Solar Energy Myths: The Truth About Residential Solar Systems

The sun is the source of all energy on our planet, and consequently also the cleanest and most renewable source of energy available to homeowners all around the world. Misconceptions about photovoltaic solar systems and our ability to harness the suns energy are the number one reasons homeowners overlook going solar. Let’s explore some of the most common myths related to solar power.

Myth: Solar power is too costly.

Fact: Most solar systems will pay for themselves in 5-9 years and depending on the system can increase the homes value by as much as 5%. Best of all Uncle Sam is now subsidizing up to 50% of the cost of a new solar systems so the return on investment has never been higher. It is not uncommon to see annual return on investments between 7%-18% over the life of the system.

Myth: My homeowners association will not allow me to install solar panels.

Fact: State law forbids anyone from preventing someone from installing solar electric systems based upon appearance.

Myth: You need the right kind of roof.

Fact: Solar systems can be designed for all roof types. As long as the roof has unobstructed access to the sun and is free from shade it would be a good location for a solar system.

Myth: My solar system will only work if the sky is clear of clouds.

Fact: Solar systems do st ill produce a current on cloudy days, however not as much energy will be produced as when the conditions are optimal (clear, sunny & cool). Solar systems are designed based upon the average annual sun hours of a given location and are designed to generate the necessary energy needs of the homeowner.

Myth: The utility company will pay me in cash for any additional energy I generate.

Fact: The utility company will not pay homeowners cash for the additional energy they generate. The utility company offers homeowners the option of “Net-Metering”. If you produce more energy than you consume during the day you will have a surplus of energy created that will be used to offset the energy you consume at night when your solar system is not feeding energy into the grid. You will have a rolling 12 month period to use any monthly energy surplus you may have. Your energy surplus can expire if not consumed over the 12 month period. It is the job of the solar system contractor to design a solar system that is appropriate for your energy needs and that will not exceed your annual usage.

Take a close look and you will see that solar power truly has a bright future. Unlike fossil fuels solar energy is completely clean and renewable. It contributes absolutely no pollution to the air or water. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, if renewable energy were used to power one million homes, carbon dioxide emissions would be reduced by 4.3 million tons per year, the same effect on the environment as removing 850,000 cars from the road. So go solar and be a super hero for the environment.

Written by:
SOLAR SOURCE INC. California
www.solarsourcepower.com

[Posted with iBlogger from my iPhone]

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