although panels produce less energy in winter due to shorter days, they actually work more efficiently in colder temperatures. A crisp, clear winter day can offer ideal conditions! And don’t worry about snow – UK temperatures mean it typically melts or slides off easily.
Myth 2: Solar panels are too expensive
Solar panels used to be costly, but prices have changed dramatically. The cost of solar panels has fallen by 80% since 2010, and homeowners can now expect to pay up to £8,500, according to MCS.
While still a significant investment, panels are far more affordable than they used to be and start delivering savings immediately through lower energy bills. Most households make their money back in around 15 years.
You can also earn money by selling any power you don’t use back to the grid, through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG). How much you can earn will depend on the rate your energy supplier offers – Octopus Energy usually has the best rates, but the tariff varies depending on location and includes off-peak periods.
You can explore Octopus Energy tariffs here – and if you switch through us, you can get £50 off your first bill.
There are also group buying schemes, such as Solar Together, and various grants available to help you with the upfront cost. Eligibility depends on your household income, and energy performance rating of your home.
Myth 3: Solar panels are difficult to maintain
Solar panels are surprisingly low maintenance and can last around 40 years if they’re kept in good shape. For most homes, an annual clean by your installer, or a professional, is enough – unless you live near overhanging trees or have a lot of bird activity in the area.
Avoid high-pressure water sprayers, which can damage panels.
A service every four to five years can help make sure everything is working as it should.
We provide a cleaning and maintenance package with our installs, and we can also add mesh netting and bird deterrents to stop birds nesting under the panels or dropping twigs and branches into the system – get in touch with our team to learn more.
Myth 4: Solar panels can reduce your home’s value
It’s actually the opposite. Homes with solar panels often appeal more to eco conscious buyers and people wanting to cut energy bills – and they may be willing to pay more for it. Home improvement experts say solar can add up to 14% to a property’s value.
The exact boost can depend on factors such as the ages of your solar panels (the newer, the better), if you are using the Smart Export Guarantee scheme to sell unused power back to the grid, and whether you have a battery storage system in place.
A solar battery will store energy you generate, but don’t use immediately, allowing you to use it later in the day – for example, at night when you would normally be using power for the grid.
Myth 5: Solar panels are an eye sore
Solar panels today are sleek, modern and far more appealing than the bulky blue panels of the past.
If you’re after a cleaner look, you can opt for in-roof or integrated solar panels. They sit flush with the roof for a more seamless aesthetic.
Installing them involves removing roof tiles, which are then replaced with weatherproof flashing. The solar panels are then placed on top of the flashing, resulting in a tidy finish with no visible brackets or netting.
We’ve covered the pros and cons of in-roof and on-roof solar panels here.
Myth 6: Installing solar panels is a lot of hassle
Installation is quick and straightforward, often completed within one day by our team.
Most systems fall under permitted development, meaning you generally don’t need planning permission – except in special cases like listed buildings. If you’re unsure, you’re local planning office can confirm.
If you have any questions, please contact our experts at sales@eerenewables.co.uk. Try our instant quote tool to get an idea of the cost and savings you can expect with solar panels.
