5 Common Solar Myths Busted: Unveiling the Truth About Solar Energy

As the effects of climate change become increasingly evident and our aging electrical grid faces mounting pressure, the adoption of solar energy is growing rapidly. Despite more people powering their homes with clean solar energy than ever before, many still view solar as a new and unfamiliar technology. Switching to solar is a powerful way to combat rising energy costs and reduce your carbon footprint, but without accurate information, the process can seem overwhelming. Additionally, it can be difficult to sift through the abundance of marketing content online.

At Powur, we are passionate about solar and committed to providing trustworthy information to help homeowners make informed decisions. Let’s break down five common myths about solar energy and separate fact from fiction.

Myth #1: Installing Solar Panels Is Too Expensive

Reality: Solar energy is more affordable than ever! In fact, you can switch to solar with $0 out of pocket. Several financing options, including solar loans, leases, Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), and home improvement loans, make solar accessible to nearly everyone.

• Solar Loans and cash payments qualify for the 30% federal solar tax credit but require more upfront costs.
• Leases and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs)—known as Third Party Ownership (TPO)—allow you to install solar panels with little to no upfront costs. You simply pay a monthly fee for using the system.

Our solar consultants will work with you to find the best financing option for your situation. Don’t let cost deter you—there’s a solution for almost everyone to make the switch to solar.

Myth #2: Solar Panels Don’t Work on Cloudy Days

Reality: Solar panels do work on cloudy days! While they generate less electricity than on sunny days, solar panels still absorb sunlight even through clouds. In fact, some of the busiest solar markets, such as the Pacific Northwest, experience frequent cloud cover. Solar panels in these areas still generate significant amounts of clean energy and reduce the need to buy electricity from the utility grid.

With expert system design from Powur, you can maximize energy generation in nearly any climate, ensuring your solar system works effectively even in regions with less sun exposure.

Myth #3: Solar Panels Protect Your Home From Power Outages

Reality: Solar panels alone do not provide backup power during outages. Here’s why: Solar panels work in conjunction with the grid. When the grid goes down, your solar system shuts off automatically for safety reasons, preventing excess electricity from being sent to the grid and endangering utility workers.

However, if you install a battery backup system along with your solar panels, you can store excess solar energy and use it during an outage. The battery will power your home while isolating your system from the grid, keeping both your home and the utility grid safe. With enough battery capacity, you can ensure that your home remains powered during grid failures.

Myth #4: Solar Panels Eliminate Electricity Bills Completely

Reality: Solar panels significantly reduce your electricity bills, but total elimination depends on several factors. Most homeowners see around a 50% to 70% reduction in their electricity costs. Some even eliminate their bills entirely, but it varies based on:

• Net Metering: If your utility offers Net Metering, you can send excess solar energy back to the grid and receive credits that offset nighttime electricity consumption.
• Battery Storage: Adding a battery allows you to store solar energy during the day and use it at night, further minimizing your reliance on grid power.

Depending on your system design, energy usage, and local utility policies, you could drastically lower your bills and even achieve total energy independence.

Myth #5: Going Solar Is Complicated

Reality: Going solar is easier than ever with the right partner. At Powur, we have installed thousands of solar systems across 23+ states, and our independent solar consultants are experts in guiding homeowners through every step of the process.

Our streamlined process includes:

1. Energy Assessment: We analyze your unique energy usage to recommend the best system for your home.
2. Custom Design: Our team designs a system tailored to your roof and energy needs.
3. Installation & Support: Once you decide to go solar, we handle everything, from permits to installation, making the transition smooth and hassle-free.

Switching to clean, renewable energy has never been more crucial, and it’s never been more straightforward.

Ready to Make the Switch to Solar?

If you’re ready to start your solar journey, visit Powur to connect with a local solar consultant. Simply enter your zip code, and we’ll match you with an expert who can guide you through the process. Don’t wait—now is the perfect time to invest in clean energy, save money, and secure a sustainable future.