Solar PAnels 101

Are you considering making the switch to solar energy, but have some doubts about it? You’re not alone! In this blog post, we’ll be debunking some common misconceptions about solar energy and explaining why it’s such a great idea for homeowners.

First things first: solar panels do work in cloudy or cold climates. It’s a common misconception that solar panels are only effective in sunny, warm locations. However, this simply isn’t true. Solar panels are designed to produce electricity from sunlight, and while it’s true that they may be less efficient in cloudy or cold conditions, they can still produce a significant amount of electricity. In fact, some of the cloudiest and coldest places on earth, such as Germany and Denmark, have some of the highest levels of solar energy adoption (Source: Solar Power Europe). So don’t let a little cloud cover or a chilly winter day deter you from going solar.

Next up: maintenance. One of the biggest misconceptions about solar panels is that they require a lot of maintenance. In reality, solar panels are extremely low maintenance and generally require little to no attention. They are built to withstand harsh weather conditions and are designed to last for decades (Source: EnergySage). All you really need to do is keep them clean (which is easy to do with a little bit of water and a soft cloth) and perform a visual inspection every once in a while to make sure everything is in working order.

The cost of solar

Now let’s talk about cost. I know that when it comes to investing in anything, cost is always a major factor. And it’s true that solar panels can be a significant upfront investment. However, the cost of solar panels has decreased significantly in recent years, and it’s expected to continue to do so in the future (Source: National Renewable Energy Laboratory). Plus, there are a ton of financial incentives available that can help make the cost of going solar more manageable. Many states offer tax credits and rebates for residential solar energy systems, and there are also financing options available that allow you to pay for your solar panels over time (Source: Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency). In 2022, a the Inflation Reduction Act passed which increased the Federal solar incentive to 30%! This combined with State incentives could leave you with only half of the price of the system.

But let’s be real: even if solar panels were completely free, some people still might not want them because they’re worried about how they’ll look on their roof. I get it – nobody wants to ruin the aesthetic of their home with a bunch of clunky, unsightly panels. Fortunately, at Solar Works, we not only install the sleekest most compact panels, we install your panels with your homes aesthetic in mind, so you can have the efficiency and cost-savings of solar, while keeping the aesthetic integrity of your home.

Solar reliability

Finally, let’s address the concern about reliability. Solar energy is often seen as an unreliable source of electricity, but that’s just not true. Solar energy systems can be designed to provide a reliable source of electricity, even when the sun is not shining. By incorporating battery storage into a solar energy system, excess electricity can be stored for use during times when the sun is not shining (Source: EnergySage). And with the advancements being made in battery technology, it’s becoming increasingly possible to rely solely on solar energy as a primary source of electricity (Source: Department of Energy).

In some areas such as New Mexico, there are flat-roof homes, which are often optimized for solar. If you have a flat-roof home or are interested in learning more about this, check out this blog post.

So, why is solar such a great idea? Well, for starters, it’s renewable and sustainable. Solar energy is produced by harnessing the power of the sun, which is an endless, pollution-free energy source. Going solar also helps to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels, which are a finite resource and contribute to air pollution and climate change (Source: Environmental Protection Agency). Plus, solar energy can help to lower your energy bills, as you’ll be generating your own electricity rather than relying on the grid. According to the Department of Energy, the average solar panel system can reduce household electricity costs by 50-90% (Source: Department of Energy).

But the benefits of residential solar energy go beyond just cost savings and environmental sustainability. Solar energy can also increase the value of your home. A study conducted by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory found that homes with solar energy systems sell faster and at a higher price than homes without solar (Source: National Renewable Energy Laboratory). So not only will you be saving money on your energy bills, you may also see a return on your investment when it comes time to sell your home.

In conclusion, don’t let common misconceptions about residential solar energy hold you back. Solar panels are effective in all types of climates, require minimal maintenance, and are becoming increasingly affordable. Plus, with so many stylish and visually appealing options available, you can have a solar energy system that not only helps the environment and saves you money, but also enhances the look of your home. Don’t wait any longer to make the switch to solar – start enjoying the numerous benefits it has to offer today.