When it comes to solar power in Orange County, there are a lot of myths and misunderstandings floating around out there. Here are some of the most common misconceptions about this clean, renewable energy resource.
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- If I go solar, I can live entirely off the grid: Well, not yet. Home solar panels still mostly deliver energy as it’s created, meaning that the storage of enough power to fuel a home without any dependence on an outside energy grid is still in the (not too distant) future.
- It is too expensive to install a solar system: Yes, there are definitely costs associated with going solar. But those costs can be greatly reduced by the many rebates, tax incentives both federal and local, financing options, and leasing possibilities available to homeowners seeking to reduce reliance on traditional energy sources. Plus, overall, the price of solar energy has dropped by 50% since 2010, with no reason to expect an end to that trend any time soon.
- I don’t live in an area known for sunshine: It’s a common misconception that solar power is only for those living in the brightest, hottest parts of the world. But actually, while it’s true that the sunnier the area, the more efficient the solar panels, it’s also true that even in a cloudy area like Seattle, solar panels will generate energy as long as there is daylight.
- Solar panels are ugly and don’t last long: Today’s solar panels are quite sleek and compact. They fit closely against the roof, making them reasonably unobtrusive. And modern solar panels are actually very durable, able to stand up to wind, hail, rain, and snow.
- Solar energy is just a passing fad: Clean energy from the sun isn’t just a passing trend, or an alternative energy embraced only by back-to-nature, tree-hugging fanatics. It’s an established, reliable source of energy that’s been around for over 60 years, and there’s agreement across all sociopolitical groups: solar energy is here to stay. It’s already providing energy for individual homeowners, neighborhoods, schools and stores, corporations, cities, and nations across the globe.
- There’s no advantage in producing extra solar energy: Actually, if your home’s solar panels produce more energy than your home can use, most states have programs allowing you to “sell” the excess back to the local utility grid, giving you credit for the energy your home will draw during the night.
- All solar panels are the same: Nope. There are many different solar panels on the market, and they aren’t all equal in terms of efficiency, durability, appearance, or design. That’s why we encourage you to give us a call first if you’re considering going solar. We work with the most respected solar manufacturers in the country, and our technicians can recommend the best panels for your needs.
