Updated: February 28, 2024
As solar energy continues to increase in popularity, more people are exploring their options for renewable energy sources. Unfortunately, misconceptions continue to abound, which can discourage some from making the switch. If you are considering going solar, you need all the facts. Keep reading to find out more about solar energy and learn how to separate myth from fact.
Myth 1: Solar Panels Only Work on Sunny Days
Since solar panels transform sunlight into energy, it makes sense that some believe they only operate on sunny days or when the sun is shining. This is not exactly the case, however. The sun continues to shine on cloudy days, which means that the solar panels are still able to work. If you pair your panels with a battery storage system such as a Tesla Powerwall, you’ll also be able to power your home at night even when the sun goes down.
Myth 2: Solar Panels Are Too Expensive to Install
Solar panels are an investment in your home. However, you may have several options when it comes to paying for them.
Affordable financing solutions, like those offered from GVEC, is one common option. Financing allows you to spread out the cost of the panels and the installation process over a certain period. Because your utility bills will likely decrease once your solar panels are installed, the amount of money you spend on your monthly payments will partly be offset by the amount you save on your energy bills.
There are also tax incentives like the federal Investment Tax Credit. This credit was increased and extended last year. Purchasing and installing solar panels and/or battery storage between now and 2032 qualifies for a 30% credit of those total costs.
Finally, solar panels could increase your home’s resale value. When you sell your home, the panels could make it more attractive to buyers, potentially yielding you higher offers.
Myth 3: Solar Energy Is Only for People Who Own Their Homes
When you own your home, you’ll be able to make decisions about whether to get solar panels installed. If you’re a renter, however, that decision might not be in your hands. However, that doesn’t mean you cannot benefit from solar energy. Community solar programs like SunHub™, available to GVEC members,can help you get the most out of this powerful renewable energy source.
Myth 4: Solar Panels Aren’t Actually That Efficient
Solar panels cannot capture all of the sun’s energy, and some people believe that makes them inefficient. Does that mean it’s not worth installing them? The answer is “no.” The sun is staggeringly powerful, creating massive amounts of energy every day. We simply cannot harness all of its power, nor do we need to for the technology we currently have and use.
A solar panel might not be able to harness or use all the sunlight that hits it, but it can do quite a bit with what it does capture. Because of that, industry professionals still recommend installing solar panels to get the most out of the more than 300 days of South Central Texas sun.
Myth 5: Solar Panels Will Damage Your Roof
Solar panels are typically installed on roofs, and some are concerned about the potential damage to the underlying structure. However, panels are professionally installed by technicians who work with care and precision using techniques designed to prevent the panels from damaging the roofing materials. Rather than being applied directly to the shingles or other roofing materials, the panels are often mounted on top of the roof using brackets or rails. Additionally, for those who don’t get ideal sunlight upon their rooves, or for those who prefer an alternative installation option, ground mount systems are also available.
If you’d like to learn more about solar panels and battery storage options and how they might work for your place in the Gonzales, Seguin, New Braunfels and surrounding areas, you can turn to GVEC Solar Services. We have been serving the community since 1938. As communities in South Central Texas have grown, so have we. Today, we have a broad service area and can help you with not only solar panels but also electrician, internet, and air conditioning and heating services. With a highly trained staff and a commitment to service, we are ready to help you transform your home to better meet your energy efficiency needs.
Call GVEC Solar Services to learn more about our services!
