Common Solar Panel and Solar Energy Myths
At Orange Electric in Salt Lake City, Utah, we come across a number of solar myths. Here are a few of the most intriguing examples.
Possibility of Free Solar Panels
False solar advertisements claiming “free government solar panels” may occur. Despite the fact that you can go solar with no money down through a solar loan or lease, the federal and state governments do not provide free solar panel installations.
However, the government will cut the initial cost of purchasing a solar panel system through a range of solar incentives, even if it will not pay for solar panel installation. You can deduct 26% of the cost of your solar installation from your federal tax bill thanks to the federal investment tax credit (ITC). Depending on where you reside, your state or local government may also provide additional solar incentives, such as tax credits, rebates, or performance-based incentives (PBIs).
Only for the Wealthy
Solar panels are sometimes considered a luxury item only available to the wealthy. This is false; because of falling solar costs and the availability of financing options, solar has become a realistic option for many property owners.
Over the last ten years, the cost of solar energy has dropped dramatically; in 2008, the average cost of a solar panel installation was $8.82 per watt. Solar costs $2.77 per watt right now, according to EnergySage.
You Must Get Off the Grid
Even though an off-grid solar panel system using solar batteries is viable, the great majority of solar panel installations are grid-connected. This allows you to use grid power when the sun goes down and solar energy produced by your system throughout the day.
That However, thanks to the net metering policy, which refunds your power bill for any excess energy generated throughout the day, a solar panel system may still meet all of your electricity needs. Net metering only reimburses you for the net amount of energy you consume from the grid. If you generate more electricity than you consume in a given month, you can apply the excess to a future bill. Even if your solar energy system generates more energy than you consume during your electricity billing cycle, you will still receive a statement from your utility; however, the balance outstanding will be negative.
Inquire with your energy provider about their net metering laws before going solar, as state and utility net metering legislation can differ.
“It’s Too Cold”
Sunlight is used by solar panels to generate energy. Due to fewer hours of sunlight, if you reside in a particularly cold state with regular snowstorms, you will most likely produce less solar electricity in the winter than in the summer. On the other side, the electricity you generate over the year will be enough to cover your winter energy needs. Because of the lower temperatures, solar panels function better when the sun shines throughout winter.
If your solar panels are covered in snow, they will not produce any power. Fortunately, solar panels are designed to withstand a certain amount of weight, so the snow should not be an issue. Furthermore, the majority of the panels are tilted such that the snow melts naturally when the sun shines.
If you require commercial solar installation in Salt Lake City, UT, contact Orange Electric right away.
