Debunking Myths About Solar Panels in the UK

Despite the huge increase in the popularity and prevalence of solar panels around the UK in the last 20 or 30 years, some persistent myths about solar panels need to be addressed. In some cases, people may be missing out on significant savings or reducing their carbon footprint because they believe outdated or plain incorrect information. We believe solar panels can be a great investment for 99% of the population. So with that in mind, let’s explore the truth about solar panels and bust some solar myths.

Common Myths & Facts About Solar in the UK

Myth: Solar panels don’t work in rainy, cloudy or cold weather

Fact: Solar panels convert sunlight, not heat, into electricity. So, even on those cold UK autumn and winter days, they'll generate power, especially when it’s sunny. Solar panels generate more on a cold day although the length of daylight is shorter in the winter. They also work well on those frequent overcast days we get. They won’t generate as much power, but still more than enough to do everything you need at home.

During our short winter days, the amount of time they’ll generate power will be reduced, but you can mitigate this with battery storage, or by combining your solar PV system with wind generation.

In short, solar panels are a fantastic investment for year-round use in the UK, especially if you live in the south.

Myth: Installing solar is complex and requires a lot of maintenance

Fact: The truth about solar panels for homes is that nowadays, it’s a very simple and straightforward job to install solar panels on any residential, commercial or industrial property. Provided your roof is in good condition and can take the weight of the solar installation, it’s usually quite a quick install. Solar PV systems do need maintenance and cleaning every few years, but again this is a simple job. What’s more, if you install solar bird protection from the outset, you can prevent the buildup of debris and nesting materials underneath the panels that can cause the system to fail.

Myth: Solar panels are very expensive

Fact: Solar panels are a sizable investment for your property, and you could expect a solar installation to cost anywhere between £7,000 and £14,000, depending on your requirements. However, solar panels are a wise long-term investment and can typically pay for themselves anything between 7 and 12 years… and potentially even less if energy prices remain high! 

Although there aren’t currently any government schemes or grants in place to support solar installation, for commercial customers it’s worth enquiring with your local authority and keeping an eye on the news for information about new initiatives which can reduce the cost further.

Myth: Solar panels are ugly and reduce my home’s value

Fact: While the attractiveness of solar panels is subjective, one clear thing is that they don’t adversely affect the price of your home. Long gone are the days when silver and blue panels were fitted, most of our panels now fitting are either all black or mainly black. Studies suggest that a full solar PV installation may increase the value of your property by 1-2%. As people struggle with the cost of energy and are increasingly conscious of their environmental impact, solar panels may make your home more attractive to a potential buyer.

Myth: Solar panels are bad for the environment

Fact: There is a reasonably-sized carbon footprint involved in the making, transporting and disposal of solar panels. However, the clean-energy production from the panels means that this is typically offset within 2-4 years, after which they become carbon-negative. Additionally, as technology, materials and construction methods evolve, solar panels are becoming increasingly sustainable to manufacture.

Myth: I live in a protected area and can’t install solar panels

Fact: Some areas of the UK such as National Parks, AONBs and conservation areas do have rules around development but are very much in favour of reducing emissions. That said, solar panels typically fall under the umbrella of ‘permitted development’ and don’t require planning permission to install. If you live in a listed building or conservation area, you may need permission depending on your Local Authority’s rules.

Myth: You have to have a south-facing roof for solar panels

Fact: South-facing rooftops are the best for generating the maximum amount of energy from the sun as it travels across the sky. However, East and West-facing roofs still generate enough power for your home’s needs. It’s only north-facing roofs that are typically unsuitable for solar panels in the UK.

As you can see, there are solar myths out there that are still doing the rounds. However, in almost all cases these no longer hold weight and a solar panel installation can be the perfect addition to your home in the South East. If you have any further questions, or you’d like to discuss installing solar in your home or business, don’t hesitate to contact us!